Hospital Bag Essentials for Your Delivery Date
As your delivery date nears, it’s always best to have a packed bag ready to go whenever the baby chooses to arrive. But what should you bring along? Here are some essentials to make both mommy and baby comfortable and allow for a little more peace of mind while you’re in the hospital.
- Pajamas and Loungewear — Nobody likes a hospital gown, so bring your own garments for before and after delivery so you can feel more comfortable as well as multiple pairs of underpants. Don’t forget a robe and your favorite slippers.
- Healthy Snacks — While hospitals will provide you with nutritious meals while you’re admitted, the halls can be lined with vending machines that make snacking less good for you. Bring items with fiber and protein to give you an energy boost. Your partner will appreciate them as well.
- Sleeping Essentials — Staying away from home can be hard, especially when it comes to sleeping. Bringing your own throw blanket, an eye mask or even the pillow from your bed can make a big difference. Every chance you’re able to sleep you should take advantage of.
- Toiletries — Stock up on travel-size versions of your favorite products so you can maintain your normal routine while staying at the hospital. Consider bringing along a clay mask to pamper yourself after delivery. You deserve it!
- Vitamins — Don’t forget to keep taking your prenatal vitamins once you go into labor. Staying on top of your nutrition can help you feel better and is also necessary if you plan to breastfeed.
- Entertainment — Waiting for the baby to arrive or to be discharged to go home can mean lots of downtime. Pack some items to help you relax like books, magazines, a tablet or music to pass the time and help you unwind between feedings or visits from family.
- Paperwork — Have a folder prepared with your birth plan, insurance information and any contacts for family or friends. Making this information easily accessible means less questions to answer once you get there and you’ll know your wishes will be accommodated.
- Mommy Care Essentials — Don’t forget the personal care items you’ll need after delivery like maxi pads or nipple balm for breastfeeding. You can also pack your own nursing bra.
- Baby Care Essentials — The hospital will provide you with the basics, but bringing along the diapers, wipes and personal care products like baby powder to use can help you get into your routine.
- Baby’s First Outfit — Of course, you’ll want to bring along a snuggly, adorable outfit to bring home your new bundle. Don’t forget a hat to keep the baby warm, mittens to keep them from scratching, swaddlers and a blanket.
- BONUS: Camera — Don’t forget to bring along a camera, or at least your smartphone to capture those first precious moments with your new arrival! If you have a baby book, you can also throw that in your bag to document your baby’s little footprints as well as observations and memories from the experience.
- Kit for the actual birth – two absolute essentials are a birthing ball – helps keep you upright, relaxed and lets gravity do its magic and Rescue Remedy– a flower essence , which helps you to maintain a sense of calm and control. Thousands of women have used Rescue Remedy to great effect in childbirth.
Add or remove items from this list to suit your needs and don’t be afraid to ask about items you forgot once your reach the hospital. Keep your bag in a spot where it’s easy for you or your partner to grab the moment it’s time and you’ll be out the door with one less thing to worry about.
