What to Pack in Your Chemo Bag and Chemotherapy Tips

Written by Dr. Daniel Landau | Edited by Amy Edel

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What to Pack in Your Chemo Bag

Chemo for mesothelioma days can feel long, tiring and unpredictable. Having a bag ready with the right essentials gives you comfort and peace of mind, so you can focus on your health instead of worrying about what you might need. A well-packed bag can make mesothelioma treatment feel less overwhelming and give you small moments of relief during the day.

Beyond the basics like your insurance card, ID and medical records, think about the things that bring you ease and familiarity. Items that keep you warm, entertained and nourished help the hours pass more smoothly and give you a sense of control during your chemo for mesothelioma.

1. Reading Materials

During long treatments, reading can bring comfort and distraction from the clinical setting. Books, magazines and e-readers help pass the hours in a way that feels familiar and enjoyable. Infusion rooms are usually quiet, which makes them a good space to catch up on stories, articles or anything you’ve been meaning to read.

2. A Jacket

Oncology units are typically cold, so bringing a jacket, comfy sweater or hoodie can help you feel more comfortable. You’ll be able to layer up if you get too cold and take your jacket off if you start feeling too warm.

3. Snacks

During treatment, it’s likely you’ll get hungry. Bringing along snacks to have throughout the day helps you remain strong and energized. It also ensures you have something on hand you enjoy eating. There are many foods you can eat during chemo, but most recommended snacks are light and high in fiber.

Popular Snacks to Eat During Chemo

• Almonds and other nuts
• Bread and crackers
• Broth
• Hard-boiled or scrambled eggs
• Oatmeal
• Smoothies

These snacks are light and filled with antioxidants and vitamins that can help your body during treatment. They’re also easy on the stomach, so they won’t increase feelings of nausea.

4. Pen and Journal

Chemotherapy sessions can be physically and emotionally draining. Journaling is a safe and private way to work through tough emotions. Studies have shown it has a positive impact on resilience and mental health. You can write notes about your treatment or just how you’re feeling and what is going on in your life. You can even decorate your journal or planner with stickers, such as the downloadable stickers below!

5. Unscented Lotion

Chemo treatment can make your skin dry. To prevent discomfort, bring unscented lotion along to your appointment to help keep your skin feeling healthy. Make sure you bring unscented lotion as perfumed lotions can sometimes make your skin dry out even more.

6. Headphones

Research shows music reduces stress and promotes calm. During cancer treatment, music can be an especially powerful tool for mindfulness and increased positivity. Bring along headphones so you can listen to your favorite music. Select calm music that you enjoy and that will make you feel restful.

7. Coloring Pages and Crayons

Coloring is a fun way to get creative and pass the time, and it can help improve mindfulness and relaxation. During long and sometimes emotional days receiving chemo, coloring can help you focus on something positive and relax your mind. You can buy a coloring book full of coloring pages, or start with this downloadable page.

8. Blanket

Antinausea medications often make people drowsy, and you may want to nap during treatment. Bring a blanket so you can stay warm and rest comfortably while you nap. It also adds a layer of warmth and coziness that can make long hours in the clinic feel easier.

9. Cellphone Charger

Your cellphone can help you communicate with friends and family during treatment, or can be a fun way to play games or read. Packing a charger to keep your phone powered ensures you have it handy in case of emergencies or to use it for entertainment. 

10. Puzzles and Brain Boosters

Brain teasers and puzzles can be a fun way to pass the time during treatment while keeping your mind active. They may also help reduce the effects of chemo brain, the cognitive fog some people experience during cancer treatment. Bring a puzzle book, download a word scramble or try a favorite brain game to stay engaged and focused during your appointment.

Choosing a Chemo Bag

A bag that is lightweight, easy to carry and simple to use can make treatment days feel more manageable. Having a place for everything helps you stay organized and can reduce small stresses during your appointments.

Bags with multiple compartments can help separate items. One section might hold books, games or activities, another a jacket or blanket, and a third your wallet, phone or other essentials. Having designated spaces can make it easier to find what you need during treatment.

A washable bag can add convenience. Being able to clean it between appointments keeps it fresh and easy to maintain, and following infection prevention practices can help protect you during treatment.

Finally, a bag that reflects your style or personality can make it feel more comforting. A favorite color, fun pattern or sports team design can bring a little joy during long treatment days.

Chemotherapy Tips

Chemo can be physically and emotionally demanding, and every treatment day brings its own challenges. Beyond comfort and preparation, there are practical ways to protect your energy, manage side effects and maintain a sense of control during mesothelioma treatment. These strategies focus on supporting your daily life and overall well-being, while connecting naturally to the items you pack in your chemo bag.

Top 5 Chemo Tips for People With Mesothelioma

1. Time your appointments thoughtfully: Use the items in your chemo bag to support your energy levels. Schedule treatments at times when you usually feel your best, and plan to have snacks, water or comfort items on hand to help you feel prepared and in control throughout the session.
   
2. Hydration and light nutrition: Bring a water bottle and light snacks, and check with your care team about what works best for you. Staying hydrated and maintaining steady energy makes side effects easier to manage, and small, frequent snacks often feel better than a large meal before treatment.
   
3. Bring tools for gentle movement: Pack a small resistance band, stress ball or other light exercise item you can use before or after treatment. Even simple stretches while seated, like shoulder rolls or squeezing a stress ball, can help reduce stiffness, improve circulation and lift your mood without interfering with your infusion.
   
4. Mindful breaks and relaxation: Bring tools for relaxation, such as a guided meditation app, soothing music or deep-breathing exercises. Taking intentional breaks to focus on calming activities can help you manage stress and stay present during long sessions.
   
5. Track patterns and side effects: Use the journal you packed to note when side effects occur, how severe they are and what strategies help. Recording this information helps you and your care team identify patterns and make adjustments to treatment, medications, or daily routines as needed.
   

Even with careful preparation, each chemotherapy session can feel unpredictable. These strategies aim to help you protect your energy, manage side effects, and maintain a sense of control. By paying attention to timing, nutrition, movement, relaxation and patterns, you can create small routines that make treatment days more manageable and tailored to your needs.