When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
Ideally, you want to pack your hospital bag around 37 weeks pregnant, just in case you go into labour before your due date. Trying to figure out what to pack in a hospital bag can be overwhelming. As a third time mom, I am here to help and hopefully answer any questions you may have.
What to Pack for Mom:
- Your birth plan or any other documentation requested by your healthcare profession.
- Your health card
- Toiletries: There is nothing better than showering after the big event. If you happen to forget your shampoo or body wash, the hospital may have some on hand. Don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, contact case, contact solution and glasses (if that applies to you). You may want to consider face wipes, especially if you can’t shower and want to freshen up.
- Extra hair ties
- Pyjamas and/or robe: I personally recommend packing 2 pairs of pyjamas. The first pair may get dirty and you don’t want to be left with nothing. If you're planning on breastfeeding, then wear something nursing friendly.
- Nursing bra and Nursing pads: Choose a comfortable nursing bra. I suggest something without a wire and/or even a nursing sleep bra while you're at the hospital. The nursing sleep bras are thin, which make you feel braless. Nursing pads are a must until your milk adjusts, even at night they are worth wearing. There is nothing worse than waking up soaked in milk.
- A set of comfortable clothing such as a lounge set. You don't want anything tight on your stomach, especially if you end up having a c-section.
- Bathing suit if you choose to use the bathtub when labouring.
- A pen: you’ll need to complete some documentation before leaving the hospital and nurses don’t overly enjoy giving out their own pens away.
- Cell phone and cell phone charge
- Camera and/or video camera (if this applies to you): your cell phone camera works just as good to capture those memorable moments.
- Entertainment to distract you from the constructions and/or for after the baby is born. Due to COVID-19 the hospitals do not allow any visitors. The days may feel long therefore; bring a deck of cards, a book, download music and movies onto your iPad or computer.
- Sneaks for you and your partner. You’ll be hungry after pushing out your little bundle of joy. Depending on the time of day, you may not have many options provided for you. Plus let’s be real, the hospital food isn't the best to begin with.
- Reusable water bottle
- Nipple cream. Even if you're a second or third time mom this is still a good idea. Trust me!
- Underwear: go to Walmart and buy some granny panties. You need something comfortable with a high-waist, so that can hold the big hospital pads. Another suggestion is adult diapers. Don't make that face, I’m being serious! Adult diapers are becoming very popular during recovery.
What Should You Pack for Baby:
-
A car seat: you can't leave the hospital without it. I know your probably thinking- no kidding! Depending on the hospital the nurses may want to inspect the baby in the car seat before you leave.
-
Baby outfits: I highly recommend packing a few newborn outfits and some clothing in size 0-3 months. You just never know how big or small your baby will be. If you have a particular going home outfit, don't forget to pack that as well.
-
Diapers and wipes aren’t really necessary since the hospital will provide them for you. However, I always pack them in my diaper bag, just in case, and you’ll need them for your future outings anyway. FUN FACT: before leaving the hospital you're allowed to take the remaining diapers and wipes. Take the freebies otherwise, they end up in the garage.
-
Baby Bottles: if you're planning on bottle feeding from the start, pack 1-2 bottles to take with you. If you're formula feeding and have a preferred brand, measure out what you think you'll need. If you're unsure on what kind of formula to use, no stress, the hospital will have some samples and suggestions for you.
-
Soothers: always good to have in your diaper bag, just in case the baby is a little fussy on the way home. Don’t be like me and forget them at home. My baby #3 was not happy about this!