Hospital Bag Essentials

When emergency room waiting times can be 8 hours minimum, these items are SO necessary. And if, like me, you have to go to hospital frequently for appointments, emergency visits, or stays, you might find it really useful to have a list you can check off so you don’t forget anything! shopping! 

Bookmark or favourite this page for later- or screenshot this illustration- you never know when you might need to pack a bag for a friend or family member, or yourself!

Toiletries

• This could include toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo, lip balm, soap, and anything else you use daily- especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin it is a good idea to bring your own things!

Entertainment

• Bring a book, iPad, game console, you might also want to check out these distraction techniques!

Sunglasses

• Hospitals are really bright places which makes it a very overwhelming place for those with sensory issues. I find sunglasses really helpful to reduce overstimulation.

Headphones

• Hospitals are also overwhelming places, from children screaming to beeping, crying, whirring of machines, headphones are ideal to avoid being overstimulated, and distracting yourself from pain and anxiety.

Comfy Clothes

• You might be there for a while, and you don’t know how warm you’ll be! Make sure you are wearing soft cosy clothes, this is not a cat walk, nobody will judge you! I also never leave the house without a scarf- it can double as a bag, a sling, and a cover up!

SNACKS!

• If you have allergies like me snacks are necessary to bring everywhere, but especially in hospital when you’re not always able to go shopping! If you have POTs, Diabetes, Seizures, or any conditions that can be helped by food, keeping something salty/sugary on you at all times is a good idea