Hey mama's and mama's to be! Even if this is your 3rd or 5th time packing your hospital bag you can feel like you have no idea what to pack. And if it's your first then you probably feel like a lost puppy and want to pack the whole house. Trust me you don't need to do that! Sometimes packing your hospital bag can feel like such a chore. Hopefully, my list of tips below can help mellow out all those thoughts and feelings and act as a guiding point while packing for your trip to the hospital.
What To Pack In Moms Hospital Bag
Delivery Gown - This is not a must, I personally didn't have one when delivering Issac but wish I did. If I was to ever have another kid I would definitely put this on my checklist. Not only are the hospital gowns uncomfortable and scratchy. They aren't made to fit your body type. Being uncomfortable during labor due to your gown is the last thing you should have to experience. When purchasing a gown be sure that you select one that allows easy access for your doctors and breastfeeding. Snaps or simples ties are the best option.
Fuzzy Socks/Slippers - You never know how the temperature of your room is going to be. In order to prevent being cold, I recommend these anti-slip fuzzy socks. The floor may also be cold and if you don't want to pack fuzzy socks then I recommend these easy-to-slip-on slippers for those consistent bathroom trips or hospital walks. Plus you never know how swollen your feet will be by then.
Depends Underwear - I highly recommend Depend's padded underwear they look and feel much better than the diapers they give you at the hospital. I highly recommend buying a decent-sized pack of these. They are great not only for after giving birth but also to save your car if your water breaks. They are something that you will use even a few days out of the hospital as well.
Visitors Outfit - With Issac being born in what now seems to be the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic I was not allowed visitors while in the hospital, only my mother and boyfriend were with me. But I would assume that if the circumstances were different then I would have liked to at least try to get out of my gown and into a comfortable outfit for photos.
Going Home Outfit - You're going to want something comfortable to allow your postpartum body to move comfortably when it is time to leave. I recommend these sweatpants and a loose comfortable shirt.
What To Pack In Dads Hospital Bag
Pajamas - You never know how long you will be staying in the hospital so a couple pairs of PJs is important.
Day Clothing - Like I already said you never know so you're going to want to pack at least two comfortable outfits for dad and one for going home.
Bedding - Sleep can be hard to get with everything going on so having a comfortable blanket and pillow may help.
Earbuds - Usually there is some sort of commotion going on outside your room. That may be that you were placed by the front desk, elevators, or just a busy hall. Earbuds will help dad sleep when he can. They can also allow dad to listen to things on his phone while mom is asleep if he needs entertainment.
Sleep Mask - Nurses are constantly in and out to help or check on mom and baby. A sleep mask will just help with the few hours of z's dad gets to catch.
Slippers - The floors aren't the cleanest thing so I recommend bringing slippers to walk around in. They are far more comfortable than shoes/boots. And warmer than socks.
What To Pack In Baby's Hospital Bag
Going Home Outfit - Maybe you have a special outfit to put your newborn in for the ride home or maybe you are like me and just wanted him/her to be comfortable so you put them in a nice onesie and called it a day.
Footed One-Piece Sleeper - My personal favorite baby outfits are one-piece sleepers with zip-ups. I still use them to this day. They allow easy access to the diaper and seem pretty comfortable.
Baby Blanket - You will need this when leaving the hospital if your due date is closer to the colder weather.
Infant Car Seat & Base - Most hospitals won't let you leave without showing proof that you have a car seat. I left mine in the car and had my boyfriend grab it when we were getting ready to go. It wasn't worth crowding the area and frankly, you won't want to deal with another bulky object while in labor.
What To Leave Home
Wipes & Diapers - Double check with your hospital but most hospitals provide these basic baby essentials for you. No need to waste yours when they will already have them there for you. Trust me you will go through plenty.
Tons Of Baby Outfits - Your baby won't be in much more than a diaper and blanket for most of the hospital visit so don't stress over having a ton of outfits.
Toiletries For The Parents Hospital Bag
Toothbrush/Toothpaste - The most obvious but sometimes those are the easiest to forget, don't worry if you do. Most hospitals usually can provide you with supplies.
Dry Shampoo - This is not a dire need but you never know how long you will be in labor or when you will feel up to showering. This is a good backup just in case.
Travel Size Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash - It's honestly just best to bring your own. They aren't a hotel. I promise you won't regret packing this item.
Brush/Comb - This one is obvious as well so just use it as a helpful reminder.
Deodorant - 'Duh' nobody wants to smell after giving birth. You will feel gross enough as is.
Random Necessities - Hair ties or Pins, hair gel, glasses, contacts, and contact solution.
Optional Additions - Hair straightener/curler, Makeup, Lotion, and Chapstick.
Important Items
Important documents - Bring a copy of your license and insurance information so you aren't stressed when you are filling out paperwork in the middle of a contraction. You can also call ahead and see what your hospital will require.
Snacks - Some snacks that keep you full are going to save you some money while in the hospital. I recommend protein bars and nuts. They will keep you satisfied while waiting for your next meal.
Long Phone Chargers - There isn't always an outlet in a convenient location so a long charger will be great for both mom and dad. Keep your phone charged for those photos.
Cash - Often times there are vending machines in the hospital with drinks or snacks. There is also usually a gift shop if you or someone wants to get something.
Extra Bag - Anything that is brought into your room for your baby must be thrown out after your visit. That can include diapers, wipes, nipple cream, bottles, and formula. So you may as well pack up what you need for the road or at home. An extra bag or extra space in your suitcase works great for these extra goodies!
If you forget anything don't be afraid to ask your nurse if they have an extra. They have most of the basic essentials. Good luck mama's!
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