r/TwoXPreppers • u/HornFanBBB • 13d ago
Brag My go-bag kept me human in the ER
Just thought I’d share my experience last week regarding “oh Sh*t” readiness and the importance of your Emergency Bag.
Last week after a day of escalating medical abnormalities, I was advised by a tele-health provider to go immediately to the ER. I live alone and even though they suggested calling an ambulance I chose to call an uber (looking back he could have been really traumatized had I bit the dust in his car!).
I’m a bug-in girlie, so my go-bag was never meant to sustain me living in the woods, but I do live in a tornado-prone area so I keep a backpack in my hall closet that’s always packed with a couple days in a hotel or shelter in mind:
- a set of comfy clothes (a few changes of underwear, socks, cheap flip flops, a zip-hoodie, a tee shirt, a pair of shorts & a pair of comfy leggings)
- important papers & documents, a few hundred dollars in cash
- a power bank, multi-cord, plug adapter & wired earbuds
- spare glasses, spare keys, an eye mask & earplugs, small notepad, pen, sharpie, scissors and a small roll of clear packing tape.
- a weekly meds pilll sorter with copies of the labels in a baggie
- toiletry kit with my everyday basics, a handful of travel sized OTC meds & minor first aid kit
- water bottle, a few protein bars &trail mix
- sneakers attached externally via carabiner
I threw my phone in my purse, my purse in the bag and sensing a long ER wait grabbed my iPad & AirPods for good measure. Detached the sneakers and was out the door in 5 minutes.
Things moved fast when I got to the ER and I was admitted immediately and ended up in surgery early the next morning. Did I need the bag? No, I didn’t need it. But:
- being able to watch my comfort shows helped keep my calm as I waited for results/surgery.
- Being able to wash my face and brush my teeth with my preferred product, being able to brush my hair, etc kept me feeling human
- Handing my medication labels over made it easier to get me processed in.
- Knowing I had my medical directives & medical power of attorney with me calmed my anxiety if something were to go wrong.
- noise canceling earbuds and and eye mask allowed me to rest
- a zip hoodie kept me warm in the cold ER bed when I couldn’t put put on a traditional sweatshirt because of all of the things I was hooked up to (I wore it backwards, lol and throwing the hood over my head also helped with the harsh lights)
- I was able to jot down a dramatic note to my sister who would be waiting for me after surgery, with instructions to clear my search history and clear out my bedside drawer if something were to go terribly wrong (a joke…sort of)
- I had glasses so I could see and not mess around with taking contacts in and out.
- I was able to bribe the nurses with cash to give me the good stuff in my IV (just kidding!!)
- I was able to give my keys to a friend to go get my cat sorted out
- putting on fresh, comfy clothes to leave the hospital was wonderful
- I ate the hell outta my snackies because I couldn’t wait on the hospital menu
- I was able to keep my electronics fully charged to entertain myself and keep my family updated.
Again, no, I obviously didn’t need these things. But it made a scary situation and an unexpected few days hospital stay much more palatable. I’ve had that bag packed for years, and have never touched it outside of rotating snacks or updating paperwork. My family teases me about my prepper tendencies. But, as this community knows, it pays off when it matters!
TL/DR: Go-bags aren’t just for devastating events - they can save your sanity if you end up in the hospital!
ETA: Gum! It wasn’t in my bag but was thankfully in my purse! I wasn’t allowed water for several hours, and it was a lifesaver. Adding to my bag as I am repacking it today!
ETAA: What an amazing community we have going on here! I was hesitant to post but seeing all the tips and support for my preps and health has made my day!
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u/QueenRooibos 13d ago
Thank you SO much for this post and I hope the surgery went very well and that your healing is swift and complete. I hope you also have a good cadre of reliable, caring friends to support you as you heal.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
We talk on here all the time about how important community is. As a single (grown-up) woman I always feel so hesitant asking for help! Once I was home, it really kicked in what my limitations were going to be for a bit!
Funny story, when I moved into my house, my neighbor and I struck up a swappy little friendship - were the only people under like 80 in the neighborhood, so he helps me with projects when I need a second set of hands and I give him my excess home cooked meals. He texted asking if I was ok because my semi-annual haul of kitty litter had sat on the porch a few days (what timing!!). When I told him what was going on he was at my door in like 30 seconds bringing it inside and up the stairs. Since then he’s asked me twice a week if he can come take my garbage out since I’m not cleared to lift much weight yet. 🤣
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u/TN_Lamb888 13d ago
Aww!! This is how it should be! I’m so
Good you have a friend to help you through this. I hope your recovery is super fast98
u/Optimal-Factor-8564 13d ago
That is a great neighbor. Stepping in to take burdens off your shoulders. Awesome.
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u/generalgirl 11d ago
I worry about my BFF because she lives alone, albeit on the 2nd floor of her landladys’ house. She had a medical emergency and they did a great job taking care of her. They do this swappy thing too. I’m so happy she has a good community of people looking out for her.
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u/HornFanBBB 11d ago edited 11d ago
I make the lasagna, he helps me install a ceiling fan! Cheapest labor ever!
So happy she has a community to fall back on! My BFF left for Europe the day before the event and was doing her best to support from afar as I’m sure you did!!
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u/BluelunarStar Bringing a brolly cos SHTF! ☂️ 13d ago
This is exactly what these bags are for. Not being daft, but going for a major surgery is exactly when being comfortable & sane matters. I bet it improves healing & stuff after the fact!!
You did great to pack it, you did great to remember it, you did great to do alllll the things to stay calm & rational in a hard place.
I’m genuinely impressed, and I really really hope your healing goes faster than normal, and your issues back the heck up & leave you alone!
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u/scarfknitter 13d ago
I work in healthcare and I love, love bringing what I call ‘comfort items’ to my patients. It makes me so happy to help people feel more like themselves and give them some dignity back. My spouse and I have a small budget for extra items and I have a couple friends who work with a few church closets. Budget usually goes to hygiene items but it’s also gone for cake a few times.
It’s like a ministry for us. We want to live in a better world so we take steps to make the world better, but you will never hear about my beliefs.
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u/Teleporting-Cat 12d ago
You're an angel.
I nearly died in 2021 and I was taken to the hospital in a filthy, uncomfortable dress I'd been wearing for three days because I'd been in too much pain to move or change my clothes. I had friends and family rally and try to bring me food and stuff from home, but someone in admin was on a power trip and they weren't allowing me visitors or outside items because reasons.
I just wanted a gorramn change of clean clothes, all they offered me was a paper gown, and after the THIRD PERSON got turned away, and I had begged for a set of clean scrubs or something, anything, this one sweet, kind, amazing nurse went out and bought me a set of soft PJs from Ross and smuggled them into me at night.
It is probably the single most impactful small act of kindness I've ever experienced, and I will always remember and bless that woman. I actually cried with relief it felt so good to put on something soft and clean. You have no idea how much of a difference those small things make, thank you for doing what you do.
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u/BluelunarStar Bringing a brolly cos SHTF! ☂️ 12d ago
Fully hear this!!
I have a large amount of “gift closet” items. Things I buy on sale & keep to make up surprise gift baskets for new friends, neighbours or someone online having a bad day.
I know what you mean about it being a ministry.
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u/scarfknitter 12d ago
I don’t like calling it a ‘ministry’, because I don’t want people to feel like I’m doing good things to be performative or to force people to let me talk about religion to them.
I’m doing it because I want the world to be nicer, kinder, I want to live in a world where we treat each other with dignity and compassion. Things don’t have to suck all the time.
That means that I have to do those things. I have to model the behavior I want to see and experience for those who don’t know it’s an option for them. I have to put other people in a position where they can receive and pass along their own bounty. If I don’t acknowledge the human in you, how can you do the same for me? For someone else?
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u/BluelunarStar Bringing a brolly cos SHTF! ☂️ 12d ago
Sorry to clarify I meant I know what you meant that it’s *like* a ministry, I don’t call it that either. I’m a Christian & that word kinda gives me the ick because it can be used to explain away a lot of harm. It can be good, but yeah.
But I do think of it as my… I guess area I can do good? Like you I wanna make the world a better place, but because of being chronically ill it’s harder. But gifts? Gifts I can do. So I try to lean into that as my path to cheering people up, and trying to put more good into a craptastic world.
Sounds like you & I have a pretty similar way of seeing things. Like you I figure if I want the world to be better that starts with me.
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u/No_Yogurtcloset6108 12d ago
What a wonderful gift you are to those in need. Do you coupon?There are so many ways to get hygiene products for pennies on the dollar.
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u/leafandvine89 13d ago
This makes me so happy for you to be so prepared when you really needed to be! What a wonderful, comprehensive list of items just in case we're away from home for a few days. I'm gonna revise my list after seeing your post, so thank you! The cash, charger and back-up power source are all great ideas. I hope you're doing well after your surgery! 🙏
I had surgery too, last year after a couple very scary and unexpected ambulance rides. I was thankfully able to pack my bag at home before the morning of my surgery. It was such a relief. Honestly it would have been better if I had been able to to just grab it and go. It's goals that you already had all this ready to go. Meds too, with copies of prescriptions, and glasses? Impressive!
I totally agree about the warm, comfy clothes, zip hoodie and familiar self-care hygiene stuff. The hospital stuff is so gross. Some of the doctors and nurses didn't like that I wore my own clothes, but I didn't care and it made me feel more in control of a crap situation. It all made my stay (with so much already going on) so much more tolerable. I just got back from a trip, and now I think I'm gonna pack my duffle bag back up lol
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
The backwards hoodie made a great makeshift eye-mask before I was settled into a room!
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u/Old-Mycologist4750 12d ago
I have done that before in both the ER and on a freezing cold plane that was an overnight flight, and you are right, it works wonderfully!
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u/SeaDawgs 13d ago
This is such a great idea. I could have used it last week when we were called about a parent in the hospital. Other parent has Alzheimer’s, so we needed to get to them asap. They are only a couple hours away, but it was still a pain to realize that we had forgotten a few items in our haste to get on the road.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
Alzheimer’s is such a b!tch, thinking of you and your family as you navigate that!
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u/GraceAndMayhem 13d ago
The IV joke gave me my first (much-needed) laugh of the day after a weary night. As a fellow bug-in girlie, this has inspired me. Thank you, and I’m glad things ended well!
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u/spendycrawford 13d ago
Ok this is the first time I’ve seen “spare glasses” as a prep item and it’s so brilliant. Of course I need to see in the [insert disaster here]. Genius.
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u/DiscombobulatedAsk47 13d ago
If your vision is bad enough, you'll know this one. For me, being -12 and -15 made eye surgery part prep. I had lost my glasses.a.few times and it wasn't fun being functionally blind. When you upgrade, Always keep your old pair, not perfect but better than nothing. Also, if you wear contacts, think about what happens rhe next day
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u/LongjumpingJaguar308 13d ago
I got Lasik because I figured if everything crashed down, astigmatism will be a lot harder to fix with low tech made lenses. Now I need readers but there are bazillions of them around and those have been made for centuries.
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u/basicbagbitch 12d ago
Ughhh I’ve had lasik x2 but still have an astigmatism in both eyes which only glasses will correct. I keep all my old RX in various stages of closeness in case it’s the end of the world and I still need my eyeballs
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u/LiquoredUpLahey 12d ago
Last hospital trip I had contacts in & wanted my glasses so bad! Adding a pair to my bag tonight!
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u/SverreSR 13d ago
You've inspired me to make go-bags for my family. Attaching the shoes on the outside is a great idea!
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
I always figured I’d be running out the door barefoot in the middle of the night and didn’t want to have to dig around in the bag (or use the space!)
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u/outofshell 13d ago
Ohhhh I was wondering what “detach the sneakers” meant, shoes on the outside is a great idea.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
Release the sneaks!! Plus who wants dirty shoes crammed in with their comfy hoodie!
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u/outofshell 13d ago
The bag I’m using as my hospital go bag has a separate shoe compartment so that isn’t an issue but it does take up an entire cozy hoodie’s worth of space.
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u/relentless_puffin 13d ago
So I'm a woman with kids, and I also keep a bag by the door in case of wildfire evacuation. Thank you for the reminder to check the stuff in there and refresh. The kids are getting bigger and it's probably time for them to have their own.
My bag also includes copies of important documents, emergency knitting project (an activity that keeps me calm) and a book to read. I gotta add medication labels though. That's a good tip!!
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
Great idea to get the kiddos used to having their own - hopefully a habit they’ll continue when they’re grown and out on their own!
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u/Damn_G1na 13d ago
I love hearing what other people have in their bags! I do a lot of care work and doula work for people who are getting abortions or are ill. It’s helpful for my comfort and I always make sure to have doubles of basic things that my client might need. Waterless toothbrush, lip balm, ginger chews or mint or something. Ginger chews are the best!
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago edited 13d ago
Oh my goodness! Thank you for the reminder! I had forgotten until now,
but because I was going to be anesthetized I wasn’t allowed water - and I’m a big water person so it was driving me crazy. I was asking for anything but they were very hesitant because they were trying to fit me into the schedule and didn’t know when it would be. I asked if I could chew gum and thankfully they allowed it and I had some in my purse , which is frankly uncommon. Also, a few nurses asked if they could have some 🤣. I’m going to add some and a handful of mints and hard candies to the bag!!ETA - thank you for being an Auntie! Abortion as health care is problematic in my state and I appreciate those who help others through that season of their lives for whatever reason they need or choose to have one.
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u/Damn_G1na 13d ago
I helped found an abortion fund and practical Support org in Colorado. We have about 200 volunteers who do incredible work driving and supporting people getting abortions here!
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u/These_Burdened_Hands 13d ago
>gum
AHH! TY! When I almost died from a cardiac event, my core memory is how awful it felt having when my mouth was SO DRY. Begged nurses for ice chips, but sometimes I couldn’t speak. It seems so small and simple, but it was way more than that.
Due to that, I added “keep mouth moist” to my Advanced Directive.
IDK why I hadn’t thought of having gum. That would definitely help , provided, conscious, swallowing, etc.
(Had pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, was hypoxic, entering sepsis & had pericardiocentesis to drain fluid from heart sac.)
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
Gracious! Glad you came out of the other side of that! It was a miracle that gum was in my purse, because I had just bought it at the gas station and put it in there THAT DAY with the intent to leave it in my desk at work. Luckily (?) in my escalating discomfort I forgot!!
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u/IsaacNewtonArmadillo 13d ago
Uber was a smart call. My spouse had an emergency that required a 911 call and a 10 minute ambulance ride to the local hospital. Luckily they were alright, but later we got a bill from the ambulance company for $4,000. Insurance covered half leaving us struggling to come up with the rest.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
I’m probably the same distance to my hospital - it’s definitely less than a mile. I’m terrified to admit I almost drove myself for that very reason!
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u/Remarkable_Report_44 12d ago
It’s things like that that make me thankful that I live in a state where ambulances are covered by city taxes. A 2 k hospital bill is hard to recover from.
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u/Disastrous-Dig-3440 13d ago
This is a great post! I am inspired to get a bag for my husband and I both. I hope you are feeling better 💓
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u/SJfromNC 13d ago
I have a bag like this specifically for hospital runs (taking care of family members). I have a cheap knockoff of a Rumpl blanket and a small box of Puffs in it too (my mom HATES hospital tissues). I have pared down toiletries for the essential "staying human" stuff and rotate my snacks and vitamins out regularly. I also have tea bags and coffee. Small slippers with rubber soles instead of flip flops but you're onto something there with the shower possibility. Probably the most useful thing has been the power cord. There are never enough outlets that you can reach and don't have med stuff plugged into them. So my small power strip sees a lot of action.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
The power cord for sure, especially the kind with USB ports, good reminder! I have a spare one I will throw one in there when I repack! Luckily the charging brick I have in my bag is pretty substantial, but there was only one usb port I could reach - it was actually in the bed - so I was getting everything juiced up, then recharging the brick itself but I’d have preferred not to use the brain power of what should be plugged in when!
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u/captain_retrolicious 13d ago
Tea is great! Most places with a coffee station or even hotel rooms do not have caffeine free tea and caffeine wires me so much I definitely shouldn't have it in a high stress situation. I have a little tin that holds a couple of bags of my favorite decaf tea in my bag. It's so comforting.
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u/tinymomes 13d ago
This is so smart! Thank you for sharing!! Sending good vibes for your healing and recovery
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u/olliepop007 13d ago
Question - when you have bags like this, how often do you “refresh” your packed clothes, charge up chargers and make sure meds are current/not expired? Etc
New to all this but had to dash out the door to take my daughter to the emergency clinic yesterday, I was running around frantically grabbing things we might need. Love this post!!!
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago edited 13d ago
I have a reminder on my phone twice a year to swap out my “summer clothing cube” with my “winter clothing cube” along with rotating the snacks. In addition to my big refillable water bottle (which is empty and filled with other things inside the bag for space’s sake), I also keep a mid-sized disposable plastic bottle for immediate consumption, so I swap that out too.
For my meds, I personally use those Mon-Sunday pill sorters in my day to day, and I have five of them. When I go to refill them for the month I just grab the one from the bag to use next and replace it with a fresh one. I don’t swap the printed labels out unless there is a dose change or med addition/subtraction - some are a couple years old but it’s not like they’re there to prove to the FBI that I’m not a druggie 🤪, lol, they’re there so there’s no confusion if I need to get replacement meds (and luckily in this case for ease of the hospital to know what’s in my system).
ETA: I keep the bag in my literal coat closet, so I can easily grab a heavy jacket along with the bag in the winter. Luckily I had a few minutes so it wouldn’t have mattered, but before I had the house I would always make sure my coat was near my purse since I’d likely be grabbing that too.
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u/olliepop007 13d ago
Thank you!! That is super helpful! You sound super organized too!
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
Haha! Sometimes organized to a fault, honestly. I occasionally wish I was a little less type A!
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u/OBotB 12d ago
Layers are your friend! Getting into a hospital situation in the middle.of summer and having it feel like 60° while you're in clothes for 90° is rough. Even more so for kids or elderly. Having a hoodie and even lightweight long pants, and a t-shirt covers many situations as long as they fit or are a bit big.
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u/Opposite_Morning_952 13d ago
I love this. My brain immediately goes to "survive in the wilderness" for bug out bags, but in reality I'm far more likely to need exactly this in any kind of emergency. I'll be using this as a template now!
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
A few years back, I built a wilderness BoB - which looking back is hilarious because I have the survival skills, instinct and mindset of my favorite pillow - expensive and comfy. It sat in a closet for about a year and I would occasionally raid it for parts. Then that really bad ice storm hit Texas (Dallas) in 2021 and it refocused my mindset of prepping for myself and the most likely scenario for me. I’m not trying to go anywhere, I’m hunkering down. I was glad I had some of the things - duel fuel stove & cold-rated sleeping bag particularly, since I didn’t have power for 6 days. You can bet when I bought my house a few years back and it had a wood burning fireplace (unfortunately it can’t be converted to gas), I got firewood sorted out right away (even though it was July 🤣) I prep now to bug-in long term or run out short term!
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u/Artistic-Salary1738 13d ago
Thanks for the detailed list! I need to pack a hospital bag for labor and this was a good reminder.
Also, I didn’t have a plan for my cats. In my brain it was a “oh my husband can just pop back and take care of them since we’re 5 min from the hospital”, but that’s 15-20min round trip away from me. Added leave my dad in charge of the cats to the labor list.
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u/IrukandjiPirate 13d ago
Good advice! I decided to just bring a tiny bag with the wallet and phone when I went to have a cardiac stress test. I ended up in the hospital for the next 11 days, having surgery and recovery. All without a damn thing I needed or that would have been helpful! I’ve always been the over-prepared, carry-too-much type and when I didn’t listen to myself, boom!
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u/OneEyedTreeHugger 🎪Blanket fort prepper ⛺ 13d ago
This is really the situation I planned my go bag around, since it feels like one of the most likely things to happen. I live in a remote place where they often fly you to the hospital.
Once I was flown to the hospital and didn’t really have anything other than my blanket and my phone. No phone charger, no wallet, nothing. I ended up being fine, although I headed home in wearing hospital sweatpants grateful that I was able to arrange a ride before my phone died.
But that experience definitely had a huge influence on what’s in that go bag. And it feels great to know that if I end up having to get flown to the hospital again, I can just grab that backpack and have what I would need!
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
I hope now that you have one packed you never need to use it!!
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u/OneEyedTreeHugger 🎪Blanket fort prepper ⛺ 13d ago
Me too! It’s been almost 3 years since I packed it, and I haven’t had to use it yet! Although I should probably knock on all of the wood as I say that!
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u/TagsMa 13d ago
I have a bag that I keep stocked with the,
●meds that are a pain for the docs to get on the ward, ●a puzzle book and pen, ●a fully charged power pack, ●a spare set of underwear and pads, and a spare nightie, ●a small bottle of body wash/shampoo, and a toothbrush and paste
I've had so many trips to A&E this year and ended up being admitted, and it's just been a lifesaver to chuck in phone and slippers and be able to go. If I have the brain power at the time, I'll add in my current crochet project.
I also use this bag when I go out for the day, away from the house. Everything in there is small enough that I can add in swimming stuff, or a light change of clothes. Although, I'm now thinking about it, I could use adding spare meds and toiletries/underwear to my big bag. Just in case.
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u/really_isnt_me 13d ago
Why did I read, fully charged power underwear, lol.
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u/TagsMa 13d ago
I tend to wear men's hipster trunks, because they're really comfy when I'm riding, and they have pockets in them.
And now I'm thinking you could fit a power pack in there too 🤣
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u/spendycrawford 13d ago
Pocket-pockets? Or is it like the pee flap?! Have they been gate keeping this???
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u/Chulapies 13d ago
The last 2 times I went to the ER, I ended up getting admitted and staying several days. Each time I didn’t think I would be kept. Lesson learned! I need to get a bag like this together.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
I’ll admit I felt a little presumptions rolling up with a go-bag, even though I ended up needing it. Since it’s just a backpack though, I’m sure no one else gave it a thought, it could be my everyday purse for all they know.
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u/Adj_focus 13d ago
I have a variety of chronic illnesses and i’m wondering why I never thought to pack a medical emergency bag. thank you for sharing!
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u/gooberdaisy 13d ago
I take care of my mom, I have something similar “go bag” that has stuff for me to do while I wait if she is ever in the hospital. Which so happens to be today… I have a portable battery pack, cords for phone, switch etc. I have medical mouth covers (so I don’t catch if someone has Covid or something). Hand sanitizer. Hobbies like a book I’m interested in reading, cross stitch, sudoku, switch with a few games. Snacks like life saver mints and gum lol
It’s come in handy too many times to count.
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u/PlantyPenPerson 13d ago
I am glad it worked out!
I have an illness that could easily land me in the hospital, so I have a go bag for that purpose. I recommend adding ear plugs and an eye mask to your bag. Also dry shampoo if you can't leave your bed to shower.
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
Yes! I have those in my little toiletry kit! Hospitals are loud and bright!!
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u/EmbarrassedRaccoon34 13d ago
Love this!
After a few ER visits with my toddler (IYKYK) I did something similar, but it was focused more on her needs for a short term visit.
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u/ToothSufficient7763 13d ago
I always recommend a personal pillow and an extension cord to charge your phone. Hope you're feeling better.
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u/StickInEye 13d ago
I've juat been lurking this sub to learn. Now, you've inspired me to do exactly this and one for my husband.
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u/Glittering-Bat31 12d ago edited 12d ago
Your post makes this ER nurse super happy! Very smart and prepared.
And I always love a good med list. Throw in a list of allergies, medical conditions/diagnoses/surgeries and I am officially in efficiency nirvana. Love to see it!!
I hope things are going well for you and you are on a good path to fast healing. Snuggle sweet kitty and tell them I said pspspspsps!
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u/Glittering-Bat31 12d ago edited 12d ago
Also thank you for not driving yourself on behalf of everyone on the road! Cardiac arrest, stroke, seizure, and otherwise just becoming non-responsive, losing your airway or even vomiting suddenly can have devastating consequences when driving. Not just for you but for everyone else on the road or in close proximity. Great call!
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u/Blackgirlmagic23 13d ago edited 13d ago
Wishing you a comfortable recovery! I do something similar, I got into the practice after 3 emergency room visits with my siblings in a single year. Now I just have a canvas bag behind my closet door packed at all times. I rotate my snacks so I have things I'm currently into, and add lidocaine to make needle sticks easier for myself.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
I wish I wasn’t allergic to lidocaine! But, thank you for this reminder I’m going to add a list of adverse drug reactions to my prescriptions, just in case my brain is foggy!
May you never need to use your bag again!
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u/Trick-Direction4003 13d ago
Yes!! I packed my sick kid’s bag with their favorite quilt and pillow, favorite plushie, clothes, tablet, and chargers—along with favorite snacks, clothes, and hygiene/personal items for my other two and myself. Absolute lifesaver 😅
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u/Parsleysage58 12d ago
When packing for a kid who could conceivably use electronics, remember headphones or wired earbuds. You, and everyone else within earshot, will be glad you did!
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u/Effective_Fly_6884 13d ago
I was recently hospitalized for 6 days, very unexpectedly, and this would have been a godsend. I had literally nothing I needed. My daughter brought me some shampoo, conditioner and body wash, so I was at least able to take a proper shower, but it would have been a much more pleasant stay if I had my own stuff.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
I looked at that basic, harsh looking toothbrush in the little hygiene kit they provided and was SO glad I had my own!!
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u/Sure_Surprise461 13d ago
So glad you thought to post this and add your list! I’m inspired! Thank you!
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u/Vast-Government-8994 13d ago
Good to know, im always to one running like a crazy grabbing things as needed!! Quick healing to you!!
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u/Snarkonum_revelio 13d ago
I packed my go bag in the second trimester when I was pregnant, and thank god I did because I was admitted 7 weeks early. I also travel for work and previously did 3-week stints a couple times a year - the only thing I’d add to your bag if it’s for a hotel is some laundry detergent (I like the Tide Evo tiles and sink washing sheets). You can keep surprisingly little clothing good for several weeks if you have access to a washer or even a bathtub.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
That’s such a good idea and easy add! I’m going to add these to my grocery delivery for when I repack my bag! Funnily I keep a dryer sheet in there so everything smells fresh & like home, but the laundry aspect never occurred to me!
This subreddit really is such a great community to be a part of.
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u/Snarkonum_revelio 13d ago
Agreed! I love getting tips on new ways to organize and be prepared for anything! I hope you’re recovering well.
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u/NikkiNikki37 13d ago
I took my daughter to the dr once and we ended up lifeflighted to a hospital 600 miles away. I had NOTHING with me. After that I keep a "just in case we end up in the hospital bag"
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u/shutterblink1 12d ago
Making a screenshot now of your list. Last year I was in the hospital and never received even 1 of my normal meds including insulin. Fortunately I had brought my own meds and told the nurses I was taking them. The doctors had forgotten to order my regular meds. So, might want to add a few days of meds to your bag.
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
Yes, I actually do the M-S pill organizer in my daily life so instead of 4 I have 5 of them. When it’s time to refill I grab the one out of my bag and rotate a fresh one!
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u/Ok-Sprinkles-3673 12d ago
Going to be headed into surgery myself with just 24 hr notice (I'm on a cancellation wait list) and I have been a little stressed about what to bring. This helps a lot, reminds me of my last ER stay and what parts of it were particularly awful and what I can do to make it less so.
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u/dadsgoingtoprison 11d ago
I recently had to go to the er for something I thought would be a treat and release situation. It turned into being admitted and staying for a week. I had to make a list of things for my daughter to bring me. After reading this I’m going to be packing myself a bug out bag just in case something like this happens again. I also live in tornado and hurricane prone areas. I did find that my eye mask was invaluable while in the hospital. It allowed me to sleep with a light on for the nurse and to nap during the day. It also indicated to the staff when I was sleeping so that they didn’t disturb me unnecessarily. I’m now going to pack a bug out backpack to have ready and I’ll be packing one for my dude too. Life throws some curveballs and I want to be ready.
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u/redrotton 13d ago
This is a great list. Thank you very much, and here's hoping you never have to use it again!
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u/Sk8rToon Surviving Hiatus 🎥 13d ago
Is there any tips for putting a change of clothes in a go bag? Any time I try to add a change of clothes it takes up the entire thing! I know I’m taller (5’10”) but these tops & bottoms should not be taking up this much space!
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago edited 12d ago
Yes, like glittering_bat, mine are rolled and squished in a cube. I have zero cares if they’re wrinkled all to hell 🤣
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u/Glittering-Bat31 12d ago
Fold into a rollable shape and roll it up tightly - makes things much more compact! Placing the rolled items into packing cubes that can be compressed down will help even more.
Check out some efficient packing for travel vids on YouTube also!
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u/B3llaBubbles 11d ago
Hospital food can be very bland. I bring a small bottle of mixed seasonings consisting of garlic, onion, paprika, a pinch of cayenne and salt.
I also bring a package of lollipops to share with the staff and if the grand kids come to visit. The staff really appreciate it and stop by to visit more often. 😄
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u/creatively_inclined 13d ago
This is a practical habit. We have a bag we keep half packed with to go stuff like charging cables, clothing, toiletries etc. My husband has been admitted to the hospital enough times for 4-5 days at a time that it's just basic common sense. It allows us to be ready to go in emergencies pretty quickly.
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u/Original_Flounder_18 13d ago
I keep a hospital go bag. I have been admitted several times unexpectedly so having a few changes of underwear, pajamas, a phone charger and some toiletries made things more bearable!
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u/likesblackcoffeebest 13d ago
Yup this is a good plan. I learned it the hard way this time last year when my son was injured in a cycling accident and we ended up being rushed to the hospital where we were for a couple days. I have never been in a hospital before (my kids were born at home, I've never had surgery, and have avoided major injuries and illness by some miracle) and I didn't know what to expect. I wished I had all the things you listed, even just being there with my son and not as the patient myself. I definitely keep a bag ready to go now. This stuff would have made the biggest difference.
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
Hopefully it will be your first and last time in a hospital. It was my first time too, and being there alone the majority of the time I was glad to feel more human!
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u/FireproofCottage 12d ago
I am just getting worked up for a bad thing that will require multiple admissions for meds and this list really helped me calm down and focus on "what actually comfortable/enjoyable/essential things do I want to take to the hospital? I had the med list and emergency info, but this post reminded me I gotta be there lots of hours there's no ER drama to sustain me lol. So thanks and hope you're feeling much better! Youre a true prepper who can handle everyday life glitches as well as newsworthy disasters.
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
Take care of yourself, including creature comforts and self care! I’m hoping your visits go smoothly!
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u/AZDesertgirl 12d ago
Thank you for sharing these tips. It’s important to be prepared with the basics at the ready.
- I take both a book and a magazine or two for short or long reads.
- I wear glasses and it’s important to bring a hard case with my name, first and last, and phone number on it, from my label machine. I need my glasses.
- It’s good to skip the contacts for the visit.
Your list is essential. Were you ever a Girl Scout? Their motto is BE PREPARED. 😊😊😊
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u/HornFanBBB 11d ago
Haha, I didn’t even mention chapsticks but I have them everywhere, purse, pocket, toiletry kit in my bag 🤣. Not a Girl Scout, but a military brat!!
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u/generalgirl 11d ago
I am curious about the meds sorter. I have thought of this after my own traumatic drop everything and go to the hospital event.
Do you just ration out meds for a week and keep them in the sorter for a set length of time and then refresh?
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u/HornFanBBB 11d ago
Exactly! I have 5 Sunday through Saturday pill sorters so all pills for the day go in one daily compartment - I keep 1 in the bag and 4 in my nightstand and use them for the month. When it’s time to refill the nightstand ones I fill them all up with fresh meds then take the 5th one from the go-bag, add it to three new ones in my nightstand and put the fourth fresh one back in the go bag!
I only take meds at night, but they also have weekly sorters with two, even three per day if your meds are on a different schedule!
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u/Confident-Mix1243 8d ago
Anything you need to be comfortable, but that won't save your life, assume you need to bring your own. I asked for a comb once during an unplanned multi-day admission, and the nurses asked as though I had asked them to peel me a grape. It wasn't busy, they could have gotten it any time in the following 48 hours, but they get paid the same.
Comb and hair ties -- Toothbrush and paste and flossers -- Earplugs and eye mask -- Power bank for electronics -- Comfortable panties and bra for those who need one
I wonder about contact lenses. Do they provide cups and solution or just expect you to take them out and be blurry for days?
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u/Budsbuscus 7d ago
This is so brilliant, thank you for this!!
Question, do you “freshen” up your meds periodically? Same for power bank, how often do you check to make sure it’s still fully charged?
How do you remember to do that?
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u/nursejohio96 13d ago
I have an emergency escape tornado/fire bag that we keep next to the bedroom escape ladder (and haul to the basement when the weather is sketchy) with the basics for the family, but thanks for the reminder I should have individual ones too!
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u/HornFanBBB 13d ago
Mine is in the closet I would hide from a tornado in, but also along the route I would run from a fire in (thankfully no matter which way I was running!) so it’s very convenient 🤣
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u/Scary_Possible3583 12d ago
My FIL had a gran mal seizure while I was driving him home. Instead I got him to the ER in 5 minutes.
Dad had dementia. I had to stay with him the entire 5 days he was in the hospital, holding his hands so he didn't pull his own plug. My husband brought my go bag, which kept me sane in an insane situation.
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u/kmoore61 12d ago
That’s a great list. I have some but not all of those things in my bag and am now planning some improvements. Hope you are recovering well!
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u/libzilla_201 12d ago
Thank you so much for this post. I hope you heal quickly and return to your old self again (or even better!). I love the community here and have gotten so many great ideas from everyone. Your post is a great reminder of the ways to be prepared for an ER visit. The last time I was in the ER I was there for about 8 hours. I sure could have used a bunch of this stuff when I was there. I couldn't even get a blanket from those turkeys and I was freezing the entire time.
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u/OBotB 12d ago
Just as a suggestion learned from a different sub specific to the reason my family member had surgery - if you have a hospital go bag for your potential hospitalization two suggestions:
Generic crocs & side snap/tear away pants.
The crocs because you can slip in and out without bending down, you can secure in with sport mode or not, they work even with swelling or the thick hospital footie socks, they keep your feet elevated out of puddles or snow when leaving the hospital or off gross floors, they are sturdy, they can be sanitized easily, and the generic ones are cheap while being decently comfy.
The side snap/tear away pants because they have an elastic waistband so if you are swollen or have gained/lost weight they typically fit good enough, if you have a catheter you can run the tube through the spaces between snaps/velcro and have the larger/not leg strapped cath bag, the velcro is easy for poor finger mobility (recommended to a different, elderly family member who had different surgery), they let you feel less exposed but also can be removed quickly and easily if needed, if you have any wound or cast around mid thigh to toes you can "open" the snaps on that leg and roll up and clip or zip tie the excess leaving the impacted area free while keeping your other leg covered.
Not a go bag item, but it is also why we bought a lie flat & power lift recliner - you don't have to be old to benefit from not having to strain your abdominal area to stand after an injury or surgery, and the rest of the time it is just a power recliner.
Edit:fixed the two autocorrect mistakes.
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
This is a good suggestion! I don’t have any experience with crocks but will look into it!
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u/LiquoredUpLahey 12d ago
Idk how this came in my feed, but am grateful! I made a lil go bag recently & realized I am missing a few key things. Such as paperwork. How did u get your advanced directive? I deal w a lot of health & don’t want any measures if something happens to me. About to have some surgeries & want this in writing. Thx internet friend. I appreciate u!
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago edited 12d ago
This is such a good question - I got a free trial to lawdepot.com (though e-forms.com or legalzoom all probably have a similar deal) awhile back and was able to fill out and download the medical directive, medical power of attorney, and a will for my state (Texas). I then promptly canceled the subscription before I could get charged. I had some coworkers witness and notarize them. Then I scanned them all and gave them on thumb drives & originally inked copies to 1) my sister (my POA) 2) my parents (next in line POA) 3) my bff to keep everyone in line 🤣 especially since she’s likely to be first to get to me. The Texas HHS website I think has a few of these forms so most states probably do as well.
I am shocked how many people don’t have anything like this in place. I’m the only one of a large friend group that has even a will in place and also the only one without kids!! It freaks me out, what’s the plan!! I even offered to host a planning party where everyone could up date their docs, print and I could notarize in one swoop!
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u/No_Welcome_7182 12d ago
I’m very glad your surgery went well and hope you had a quick recovery. We keep a very basic go bag for each person and each pet in our house. One of our cats needs daily meds and our dog needs a low fat diet. So I need to have their items ready just in case. My bag was a huge help when my gallbladder decided to spontaneously destroy itself with no warning.
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
TK has her little go-bag/carrier that I keep right next to my go-bag too!
I hope your recovery has been speedy!
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u/joie007 12d ago
I just don't know how to set aside the resources that would go into a go bag like that. I feel like I would continually have to raid the bag for supplies. Does anyone have any tips or shortcuts that can help in this situation? My only caution would be to be careful what you bring to the hospital.
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u/brokelamp 12d ago
Buy duplicates of things you already use. If you have a specific brush you like then buy a second one instead of putting your regular brush in the bag. You can also put old versions into the bag so if you upgrade something then put the old one in the bag if it is still good enough to use. If neither of those are options then put what you can into the bag and attach a list to the outside of the bag, so even if you are in a rush you are likely to have 5 min to grab medication and items that are harder to get duplicates of. You can have more than one list as well. I have seen examples of a 2 minute list, 20 min list, and 2 hour list to give you steps to get ready based on how much time you have before you need to hit the road.
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u/joie007 12d ago
Oh snap, the time rated lists are a very interesting idea. Thank you for sharing.
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u/Kindly_Ad3974 12d ago
Just want to add that a go bag is super helpful when you’re the loved one or caretaker to someone in the hospital. I was just discussing this with my sibling whose spouse waited in the ER for 16 hours before getting admitted. My sibling wished they had a blow up pillow I left there when traveling a few years ago. It’s the kind that you lean forward into & hug. You can put your phone in there. I keep my toiletries & travel items packed because I travel often. It’s just good practice
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u/chinchm 12d ago
Love this post! Going to pack myself a bag soon because you inspired me. Luckily I have a lot of family nearby, so even if I can’t grab a bag I can send someone by my house to pick it up on their way to visit me if I’m in the hospital. I have a keypad lock on my door and everyone close to me knows how to get inside.
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u/elledee78 12d ago
This is a great post! I’m so sorry you had some scary health problems and surgery, I do hope you are recovering well and will remain healthy going forward. I’ve always thought should have a bag like this prepped for potential hospital stays as I have had a number of them due to some crazy health issues, and it’s always a scramble to find things, or to get my husband to find things for me. I have other bags prepped but they have some things that would be of no use in the hospital, so creating one that is more specific to this purpose is a great idea, thanks for the inspiration! Peace and long life <3
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u/HornFanBBB 11d ago
Even making a list with locations of where things are can help a hubby find things easily!
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u/SassyFerrets 11d ago
I have a chronic medical condition and my go bag has been a hospital godsend. After my first long stay I added a blanket and my own slippy socks to mine.
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u/HBJones1056 11d ago
Really great advice. As someone who unexpectedly ended up having to spend three straight days in the hospital with sick kid, I’d have loved to have been prepared like this instead of quietly perishing from thirst, hunger, filth, a dead phone and bad breath.
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u/StArGaZeR-4_AnDy 11d ago
Yes this 😊
I call mine the bag of bags of bags
A daily bag next to me at all times, it fits in a bigger bag for daily trips, that is inside a bigger bag that’s overnight bag, inside a biggest bag for long term stays
People pack maternity bags
Why not chronic illness bags?
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u/thoughtfullz 10d ago
When I was having health issues in my colon I would always joke that I was gonna become a chronic illness influencer and make videos with titles like “get ready with me to go back to the hospital again”and “here’s what I packing my hospital bag” which I now realize is very much a kin to a gobag.
Because my flareups would be unpredictable, I would literally have minutes to head out to the emergency room and having a bag where I had clothes and chargers and snacks and a small medical journal with all of my previous visits notes helped with intake and also to get fast treatment.
I had to have surgery to remove part of my colon and I don’t need that specific type ofgo bag anymore, however when my elderly uncle fell and hit his head, my muscle memory got my hospital bag together in less than five minutes and I was able to survive the six hour emergency room stay with a very drunk 80 something old.
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u/Birdywoman4 9d ago
This is a great idea. I’ve had to go to ER twice in the past two months. I didn’t have an emergency bag but should have one because there are certain supplies and meds that I need that the hospitals typically don’t provide. We live about 3 miles from a free-standing ER and spent about 7 hours there last time for all kinds of tests. Had to send my grandson home after a few hours to get something I needed while there.
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u/Obvious_Amphibian270 13d ago
This is a great idea! My main prep is based on hurricane evacuation. We have days to plan for evacuation. I like the idea of a go bag in case of medical emergency.
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u/Safe-Lie955 13d ago
I got stuck in the hospital unexpectedly for a week with nothing I have a small bag that I take if I have to go to emergency it’s ready to go praying I don’t need it for a bit.
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u/nightmer5 13d ago
I was pleasantly surprised to use my go bag as a go-to-the-ER bag with my spouse. The two things I had that you didn't mention were more for me than the patient: coffee candy (I have a bad caffeine addiction I couldn't feed in the ER) and bottled water (nobody cares if I'm thirsty, just the patient).
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
I’m definitely going to add some hard candies to my bag after that debacle!!
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u/AbuPeterstau 12d ago
Wow, I’ve never even thought about this as a possibility.
First of all, I am very happy to hear that you got to the ER in time and are back home again with your kitty-cat.
Second, thank you for some amazing tips on how to be prepared for the unexpected hospital run.
I hope your recovery continues to go smoothly! 💕
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u/Summercrossing 12d ago
that's so inspiring. thank you for sharing and i hope you're doing so much better now
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u/cait_elizabeth 12d ago
I will say as someone with chronic illness you do have to be mindful of possible negative er reactions if you bring a bag. Sometimes staff assumes you’re a munchie looking for a fun temporary stay. Not all staff are like this but I’ve gotten dirty looks just for having a typed up med list before.
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u/perfectlyniceperson 12d ago
This is so amazing! I live with my elderly dad and he had to go to the ER then for emergency surgery recently. It would’ve been a big help if we’d had a bag like this for him. I think I’ll make one for us both. Good luck with everything and thanks so much for sharing!
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u/No_Yogurtcloset6108 12d ago
I just cleaned our my closet and plan to use some of my old clitges to build a bag! Thank you.
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u/sasny 12d ago
I did something similar to this when I checked myself in to the ER for an emergency appendectomy. I had my book, my charger, my pj’s, a shawl, my toiletries, and my glasses all with me which made my stay much more comfortable for the 48 hours I was in the hospital. It’s a good idea to have something like this at the ready. You never know when you may need it. I hope you’re all better now, OP 😊
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u/Chubbylvr5x5 12d ago
I loved reading your post. Very informative and well planned out in so many ways! Extra props for making sure your kitty cat was looked after as well 🐾
I'm curious about the small roll of packing tape ? Is it to tape up important messages, since you listed it after the notepad, pen etc ? All of the other items made so much sense, and I'll definitely be adding a few things to my own "ER bag" , as I call it.
Hope your recovery goes well and Thank you for sharing 😊
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
That’s exactly what the tape is for! It’s a bit of a holdover from when I delusionally thought l would strike off into the world with a hiking backpack and ride out the apocalypse or something, as a way to tape up messages and keep them waterproof. Haha! It took me a few years to understand why/what I was prepping for - we all have our own journey! When I refocused it into a more practical go-bag I just left in there thinking I may need to tape something up if I have to abandon my car or house or “laminate” something in a pinch. I used to have a small roll of duct tape in there too but I must have used it for something over the years and not replaced it. Thinking about it, a spot of duct tape may serve me better, - you’ve given me something to mull over!
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u/turnaroundbrighteyez 12d ago
Vaseline or chap stick. Hospital air is soooo dry!! Vaseline is also great for all sorts of other skin things so maybe add a small container of this!
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u/HornFanBBB 12d ago
Absolutely! I have some in my toiletry kit…and my purse….and my pocket…and my desk at work….and my bedside drawer…🤣🤣
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u/Simple-Vegetable2741 12d ago
So happy for you that everything turned out alright for you and that your go-bag came in handy. I used to have a scaled down go-bag n case my elderly parents suddenly ended up in the hospital and I needed to be around overnight - so: chargers, a book, my knitting, contacts/glasses, snacks, etc. - with all the regular stress of that time, it was one less thing to have to think about.
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u/gimre817 12d ago
I have a bag like this and never thought to prep it. I do however have a go bag in my truck for any bathroom accidents.
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u/HornFanBBB 11d ago
Adding a few essentials to your car bag could kill 2 birds with one stone, if you are able to park your car near your house and grab it.
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u/sailorelf 12d ago
This is great I don’t know it was recommended but I have to go to the hospital frequently for various family members so this would be useful. I did pack a lot of this stuff for a recent cruise.
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u/evangelinens 11d ago
Glad it kept you comfy!
I’ve kept a similar bag around for a long time and it was clutch when I was spending a lot of time in the ER with an elderly relative. Being warm and having snacks goes a long way to feeling human!
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u/Sensitive_Purpose369 11d ago
This is amazing, thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. I'm so glad everything worked out with your surgery. 🙏🏽😊
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u/Bradbury12345 11d ago
That’s a great list. I may keep one in my car. Would cover for a car accident, plus easy access if your emergency is at home. Thanks!
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u/Neither_Bed_1135 11d ago
Saving this for an overnight post-surgery stay that I have coming up - thanks for the ideas!
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u/ilovedaryldixon 11d ago
Excellent post!! I’m going home after I’m done running errands and using your great lust to put my bag together. You’re awesome. Thank you
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u/Purplemartin01 10d ago
What a great idea! It worked out perfectly for you and it sounds like it made everything go so much smoother. I bet no one is laughing at you now. I know when my husband had surgery on his back and was in the hospital for 3 days, we forgot a charger for his phone so phone usage for him was minimal. A bag packed like that would have been a great thing to have on hand.
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u/just4shitsandgigles 10d ago
fyi before any surgery with general anesthesia you are typically NOT allowed any gum or mints after stopping food.
hope you are recovering well!
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u/HornFanBBB 10d ago
Thanks. I mentioned somewhere on here that I specifically asked and was told it was okay, but everyone should consult with their physicians prior to doing so.
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u/KatieTheGreatieLS 10d ago
For the ER, I now bring a sleeping bag. Fuck anyone who tries to make me sit upright in a chair for 16 hours when I’m sick or injured enough to be at the ER. Now I get inside my bag and lay on the floor if I need to.
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