Packing a Hospital Bag for Labor

photo adapted from jessica.diamond

I’m planning to have our baby at home, just like Chloe and John. That being said, with both of them (and this baby), I packed a hospital bag (about 33 weeks) just in case. Labor, birth and babies are all unpredictable and I find it best to be prepared.

I know there are a ton of lists out there for things to pack for the hospital but since I was writing a list, I figured I may as well make a post out of it and share it. My list is relatively simple since, with my last two labors, I found that a lot of what I  thought I would “need” during labor I didn’t really use. {That being said, you don’t know what’s going to work for you during labor until you try it! And something that works now may not work 10 minutes from now. But that post is coming…I hope. I don’t know where the time has gone!!}

During Labor:

• Chapstick
• Lifesavers
• Yoga pants, Sports Bra, Oversized T-Shirt, Socks (extra panties)
• Elastics {from past experience, I will wear my hair in piggy tail braids so that it is all out of my face but still comfortable to sleep on}.
• Flipflops
• My own pillow {yep, I have huge issues about pillows!}
• Camera
• My birth ball
• 2 CD’s {one is a relaxation CD and one is just hymns with no vocal}
• bathing suit for spouse {if you’re in the shower and want support}
• Change for parking, snacks, calls etc.
• Snacks

After Labor:

• Nursing Nightgown
• Nursing Bra & Pads
• Socks, extra panties
• Super Pads & Disposable Wipes
• Toiletries
• Going Home Outfit
• Book
• Pen & Paper {You may want to record a few thoughts to add to the baby book later}

For Baby:

• Diapers {Some hospitals provide and others don’t.}
• Receiving Blanket
• Cap & Mittens
• Nightgown
• Going Home Outfit
• Monkey – his lovey
• Gifts for Chloe and John {When John arrived, he brought 18 month old Chloe her first Barbie. Isaac will be bringing John and Chloe each a new movie and a snack. Something new to put on for those moments mommy needs to lay down!}

I know there are a ton more things that you could add but I try to keep things pretty simple. Since I plan to deliver at home, if I do go to the hospital, I plan to leave as soon as possible. With a midwife, often you can leave after 3 hours. If there is anything else I need, DH can bring it up later or we can buy it.

Paperwork: You won’t want to have your wallet or valuables in your bag but you will need your health card and any hospital paperwork along with a copy of your birth plan if you have one.

Last Minute Additions: when you pack your hospital bag in advance, I’m certain there will be a few things that you will want to wait and add last minute. Pack everything you can in advance, then make a little list of “last minute additions” and place that on top of your bag. That way, when that magic time comes, you can quickly and confidently add those things to your bag, knowing you haven’t forgotten anything. You’ll have other things on your mind at that time, so I guarantee you’ll appreciate a list that tells you what you still need to add to the bag!

What is one thing you just had to have for labor or what did you pack in your hospital bag?

• Read more in our Simply Baby series!
• This post links to Works for Me Wednesday