What to Bring Someone in the Hospital: A Thoughtful Guide for Family and Caregivers
When someone you love is in the hospital, it can feel like the world has suddenly shifted. You might find yourself juggling emotions—worry, fear, love, hope—and asking one key question: What can I do to help? The truth is, your presence and care can make a world of difference during this vulnerable time.
Being there for your loved one, whether in person or from afar, means more than you might realize. A warm smile, a listening ear, or even a well-chosen blanket can bring immense comfort. In this guide, we’ll explore what to bring (and what not to bring) to make their hospital stay more comfortable, meaningful, and healing.
Why Your Presence Is the Most Important Thing You Can Bring
Before you gather comfort items or prepare snacks, take a deep breath and remember: your presence matters more than anything.
Being there—physically or emotionally—helps your loved one feel seen, supported, and less alone. Research and clinical experience show that patients with active family support tend to feel more optimistic and communicate better with providers (1).
That said, every patient is different. Some may want visitors around the clock; others may need time to rest, reflect, or process privately. Communicate openly and let them know you’re available—without pressuring them.
Understanding Your Role as a Supportive Caregiver
When someone you care about is hospitalized, your role can shift quickly from family or friend to informal caregiver. But what does that really mean?
Here are a few questions to help guide your involvement:
Will you be a daily visitor or check in periodically?
Are you helping communicate with medical staff, or are you simply offering moral support?
Do they need help managing decisions, or just someone to sit and hold space?
Whatever your role, consider these caregiver tips for a hospital stay:
Be present without hovering. Offer help, but don’t take over.
Listen more than you speak. Let your loved one express themselves.
Work with the care team. Nurses, doctors, and social workers can help you support your loved one safely and effectively.
Ask how you can help. Don’t assume you know best—ask what they need or prefer.
Hospital Visit Checklist: What to Bring Someone in the Hospital
Packing a thoughtful hospital bag can ease your loved one’s stay significantly. Here’s a caregiver-approved list of what to bring someone in the hospital to boost comfort, ease boredom, and support recovery.
1. Comfort & Sleep Items
Soft blanket or shawl – Something warm and cozy from home
Slippers with grippy soles – Safe and soft for walking short distances
Eye mask & earplugs – Help block out light and sound for better sleep
Comfortable pillow – From home, if permitted by the hospital
Pajamas/comfortable clothes from home (if allowed) – nobody like walking around with their tush hanging out.
These items help the experience feel less sterile and more like a place of healing.
2. Personal Care Essentials
Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
Mild facial wipes or baby wipes
Lip balm and hand lotion
Comb, deodorant, dry shampoo
Familiar self-care products help your loved one feel human again. If they’re sensitive to fragrances or share a room, opt for unscented versions.
3. Mental & Emotional Distractions
Books, magazines, crossword puzzles
Podcasts, music playlists, or audiobooks (don’t forget headphones!)
Journal or notebook – Great for tracking questions, feelings, or doctor instructions
Cards or board games – Especially if they’ll have visitors
Even five minutes of mental escape can help patients reduce anxiety or boredom between procedures and rounds.
4. Snacks & Beverages (If Allowed)
Non-perishable snacks: Crackers, granola bars, unsweetened applesauce
Favorite beverages: Herbal tea, electrolyte drinks, juice (if diet allows)
Gum or mints: Help with dry mouth and fresh breath
Reusable water bottle: Make hydration easier
Always check with the nursing staff before bringing food or drinks, especially for patients with diabetes, texture limitations, fluid restrictions, or post-surgery dietary limitations.
5. Meaningful Touches from Home
Framed photo of family or pets
Spiritual or encouraging items: Prayer cards, affirmations, favorite quotes
Small comfort object: A stuffed animal, lucky charm, or personal token
These gentle reminders of home and love can bring peace in the middle of uncertainty.
What Not to Bring to the Hospital
While good intentions drive most visits, some items can put your loved one—or others—at risk.
Here's what to avoid:
Fresh Flowers or Potted Plants
While beautiful, live plants can harbor mold, pollen, or bacteria, which can be dangerous for people with weakened immune systems (common in ICU, oncology, and transplant units).
Instead: Bring a photo of flowers or good memories, a colorful balloon (non-latex), or a hand-drawn card.
Medications from Home
Unless your healthcare provider has specifically approved it, don’t bring prescription or over-the-counter meds. The hospital pharmacy tracks and manages all medications carefully, and untracked pills can result in serious drug interactions.
Instead: Bring an up-to-date medication list and dosage schedule to share with the medical team.
Tobacco, Alcohol, or Vaping Products
These items are strictly prohibited in all hospital settings for safety and health reasons. Smoking near oxygen tanks can cause explosions, and alcohol can interfere with medications or recovery.
Tip: If your loved one is struggling with cravings or withdrawal, speak with a nurse or physician. There are safe, hospital-approved treatments to help.
Valuables and Sentimental Heirlooms
Items like expensive jewelry, wallets with cash, or family heirlooms are easily lost during room transfers or procedures.
Instead: Keep sentimental value low and emotional value high—bring things that comfort without worry.
Weapons or Self-Defense Tools
This might seem obvious, but never bring anything that could be considered a weapon into a hospital. Even something meant for safety can cause confusion or risk in a medical setting, especially if your loved one is disoriented.
Emotional Support Matters Just As Much
Here’s a little secret: your loved one might not remember the protein bars you brought—but they’ll remember how you made them feel.
Some of the most powerful forms of support include:
Simply sitting quietly together
Holding their hand
Listening without trying to fix everything
Making them laugh when the days feel long
Sometimes, all your loved one really wants is your calm, steady presence in the room.
Caregiver Self-Check: Are You Taking Care of You?
As a caregiver or close support person, it’s easy to give everything and forget to refill your own cup. But to truly support someone in the hospital, you need to protect your own energy too.
Quick caregiver tips for hospital visits:
Take breaks when needed.
Bring water and a snack for yourself.
Don't try to stay for hours if you're exhausted—short, meaningful visits go a long way.
Ask for help—coordinate visits with others if needed.
If you feel yourself burning out, reach out to a hospital social worker or case manager. You don’t have to do this alone.
Final Thoughts: You Make a Difference
Hospital stays can be overwhelming, but small acts of love and support add up. Whether you're dropping off a care package, staying to chat, or just checking in by phone, your presence and thoughtfulness help your loved one feel less alone—and more ready to heal.
References:
1. Bélanger, Lynda, et al. "Hospital visiting policies-impacts on patients, families and staff: A review of the literature to inform decision making." J Hosp Adm 6.6 (2017): 51-62.
