Preparing for the birth of your baby is both exciting and a little overwhelming. One of the key tasks you’ll want to complete before your due date is packing your hospital bag. But when exactly should you start packing? And what should you pack to make sure you’re ready for the big day? In this article, we will walk you through the best time to start packing, what essentials to include, and some helpful tips to make the process stress-free.
When Is the Best Time to Pack Your Hospital Bag
Many parents-to-be wonder when they should have their hospital bag ready. While every pregnancy is different, most experts recommend having your hospital bag packed and ready between 34 to 36 weeks of pregnancy.
The reason for this timeframe is simple: babies don’t always arrive exactly on their due date. Some arrive a little early, while others take their time. By having your bag packed by week 36, you’ll be prepared in case your baby decides to make an early appearance. If you’re expecting twins or have a high-risk pregnancy, you might want to pack even earlier, around 30 weeks.
Signs It’s Time to Pack Early
While packing your hospital bag at 34-36 weeks is the general guideline, there are some situations where packing earlier might be wise. If you experience any complications during your pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or signs of preterm labor, you’ll want to pack sooner. Additionally, if your healthcare provider mentions that you may deliver early due to medical reasons, having your bag ready by week 30 will give you peace of mind.
For parents expecting multiples, premature birth is more common, so preparing early will ensure you aren’t caught off guard.
What Should I Pack in My Hospital Bag?
Now that you know when to pack, the next question is: what should you include in your hospital bag? It’s important to strike a balance between essentials and items that will help make your stay more comfortable. You don’t want to overpack, but you also don’t want to find yourself missing something you need.
Here’s a breakdown of the items you should pack for yourself, your baby, and your partner.
Essentials for Mom
You’ll spend most of your hospital stay recovering, so your comfort is key. Pack items that will help you feel clean, relaxed, and comfortable.
Clothing: Bring loose, comfortable clothes that are easy to put on and take off. A robe, loose-fitting pajamas, and nursing tops are essential. Don’t forget comfortable socks and slippers.
Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. You’ll also want lip balm, lotion, and hair ties or a headband. Hospitals can be dry, so moisturizing products will help keep your skin comfortable.
Postpartum Care Items: Most hospitals provide maternity pads, but you may want to bring your own preferred brand. Some moms also find it helpful to bring disposable underwear or comfortable, loose-fitting cotton underwear.
Nursing Bra and Pads: If you plan to breastfeed, a comfortable nursing bra is a must. Nursing pads will help with leaks, especially in the early days.
Phone and Charger: You’ll want to have your phone handy to share the big news and take photos. A long phone charger is helpful because hospital outlets might be far from your bed.
Snacks and Drinks: Labor can be long, and hospital food may not always be what you want. Pack some snacks that will give you energy, like granola bars, nuts, or fruit. Staying hydrated is key, so a refillable water bottle is also a good idea.
Items for the Baby
Your baby won’t need a lot during their first days in the hospital, as many essentials will be provided. However, there are a few things you’ll want to have ready for your baby’s homecoming.
Clothes for the Ride Home: Pack a going-home outfit for your newborn. Choose something weather-appropriate, and don’t forget socks and a hat if needed. Many parents like to pack two sizes — one in newborn size and one in 0-3 months — as it’s hard to predict how big your baby will be.
Swaddle or Receiving Blanket: Hospitals usually provide blankets, but having your own can make the experience more personal. A lightweight muslin swaddle is a great option for warm weather, while a thicker blanket works well for cooler days.
Car Seat: Though not something you pack in your hospital bag, having a properly installed car seat is essential. Make sure it’s ready and installed in your car before you head to the hospital. Hospitals will not allow you to leave without one.
Items for Your Partner
Don’t forget to pack a few items for your partner or birth companion as well. They’ll likely be by your side for much of your hospital stay, so having a few comforts can help them stay focused on supporting you.
Comfortable Clothes: Your partner should pack comfortable, changeable clothes for the hospital. Labor can take a long time, so having fresh clothes will help them feel more at ease.
Toiletries: Pack basic toiletries like deodorant, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. A face cloth or towel can also be useful if the hospital doesn’t provide them.
Snacks and Drinks: While you’ll both have access to hospital food, having some of your partner’s favorite snacks on hand will help keep their energy up during long hours.
Entertainment: Labor and recovery can involve a lot of waiting around, so pack a book, magazine, or tablet for some entertainment during downtime.
Optional Items to Enhance Comfort
In addition to the essentials, there are a few optional items you might consider packing to make your hospital stay more comfortable.
Pillow and Blanket: Hospital pillows and blankets aren’t always the most comfortable. Bringing your own pillow or blanket from home can make the stay more relaxing.
Birth Plan and Paperwork: If you’ve written a birth plan, bring it with you so the hospital staff can understand your preferences. You’ll also want to have your ID, insurance card, and any hospital paperwork ready to go.
Camera: While most people use their phones for photos, if you have a camera, you might prefer to capture those first moments with it.
How to Stay Organized
Once you’ve gathered all the items you need, keeping them organized will make things easier when the big day arrives.
Separate Bags: Consider packing two separate bags — one for labor and one for postpartum. The labor bag can include immediate items like snacks, toiletries, and your phone, while the postpartum bag can have items like baby clothes and postpartum care supplies.
Checklists: Use a checklist to make sure you’ve packed everything. Keep a copy of your checklist with your bag so you can review it when the time comes.
Easy Access: Store your packed bag in an easily accessible place, such as near the front door or in the car, especially once you reach the 36-week mark.
See also: What Not to Eat When You’re Breastfeeding?
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Stressed
Packing your hospital bag early is a simple way to feel more prepared for your baby’s arrival. By having everything ready by 34 to 36 weeks, you can focus on the excitement of welcoming your new baby without worrying about last-minute packing.
Remember that your hospital stay may be short, so focus on the essentials. With a well-packed bag, you’ll have everything you need to ensure a comfortable and smooth hospital experience.
