What to pack in your hospital bag
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First-time parents often ask us what they need to pack in their hospital bag. Here are our top tips to make sure that you’re well prepared. Our very best wishes!
For your baby
Your baby is here and you’re finally getting to know each other. It’s best to start with as much skin-to-skin contact as possible, however we recommend taking some extra clothes for changing.
In the hospital bag, we recommend:
- 2–3 wrap bodysuits. Wrap bodysuits are easy to put on and take off without having to pull them over your baby’s head, which can be a bit scary in the early days.
- 2 pairs of pants that are soft and not tight around the tummy.
- 1–2 pairs of socks.
- 1 pair of thumbless mittens if it’s cold outside.
- 1 beanie (regardless of the season!). Wool is perfect for both summer and winter.
- 1 blanket.
- Wet wipes.
- Baby seat for traveling home in the car.
- Two diapers for the journey home.
What size should I take with me?
Although you can’t predict how big your baby will be, in most cases size 50 is a good fit. We also recommend a wrap bodysuit with foldable cuffs, so you can adjust it to your baby’s size.
For the mother
There are many ways to give birth, and with the right items in your hospital bag, you’ll be ready for every eventuality.
During delivery
From the moment you start feeling some pain to the actual delivery can seem very long. If you’ve been anesthetized and have the chance to rest and relax during labor, it may be a good idea to have some entertainment with you, as well as some snacks for energy. We recommend:
- A computer/iPad with your favorite series or a book to distract your thoughts.
- Phone/computer charger.
- Powerbank.
- Your favorite go-to snack (if you don’t have the energy/time/desire to eat during labor, this can be worth gold afterwards).
- Water bottle – it’s much easier to drink from a water bottle than from a glass with a straw (so common in hospitals) when the contractions really get going!
- Headphones.
- Comfortable slippers for walking around in.
After delivery
The period right after giving birth can feel overwhelming. And it’s no wonder – you’ve just welcomed a new little person into the world, which is often compared to running a marathon, and your new life as a parent has begun. Here’s what you’ll definitely want to have ready in your hospital bag:
- Good quality maternity pads. There are also special ice pads (padsicles), which are cooling. You can buy them at the pharmacy – or make your own using pads and water, which the staff at the hospital can put into the freezer.
- Comfy briefs. The briefs you get at the maternity ward are the comfiest of all! Make sure to take an extra few home with you.
- Comfy clothes that are not tight around the tummy. We recommend a buttoned top, so it’s easy to let your child lie on your chest with as much skin-to-skin contact as possible. NOTE: Several changes of clothes with you because you don’t know how long you’ll need to stay in hospital.
- Shampoo and conditioner. The first shower after childbirth is always so refreshing! Make sure to pack your favorite products, so you don’t have to use the hospital’s soap for body and hair.
For your partner
Since you don’t know how long giving birth will take, it’s a good idea for your partner to bring some extra clothes with them.
Food and snacks. Some hospitals don’t offer food to a partner, so it’s a good idea to bring some savory snacks that can be eaten cold, such as pizza, a pasta salad or pie.
Other items that can be good to include:
- Cuddly toy
- Soother
The best of luck! ♥