What to Put in a Cancer Care Package (That They’ll Actually Use)

Written by Elle Sproll

Your guide to building comfort, care and confidence during treatment

When someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, you want to help. But let’s be honest—cancer is confronting, and most of us aren’t sure what to do beyond offering a hug or dropping off a meal.

A care package is a beautiful gesture—but what do you put in it? What’s helpful vs. overwhelming? What might actually make a difference during chemo, surgery, or recovery?

As a cancer survivor and health coach, I’ve been on both sides of that question. And I can tell you—some gifts land. Others, not so much.

Here’s what to include in a cancer care package—and a simple way to gift one, stress-free, anywhere in Australia.

7 Things to Include in a Thoughtful Cancer Care Package

1. Hydrating, chemo-safe skincare

Treatment dries out skin like nothing else. Look for products without fragrance, parabens or harsh chemicals. (MooGoo and organic oils are great picks.)

2. Comfort items for fatigue days

Think: soft eye masks, bed socks, a warm shawl or calming herbal tea. Comfort is medicine.

3. Practical items for hospital days

Ginger chews, lip balm, hand sanitiser, notebook, water bottle, dry shampoo, snacks. Anything that helps them feel a little more prepared.

4. Headwear or hair care

If they’re experiencing hair loss, a headscarf, soft beanie or gentle shampoo alternative can be really thoughtful (especially when it’s not hospital-issued).

5. A gentle self-care item

This could be a heat pack, magnesium spray, essential oils, or something that helps them feel human again.

6. An encouraging note

Not a card full of clichés. Just something like: “You don’t have to be strong every day. I’m here when you’re not.” That sticks.

7. Permission to rest

A reminder that they don’t have to reply, update, or perform. That this gift is for them, not for thanks.

Don’t Want to DIY It? I’ve Got You.

I created the Own Your Chemo Kit because I was once the woman waking up with chemo side effects and no idea what I needed.

Now, I help friends, families and organisations send cancer care packages across Australia that are:

• Practical

• Gentle

• Beautifully packaged

• And created by someone who gets it

You can gift one to someone you love—or donate a kit to a woman going through treatment on her own.

Ready to Send a Cancer Care Package in Australia?

👉 Order a Chemo Kit

👉 Donate a Kit to a Woman in Need

👉 View What’s Inside

Every kit comes with care, intention, and the quiet message that says:

“You’re not alone.”