Pain control is something you can adjust after surgery as you determine your needs. You may or may not need a strong pain med after three weeks. You may or may not need a step-down drug. My OS was prepared to prescribe Tramadol for me after three weeks, but... I did just fine with Tylenol at that point. You won't really know until you get to three weeks, though it's important to know your OS or PCP has your back if you do need something.
As for transport... you have options. If you can fit a mattress in the back of the van, you might not notice the bumps in the road so much. Most vans aren't large enough for that, though. Sitting across the back or middle seats also works. Or the way Jockette describes. Bring some big firm pillows to fill in any gaps or to use behind your back if needed.
Another option is to sit in the front passenger seat (seat far back and reclined a bit) and make frequent stops for you to get out and stretch your legs. Probably the least comfy --getting in and out will be awkward and painful, perhaps-- but doable if all else fails. I rode home that way for one half hour and was quite stiff at the end of the ride, but you'll be stiff whatever method you use.
Why not try out some of the options ahead of time to see how it might feel (your body position, etc., because it's not only the knees that will be subjected to it)? Then if you need pillows, etc. you'll be prepared.
There is no truly comfortable way to make a three hour trip on newly replaced knees. Home will certainly feel like heaven once you get there!
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