What to pack in my hospital bag?
While you're pregnant, you want to prepare for birth as much as possible. Things can always change, but one thing you can control is what you bring to the hospital. I'm a fan of making a list and packing what you can ahead of time. It will take some stress off your plate, and you won't have to be scrambling as much while you're in labor.
I'll be real - you will probably overpack, but that's okay! You may not need all of the things you bring, but there will be some that you'll be glad you brought along.
Breast pads and nursing bra
A nursing bra is also a great idea to have with you because you may be more comfortable nursing your baby with it on. It will also give you something comfortable to wear on the way home. Even though it takes a couple of days for your milk to come in fully, breast pads will help you be more comfortable. Get used to it - you'll be wearing these things for a while if you're breastfeeding!
Phone and charger with music playlists
Although you won't be at all focused on your phone while in active labor, you will want it afterward to reach out to family and friends. You also need to make sure that you or your partner have a phone that is charged. Since we all use our phones to take pictures now, you will want this ready for someone to snap some photos after birth.
Your phone can also be a great place to store music or playlists for during labor. These can be songs that you love or are meaningful to you in some way. Music can be a great stress reliever, so the more tools you have to relax, the better.
Camera
If you don’t want to mess with your phone, an actual camera is a great thing to sneak into your hospital bag. You want to be sure to capture these precious moments, so having multiple methods is a good tactic.
Comfy birthing gown
This piece is completely dependent on your comfort level. You may be fine with the hospital gown. What I like about the hospital gown is that it does make it easy to breastfeed, you don’t have to worry about getting them dirty and they are relatively comfortable. However, they are open and don’t feel completely secure around your body, so if you prefer to have your own clothing, make sure to pack it. And you may want to have something to lounge in after baby is born while in the postpartum room for the day or two that you will be at the hospital.
Clothes and shoes to wear home
You will need some clean and comfy clothes to change into for your journey home. Also, be sure to have some comfortable shoes or flip-flops.
Socks
Just in case you don't wear them to the hospital or want some extras while you're there, pack some warm socks. Your feet may get cold easily, and you may want your own socks to wear around the hospital or for the ride home.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Invest in a travel toothbrush and toothpaste to throw into your hospital bag. This way, you will be sure not to forget to grab these things.
Baby outfit
You may want to bring a going-home outfit for your baby. They will provide some clothes at the hospital, but you may want something different depending on the time of year. Just one outfit will be plenty.
Hair tie
Having your hair down can be super irritating, or it may make you overheated. Make sure to throw an extra hair tie or two into your hospital bag. You'll go crazy if you don't have one and you want your hair up.
Lip balm
Anything that you usually use on a given day is a good idea to pack. Lip balm may be a great help if you have issues with your lips drying out.
Deodorant
You may not notice how stinky you can get right away, but once you have a chance to shower at the hospital, you'll probably want your own deodorant. It’s the little things that will make you feel human again.
Your wallet with drivers license and insurance card
It is a good idea to have your ID and insurance card with you because the hospital may need these things. Make sure your wallet is somewhere that you’ll remember it.
Your birth plan (and your focal point as well as inspirational pictures)
You took the time to write out what you wanted, so make sure to take your birth plan with you. Your partner and doula should also be well-versed in what you want. The birth plan will be a big help to your support people, though, as a reminder.
Contact solution, extra contacts, case, and backup glasses
If you need contacts or glasses, be sure that you pack them. Although you may arrive at the hospital with your contacts in, you will want to take them out at some point, so be sure to pack your contact solution, case, and glasses. It is much easier to rest without contacts because you won't need to worry about them drying out. They can also rip easily, so you may want to pack an extra pair in addition to your glasses.
Hairbrush and shampoo
Getting clean can help you feel so much better. The hospital will have shampoo, so if you do miss packing that, it isn't a huge problem. If you do want your own shampoo, though, grab a travel bottle ahead of time. A hairbrush will also help you feel more like yourself again.
Water bottle
Carrying a water bottle with you wherever you go is a great habit. That includes when you go into labor. This way, you can make sure you have enough water when you need it. You may also want it for the ride to and from the hospital or if you don't want to wait for someone to bring it to you.
Pediatrician contact info
The doctor will ask you for your child's pediatrician information while you're still in the hospital. Make sure you have the name written down somewhere, so you don't have to go hunting around for it.
Extra bag
Hospitals will give you extra stuff. You get to take home many things, and you may not have enough room in your original bag to fit them. Bring an extra bag for these items: diapers, swaddle blankets, spray bottle, pads, mesh underwear, manual pump, baby shirts, nose aspirator, baby hats, and baby information folder. Take all you can! You'll be glad you did.
Items for your support system and partner (if applicable)
Make sure that you don't forget about your partner. You will need at least one change of clothes and toiletries as well.
Snacks or candy to suck on
Sneaking in some non-perishable snacks will be a great addition to the food you get in the hospital. Try some easy-to-pack stuff like granola bars and maybe an apple to help get you through. Despite its reputation, hospital food really isn’t that bad, but it is nice to have more options.
Hard candy that you can suck on, such as butterscotch or peppermints, can also be a great asset during labor. They are quick and easy to slip under your mask, and the sugar can give you just the boost you need.
By planning ahead of time, you will help give yourself peace of mind as you head toward the birth of your baby! Make sure to pack your bag by about 36 weeks, so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute. Your car seat needs to be properly installed in the car you're planning on taking to the hospital. Another great thing to do is pay attention to the items you use every day and write them down. Doing this will give you a chance to inventory which of these things you really need.
