When preparing for the arrival of a new baby, one of the most obvious tasks on the checklist is packing your hospital bag. Many parents find themselves in the same boat, overwhelmed by the different recommendations, wondering if they are packing too much or too little, trying to pack for every scenario that might get thrown their way during birth. It feels a bit like preparing for a camping trip, except you have no idea what the conditions will be and the destination is the delivery room. The hospital bag doesn’t have to be a huge task (or a huge bag!). If you’re delivering at a hospital, rest assured that they usually have all the essentials so don’t fret if you forget something during all the excitement!
The Bag Itself: Your Compact Birth Companion
Choosing the perfect hospital bag is like selecting the ideal partner – style matters, and you’ll be stuck with it forever (well, at least until post-baby Pilates becomes a thing). Frida has a ready to go bag but you can also find a multitude of options in Amazon. Opt for a bag that’s roomy enough to fit the essentials without making you feel like you’re lugging around the entire nursery. And, know that you’ll probably think of your baby every time you see this bag from this day forward.
Comfortable Clothing: Dress to Impress (Yourself)
Pack a couple of loose, comfortable outfits that’ll make you feel like a queen–but be the queen of the couch! Think cozy pajamas, soft robes, and easy-to-slip-into nightgowns. And hey, why not throw in some cute socks? Hospital floors can be chilly, so comfy socks can be a godsend. Pro tip: make sure whatever you choose is dark colored (black never goes outta style!). You will bleed a bit postpartum (similar to menstruating) so we don’t recommend fresh whites or pastels. Our friends at Bombas and Hatch have some great options!
Snacks: Satisfy Those Cravings
Whether you’re reaching for a snack to fuel labor or recover, a stash of your favorite snacks can make a world of difference during those moments when you need an energy boost. Think of it as a mini-vending machine in your bag – minus the questionable expiration dates.
Entertainment: Embrace Distraction
Labor can be a long and sometimes tedious process. So, bring along some entertainment to keep your mind occupied. Load up your Kindle with your favorite books, download your go-to playlists, or binge-watch a TV series on your tablet. Here is a Neflix show about birthing centers! Remember, distraction is your friend. Pro tip: make a birthing playlist for when it is time to push or during a c-section. This helps with energy and keeps it fun! Tell your partner to remember which song is playing when your baby is born- it’s a fun fact to share with them later!
Toiletries: Freshen Up Like a Pro
Make your hospital stay feel a bit more like a spa getaway with a well-packed toiletry bag. Essentials include toothpaste, a toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, and a trusty hairbrush. Don’t forget to toss in some lip balm and face wipes for those Instagram-worthy post-birth selfies. Ask your care provider which supplies they supply as well to keep your bag light!
Nursing Bra and Pads: Support Where You Need It
If you plan on breastfeeding, a comfortable nursing bra is a must. If you don’t want to use the generic pads the hospital provides, include nursing pads of choice in your bag, because, for some, things can get a bit leaky in the early days. Stay dry, stay fabulous.
Baby Essentials: They Need Stuff Too
Your little one’s arrival is, of course, the main event. Safety first- remember to bring your car seat and have it installed before your delivery. This makes going home less stressful! The hospital will provide you with little shirts and blankets, but be sure to pack any cute clothes you want for pictures and a going-home outfit.
Chargers: Stay Connected
You don’t want to miss out on sharing the big news with friends and family, do you? Make sure to pack chargers for your phone and any other electronic devices you’ve brought along. Plus, a power bank is a real lifesaver – and not just for your devices but also for your sanity.
Important Documents: Paperwork Matters
Now, let’s get serious for a moment. Make sure to bring your ID, insurance information, and any necessary hospital paperwork. You will thank yourself later when the administrative details are a breeze.
Remember, while packing your hospital bag may feel like a daunting task, it’s also a beautiful reminder that you’re about to embark on one of life’s most extraordinary journeys. Embrace the moment, laugh when you can, and trust that everything you need – from snacks to baby socks – is safely stashed away in your bag.