Hospital Bag for Mom and Baby: What you ACTUALLY need.

You're almost at the finish line of your pregnancy and you're ready to pack your bags and take the trip into motherhood. 

But what do you REALLY need to bring? 

We've asked mom's who've been there and done that, to tell us what they couldn't live without during their stay. Of course, everyone is different, so we would love to hear what YOU packed in your hospital bag to meet your baby. (Make sure you are following us on Instagram and Facebook to continue the conversation).

So, here is the La Belle Bump's list of essentials for your hospital bag.

What to pack for Mom:

Birth plan: If you've written a birth plan bring several copies along. Bring a copy for your nurse and birth team as well as yourself, and partner.

Comfortable Clothes: Comfort is key during your stay, so we recommend soft and comfy clothes. You will want to opt for loose fitting and high waisted pants OR postpartum leggings, so you can stay comfortable after baby arrives 

If you plan on breastfeeding, bring a nursing top or bra for easy access. 

Soft non slip socks are great for walking around your room. 

If you plan to labor in water, don't forget to pack a two piece suit or comfortable sports bra. 

Bring big comfy underwear. You will need them to be big enough to accommodate a large pad for recovery.

If you're planning on taking hospital photos, you'll want to pick the perfect pajamas for the job (but believe us- you'll still want them to be comfortable)

And easy to slip on shoes (IV fluids and hormones can cause swelling so nothing too tight).

Pillow: Hospitals do provide pillows but nothing beats your favorite. We suggest buying a comfy pillow case you don't mind throwing away.

Robe: Hospitals can be cold so you'll want a robe or long cardigan to wrap up in. It's important that it's easy to open so your nurses can have easy access.

Toiletries: Face wash, makeup wipes, toothbrush and toothpaste, dry shampoo. Whatever you need to freshen up. Throw your makeup bag in there too but don't worry if you forget it- you'll have that natural mamma glow!

The hospital should provide pads and mesh underwear for you (and believe us, those mesh underwear are heaven sent), but feel free to pack others if you have a preference.

Phone charger: the key here is EXTRA LONG phone charger. You don't know where the plug will be in the hospital room and you'll want to keep a fully charged battery.

Extras: This room will be your home away from home for one of the most emotional (and magical) experiences of your life. If you want to bring a portable speaker to play your favorite playlists or an essential oil diffuser, do what makes you happy (but check with the hospital rules first).

What to pack for Baby:

Carseat: Maybe the most important item on the list, as you can't leave with your bundle of joy without one. Have it properly installed and ready to go (you can normally take your car to a local fire department or parent resource centers to make sure you've installed correctly if you have any questions).

Nursing Pillow: This is one of our favorite items to bring. Whether you plan to nurse or bottle feed, these pillows are great for supporting your baby and keeping them close.

Outfits: We recommend bringing a few onesies, most will tell you to bring new born and one in 0-3 months because you won't know the true size of your baby until they're here!

Bottles: If you don't plan on breastfeeding you will need to pack some bottles. If you plan to formula feed you may want to bring some formula along but it's very likely the hospital will have some for you.

Pediatrician Information: You'll need to provide this to the hospital staff. 

Diapers/Wipes: The hospital will likely provide these.

What to pack for your partner:

Snacks: You wont be able to eat but your partner will likely be hungry. Have them pack snacks so they can stick around for the long haul.

Electronics: iPads, laptops, Nintendo switch. Whatever they need to help pass the time.

Pillow/Blanket: Most hospitals aren't known for their comfy partner beds. Sometimes all they will get is a chair, so they'll want to bring a pillow and blanket to help settle in.

Insurance and Check-In info: Depending how far along you are in the labor process, you may not be able to (or want) to check yourself in so make sure they have all the info they need so you have one less thing to worry about.

 

 

What would you add to the list? 

Join us on social media @labellebump to continue the conversation!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Boppy Pillow