I feel maybe I am a little late to the party on this one, but I used to really love watching the what’s in my bag videos when I was younger, so today is the day I am going to share with you what’s in mine – all of course with that special chronic illness twist.
So, first things first I should probably explain that I have different bags with different items depending on where I am going and who I am with. The bag I am going to talk about today is the tote bag I use when going for trips that require time outdoors, which a) is often carried by someone else or is stored in a car, and b) includes items which change from being carried to being on me in person.
So, let’s take a look…
Sunglasses
I have very sensitive eyesight due to my autism so I have to have my sunnies with me, even when it is cloudy. It can be a bit annoying sometimes but I would rather wear them than get a headache and overstimulated.
Medication
Depending on the length of the trip, I may need to take my medication with me. I may also carry painkillers for those unexpected flares.
Medical Passport
I carry my medical passport with me in order to keep a record of any important notes I need to make if something happens when I'm out. The medical passport is also there just in case something happens and a paramedic needs some information.
You can make your own one here. This is not sponsored, I just highly recommend them.
Mask and hand sanitiser
Whilst there may be a minority in this country now of people still wearing masks, I am happy to say I am still one of them. Hand sanitiser was always something I used before covid and it is something I still use now. Chronic illness life means it is vital for me to be safe regardless of anyone else’s opinion, therefore these items have a very solid spot in my bag.
Fidget toys
I always like to carry a small travel bag with me full of fidget toys. There are balls, spinners, and noodles all ram packed in a travel bag so that if I'm feeling overwhelmed I can distract myself and stim.
Walking stick
In the same way some people may need a wheelchair at times, I need a walking stick. This tends to be if I have heightened pain, or am struggling to get moving. My particular walking stick is foldable therefore is handy to pop in with the rest of my bits ready for if and when it is needed.
Ear defenders
Ear defenders are most handy for me in travel scenarios or if I were to go shopping. This is because they can block out any sounds which may be distracting and allow me to be in the presence of others without a meltdown.
Other items
Other items include hair bobbles, money and/or cards, and sanitary pads.
Here we have it the contents of my bag. As I mentioned earlier these items change based on where I am going and who I am with.
What about you? What’s in your bag?