My little girl went in for a minor op last week and it forced me to think about packing a hospital bag. The last time I did it, I was going in to give birth to her. Neither time was fun. But shit happens and, unfortunately, hospital stays are almost inevitable at some point in the course of your life (or the life of a loved one, ’cause you won’t necessarily always be packing a bag for yourself).
While it’s unlikely to be overly enjoyable, the experience will be made much easier if you’re prepared. Like those crafty Boy Scouts — they know what’s what. And I’m pretty sure they’d agree with me on the below list of basics. (I’ll have my hospital bag badge now, please.)
I’m going to assume you’re in overnight, but the list can be adjusted to your own circumstances by adding or removing items as needed. If you’ll be staying for more than one night, I’d still recommend bringing only an overnight bag with you, and then having one at home that someone can bring in to you the following day, if possible. You won’t want to be lugging more stuff than is necessary, nor rooting through several bags to find the stuff you need.
So here’s what to pack in your hospital bag:
- Snacks.
Preferably healthy ones. Never underestimate how hungry you’ll be, how long you’ll be waiting, or how poor the selection of hospital food will be. Eat as much as you comfortably can before going in (or before fasting) to keep your blood sugar levels up. Hospitals are draining places, and you probably won’t know when your next meal is coming or if you’ll keep it down, so you’ll need all the (healthy) energy you can get.
- Liquids.
Hydration is so important, particularly in a dry hospital environment. Water is preferable here (you don’t want to be hit with a sugar crash). Most hospitals will have water coolers, so bring a full bottle with you for immediate sipping and then refill regularly. It will also help to stave off hunger, which will be invaluable if you’re fasting or if the thought of eating doesn’t sound too appealing.
- A change of clothes.
Comfortable ones. Even if you’re not staying overnight. (But pyjamas too, if you are.) It’s amazing how quickly things become uncomfortable after being in them for a while, or after being poked and prodded. There’s also the possibility of stains, and general sweating from warm wards and packed waiting rooms. Now’s not the time to break in your new bra or shoes either. Comfort is king.
- Layers.
Just as hospitals tend to overheat with all the energy and bodies floating about, so too does the temperature suddenly drop when it’s not as busy. Fleecy socks are great. Comfy cardigans or hoodies are also incredibly helpful. If you’ve room in your bag, consider a small wooly blanket to wrap around yourself. You’ll be glad of it if you’re in overnight. (Yes, I’m aware hospital beds have bedclothes, but they usually consist of a sheet and a threadbare blanket. Not exactly conducive to utter comfort.)
- Your own pillow.
What’s up with the weirdly “inflated” pillows they have in hospitals? Again, it’s all about making yourself as comfortable as possible. If a pillow is too big for your bag, and you don’t feel like carrying it (or you somehow like the feeling of being suffocated by a hospital pillow), consider bringing your own freshly washed pillowcase. Home comforts can go a long way to helping you relax.
- Entertainment.
You’ll be waiting. And waiting some more. Magazines, books, a few films loaded onto a laptop or tablet (there’s unlikely to be WiFi)… Whatever floats your boat. You’ll be glad of the distraction. (Don’t forget reading glasses if you need them.)
- Chargers.
Electronics don’t last forever, unfortunately.
- Toiletries.
Washing yourself and brushing your teeth are the first things that will make you feel human again. Also bring make-up and skincare if you must, but ask yourself how important they’ll really be to you in a hospital bed.
- Toilet paper.
This is an odd one, and not one I’ve ever utilised myself, but hospital paper isn’t exactly going to be comfy as a cloud. If it’s important to you, bring it. Particularly if you’re going in to have a baby or any operation involving your nether regions. Softness over sandpaper every time.
- Wet wipes.
For mopping spills, stains, and your brow. Antibacterial ones if you’re particularly germophobic. They can also be used to freshen yourself up if you’re in no fit state to have a shower.
- “Home”.
Think about what makes your life easier or happier at home, and then find a way to bring it with you. Maybe it’s a picture of your kids, the lucky charm your grandmother gave you, or an eye mask and ear plugs so you can sleep soundly. You can’t bring everything, but one or two special items might make all the difference.
And there you have it. Long story short, you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible, and you’ll be hanging around a lot longer than you think. Distractions and creature comforts are key. Your hospital bag should reflect that, and aim to make the experience as easy as possible. But don’t fret if you forget something — most of the above can be picked up in the hospital shop.
And don’t forget to make the bag itself as portable as possible. Wheels are handy here.
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