Hospital stays are part of the journey for many families in the complex medical world. They can be overwhelming, but having a plan in place and being prepared can make a big difference. Here’s how I prepare for hospitalizations, whether planned or unexpected, along with tips to help you feel ready for anything.

Packing Like a Pro

When heading to the hospital, I always pack for at least four days, even if I’m hoping for a quick discharge. Why? Because hospital stays are unpredictable, and being over-prepared brings a sense of control.

Here’s my step-by-step guide to packing, along with a Hospital Stay Packing Checklist to keep you organized.

Documents and Medical Essentials:

Having the right paperwork ensures smooth communication with the medical team. Though might not be needed always if your hospital has a system that keeps all this information online:

• Medical binder with your child’s records (e.g., diagnosis, medication list, care plan)

• Insurance card and ID

• List of questions or concerns for the medical team

• Copies of any legal documents (e.g., power of attorney, guardianship papers)

• Notebook or app for jotting down notes from appointments

For Your Child:

Packing for comfort and care is essential for keeping your child at ease during a stay:

• Comfortable, easy-to-change clothing (button-up or zipper options)

• Favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or comfort item

• Toys, books, or activities to keep them entertained

• Medical equipment you routinely use at home (e.g., feeding pump)

• Medications

  • Pro Tip: Pharmacy and transport delays are the norm, so I always keep her essential medications on hand to avoid waiting when she needs them.

• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, hairbrush, etc.)

For You (Parent or Caregiver):

Staying comfortable and taking care of yourself is vital during a hospital stay:

• This is the bag I use to pack a lot of my things!

• Comfortable clothing (layers for varying temperatures)

  • Four days’ worth of clothes:

    • 4 pairs of sweatpants

    • 2 sweatshirts

    • 4 pairs of shorts

    • 4 long-sleeve shirts

    • 4 short-sleeve shirts

• Shoes:

  • Fuzzy Crocs for comfort (this is what i have but make sure the shoes you pack are good to get dirty)

  • Shower shoes for, well… hospital showers

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, deodorant, etc.)

• Medications and/or supplements you take

• Reusable water bottle (This is a good choice)

• Snacks and non-perishable food items. This is a good lunch box if wanted.

• Phone charger (The longer the better, you never know where the plug will be)

• Pillow or blanket for overnight stays (This is my favorite)

• Fun stuff: Books, Kindle, or anything else to pass the time

Emergency Grab-and-Go Bag

For unexpected hospitalizations, I keep an emergency grab-and-go bag ready at all times.

Here’s what’s inside:

• Pre-packed essentials: A couple of changes of clothing, travel-sized toiletries, and non-perishable snacks.

• Portable phone charger: Because a dead phone is the last thing you need.

• Comfort items for Anna: A favorite toy, blanket, or anything that helps her feel more at ease.

• Extra cash or a credit card: For parking fees, vending machines, or last-minute necessities.

Unpacking or Not?

In most cases, I unpack completely when we get to the hospital, organizing our things in the available drawers and settling in for what I expect will be a multi-day stay.

* A Note on Laundry:

If we stay longer than expected, my husband steps in to swap out dirty clothes for clean ones so I’m always comfortable and prepared.

Being prepared for hospital stays—whether planned or unexpected—helps me feel more in control during uncertain times. I hope this guide and checklist help you feel the same.