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A little preparation makes a Short Term Respite (STR) stay run smoothly. Packing the right things means the participant feels settled and the support team has what they need from day one. Use this checklist as a starting point, then adjust it to suit the person and the length of the stay.
If you are new to respite, this pairs well with our overview of what to expect during a stay.
Clothing and everyday essentials
Cover each day of the stay, with a little spare in case of spills or a change of plans.
- Enough clothing for each day, plus a couple of spare outfits
- Sleepwear, underwear and socks
- Comfortable shoes and a pair for any planned outings
- Weather appropriate layers, a jacket, hat or sunscreen as needed
- Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, brush
- Any continence products usually used
Medication and health
This is the most important section to get right. Pack:
- All current medications in their original, labelled packaging
- A clear, written medication schedule (what, how much, when)
- Repeat prescriptions in case they are needed
- Any health or care plans, including a behaviour support plan if there is one
- Details of allergies, dietary needs and medical conditions
- Mobility or medical equipment that travels with the participant, such as a walker, hoist sling or shower chair
Important: Always send medication in its original, labelled packaging with a written schedule. This lets the support team administer it safely and exactly as prescribed.
Comfort and familiar items
Familiar things help a new environment feel safe, which matters a great deal for many participants:
- A favourite blanket, pillow or soft toy
- Preferred sensory items, headphones or fidget tools
- A device loaded with familiar music, shows or games, plus chargers
- A book, puzzle or hobby item for downtime
Food and preferences
What you pack around food depends on the type of accommodation. Self-contained accommodation gives more flexibility to bring favourites, while group or facility based settings may provide catered meals, so check what is included before you pack.
| Self-contained accommodation | Group or facility based accommodation |
|---|---|
| More flexibility to bring and store favourite foods, snacks and drinks | Meals may be catered, so confirm what is provided |
| Easier to keep to preferred brands and textures | Share specific dietary needs and preferences in advance |
| You set the meal routine | Note meal and bedtime routines so staff can stay consistent |
Whatever the setting, it helps to bring or note:
- Favourite foods, snacks and drinks
- Any specific brands or textures the participant prefers
- A simple note on routines around meals and bedtime, so support workers can keep things consistent
Documents and contacts
- NDIS details and the participant’s key information
- Emergency contacts for family and any treating professionals
- A short profile: how the participant communicates, what settles them, and what to avoid
A one-page routine summary
The single most useful thing you can pack is information. A one page summary of the participant’s daily routine, likes, dislikes and the signs that they are happy or unsettled helps support workers provide consistent, personal care from the very first hour.
Tip: The routine summary is especially valuable for a shorter weekend stay, where there is less time to settle in.
Frequently asked questions
How should medication be packed for a respite stay?
Send all current medications in their original, labelled packaging, along with a written schedule showing what, how much and when. Include repeat prescriptions in case they are needed.
Do I need to bring food to a respite stay?
It depends on the accommodation. Self-contained accommodation gives more flexibility to bring favourites, while group or facility based settings may cater meals. Check what is included, then note any preferences, brands or textures the participant likes.
What is the most useful thing to pack?
Information. A one page summary of the participant’s routine, likes, dislikes and the signs they are happy or unsettled helps support workers give consistent, personal care from the first hour.
Planning a stay?
If you are getting ready for a respite break and want to talk it through, we are here to help. Call 0483 958 776 or send a booking inquiry and we will make sure everything is set up.
Send a booking inquiry