With a loved one in the hospital or going in for treatments like chemo, having a grab and go bag is a lifesaver. It's not a pretty as a gorgeous gift box, but it's way more useful.
When my Grandparents were in and out of the hospital and then my mom had several heart surgeries we had comfort hospital bag packed and ready to go at all times. It takes the stress out of finding food or worrying you are going to miss the Dr.
For a while, Courageously Living offered a Hospital Comfort Bag, however I made the decision to stop carrying food products. Even though we aren't offering them for sale, here is the refined list of what makes a great Comfort Hospital Bag.
If you have time to put it together, your recipient will be so appreciative. They are still one of my favorite things to give to the family of a loved one in the hospital.
Click here for the PDF checklist version.
Essentials
- Large Bag (Preferable with a zipper, but a tote will work too.)
- Advil or Tylenol (Caregivers can get headaches with all the stress)
- Notebook
- Pen
- Tissues
- Hand Wipes
- Hand Lotion
- Chapstick
- Cough Drops
Food/Drink
- Individual Snacks
- Protein Bars
- Chocolate
- Hard Candy
- Coffee or Tea Packets. (A lot of hospital cafeterias are still operating on limited hours, but usually there is hot water in some waiting rooms or by the nurses desk that visitors can access).
Other Items to Consider to Remind Them to Add
- Phone
- Phone Charger
- Travel Mug - (Most hospitals will have disable cups too, so a travel mug might be more of hassle than it’s worth it will depend on the situation.)
- Their own Medication
- Personal Care Products