I feel maybe I am a little late to the party on this one, but I am sure that once upon a time especially via the world of vlogging what’s in my bag was a thing. Either way 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 handbags 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 canvas one I use when going for bigger trips such as hospital visits, or 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…
Sun hat, sun tan lotion and sunglasses
Now that I have been diagnosed with UCTD with a lean towards Lupus, I have to be incredibly careful in the sun even when it is cloudy. This means being ready with an accessory or two that can keep me protected from the sun such as a sun hat and sunglasses. I also always need to wear sunscreen, so it is vital to have some top up ready.
Medication
Depending on the length of the trip, I may need to take my medication with me a) to take it, and b) to show to my consultant if at hospital. I may also carry pain killers for those unexpected flares.
Pen and paper
I carry these items with me in order to keep a record of any important notes I need to make or to act as a reminder for things I need to relay to others. My memory can be a bit hazy at the best of times, so being able to jot stuff down is a must.

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 carrier.
Snacks
I always like to carry a small snack with me ready for those drops in blood sugar and/or blood pressure. It is also a quick fix when I need a little energy boost.
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 a car scenario or if I were to say be at someone else’s house. This is because they can block out any sounds which may be distracting and allow me to try to nap or at the very least rest in the presence of others.
Other items
Other items include hair bobbles, money and/or cards, sanitary pads.
Here we have it the contents of my canvas. As I mentioned earlier these items change based on where I am going and who I am with. The reality is if I was on my own I wouldn’t be able to carry all these items, so tweaks would need to be made.
What about you? What’s in your bag?
Sarah xx