Expecting moms always have this question in mind: What do I pack in case I go into labor?

 

Ideally, during your 36th or 37th week, a ready-to-go hospital bag should be prepared in case you go into labor at an earlier time than your given due date. But you do not only need your essentials prepared, but also your baby’s and your companion’s.

 

Here is a checklist that you can use as a guide when preparing:

 

YOUR ESSENTIALS:

1. Your Birth Plan- Make sure to print several copies for your chart,your attending nurses, and one to be taped on your hospital room.
2. Toiletries- Make sure you never forget these! Dry shampoo, face wipes, tooth paste, tooth brush, hair ties, and lip balm are things that you should include if you do not want to shower right away.
3. A Comfortable Robe- This is one of the best postpartum clothing that you can use!
4. Comfortable Clothes- Something that you can wear after giving birth like loose pajamas, slip ons, or a nursing bra, if you plan to breastfeed after delivery,
5. Bath Towels and Pillows- Hospital towels are not exactly very comfortable to use, they are too small, thin, and scratchy. You’ll thank yourself for bringing one!
6. Adult Diapers: The hospital will provide you with mesh underwears or pads, but some mothers say diapers are more comfortable and secure.

 

YOUR BABY’S ESSENTIALS:

1. Your pediatrician’s contact information- This will be asked from you several times. Make sure you have this noted and ready to give out.
2. An outfit for going home- You can pack two outfits of different sizes since your baby could surprise you and come out a bit bigger. Make sure to bring a hat and socks, depending on the weather.
3. Bottles, if you prefer to bottle-feed- Pack at least two with your baby formula of choice.
4. A car seat- This is a non-negotiable if you’re driving home. The hospital won’t let you bring your baby home without this already installed in your car.

 

YOUR COMPANION’S ESSENTIALS:

1. Snacks, Lots of Them- Pack one from each category: Sweet (Chocolate, Hard Candies), Salty (Crackers, Pretzels), Protein (Protein Bars, Beef Jerky). And don’t forget a reusable water bottle. 
2. An Easy to Bring Pillow and Blankets- You might want to have a more comfortable stay, so make sure to bring your own.
3. General Entertainment- This can be any gadget or book to use/read while waiting. Things will get exciting, but in the meantime, they can get fairly boring, too. 

 

If you have these things ready, make sure to place it somewhere readily accessible so that you can easily grab them when you go into labor. If you are doing very early planning, right now, and don’t have a pediatrician, we’d love to have a conversation with you. We love babies and moms, and we’d love to grow with your family. Give us a call today!