1. Pillow & blanket

Nothing makes a hospital room feel homier than your own pillow and blanket! A heated blanket is extra cozy for chilly rooms. And don’t forget a favorite stuffed animal—it’s not just for kids; comfort matters at every age.

2. Books

Bring along a series or a couple of books you’ve been meaning to read. Hospitals are the perfect place to finally dive into that fantasy world, rom-com, or thriller that’s been sitting on your shelf.

3. Clothing

Pack comfy clothes like pajamas, sweatshirts, and leggings—anything that makes you feel cozy but still like yourself. Layers are key because hospital temps can change fast!

4. Slippers & socks

Hospital floors are not the place for bare feet. Soft, warm socks and slippers make moving around way more comfortable—and they add a little personality to hospital attire too!

5. Skincare & toiletries

Hospitals can be super dry, so lotion and lip balm are lifesavers. And don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, and any other little daily essentials you rely on.

6. Memorabilia from your bedroom

A photo, poster, or tiny trinket from home makes your hospital room feel less sterile and more yours.

7. Electronics & chargers

Bring your phone, iPad, or laptop—plus chargers! Headphones are a must for bingeing shows, gaming, or zoning out with music without bothering anyone.

8. Water bottle

Staying hydrated is easy to forget, but so important! A cute reusable water bottle keeps you from having to rely on little hospital cups.

9. Art supplies, journal, or diary

Drawing, doodling, or journaling is a great way to keep your mind busy and process everything. Even jotting down one funny or meaningful moment each day can allow you to reflect and find bits of joy.

10. Snacks

Hospital food isn’t always the most exciting. Pack a stash of your favorites—granola bars, fruit snacks, chips, or chocolate—so you’ve always got something comforting to munch on.

11. Puzzle or activity book

Crosswords, Sudoku, word searches, or coloring books are low-effort, screen-free ways to pass the time. Bonus: they make long waits go way faster.

12. Comfort item

Whether it’s a hoodie you love, a small pillow, or a stuffed animal, having something that feels like home is an underrated but major necessity.

13. Music or audiobooks

Make a “hospital playlist” before you go—songs that hype you up, calm you down, or just make you feel good. Audiobooks are also perfect if you’re too tired to read but still want a story.

14. A little toy or fidget

Even as a teen, a Rubik’s cube, fidget spinner, or stress ball can be a surprisingly great distraction. Pull these small, portable gadgets out during a short wait period or “adult” conversation you’d rather zone out to.

15. Games

A deck of cards, Uno, or a travel-sized board game = instant boredom-buster. They’re also fun to share with siblings or friends who visit.

1. Watch a show or movie

Hospitals mean lots of waiting—so line up your favorite series or a comfort movie marathon on your device.

2. Read a book or comic

Getting lost in a good story is one of the fastest ways to make time fly. Graphic novels and short stories are great if your brain feels tired.

3. Journal or doodle

Even if it’s just silly sketches or a quick “day-in-the-life” entry, it helps pass the time and keeps your mind active.

4. Play games on your phone or tablet

From puzzle games to multiplayer ones, they’re always a fun distraction!

5. Do a craft

Friendship bracelets, origami, or even adult coloring books are perfect little hospital projects.

6. Listen to music or podcasts

Make playlists for different moods—chill, upbeat, motivational—or dive into a podcast series.

7. Chat with friends or family

Text, FaceTime, or play online games together. Staying connected helps make the hospital feel less isolating.

8. Try mindfulness or meditation apps

Breathing exercises or relaxing soundscapes can ease nerves and help you rest.

9. Explore the playroom or lounge (if available)

Sometimes there are board games, art supplies, or even video game consoles waiting to be discovered.

10. Take little walks (if you’re allowed)

Stretch your legs, look out windows, and give yourself a change of scenery. Even small movements can brighten your day.

1. Cozy blanket or pillow

Something soft and warm makes long hospital days so much more comfortable.

2. Fuzzy socks or slippers

Hospitals can be cold, and cozy feet = happy patient.

3. Snacks & treats

Their favorite chips, candy, or healthy snacks for when hospital food doesn’t cut it.

4. Fun water bottle

A cute water bottle encourages hydration and adds a little personality to their hospital room.

5. Entertainment

Books, comics, magazines, or even a streaming service gift card—perfect boredom busters.

6. Art or activity supplies

Coloring books, markers, journals, puzzles, or crafts give them something to focus on besides treatment.

7. Headphones or a small speaker

Music can be super comforting, and having good headphones makes a huge difference.

8. A care package of skincare items

Lip balm, lotion, and hand sanitizer—hospitals are dry and those little comforts are huge.

9. A plushie or comfort item

Even teens and adults appreciate a stuffed animal or squishy toy when they need a little emotional boost.

10. Something personal

A framed photo, a playlist you made just for them, or a handwritten letter reminding them you care. Those thoughtful touches often mean the most.

• “I’m here for you—no need to reply.” Takes the pressure off but keeps the door always open.
• “Would you like to talk about it, or talk about anything but it?” Lets them steer the convo and finally feel in control.
• “What can I take off your plate—today or anytime? I’m in.” Gives them reassurance and instant support without guilt.
• “Can I drop off a meal/ride you to an appointment/walk your dog?” Offer something specific and follow through.
• “I don’t know what to say, but I care about you a lot.” An honest and comforting response can go a long way. Even if you are deep down unsure of how to deal with something so heavy, a message is better than no message.
• “What’s the best way to check in—text, call, memes?” Match their energy/medium and stay consistent with checking in.
• “I’m on standby for you—whenever you need me, whatever for.” Gives them comfort and guaranteed support.
• “I can sit with you quietly, keep you company, or watch something—whatever feels good.” Social support without small talk; sometimes it's nice to not think about cancer at all.
• “Thinking of you and wishing you steadier, easier moments today.” Simple, repeated check-ins matter.
• “I’m with you for the long haul.” Reassures them you won’t disappear after week one.

• Fragrance-free lip balm & lotion – Hospitals are dry, making these very practical (unscented is safest.)
• Cozy socks or beanie – Warmth always provides comfort in chilly infusions or other appointments.
• Long phone charger (6–10 ft) or power bank – Outlets are never where you need them.
• Easy snacks – Plain crackers, ginger candies, granola bars (check diet restrictions first).
•  Hydration helpers – Reusable water bottle, electrolyte packets, or herbal/ginger tea.
• Small  entertainment – Puzzle/word-search book, adult coloring book + pencils, or a small game.
• Headphones/earbuds – Help blocking hospital noise or finding an escape during stressful moments.
• Notebook & a good pen – For questions, meds, symptoms, or journaling.
• Comfort items – Small blanket, plushie, stress ball, or fidget—soothing for all ages.
• Useful gift cards – Meals (DoorDash/Uber Eats), coffee, gas/parking, or streaming.