Are you expecting a little one soon? If so, there are a few things you should prepare for before the big day arrives. One of the most important things to do is pack your hospital bag. It’s essential to have everything you need ready to go, so you don’t have to worry about it when you’re in labor. It’s essential to pack everything you need to ensure that you’re comfortable and have everything you need during your stay. To help you prepare, we’ll go over the hospital bag necessities and what to pack for the new parent.
PRO TIP: the hospital is going to discharge you with a BUNCH of freebies, everything from diapers to creams, and more. We suggest you bring another bag to stock up on your goodies.
Hospital Bag Essentials for Labor and Delivery
When it comes to packing your hospital bag for labor and delivery, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need to be comfortable and prepared. The hospital bag is not only for the mom-to-be but also for the birth partner and the baby. And depending on how long you stay at the hospital, you may need to pack a few extra items.
Here are some essential items to consider packing:
Important Documents and IDs
You’ll want to make sure you have all of your important documents and identification with you when you go to the hospital. This includes your health insurance card, pre-registration forms from the hospital, and any necessary identification. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your birth plan, if you have one.
If you don’t have a birth plan, no worries! You can make one with our postpartum doula. Check a coaching session to get started.
Comfort Items for Labor
Labor can be a long and uncomfortable process, so it’s important to bring items that will help you feel more at ease. Consider packing a comfortable robe or sweater, socks, and slippers. You may also want to bring a pillow from home to make the hospital bed more comfortable and a throw. And bring anything else you need for your labor, including a heating pad or a medicine ball if you’ll be using one.
Clothing for Mom and Baby
You’ll need to bring a few changes of clothing for both yourself and your baby. For yourself, comfortable clothing that is easy to move around in is key. Consider packing a nursing bra, loose-fitting pants or shorts, and a comfortable top. We also suggest slip on shoes because you feet mayb be swollen. For your baby, pack a few onesies, receiving blanket, socks, and a hat to keep them warm. Some parents like to bring personalized pieces and a special take-baby-home outfit! If you intend to nurse, bring a nursing pillow or donut.
Toiletries and Personal Items
Don’t forget to pack your toiletries and personal items, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush or comb, and any necessary medications. You may also want to bring some lip balm and lotion to keep your skin hydrated, your favorite pads for the trip home, or nursing pads to avoid any leaks postpartum.
For new moms, we suggest packing nipple cream (ouch, we know), perineal sprays, and even adding a postpartum kit to your bag.
Snacks and Hydration
Labor can be a long process, so it’s important to stay hydrated and nourished. Pack some snacks that are easy to eat, such as granola bars, fruit, and nuts. You may also want to bring some electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated during labor (or jello!). Think about your first meal after labor and delivery and be sure your partner is prepared to get it! Hungry mama is gonna need to eat!
Cell Phone and Charger
Don’t let your phone die! Bring ax extra long charger for your phone and other devices. You can even bring a power bank or two as well, you don’t know how long you’ll be at the hospital and don’t want to miss out on sharing the news (and taking pictures).
Safe Car Seat
And while this isn’t in the hospital bag, it’s important to be on this list. Make sure you have a safe car seat and know how to strap it into the car. It’s okay to leave this one in the car, but you won’t be able to leave the hospital without it.
What to Leave at Home
To wrap things up, here are a few things to leave at home. They aren’t necessary and you don’t need more things to worry about or remember!
- Breast pump (they’ll have one at the hospital)
- Diapers and wipes – you’ll get plenty from the hospital
- Jewelry
- Meals or heavy snacks
- Laptops or tablets
Preparing a hospital bag for labor and delivery is a crucial step for expecting parents as they await the arrival of their newborn. Ensuring that essential items are packed not only for the mother but also for the birth partner and the baby can alleviate stress and make the birthing experience more comfortable. By prioritizing these necessities and leaving unnecessary items at home, parents can focus on the joyous occasion of welcoming their new addition to the family with peace of mind and readiness.
