What to Put in Your Hospital Bag

This is one of the top things I get asked towards the end of pregnancy from all my clients, I have even helped a few pack their bags during our prenatal visit because it takes a lot of stress off of them. Let me tell you right now though: it is nothing to stress about and it's one of the easiest things to do when getting ready for a baby.

I remember when I was packing my bag for Braxton's birth I went WAY overboard. Granted we were having a home birth so some of the things in the bag normally wouldn't be there for a hospital birth but, still, I packed a giant unnecessary suitcase. You might be asking why I even packed one if we were doing a home birth. Well, you always plan for the worst-case scenario when it comes to having babies, If you never use it, great but in the chance, you do need it you have it ready to go.

When Packing your bag I recommend having one for you and the baby, and a separate one for dad. Also, have your action plan in place. This means when it is time to go know who is doing what to get out the door. You will be in some discomfort from contractions so having a set list of things for dad to grab can be very helpful. Also, make sure you aren't leaving anything like animals and kids to be taken care of when it's time to go, they should be sorted out and taken care of in early labor so you don't have to worry or delay getting out the door.

Dad's Bag

Since it's the easiest bag we will start here:

2 Changes of clothes- one of which should be a comfortable outfit.

Toiletries- they do have showers at the hospital so bring whatever you need for that.

Slippers or flip flops-and please pack a pair of close-toed shoes! Too many times have I seen dads in flip flops while mom is delivering... things get messy so have your feet covered.

Chargers, laptops, and cameras- You will want something to do while in the hospital, packing your laptop is great for watching your shows.

Snacks- Last but not least, Snacks! Their main goal is mama and if she is in labor overnight the meals don't come till the morning so have some snacks and drinks for dad to keep him going.

Mom's Bag

2 Changes of clothes- one should be jammies or a nursing gown for when you are recovering, and the other should be dark loose fitting clothes to go home in.

Gown- If you want your own gown to wear in labor I recommend this one. The hospital gowns are fine but they are scratchy and definitely don't cover much if you want to get up and walk around.

Slippers or fuzzy socks- The floors are not very clean in a hospital so you will want something on your feet for bathroom trips and walking the halls. Also, their socks suck there so bring your own but if they don't have nonslip pads on the bottom they won't let you wear them. We can't have you slipping and getting hurt!

Toiletries- They have some provided for you such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, lotion, basic soap for the shower, and deodorant. I am picky about what I use so I wanted all my things with me. Just don't go overboard! All you need is the basics to make you feel human and not take up too much space.

Flip flops- for the shower

1-2 Depends- for going home

Oil or lotion- for massage.

1-2 Nursing bras

Ibuprofen

Stool softener- No stimulates in it

For Baby

1-2 Swaddles that you will want photos in.

1 hat

2 outfits

Baby is super easy to pack for, you do not need diapers, wipes, or bottles. The hospital will provide these things and I recommend taking advantage of it! They do provide a hat but it's nice to have a more personal cute one. Baby should be skin to skin as much as possible so keep them naked and swaddled most of the time, the outfit is just for going home.

If you need to pump and bottle feed or anything like that, the hospital has a medical-grade pump with different parts to assist with that. Leave yours at home and have one less thing to worry about.

Something I recommend but is not on the must-pack list is your own pillow and blanket. The hospital pillows suck and our hospital here always seems to have a shortage, when in labor and postpartum pillows are your best friend for getting comfortable. If you have a pregnancy pillow those are awesome to take. Just wait till you are checked in and have your room before your hubby brings all the stuff up. It makes it much easier than holding it all in triage till they admit you.

See! Not that bad at all. Your hospital bag should be able to be a duffle bag. If you need anything much bigger you are probably overpacking somewhere. Also rolling your clothes helps them to fit better and neater.