The chemo day bag: what to actually bring

The bottom line

Infusion days are long, often 3 to 6 hours in a chair. The difference between a miserable day and a manageable one is preparation. This is the packing list nobody hands you, built from what patients say they wish they’d brought.

Temperature and comfort

• A warm blanket and thick socks — infusion centers run cold, and some drugs make you feel colder. Bring your own; the center’s are thin.
• Layers you can add and remove — button or zip fronts work best around your port or IV line.
• A soft eye mask and earplugs or headphones — for napping through the drip.
• Lip balm and unscented lotion — chemo dries you out fast.

For the nausea and the mouth

• Ginger candies, peppermints, or sour candy — help with the metallic taste and mild nausea.
• Your own water bottle and an electrolyte drink — hydration matters more on infusion days.
• Bland snacks (crackers, pretzels) — taking anti-nausea meds on an empty stomach makes things worse.
• A small notebook — to jot down side effects and questions in real time (chemo brain is real; you won’t remember later).

For the long hours

• A charged phone or tablet plus charger and headphones — outlets aren’t always nearby.
• Downloaded shows or an audiobook — center wifi is unreliable.
• A book or puzzle if screens tire you.
• A friend, if allowed. The hours go faster with company, and a second set of ears helps.

The things people forget

A list of your current medications and questions — you’ll think of things between appointments and forget them by the time you’re in the chair. Write them down.

Your insurance card, ID, and any paperwork. And snacks or cash for the person coming with you — they’re in it for the long haul too.