What to Bring for Chemo: My Chemo Bag Essential
A Survivor’s Personal Checklist to Stay Calm & Comfortable
When I began my chemotherapy journey, I had no idea what to expect. The first day felt surreal — sitting in the infusion chair, surrounded by machines and nurses, trying to process that this was part of my new normal. I quickly learned that being prepared was the best defense against anxiety.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, preparing for your first treatment, or supporting someone going through it, I hope this personal chemo bag checklist will help you feel more at ease. Everyone’s experience is unique, but these essentials made a massive difference for me.
Comfort and Warmth
Hospitals are always cold, and keeping my body cozy was my #1 priority. This is how I prioritized comfort:
- A Soft Bamboo Beanie: After losing my hair, my scalp became incredibly sensitive. Regular wool or cotton beanies felt scratchy. I found that a bamboo beanie was buttery soft, didn’t irritate my skin, and kept my head warm without overheating.
- A Simple Silk Eye Mask: Hospital lights are harsh and often stay on. My simple silk eye mask became essential for creating a quiet, dark bubble so I could rest and recharge between infusions.
- A Large, Fluffy Shawl: A big, soft shawl was more versatile than a blanket. I could use it as a blanket, wrap it around my shoulders, or fold it behind my head as a makeshift pillow.
- Cozy Socks: I always packed a pair of soft, warm socks to keep my feet warm. Sometimes, those quiet moments of rest were exactly what my body needed most.
Calming Distractions
Chemo brain made it hard to concentrate some days, but having options made me feel in control—like I could decide how to spend my time, even in a situation I didn’t choose.
- Uplifting Podcasts or Guided Meditations: Listening became one of my favorite ways to stay calm. I focused on uplifting or funny shows, or gentle music and guided meditations. Anything that helped shift my focus away from the beeping monitors and IVs.
- A Physical Book or Crossword Puzzle: On days when I had more energy, having a low-concentration activity like a book or a crossword puzzle helped keep my mind busy and present.
Staying Organized and Grounded (Pro-Tips)
These items saved me time and frustration during long sessions:
- A 10-Foot (3m) Phone Charger: This is a non-negotiable pro-tip. The outlets in the infusion room are never close to the chair, and a standard cord won’t reach. A long, durable charging cable meant I could keep my phone with me to stay connected or listen to my favorite podcasts.
- A Notebook and Pen: This became my space to jot down questions for my oncologist, write reminders, or even journal when I felt emotional. Just the act of putting thoughts on paper helped me feel grounded.
- A Large Water Bottle: Keeping a bottle of water close to stay hydrated is crucial for flushing toxins and preventing dehydration, I used a Food-Grade Stainless Steel Water Bottle (non-plastic) to avoid chemical leaching.
Supporting My Body
Chemotherapy can be hard on your body, so I tried to bring small comforts that helped me manage side effects.
- High-Grade Essential Oils: The smells of the clinic sometimes triggered my nausea. I’d put a drop of oil on a tissue and gently inhale. I would only look for 100% “Bio” or “USDA Certified Organic” oils. A high-quality peppermint oil was incredible for settling nausea, and lavender oil helped me feel calm.
- Ginger Tea: I would bring my own ginger tea infusion. Ginger is a natural, powerful anti-nausea remedy that really settled my stomach during treatment.
- Healthy Snacks: Fruit, nuts, crackers, or other small snacks, depending on what I could tolerate that day, were always packed.
- Natural Beeswax Lip Balm: Chemotherapy can make your skin extra dry and sensitive. I found that standard balms often contained irritants. I make a natural beeswax balm myself because it offers intense, gentle hydration to combat the dryness that often comes with treatment.
- Natural Hand Moisturizer: Choose a scent-free, natural, organic hand cream.
Connection and Support
Because my treatments took place during the COVID pandemic, loved ones couldn’t accompany me. At first, this felt incredibly lonely, but I soon found small ways to stay connected. I’d call my family or close friends between infusions, and sometimes we’d just chat about normal life—the kids, dinner plans. Other times, I’d talk with the nurses or fellow patients. Those connections—even brief ones—brought warmth into a sterile hospital room.
Final Thoughts
Every person’s chemo journey is different, but one thing is certain—preparation helps. Having a well-packed chemo bag gave me a sense of control, comfort, and normalcy on days when everything else felt uncertain.
If you’re just beginning your treatment, know this: you’ll find your rhythm. You’ll discover what comforts you most and what brings you peace. And remember—it’s okay to rest, to laugh, to cry, and to take it one infusion at a time.
My list is personal, but now I want to hear from you. What is the one item you couldn’t live without in your chemo bag? Let’s build a resource for everyone in the comments.
P.S. Packing your chemo bag is a big first step. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the other “firsts,” I created a free guide just for you. Download The First 7 Days: A Survivor’s Sanity Checklist [Your Free Checklist Link] to help you navigate your first week with a clear, calm plan.
Courageously yours,
Aurora
Because courage sometimes just means accepting that today you just need to rest, be gentle with yourself, and know that’s okay.