During my pregnancy I researched this particular topic quite a bit. I had no idea where to start. I felt very overwhelmed. After going through the experience, it shouldn’t have been that overwhelming. With just a few tips and a well thought out plan, it is fairly easy to pack your hospital bag for having a baby.I’m sure, like me, all first time mommies will over think and over pack. I think we just want to try and make everything perfect. I usually do this in general, but particularly it was prevelant when I went to give birth.
Truly, you could literately bring nothing but a carseat and you’ll be fine, but I definitely recommend bringing a few things for you, baby and daddy. Every hospital varies, so you may need to ask in advance or find out web you do your hospital tour, which I highly recommend doing.
For Mommy:
-
- Photo ID, Insurance Card, Birth Plan, etc…
- Prescription Medication (if you take/need any)
- Toiletries (Shampoo, Conditioner, body wash, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, moisturizer, Chapstick, etc…)
- Hairbrush / Hair Ties
- Makeup (if you need it to feel confident – me personally, I could care less about makeup after giving birth)
- Comfortable PJS (Gown, Oversized Shirt, Robe of whatever you feel comfortable in)
- Comfortable Underwear (maternity ones will likely be best)
- Nursing Bra / Tank (if you plan on breastfeeding; comfortable sports bra or bra, if not)
This stuff smells and feels AMAZING!
I personally found nursing bra tanks to be the most convenient and comfortable.
- Socks and/or Slippers
- At least 1, nice, comfortable outfit to wear (Dress, loose pants, loose top, etc…)
- Entertainment (you don’t know how long you’ll be in labor, bring a couple of things that help you relax: books, magazines, music, iPad, phone, laptop, etc…); don’t forget any necessary chargers / batteries
- Snacks (these will come in handy)Pillow and / or Blanket from home (I brought my pillow from home and it helped me tremendously)
For Baby:
- Carseat (Make sure your base is pre-installed if you have one that uses them)
This is a great system for a newborn. It comes with a carseat base, carseat and stroller. They all connect together. Super simple to use.
- Diaper Bag
- Size 1 Diapers + Wipes (hospitals have these, but it’s always nice to have a couple of your own)
- 1-2 Onsies (maybe 1 size newborn and 1 size 0-3 / 3 months)
- Socks / Baby Mittens & Hats (at least 2 each)
- Baby blankets for swaddling (again, the hospital will have these, but nice to have some of your own)
- A pacifier or two (if you plan to use them)
- A ‘Going Home’ Outfit (this was my favorite to plan for; bring a size newborn and 0-3 / 3 months to be sure it will fit)
- A couple of cute bows (if you’re having a girl – I love bows!)
- Boppy Pillow (this is a nice to have item, but not necessary)
- Warm blanket (if cold weather)
For Daddy (or Labor Partner):
- Pretty Similar to Mommy (Minus some ‘mommy specific’ things)
Remember, you will be fine no matter what you end up bringing. You are strong and can get through this. Stay focused, confident and have faith. Giving birth is one of the greatest miracles there ever has been. Take time to enjoy the memories. Don’t rush through it. Cherish every minute. You’ve got this momma!
If there’s anything you would add or remove from my list, drop a comment to help future mommies out.
Links contained in this post may earn me a small commission, at no cost to you. It helps support my blogging. Thank you!