What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

One of the crucial parts of getting ready for birth is the hospital bag. It’s a good idea to prepare the bag well in advance, as babies can surprise you and arrive early. The bag should be ready around month eight of your pregnancy, if not earlier. Here’s what you should pack. 


Receiving Blanket

Your Birth Plan and Other Documents

Keep an extra copy of your birth plan in your bag. Along with this, bring your ID and insurance cards. Backup medical records and hospital paperwork won’t hurt, either.


Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses

If you need glasses or contacts, keep extras in your bag. These can be easy to forget in the rush to get to the hospital. If you wear contacts, also bring glasses, as you may be asked to take the contacts out before any surgeries, such as a C-section.


Extra Clothes for You and Your Partner

You’ll both need extra clothes. Yours should be comfortable. A tank top and loose pants, like sleepwear or joggers, are a good start. Don’t forget postpartum underwear. You need big, breathable cotton underwear after giving birth. Your partner may want extra clothes too. Bring a comfy robe, as well.


Receiving Blankets for Your New Baby

Bring at least one receiving blanket. The hospital may have blankets, but you’ll need one for the car ride home. Bonus points if you coordinate with your baby’s outfit!


An Adorable Going-Home Outfit for Your Baby

You’ll need at least one outfit for your baby. Pick something cute, as many new parents like to take pictures at the hospital. You may want a few outfits in different sizes, such as newborn and 0-3, just in case. The hospital may provide a hat but bring a hat and socks if it’s cold out.


Burp Cloths for Messes

New babies are messy. They need burping while eating and will still probably spit up. Plan accordingly and bring burp cloths to protect the limited clothing you have available at the hospital.


Toiletries to Keep Clean and Comfortable

Don’t forget these! It’s a good idea to pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, hairbrush, regular or dry shampoo, deodorant, lip balm, hair ties, and face wipes.


Food and Drinks for Between Meals

Packing snacks can be easier and faster than hospital food. Often, your food from the hospital cafeteria will be included in the price of the stay, but your partner’s will not, so having extra snacks on hand can save money.


Nursing Essentials for Feeding and Comfort

Nursing bras, nipple cream, and nursing pads will be your friend if you’re nursing. If not, consider the pads for leak protection. If you are bottle-feeding immediately, bring at least two bottles and formula. It’s a good idea to pack them anyway, just in case you have trouble breastfeeding at first.


Entertainment for Labor and Your Stay

Labor can sometimes take a while, and you could be staying for two or three days after delivery. So bring your favorite portable devices, books, or DVDs if your room offers a DVD player. Don’t forget charging cables! 


Pillows for You and Your Partner’s Comfort

While not strictly necessary, bringing your own pillows can definitely increase your comfort in the hospital bed. Your partner will appreciate them if they have to sleep on a chair or couch in the room.


About aden + anais

Since 2006, aden + anais has focused on comfort, safety, simplicity, and Instagram-worthy designs when developing their products. They offer cute, practical, and versatile baby essentials perfect for both new and seasoned parents alike. They’re well-known for their signature cotton muslin baby blankets. The super-soft blankets are highly versatile, and favorites of parents and gift-givers alike. The blankets double as everything from stroller covers to changing pads, swaddles to burp cloths. Their effortlessly stylish, high-quality offerings include burp cloths, baby bibs, blankets, swaddles, and more.

Shop aden + anais’ baby essentials for your hospital go-bag at Adenandanais.com

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

What Is Swaddling and Why Should You Do It?

The 7 Best Gifts for First-Time Parents

8 Things to Leave at Baby’s Grandparents’ House