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Go-Bag Packing List

Unexpected Wake-Up Calls: The Case for a Go-Bag

Imagine this: you wake up one morning to find firemen at your bedside—and you’re not even in your own clothes! Sounds like a wild comedy skit, right? But in reality, it’s a vivid reminder that life can surprise us in the most unexpected ways, and often, these surprises are far from funny. That's why it's crucial to always be prepared for anything, especially medical emergencies. Today, we're diving into why every household needs a well-prepared go-bag.

Why a Go-Bag?

Emergencies don’t make appointments. They can occur at any moment, often when we least expect them. From sudden hospital trips to unexpected evacuations, having a go-bag ready ensures you're prepared for the worst with the essentials you need to stay safe and comfortable.

What to Pack in Your Go-Bag

Your go-bag should be a collection of items that cater to immediate needs and provide comfort during stressful times. Here's what you should consider packing, divided into three key categories:

  • Cleanliness: Hygiene is crucial, especially in emergency situations. Pack items like Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer, and dry shampoo to keep yourself clean when access to facilities might be limited.
  • Comfort: Comfort items can ease the stress of emergencies. Include soft pajamas, a cozy blanket, and even some lemon drops to soothe your nerves and keep you feeling secure.
  • Convenience: In times of crisis, every little convenience helps. Make sure your go-bag includes a charger for your devices, snacks for sustenance, and an emergency contact list to stay connected.

    While we all hope never to need a go-bag, the truth is that being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency. It's not just about safety; it's about maintaining a semblance of normalcy and comfort in times when life throws us curveballs.

    Go Bag Packing List

    Cleanliness

    • Lightweight Overnight Bag: Choose a bag that is easy to clean and can be wiped off to reduce germ transmission.
    • Hand Sanitizer: For guests and anyone entering the hospital room, to minimize the spread of germs.
    • Clorox Sanitizing Wipes: Use these to disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as wheelchairs, bed rails, faucets, door knobs, and remote controls.
    • Lysol Spray: Effective for killing airborne germs; essential in a hospital environment where germs are prevalent.
    • Room Spray or Myers Lemon Sachet: Keeps the room smelling fresh and pleasant, countering the often unpleasant hospital odors.

    Medical and Organizational Needs

    • Medical Journal / Notepad and Pen: Track symptoms, doctor’s responses, medication changes, and care plans effectively.
    • Excel Spreadsheet for Medications: Simplify medication management for you and the nursing staff at every shift change.
    • Emergency Contact Sheet: Includes all necessary contact numbers for quick reference in emergencies.
    • Copy of Medical Power of Attorney and Advanced Directives: Ensure that all legal and medical decisions are understood and accessible.

    Personal Care

    • Hanging Dopp Kit / Toiletry Bag: Preferably with clear pockets to easily see and access items from the bed.
    • Petroleum-Free Lip Balm: Choose products like Burt's Bees or EOS, which are safe to use with oxygen and do not irritate the lips.
    • Toothbrush with Soft Bristles and Cover: Keeps the brush germ-free and is gentle on the gums.
    • Mouthwash, Dry Shampoo, and Hair Brush: Essentials for maintaining personal hygiene.
    • Micellair Water and Cotton Rounds, Makeup Removing Wipes: For gentle and effective makeup removal.
    • Makeup Erase Brand Washcloths: Opt for using specialized cloths instead of hospital-provided ones to avoid germs.

    Comfort and Convenience

    • Double Wall Cup with Lid and Long Flexible Straw: Especially useful for patients with mobility restrictions.
    • Lemon Drops: Helps manage dry mouth, a common issue in hospitals.
    • Aveeno Lotion with Oatmeal: Soothes dry and itchy skin, which can be a side effect of medications.
    • Soft Blanket and Own Pillowcase: Provides comfort and a touch of home, distinguishing your items from hospital linens.
    • Travel Size Memory Foam Pillow: Supports various body parts for better comfort in hospital beds.
    • Sleep Mask and Gripper Socks: Essential for resting in a typically bright and busy hospital environment.
    • Dark PJ Set: Preferably button-up to facilitate medical access without compromising personal dignity.
    • Slide-On Slippers: Easy to wear, even with swollen feet, and can be washed to maintain cleanliness after the hospital stay.

    Tech and Stress Relief

    • Charger Cable and Extra Charging Bank: Keeps your devices powered, supporting communication and relaxation needs.
    • Mind Panda Stress Balls: Infused with affirmations and aromatherapy, they aid in stress relief and physical therapy.

    By packing these items, patients and their families can alleviate the stress and disorientation often associated with sudden hospital stays. Being prepared not only eases the mind but also allows for a focus on recovery and health management.


    So, take a moment to prepare your go-bag today—because as we like to say here at Sunshine With a Bow, it’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it!

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