Starting chemotherapy is a daunting, life-altering experience, and no one really hands you a perfect checklist for what to expect during chemo treatment. Between the clinical explanations from your medical team and the well-meaning advice from friends, it’s easy to overlook some of the little comforts and practical items that can make your infusion treatments much more manageable.

As someone who’s walked this road, knowing what to bring to chemotherapy ahead of time can ease nerves and help you feel more in control on treatment days.

What to Put in Your Chemo Bag 

Knowing what to wear to chemo with a port can significantly improve your overall experience. It’s a good idea to also bring entertainment, items for warmth and some sleep aids. Here are some chemotherapy must haves for filling your chemo bag with thoughtful, comforting, and practical items, a small but powerful way to care for yourself or your loved one during treatment.

1. Comfortable, Accessible Clothing

Comfy cozies for chemo should be your number one priority! Infusion rooms can be chilly, and treatment can take hours, so prioritize loose, soft, breathable clothing. Choose clothing that is

• Chemo Port-friendly: Shirts with snaps, zippers, or openings to give nurses access to your port without fully undressing.
  

• Adaptive layering pieces: Capes, snap cardigans, or zippered wraps you can easily adjust while connected to medical devices.
  

• Soft, non-restrictive pants: Think joggers or lounge pants without tight waistbands.

2. Blankets and Pillows

Infusion centers are notoriously chilly, and while some offer thin hospital blankets, having your own soft, cozy throw can bring a little bit of home to the clinic. Some patients swear by weighted blankets for added anxiety relief during treatment.

3. Non-Slip Socks or Slippers

Chemo can make you feel weak, dizzy, or unsteady, so wearing warm socks with gripper soles is both a comfort and a safety essential. Hospital floors can be slick, and your feet will appreciate the warmth during long infusions. Want to learn more about the best socks for chemo patients to ensure their comfort, safety and warmth?

4. Eyemask

Napping in the bright lights of an infusion center or hospital can be made easier with a soft, comfortable eye mask. Pick a fabric that is soft on the skin and attachments that aren’t too tight for maximum comfort. 

5. Headphones or Earbuds

Treatment centers can be noisy with IV machines beeping, conversations around you, and background TV chatter. A good pair of noise-canceling headphones or comfortable earbuds can help you tune out the distractions. Load up your favorite playlists, podcasts, or calming meditations.

6. Entertainment Essentials

Infusion sessions can last anywhere from 1-6 hours. Bring things that will occupy your mind and distract you. Examples include a tablet with downloaded movies or shows, an e-reader with easy-to-read books, a coloring book or crossword puzzles or a journal for jotting down thoughts, side effects, or gratitude moments

If you’re experiencing chemo brain (yes, it’s a real thing), simpler activities like coloring, light reading, or audio stories might be easier than complicated novels.

7. Water Bottle with Straw

Hydration is critical during chemo — it helps flush the medications through your system and can ease headaches or nausea. A spill-proof bottle with a built-in straw makes it easier to sip while lying back in a recliner. Some patients prefer flavored waters or electrolyte drinks to help with dry mouth and weird taste changes. 

8. Lip Balm and Hand Lotion

Chemotherapy can dry out your skin, lips, and cuticles. Infusion centers often have dry air too, so keep a good unscented, hypoallergenic lip balm and hand cream within reach. Avoid heavily scented products — many chemo patients develop sensitivity to strong smells.

9. Snacks (Nausea-Friendly)

Infusion days can be long, and hospital snacks are… well, not great. Pack your own light, easy-to-eat snacks that won’t upset your stomach:

• Saltine crackers, pretzels

• Cheese or peanut butter

• Fresh or dried fruit

• Ginger chews

• Applesauce cups

• Hard candies (peppermint or lemon drops are great for metallic taste)
  

10. Phone Charger (with a long cable)

Treatment days are heavy on screen time, whether you’re watching movies, texting friends, or catching up on emails. Infusion rooms may not have outlets close to your chair, so pack a phone charger with a long cable or a portable power bank.

11. Tissues and Sanitizing Wipes

Bring a small pack of tissues for watery eyes or runny noses (both common side effects) and sanitizing wipes to clean your hands or the recliner tray table. Germ protection is a priority when your immune system is weakened.

12. Chemo Journal

Keep a small notebook or planner in your chemo bag to track symptoms, side effects, medications, and questions for your doctor. It can be hard to remember everything when you’re overwhelmed or experiencing chemo fog. Our pro tip: Write down what you eat, how you feel, and what helps or worsens side effects so you can share patterns with your care team.

13. Handheld games or puzzles

You’ll need more than just your electronic devices, so be sure to pack some fun games or puzzles.  Crossword puzzles, sudoku and word searches are portable and light. You can also bring a deck of cards.  You may even find some interesting ideas by searching for long car ride games

14. Support Person

No one wants to inconvenience their loved ones, but typically, your friends and family will jump at the opportunity to support you in any way they can. Asking someone to join may be a nice change of pace if you’re in the treatment center frequently. 

If no one is able to join you, infusion days can feel lonely. Tuck a handwritten note from a loved one, a photo, or a small token of encouragement into your bag. It’s a simple but meaningful way to lift your spirits on tough days.

What I Wish I knew Before Starting Chemotherapy

Aside from what’s in your bag, here are some things I wish I had during chemo and a few practical, patient-tested tips:

• Wear two-piece outfits for easy bathroom breaks.
  

• Arrive early to settle in and claim a favorite recliner if possible.
  

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions about what’s being infused or side effects.
  

• Pack light if you’re too fatigued to carry a heavy bag post-infusion.

You’ve got this! You’re going to KickIt!