Helpful Guidelines to Improve Your Chemotherapy Experience: Tips for Comfort and Support

Linda Garvin • October 30, 2025

When I went through chemotherapy, I made a very long list of the essential items I thought I needed. Although some cancer web sites have information related to this subject, I found that the lists did not always cover the full spectrum of needs that can really improve comfort during treatment.


Everyone’s experience with chemotherapy is so personal, and having a list that’s tailored to your specific needs and preferences makes a big difference. My idea was to create a more comprehensive list based on my personal and work experiences as it can address a wide range of comfort and emotional support needs for each person.


My list is organized it into categories for easier reference. Since chemotherapy sessions can be long and challenging, it is important to bring items that will help you stay comfortable, entertained, and supported during your sessions.


Reaching out to the chemotherapy center beforehand can help you feel more prepared and less anxious. You can ask about things like what to bring, any specific instructions for the day of your treatment, or if there are any side effects you should expect. It is also a good opportunity to clarify any logistical details, like parking or how long the treatment might take.


USEFUL ITEMS TO BRING TO CHEMOTHERAPY ORGANIZED INTO SECTIONS:


Practical items to bring with you:


  • Write down the name, address and phone number of the place where you will have treatment.
  • Bring a list of questions for your nurse or physician.


COMFORT & PERSONAL CARE


  1. Comfortable clothing: It can get very cold during your treatment. Loose, warm layers, along with a scarf or blanket.
  2. Assistive devices: Glasses for reading, hearing aids or mobility equipment ( a cane, walker…).
  3. Head warmth: A scarf and/or beret to keep your head warm.
  4. Body warmth: Consider bringing an extra sweater or sweatshirt.
  5. Socks: Warm socks are important and will enhance your comfort.
  6. Pillow/Blanket: A small pillow for your head or back. My chemotherapy was given in a basement that was very cold. I brought an electric blanket that I found made me very comfortable.
  7. Liquids: Staying hydrated is important. You may want to bring your own filtered water or your own mug and tea bags or a thermos of coffee. Some individuals prefer peppermint tea to relax their stomach or ginger tea to prevent an upset stomach.
  8. Snacks: Non-perishable snacks like nuts, saltines, a hardboiled egg, peanut butter on bread or protein bars-low in sugar for energy. For long chemo sessions, it may be a good idea to bring a sandwich or yogurt.
  9. Lip balm: Chemotherapy can dry out your lips. I did not have an issue with dry lips, but this may be helpful to bring along.
  10. Hand sanitizer: For hygiene.
  11. Tissues: For any unexpected runny nose or tears.
  12. Moisturizer: To help with dry skin, often a side effect of chemotherapy. I applied this at home after my treatments.


ENTERTAINMENT & DISTRACTION


  1. Reading: Books, magazines, I-pad, i—phone or tablet help the pass the time. These devices can also be used to watch movies, watch TV programs or to play games.
  2. Music/Headphones: Ear Pods can create a calming environment as you listen to your favorite tunes. Relaxation CDs that you have downloaded to your phone or I-pad.
    HINT: Many times, you may need to download CDs or movies to your i-pad and phone due to poor connectivity. This is a question you can ask your chemotherapy center.
  3. Notebook/journal: For jotting down thoughts, questions for your doctor, or keeping track of side effects.
  4. Chargers: Bring all chargers that go with your electronics

 

COMFORT AND MEDICATION


  1. Medication: Any pain relievers, nausea meds, or other prescriptions as prescribed by your doctor. O-T-C medications for headaches or discomfort associated with your treatment that have been approved by your physicians.
  2. Metallic taste: Chewing gum or mints may help with any metallic taste or nausea. Ginger mints and/or tea can help with nausea.
  3. Cold packs/heat packs: May decrease muscle soreness and help if you get a headache.


BOOK AND/OR A JOURNAL WITH A PEN OR PENCIL


  1. Support person: If possible, consider bringing a friend or family member to help with transportation and offer emotional support. (I had a head cap called a Penguin Cap) for all my treatments to decrease hair loss.) There was an assigned person that I paid, who took care of the work involved so I chose not to have any additional individuals in my room, which worked out well for me.
  2. Emergency contact numbers: Have your doctor’s number and a trusted person’s contact information on hand. 


DON’T FORGET:


  • To ask the facility what type of Identification you need to bring to your treatments
  • Bring a large bag i.e. a duffel bag or backpack to carry everything.
  • Put your items together ahead of time, so you are as relaxed as possible on the day of your treatment. 

 

You may find that you want to adjust what you bring after the first treatment, but hopefully with this list, you will feel prepared. Bringing the right items can help make your chemotherapy experience more manageable and even a bit more comfortable and may decrease your stress.


Linda Winkler Garvin, MSN

Health Advocacy & Consulting

President & Founder, Patient Advocate Bay Area, Inc.

Ambassador & Advocate for The Clearity Foundation

STS Program for OCRA

Writer for Brighter Magazine