How To Pack for a Hospital Stay

A hospital stay can be overwhelming. Packing appropriately can help reduce wait times during initial ER assessment, improve safety during admission, support cognitive function, and empower you to take an active role in your care.

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Hospital Bag Checklist

Keep these items packed in a ready-to-go hospital bag, and be sure someone you trust knows where it's stored in case of an emergency.

Medical Information

Contact info of Health Care Proxy
List of medications and supplements
List of allergies (medications, materials, food)
Vaccination record
List of medical issues, diagnoses, and surgeries
Copy of Advanced Directives
ID card (+copy)
Insurance card (+copy)
List of all current providers - PCP and specialists
Preferred pharmacy - name, address, phone number

Personal Items

List of email addresses and phone numbers of loved ones (decide who will be primary contact)
Phone
Charger
Earphones
A good book
Glasses
Hearing aides + extra batteries / charger
Dentures + Adhesive (even if you don't use adhesive regularly)
A notebook and pens
Alcohol wipes for cleaning surfaces
Bottle of antibacterial gel
Large resealable bag (e.g., Ziplock) to keep items organized
A good picture of yourself with loved ones (printed, in a frame)

Pro tip: A printed photo of yourself - ideally with loved ones or pets - fosters communication and connection with the staff and medical providers. It helps them see you as a person, not just a patient.

Download this checklist as a printable PDF to help you pack.