Packing for the Hospital: The Essential Checklist for You or a Loved One

Packing for a long hospital stay can be stressful, but these tips will make it easier. Here’s hoping your hospital stay is restful and you have time to plan for it.

Hygiene essentials and personal medication:

What hygiene essentials would you bring on a vacation (a toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, deodorant etc.)? Go over your daily hygiene routine in your head or write it down and create a list of the things you need. Pack bulky things like shampoo and conditioner in travel-sized containers. If you have personal medications, be sure to bring those as well; preferably in their original packaging, so a nurse can help if needed.

Clothing essentials:

Depending on the reason for your stay, you’ll probably need something less restrictive and more accessible than your regular clothes. Enter Giftgowns: wonderful garments for surgery and recovery, lounging, baby delivery, postpartum, breastfeeding and anyone in need of a comfortable and fashionable hospital-friendly outfit. Giftgowns offer more coverage than regular hospital gowns, better functionality and fun colours/graphics. Giftgowns have snaps down the back and sides, and pockets too.

(Above: friends laughing in their Giftgowns.)

To avoid a dangerous fall, bring some comfortable rubber sole slippers that you can throw on for trips to the washroom, cafeteria, or a walk. The rubber soles will make your slippers non-slip and much safer than other shoe options. To keep your feet comfy and warm, we recommend bringing a pair of Giftgowns socks too.

Sleep essentials:

Staying in a new environment can mess with your sleep schedule but a good night's rest is important for healing. We suggest bringing sheets, pillows, pillowcases and such for the best and most familiar sleep possible. Not all hospitals allow you to bring bedding, so call to check beforehand. Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper and an eye mask as some hospital rooms, especially shared ones, may be brighter than you’re used to.

Entertainment essentials:

Now that we’ve covered your self-care essentials, it’s also important to keep your brain engaged and your mood cheerful. Bring your favourite books or finish the sweater you’ve been meaning to knit. Download your favourite shows, movies or playlists on your phone or other device(s) to pass the time. Remember to bring your chargers for electronics.

 

(Above: a person knitting.)