10 Things to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Expecting Moms

The birth of your baby is one of the most important days of your life and you will likely be both excited and anxious about giving birth. For many new moms, giving birth will be their first extended hospital stay. Even for those who have given birth or otherwise had to stay in hospital before, it can be difficult to anticipate what you will need while there.

One of the most important things you can do to prepare is to pack your hospital bag in advance. While that can seem daunting, having the right gear (without packing your whole house!) can make all the difference. Luckily, the hospital will usually supply all the essentials for you and baby. Here’s a list of the 10 most important items that you will need to pack to ensure a smooth hospital stay. This will make it as enjoyable for you, your partner and your new baby as possible.

Comfortable, loose clothing for you to labor, give birth and recover in

You will need to wear something loose and comfortable. Most mothers prefer to avoid the dreaded hospital gown at all costs. So bring your own nightdress, oversized T-shirt or similar loose, flowy garment to wear during labor and birth. Remember that this will probably get a bit messy, so pick something easy to wash and not too sentimental.

Snacks and other food items and a good bottle to keep hydrated

Typically you won’t be allowed to eat during labor. The process will be so exhausting you will probably be ravenous afterwards. While the hospital will provide meals for you, you might want your own snacks. During recovering you will have earned yourself a good treat. Meals for your partner are not included or come at an extra cost, so bring something for them to eat as well! A bottle with a straw-top is also hugely helpful to keep hydrated in any position during labor.

Camera, phone and all chargers

You will want your phone to keep in touch with loved ones and of course to pass the time during early labor. Your camera is important to capture those fleeting first moments of your child’s life. What’s even more important are chargers, preferably those with long cords. Neither your phone nor your camera will do you any good if you run out of battery.

Toiletries

Birth can be a messy business and after the exhausting process, a nice hot shower will be welcome. While hospitals generally provide toiletries, bring your own. That way you, your skin and your hair will get the best possible personal care. Nice smelling shower gels might also be welcome if you labor in the shower.

Nursing bra and clothing

Once your baby is born, you will hopefully be able to do skin-to-skin. This can help establish breastfeeding. To maintain some of your dignity, and make the process easier, bring several nursing bras and suitable front-opening or loose tops. Even if you won’t breastfeed for any reason, your breasts will be larger than usual. A well-fitting bra is important for providing the right support.

Games, books or other things to kill some time

Early labor can drag on, but even the later stages can last a long time. If you are able to manage the pain (with or without medication), you will find yourself wanting something to do. Bring some games, books or download some shows to watch. This will make your stay less boring for you and your partner.

An outfit for baby to wear home and your car seat

Your baby will likely be swaddled during your hospital stay. Once you leave you will need to dress them in an outfit suitable for your car seat. Many parents choose a particularly cute outfit. You will also need to consider the weather to make sure your baby is comfortable. That can include a pram suit or suitable blankets to place over the car seat if it will be cold.

Hospitals won’t let you leave without seeing your car seat. Make sure you know how to install and uninstall it from your car. It is worth practising a few times before adding the extra pressure of having your precious baby inside it.

An outfit for yourself to wear home

Once you leave the hospital, you may want to wear something nicer. Remember that you should still aim for comfort above all else even if you want to make a good impression on anyone helping or visiting in the early days. You may need sanitary pads or a donut cushion. Check what your hospital can provide to avoid buying too many extras.

A change of clothes for your partner

Labor and birth can take more than just a few hours. If you have been in the hospital for a few days, even your partner can become a bit sweaty. A change of clothes can provide some much-needed refreshment and avoids them having to leave your side.

All the necessary paperwork

You will likely need ID, social security cards, insurance information and other documentation. This is important to register your child’s birth. Check with your hospital which information they will need to avoid getting caught out without that crucial piece of paper! This also includes your birth plan. That way you can make sure that as much of the birth fits your expectations as possible.

While a hospital stay can be daunting, a well-packed hospital bag can help you make the experience more comfortable. Having your own things will make you feel at home and avoid any potential stress. Don’t forget to pack your hospital bag well in advance as babies can come early or in the middle of the night. Knowing you are ready to go whatever happens will help put your mind at rest.