10 Hospital Bag Essentials That Got Me Through my Many Cancer Appointments
Finding Comfort in the Chaos
Spending three years battling refractory stage IV cancer meant I became all too familiar with hospitals. From emergency room visits to lengthy chemo sessions and overnight stays, hospital life became an unexpected part of my reality. Through trial and error, I discovered the items that made these difficult moments a little easier—things that provided both physical comfort and a sense of normalcy in a sterile and often overwhelming environment.
Being Prepared Matters
The right items can turn a hospital stay from just getting through it to feeling more in control and at ease. There were countless times when I went in for what I thought would be a quick 20-minute check-up, only to end up needing fluids or additional tests, turning my visit into an unexpected hours-long stay. After this happened enough times, I learned to keep a bag packed for long delays and last-minute surprises. Having what I needed on hand made the experience less stressful, and I found myself feeling much calmer and more prepared.
My 10 Must-Have Items for a Hospital Stay
1. Quince 100% Organic Cotton Oversized Cardigan – Cozy Layers for Chilly Hospital Rooms
I own four of these cardigans because they’re that good. Made from 100% organic cotton, they’re breathable, comfortable, and perfect for layering over hospital gowns or casual outfits. Given how unpredictable hospital stays can be, I also appreciate that Quince makes them at a reasonable price—because let’s be honest, spills and stains are inevitable in a hospital setting.
2. Saje Peppermint Halo Roller Ball – A Refreshing Boost for Long Days
This little roller ball has been my go-to for years. A cooling blend of peppermint, lavender, and rosemary essential oils, it’s perfect for relieving tension, soothing headaches, and providing a much-needed mood boost. Every time I let someone borrow it, they immediately ask where to get one. I don’t go anywhere without this rollerball.
3. Noise-Canceling Earbuds – Blocking Out Distractions and Finding Peace
Hospitals are noisy. Between beeping machines and conversations you don’t want to overhear (like discussions about terminal diagnoses), noise-canceling earbuds became a lifesaver. Listening to music, audiobooks, or guided meditations helped me mentally escape and find moments of calm. I've shared this Soundcore link with so many friends because I absolutely love these earbuds. The bass and sound quality are incredible, and unlike AirPods, they actually stay in my ears!
4. Blissy Silk Sleep Mask – For Better Sleep in a Never-Dark Hospital
Hospitals never turn off the lights, and even the smallest amount of brightness can make sleeping difficult. This 100% mulberry silk sleep mask helped block out the light while being gentle on my sensitive skin—something I now swear by for both hospital stays and travel.
5. Simply Organic Bamboo Plush Throw – Staying Warm When Hospital Blankets Aren’t Enough
During my CAR T-cell therapy, I experienced relentless fevers, making warmth a necessity. Hospital blankets just weren’t cutting it, and having my own soft, cozy blanket made all the difference. This bamboo throw is ultra-soft, free of synthetic materials, and a game-changer for comfort. My second favorite blanket is this lightweight gauze throw. It’s compact when folded, making it easy to store or toss into a bag for on-the-go comfort.
6. Evanhealy Whipped Shea Butter – The Ultimate Multi-Purpose Moisturizer
This is my holy grail of heavy moisturizers—a true multitasker in a jar. I use it on my hands, face, and even for healing. It helped soothe my radiation burns, and I credit it for the incredible healing of my facial scar from melanoma. During my transplant hospital stay, I made it part of my nightly routine, slathering it on my face before doing a few quick passes with my gua sha. It’s rich, nourishing, and one of the few products I never go without. Simply put, I love this cream.
7. La La Lips – Relief for Chemo-Induced Dry Lips
Chapped lips are almost inevitable during cancer treatment, but this all-natural, jumbo-sized lip balm provided long-lasting moisture without causing rebound dryness. A small but essential comfort during long hospital stays. And check our the tinted versions, they add the perfect wash of color.
8. Gin-Gins Ginger Chews – A Natural Solution for Nausea
Chemo can make eating nearly impossible, and nausea was a constant battle for me. These ginger chews helped soothe my stomach and made getting through the toughest days just a little easier.
9. Bombas Gripper Slippers – Warmth and Safety for Hospital Walks
Hospitals require socks with grips for safety, and these were far more comfortable than the flimsy standard-issue hospital socks. They kept my feet warm and provided the traction I needed when moving around.
10. GoMacro Bars – An Easy, Nutritious Snack When Eating Was Hard
When my appetite disappeared during treatment, these bars were a lifesaver. They’re nutrient-dense, easy to digest, and packed with plant-based energy—perfect for when I needed fuel but couldn’t stomach much. I’m also a big fan of the Mint Chocolate Aloha bars—the peppermint never upset my stomach and was always easy to eat.
Small Comforts Make a Big Difference
Hospital stays are never easy, but having a few comforting items on hand can make a world of difference—both physically and emotionally. Whether you’re heading in for treatment yourself or looking for ways to support a loved one, these little comforts can bring warmth, relief, and a much-needed sense of normalcy in an otherwise stressful environment.
Of course, you don’t have to go out and buy these exact brands—this list is just a reflection of what I personally keep in my hospital bag and what has worked best for me. The key is to find what makes you feel comfortable, prepared, and a little more at ease during long waits, overnight stays, or unexpected delays. It’s amazing how even the smallest things—a cozy cardigan, a familiar scent, or a favorite snack—can help create a sense of control in a place where so much feels out of our hands.
