It’s finally time! You’re about to welcome your little bundle of joy into the world. But before you do, there are a few things you’ll want to do first. One is to pack hospital bags for mom so that it’s ready when the delivery day comes.
Packing for maternity can be overwhelming and stressful because there are so many small details to think about. Our guide should help take some of the stress away by walking you through everything you need to pack in your hospital bags for mom before giving birth. Keep reading the article for more tips on what goes in a hospital bag before the delivery day arrives.
What to Pack for Yourself
It’s important to prepare hospital bags for mom on the day of your delivery. Having everything you need in one place can make the process less overwhelming and stressful. To make it easier, here is a guide to everything you should pack in your hospital bag before your delivery:
- Clothing: Pack comfortable and practical clothing for the hospital stay, including nightgown or loose-fitting clothes, slippers, and a robe.
- Toiletries: Bring your essential toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoo, and deodorant.
- Medications: If you are taking any prescription medications, be sure to pack enough to last the duration of your stay at the hospital.
- Travel documents: Make sure to bring your identification and any other necessary travel documents.
- Money: Bring enough cash and/or credit/debit cards to cover any expenses during your stay.
- Electronics: Depending on your needs, you may want to bring your phone, laptop, and/or other electronic devices.
- Personal items: Consider packing a few personal items such as a book, journal, or favorite snack to make your stay more comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to research your hospital’s specific packing requirements or recommendations before you start packing. This will help ensure that you have everything you need for a safe and comfortable stay.
What to Pack for Baby
Here are some additional items you should consider packing for your hospital bags for mom:
- Lip balm: Your lips may become dry during your stay, so make sure to pack some lip balm.
- Slippers: It’s a good idea to bring a pair of slippers to wear around the hospital.
- Glasses or contacts: If you wear glasses or contacts, make sure to pack a spare pair in case you lose or damage them during your stay.
- Hair ties: You may want to have some hair ties on hand to keep your hair out of your face.
- Nursing pillow: If you plan on breastfeeding, a nursing pillow can help make the process more comfortable.
- Snacks: Packing some snacks can be helpful in case you get hungry during your stay.
- Comfortable shoes: You may want to bring a pair of comfortable shoes to wear during your stay.
- Insurance information: It’s important to have your insurance information on hand during your hospital stay.
- Birth plan: If you have a birth plan, make sure to bring it with you to the hospital.
It’s also a good idea to check with the hospital to see if there are any specific packing recommendations or requirements. This will help ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and convenient hospital stay.
How to Pack Your Hospital Bag
Assuming you’re reading this with plenty of time before your due date, take a stroll through your home and collect anything you think you might need during your hospital stay. Here are some basics to get you started:
- Pillow and pillowcase (hospital pillows are…not great)
- Blanket (again, hospital blankets…)
- Favorite snacks
- Laptop or tablet (to keep yourself entertained/distracted during labor)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss
- Hair brush
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Body wash
- Lotion
- Makeup (if you plan on it)
- A going home outfit for baby
- A going home outfit for YOU (trust us, you’ll want to be comfortable)
- Your insurance information
- Your birth plan (if you have one)
Tips for a Successful Delivery
Here are some tips for your hospital bags for mom to ensure a successful delivery:
- Choosing a healthcare provider and birthing facility that you trust and feel comfortable with.
- Attending childbirth education classes to learn about labor and delivery and prepare for potential challenges.
- Communicating with your healthcare provider about your preferences for labor and delivery, including pain management techniques.
- Packing hospital bags for mom with necessary items such as comfortable clothing, toiletries, snacks, entertainment items, and supportive items.
- Planning for postpartum care, including arranging for help with household tasks and childcare.
- Staying physically active during pregnancy to prepare for labor and delivery.
- Maintaining a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest, and managing any medical conditions.
- Seeking support from loved ones and considering hiring a doula or midwife for additional support during labor and delivery.
Other Important Considerations
Other important considerations for packing hospital bags for mom before delivery include:
- Consider packing comfortable clothes and shoes for your hospital stay to ensure that you are comfortable during and after delivery. Opt for clothing that is easy to move in and shoes that can be easily slipped on and off. This will help you feel more comfortable as you navigate the physical demands of labor and delivery.
- It is important to pack toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and shampoo for your hospital stay. These items will help you feel refreshed after delivery and allow you to maintain good personal hygiene during your stay. Don’t forget to pack any other toiletries that you typically use daily to ensure that you have everything you need.
- To help pass the time during labor, consider packing some entertainment items for your hospital stay. This could include a book, your phone, a charger, or any other items that will help keep you entertained. Having something to do during the waiting periods of labor can help keep your mind occupied and provide a welcome distraction. Just be sure to also pack any necessary chargers or power banks to keep your devices charged.
- It is essential to pack snacks and drinks to sustain energy during labor, as it can be a physically demanding process. Choose snacks and drinks that will help keep your energy up and provide nourishment. This can include things like energy bars, fruit, water, and sports drinks. Having these items on hand can help you stay hydrated and nourished during labor and delivery.
- Consider packing supportive items like a favorite pillow or blanket to help you feel more comfortable during labor and delivery. These items can provide comfort and familiarity and can help make the hospital environment feel more like home. If you have a particular item that brings you comfort, be sure to pack it in your hospital bags for mom.
Conclusion
Hospital deliveries can be stressful, but they’re an important step on the road to childbirth. And don’t worry – we have some tips you’ll want to keep in mind before your hospital stay. Make sure you pack the essentials, such as comfortable clothes and snacks, toiletries, and more to make life a little easier at the hospital.
It’s also a smart idea to take along someone who can support you during this time. With a well-stocked bag of amenities and comfortable clothes for mom and dad alike, there’s no need for a bumpy trip home!
