What’s Actually in My Bag.
When you’re a young adult heading into the infusion suite, you quickly realize the magazines in the waiting room aren’t for you, and the “entertainment” is lacking. Radio 4 on repeat is not the one. After countless rounds, I’ve refined my packing list down to the essentials that kept me sane.
If you’re heading in for your first round or your fiftieth, here is the gear I recommend to make the “chair time” a little more bearable.
The Tech Stack
- iPad & Headphones: This is your window to the outside world. Whether you’re doom-scrolling, watching Netflix, or finally starting that Masterclass, these are non-negotiable.
- AirPods: I bring both over-ear headphones (for noise canceling) and AirPods. Sometimes you just want to lie back without a bulky headband.
- Power Bank: Do not rely on finding a plug socket near your chair. Bring a high-capacity power bank so you aren’t tethered to a wall as well as the IV.
Personal Climate Control
- Handheld Fan: Hospitals are notoriously unpredictable. One minute it’s freezing, the next you’re having a chemo-induced flush. A small USB fan is a lifesaver.
The “Better Than Hospital Food” Menu
- A Hot Drink: If you’re a morning person like me, drop into the hospital cafe for your non negotiable coffee order
- Your Own Lunch: Hospital sandwiches are… an experience. Pack something you actually want to eat.
- Snacks: Chemo can do weird things to your taste buds. Pack a variety—something salty, something sweet.
- Can of Pop & Water: Stay hydrated, but also bring a treat. A cold can of ginger ale or your favourite soda can help cut through that “metal” taste chemo leaves behind. Cordial goes down a treat too.
- Your Own Cutlery: It sounds small, but using real silverware instead of flimsy plastic sporks makes the whole experience feel a little more human.
The Low-Tech Escape
- A Physical Book: Sometimes your eyes get tired of screens. Having a physical book is a great way to disconnect from the beeping machines and the IV poles for an hour.
Pro Tip: Pack your bag the night before. Decision fatigue is real when you’re dealing with “chemo brain,” so have your kit ready to grab and go.
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