25 Things To Pack In Your Hospital Bag

For people suffering from chronic illness, hospital stays are frequent. A hospital stay can be made more comfortable and relaxed with items you can bring from home. Even in cases of an emergency, such a hospital list can be given to a loved one to be fetched from your home.

Here is a compilation of what many patients prefer to have with them during their time in a hospital. Remember, you should carry what suits your needs the best.

To read this in hindi, click here:  25 चीज़ें जो अस्पताल जाते समय आप अपने बैग में पैक कर सकते हैं

1. Comfortable clothing. Loose and easy to wear clothing is a great option and you can avoid those hospital gowns if possible. A cardigan or stoll is handy to put on when visitors arrive. Also remember that you will need a pair of clothing to wear at time of discharge.
2. Non-slip shoes or slippers to walk around in and use in the bathroom. Flip-flops are also easy to put on. Warm socks are handy for the cold temperatures.
3. Cell phone to keep in touch with your friends and family.
4. I-pad, I-pod, tablet or laptop for work and/or entertainment.
5. Chargers for all devices. An extension cord may be handy for multiple plugs.
6. Headphones especially noise reducing kind that can be used for music and a good night’s sleep as well.
7. Personal blanket or cushion for comfort and warmth as hospitals are often kept at low temperatures.
8. Wallet with ID and Health Insurance Card.
9. Cash in case you want to purchase food (from the canteen or vending machines) or for your transport back home or to buy medications.
10. Medications & supplements that you take daily or at least a list of them so they can be continued at the hospital. Also carry your additional items for supportive care like eye drops, dentures, inhalers, walking cane etc. with you.
11. Medical file with past and current history.
12. Prescription glasses and case. It is advisable to leave contact lens at home.
13. Personal Toiletries such as travel-size toothbrush, soap, feminine products, hair accessories etc. Carrying disposable items is a good idea so that hospital germs are not carried back home.
14. Watch and some feel good jewelry such as your wedding ring. It is advisable to keep jewelry to a minimum for safety reasons and since it is not allowed during most medical testing.
15. Freshen up products such as wet wipes, deodorant, waterless shampoo etc. to make you feel clean and fresh if you are unable to shower.
16. Spare bags (plastic, cloth or zip-locks) to keep dirty laundry, extra footwear or other items.
17. Magazines or books to pass time.
18. Pen and Paper to make lists, write important information, jot down questions for your doctor etc.
19. Room fresheners or scents can change the environment of your hospital room. Many find such aromas to be calming and relaxing.
20. De-stressing objects such as a squishy ball, play doh, etc. Hobby items like knitting, coloring, playing cards can all be wonderful distractions.
21. Prayer necessities like rosary beads, photos, prayer books etc.
22. Moisturizing products such as lotions, lip balms, artificial tears eye drops, foot creams etc. because hospitals can be very dry environments.
23. Mints are great for fresh breadth. Hard candy is useful for dry mouth. Make sure to check with your doctor about diet restrictions before food & liquid consumption.
24. If you have no diet restrictions, small packets of salt/pepper/hot sauce/pickle etc. can be packed along to add to the bland hospital meals.
25. Disinfecting wipes and sanitizer gels so that you can wipe your bed rails and hands whenever you like. The room sanitizer if often located by the door.

Also read: When Do I Need To Call An Ambulance?