What To Put In Your Baby Hospital Bag?

The birth of your child is imminent as your due date draws near. Having a baby is both thrilling and terrifying. Having your travel arrangements finalised and your baggage packed no later than 4 weeks ahead her due date will help alleviate some of that anxiety.

What to bring? Because of this, we have compiled the ultimate newborn baby hospital pack checklist! We have also compiled lists for the labour bag, the recuperation bag, and the partner's bag that expectant mothers and their spouses will require. We have the best range of baby nursery blankets to keep your baby just right day and night. 

We'll discuss when you should start preparing the hospital bag and what you should include for your newborn before getting to those.

Mom's Hospital Bag: Labor And Delivery

Paperwork From The Hospital, Identification, And An Insurance Card.

Keep copies of your medical documents on hand so that new doctors may evaluate your condition with ease. Make absolutely sure you have such a copy of your identification, medical cards, or insurance information on hand before you go to the hospital.

Hospital Paperwork

If you fill out some of the medical paperwork in advance of your due date, you can make the admissions process go more quickly and your labor will go more smoothly. To make sure the nurses can quickly get to your completed hospital papers, pack it towards the top of your luggage.

Photo Id

Before anything else, make sure you have a photo ID in your hospital luggage. When you log in, you'll need it so that we can confirm your identity.

Common types of identification include:

• Licence to drive
• Government-issued or state-issued photo identification
• A valid military ID
• Passport

Talk to the hospital's admissions staff well in advance of your due date if you won't get a photo ID to present as proof of identity.

Insurance Information

When you go to the hospital, you'll need a few more things, the last of which is your insurance card. The hospital may already have this data on file if you've already completed your admission forms around your due date, but it's best to be ready just in case.

Birth Plan

Do you have a birth plan? While you may have already gone over your home birth with your healthcare staff, having hard copies on hand will ensure that any remaining questions can be answered quickly. Check out these helpful suggestions for things you should include in your care plan if you're considering writing one but haven't done so yet.

You should bring at least two copies of your birth plan to the hospital with you so how you can refer to it when needed when you are giving birth. Bringing in multiple copies of your home birth and giving them out to the medical staff ensures that everybody is on the same page as your labor progresses.

What To Wear During Labor

Wearing something cozy to the hospital during labor is a must. It could be something as basic as an oversize t-shirt or a hospital gown, or it could be more elaborate, like a birth gown or a birthing skirt.

Bathrobe

If you plan on spending any time in the hospital, either during labor or afterward, a plush bathrobe is an excellent accessory.

Throw in a dark sports bra and a couple towels if you plan on using a birthing pool. However, you should always bring your own towels just in case the hospital or birthing center you choose doesn't have any. It's preferable to be self-sufficient and not in need of anything rather than the other way around.

Socks

Laboring women often feel the want to move around. In contrast, hospital floors are famously icy. It's possible that your toes will freeze off on the job. Don't leave home without your slippers. Alternatively, if you want, non-skid socks would do the trick as well.

Flip-Flops And Slippers

Slippers that are both cozy and simple to put on and take off will be a great companion while you make your way through the hospital. Bring a pair of flip-flops to wear in the bath or shower.

Something To Help You Unwind And Kill Time

It's not uncommon for labor to begin but then stall for several hours. Bring along a distraction to keep you from getting bored. A decent book, some favorite magazines, or some soothing music is what we recommend.

Stress Balls

How do you unwind when you're feeling anxious or in pain? During labor, it's common to clench your fists or grip onto a loved one's hand for comfort. When you need a break from the pressures of the workplace, squeeze a stress ball.

Relaxing Entertainment

Bring along some entertainment options to keep you occupied such as reading material, magazines, a laptop with some movies or TV shows downloaded, or a music player.

Lip Balm And Skin Cream

Dry air is acceptable in hospitals. This can cause rapid skin dehydration, leading to dryness, itching, and possible skin breakdown. Don't forget to bring your daily and evening skincare routines, as well as hydrating products as Mustela's Ultimate Hydration Bundle.

During labor, you will also be breathing quite heavily. Because of this, your lips may get dry and chapped. Keeping a little tube of lip balm in your purse will alleviate this problem before it ever arises.

Lip Balm

Having dry lips is a common side effect of labor. Lip balm is a handy item to have on hand because it helps keep lips moisturized and soft.

Body Lotion Or Massage Oil

Massages during labor might be comforting for some expectant mothers. Make sure to pack some moisturising oil or lotion if this sounds like you.

Water Spray And Sponge 

If you feel yourself getting too hot when giving birth, a cool water spray on the neck and face or a wet sponge on the forehead will help.

Water And Snacks

To keep your strength up in the hours leading up to birth, we advise eating something light and simple to digest, such fruit or crackers. Get the hospital's approval first, since they might have what you need on hand.

Ponytail Or Headband Holder

You wouldn't believe how much trouble long hair may cause during labor and delivery! Wearing a headband and ponytail holder can save you from being distracted by hair that is in the way.

Comfortable Pillows 

While the hospital should provide you with at least two thin cushions to use during labor, it's possible that they won't be enough. Carry some spares with you, just in case. You can bring extra pillows if you like, but please use a pillowcase of a different color than white. This will ensure that your pillow isn't mistaken for one of the hospital's.

Earplugs And An Eye Mask

Use an eye mask & earplugs to block out the bright lights and noises of the labor and delivery room so you can get some rest during breaks in the process or afterward.

Camera

You probably won't want to photograph the actual birth, but you definitely will want to do so once the kid is born.

One must have a camera and smartphone for this purpose. Remember to bring a charger for your phone or camera so you can capture all of the precious moments of your new baby.

Mom's Hospital Bag: After Delivery

Bra And Nursing Gown

You will find it much more comfortable to nurse your baby in a nursing robe and bra if you decide to go that route. You'll appreciate how convenient it is to have these things close at hand while you're nursing.

Nightgowns

During your time in the hospital, you should wear something soft and loose to sleep in. If you intend to breastfeed, you should get a top that opens in the front.

Underwear.

Gather a number of pairs of loose-fitting underpants that can accommodate thick maternity pads.

Bras

Prepare By Having A Few Nursing Bras Or Other Comfortable, Well-Fitting Bras On Hand.

Heavy-Duty Maternity Pads

While the hospital would provide some, it's a good idea to bring along your own supply of heavy-duty maternity pads. It's common to bleed heavily after giving birth, although maternity pads are more comfortable and absorbent. Change your pads every between one two hours at first, but after a few days, you should only need to do so every four to six hours.

Toiletries And Cosmetics

Bring your regular toiletries with you to the hospital to ensure you have everything you require during your stay. Don't forget to pack your personal care goods like a hairbrush, moisturizing lotion, deodorant, and antibacterial soap.

Please remember to bring your own towel and sandals for the shower. While the hospital may supply a towel, some pregnant women find it more comfortable to bring their own.

Think about packing some makeup as well, as you'll want to look your best in the photos. We understand that cosmetics aren't high on your list of priorities, but when the time comes, you'll be glad to have access to things like foundation, bronzer, and mascara.

A good piece of advice is to bring along some cleansing wipes. These are wonderful for washing your skin or removing makeup if you're in the hospital because of how compact they are.

Toiletries

Don't leave home without your tissue box, comb, brush, deodorant, tooth paste, shampoo, conditioner, blow dryer, clips, and ties. Bring along a plastic bag to store your filthy garments in.

Cosmetics And Skin Care Products.

Don't leave home without your makeup if you wear it regularly. Your face may feel dryer than usual, so don't forget to bring a moisturiser. Optical correction devices, such as contact lenses and glasses (if you need them). In spite of how obvious it may seem, it's often the minor things, like a change of clothes, that get left out of the hospital bag. If you wear contact lenses, don't leave home without your solution and a protective case.

Postpartum Cream

Use your Hypertrophic Scars Serum regularly even after you've given delivery. New stretch marks are less noticeable after using this serum. Every night and every day for two months, we recommend massaging the serum into trouble spots.

Phone And Charger

Don't go home without your phone and its charger unless you're planning on taking a digital detox throughout this time. You may share your joyous news with friends and family, keep in touch with them, and capture your first images all with the same device.

Clothes

You may want to bring a few changes of comfy clothes to wear at the hospital, in addition to your nightgown. Don't forget to bring along an extra set of clothes in case you get there before you. Pick up something that has a drawstring and elastic at the waist for comfort.

Handouts And Reference Materials

Prenatal classes may have provided you with helpful notes, and you may also have access to books on infant care. Once you actually have your newborn is your arms, you may find the physicians' and nurses' personalised advice to be more helpful.

Snacks And Drinks

Since labour can last for a while, it's a good idea to have some refreshments with you. But check with your doctors to see if they'll let you have anything to drink or eat while you're in labour. You might also want to bring some of your go-to late-afternoon munchies to the hospital with you in case you start craving some familiar flavours while you're there recovering from surgery.

Essentials For The Birth Partner's Hospital Bag

Help your partner get ready for the birth by packing a suitcase with all the necessities.

Their needs won't be as great as yours or the baby's, but bringing their stuff with you can make the hospital stay easier.

We recommend they bring the following bare necessities:

• Alternate attire (you never know when they might spill their coffee)
• Phone charger (they'll likely have their phones with them, but if labour takes a while, they'll need to recharge them).
• Leisure (laptop, tablet, book, magazines, etc) (laptop, tablet, book, magazines, etc.)
• Food and drink

Your spouse will need to bring a few comfort items such as a pillow, blankets, eye mask, ear plugs, and toiletries if they intend to stay with you following the birth.

However, if you live relatively close to the facility, the nurses may suggest that your spouse spend the night elsewhere and return to the hospital feeling more rested. In the case of breastfeeding, this is the norm.

Your companion might be bored because the doctors will be present to assist you. They would be better to rest at home so that they can be there for you the next day if you really need their help. You and your spouse should consult with your doctor and the hospital to determine what necessities they should bring with them.

Water And Snacks

Even with a helpful companion, labor can be exhausting and dehydrate you. You might want to bring some money for the hospital's vending machines as well as some food and water.

Chargers And Batteries Are Included With The Phone, Camera, And Video Camera.

Bring a phone to keep in contact with your loved ones and pass the time while travelling. Taking some pictures of the good times will be a breeze using the camera. (There should be a lot of free capacity on the memory card in the camera.)

Clothes 

It's best to come prepared with a few extra outfits in case your labor takes longer than expected.

Toiletries

You might feel like taking a shower after giving birth. Most hospitals permit this, but you should still call ahead to make sure.

Spare Spectacles Or Contact Lenses

It's possible that you'll be out for a while, so it's smart to bring along some extras of these items.

Small Pillow 

You could even benefit from a little shut-eye during the day.

Entertainment 

Books, tablets, and music players are all great options for passing the time.

Your Baby's Hospital Bag

Bodysuits 

Please check with your health professional ahead of time to find out what the hospital's policy is on the clothing of babies. The hospital supplies in terms of layers and accessories may not be sufficient. Choose front-closing bodysuits to avoid embarrassing situations.

Socks And Booties 

Socks and booties are a good idea to bring along in case the baby gets cold. Your newborn can wear a cap and socks during skin-to-skin contact.

Blanket 

If you plan on engaging in skin-to-skin contact with your newborn, bring your own blanket along with you to the hospital. Use it to keep your infant toasty inside the car seat just on way home.

Going-Home Outfit 

During the warmer months, a bodysuit, boots, and a hat can be all that's needed, but in the winter, you'll want to bring along mittens and just a jacket or snowsuit.

Car Seat 

Even though it doesn't go in the baby bag, you should install the appropriate car seat in your vehicle before you leave for the hospital. Need to buy a child safety seat for your car? Stop right there. My Baby Nursery has a wide range for you to choose from.

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

You should be prepared to leave at any time by the time you're 36 or 37 weeks pregnant (apart from the usual last-minute things like your toothbrush).

Some things are necessary (you'll want to bring a car seat, for instance), while others are nice to have and will let you feel more at ease. We polled parents on Babylist to find out what they considered indispensable, and we drew under our own personal experiences with birthing as well.

If you want to avoid scrambling about in a hurry when labor begins, it's best to have all of your bags packed well in advance of your due date. This includes the child's bag, your labour backpack, your recovery bag, and your partner's bag.

You won't need any extra worry, trust us on this. Besides, the due date of your kid may be unpredictable.

In the range of 35–38 weeks of pregnancy, it's a good idea to go over your hospital bag checklist.

You still have around two weeks or so before giving birth, so make sure you have things like a toothbrush and phone charger. If there are any items you simply must have with you before you leave the house, write them down and pack them last.

Select Your Items Wisely

When packing your bags, keep in mind that, barring long labour, you may only be in the hospital for one or two nights. Though that may seem like a long time, you're going to be busy recovering from delivery and feeding and changing your baby.

Once you pack your bag, you'll be all set to head to the hospital when the baby is ready to come. Check out My Baby Nursery for all your baby product needs.

You and your newborn have no use for the five expensive dresses or the box of plush animals which your family already purchased. If you just bring the basics, everything should go swimmingly for you and the baby after the delivery.