7 essentials to pack in your chemo bag — and 3 to avoid
Start with a chemo bag checklist to be sure you have everything you need to be comfortable, supported and entertained during treatment sessions.
Having chemotherapy is anything but a vacation. Nevertheless, planning ahead and packing the right essentials so you’re well prepared could turn a stressful trip into a smooth one.
Chemotherapy sessions can be lengthy, typically anywhere from 1 to 6 hours. Bringing a thoughtfully prepared chemo bag means you’ll have everything you need to feel comfortable, supported and entertained during your treatment sessions.
“While many infusion centers offer a few basic essentials, like light snacks and blankets, bringing your own can provide additional comfort,” says Amy Sylvester, RN, Geisinger’s clinical registered nurse supervisor in hematology-oncology. “Packing your chemo bag is more than just preparing for the practicalities of treatment. It’s also about wrapping yourself — quite literally — in comfort to ease the emotional, stressful experience.”
Chemo bag checklist
If you’ve had the foggy feeling known as “chemo brain,” you might need help remembering your must-haves to make each session easier. Start by putting together a chemo bag checklist.
Apart from the necessities, like your insurance card, medical records and recent labs, Ms. Sylvester suggests considering these items when packing your chemo bag:
Cozy blanket and socks
Chemotherapy can cause fatigue, so what better way to pass the time than with a nap? A cozy blanket and warm socks can help you relax and get comfortable enough to doze. You may also want to throw in other comfort items, like a neck pillow or eye mask to help you rest — and transform an otherwise-sterile room into a warmer, more inviting environment.
Warm layers
Be sure to dress comfortably and in layers. Treatment rooms can vary in temperature, and feeling cold is a common side effect of chemo. You might bring a light jacket or sweater, too.
“Avoid shirts with high collars or those that make it difficult to access the chest area,” says Ms. Sylvester, who suggests a button-down shirt or cardigan. “Many patients have mediports, and nurses need to access that area frequently during treatment.”
Relaxation tools
Bring music to soothe your nerves and change your focus to reduce stress. Some days you might feel like humming along to your favorite upbeat tunes. On others, you may prefer soothing sounds or guided meditation to calm you.
“Journaling also can be a great outlet to express your emotions and reduce anxiety,” says Ms. Sylvester. “Jot down things you’re grateful for, write a note to a loved one — or if you’re out of words, try doodling. Plus, it’s also useful for tracking symptoms and noting questions for your oncologist.”
Snacks and a water bottle
You’ll want to pack a few nutritious and cancer-approved snacks — possibly even lunch — to keep you strong and energized. Fruit, granola, cheese and crackers, almonds and broth are good options. They’re filled with vitamins and minerals to help your body during treatment while also being easy on the stomach.
“Ginger chews or hard peppermint candies are also great options for combating nausea and dry mouth,” says Ms. Sylvester.
A reusable water bottle can keep you hydrated throughout your treatment session. That’s crucial for your overall well-being during chemotherapy, as it can combat chemo side effects like nausea, constipation and fatigue.
Moisturizer and lip balm
Because chemotherapy drugs can cause dry skin, itching or irritation, stock up on unscented lotion and lip balm to keep your skin soft and moisturized. Just steer clear of fragranced products, as these ingredients can further irritate your skin.
Entertainment options
To help pass the time, consider bringing books, coloring books, crosswords, puzzles or anything else of interest, like knitting materials.
Activities like these are a good distraction, and can momentarily transport you to a more relaxed, happier place. Plus, brain games can keep your focus sharper and dissipate the brain fog that comes with cancer treatment.
Or, stay connected and watch your favorite movie or TV shows on a phone or tablet. Make sure you bring a charger and headphones for your devices, too. You don’t want to disturb other patients trying to relax. Plus, infusion rooms can be noisy places.
“When it comes to entertainment, follow your energy,” says Ms. Sylvester. “Some days you may be up for a challenge with crosswords or puzzles, while other sessions, you may just want to decompress with a favorite movie — and that’s OK.”
Keepsakes
Packing sentimental keepsakes like photos of loved ones or pets, special gifts or notes from friends can be a dose of joy and strength during your chemo appointments.
Better yet, ask a loved one to join you to offer a little support and companionship during arduous treatment sessions.
“There are no rules when it comes to your chemo bag checklist,” says Ms. Sylvester. “Personalize your chemo bag with any items — or loved ones — that bring you comfort and help you relax during treatment.”
Items to avoid in your chemo bag
While putting together your chemo bag checklist, avoid bringing certain items to your chemotherapy sessions, including:
- Anything fragrant or strong-smelling. Don’t bring anything with a strong odor, like perfume, lotion and some foods (think fish or sauerkraut). Scents can be overwhelming and worsen nausea for you and other patients who may be sensitive to smells.
- Fizzy or caffeinated drinks. While it’s essential to stay hydrated, fizzy or caffeinated drinks — like soda, energy drinks and coffee — can dehydrate you and make stomach discomfort worse.
- Loud electronic devices. Avoid electronics like handheld games that emit loud noises or flash bright lights. They disrupt what should be a calm environment for you and others.
“Preparing for chemotherapy involves more than just medical readiness. It’s also about ensuring your comfort and well-being during each session,” says Ms. Sylvester. “A well-organized, thoughtfully prepared chemo bag that addresses your specific needs can make your treatment experience more comfortable and manageable.”
Next steps:
Learn about cancer care at Geisinger
Caring for your mental health after a cancer diagnosis
Types of cancer treatments, explained