The ultimate hospital bag must haves list for labour!

The only list – for mama, daddy and baby – you’ll need to pack your hospital bag for giving birth.

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I know that childbirth can be very stressful, which is why I’m sharing this – rather minimalist – list of essentials to bring along to give birth. Of course, you should be aware that some things may be unnecessary for you and others can be added according to your tastes. I’m not the essential oils and 4 different outfit choices type, but feel free to add these little pleasures to make to make yourself feel safe and not make it even more stressful than it already is xx

FOR MOM

Let’s start with the new mama! Here are all the must haves to bring with you in your hospital bag :
  • Comfortable clothes – you don’t want to be in a pair of jeans or a tight shirt. You want to have summer dresses (if you’re not giving birth in the middle of winter, of course) or loungewear. Don’t forget that you may be having a C-section, so it’s best to pack clothes that don’t hug your lower abdomen too tightly. That includes high waisted underwear.
  • A pack of disposable postpartum underwear AKA adult diapers. Believe me when I tell you that this is a revelation for me haha! I loved wearing them for the first few days-even weeks-as they were leak-free and comfortable.
  • A pair of slides. It’s the easiest thing to put on when you’re having contractions and want to go for a walk or when you just gave birth and have to go to the toilet. It’s also a must if you want to take a shower.
  • A water bottle with straw. It’s no secret that giving birth is exhausting and having water is a must. I loved having a tubbler with a straw.
  • A ton of maxi pads. If you don’t plan on using adult diaper, make sure to pack a lot of maxi pads.
  • A long phone charger. Electrical outlets aren’t necessarily located near the bed, so this comes in very handy.
  • Post partum recovery products : I LOVED this peri bottle by Freida Mom, Tucks personal cleansing pads and iced maxi pads.
  • Toileteries : Toothbrush, toothpaste, dry shampoo, lip balm, face cleanser, face cream, body wash, hair brush, shampoo and conditionner, deodorant, hair ties. (You can also buy a travel kit like THIS)
  • Your favorite snacks.
  • Your laptop or iPad so you can watch some of your favorite series on Netflix or just to entertain yourself at some point. It’s also a good idea to pack your headphones.
  • If you plan on nursing : nursing pillow, nursing pads, nipple cream, nursing bras.
  • Papers : birth plan, IDs, insurances, etc.
Some extras :

For baby :

  • 2 x newborn and 2x 0-3 months pajamas
  • Going home outfit
  • 2 x swaddles
  • Thickier blanket
  • Pacifier – if you plan to give one to your baby
  • Hat & mittens
  • Welcome sign – if you want to take an announcement picture.
  • Formula and bottles
  • Diapers and wipes (if the hospital doesn’t provide them).
  • Car seat (it’s obvious, but don’t forget to bring it in so you can leave with your baby).
  • Burp cloths

For daddy :

  • Clothes including pajamas and underwear.
  • Toileteries.
  • A long charger can also be practical for him.
  • Laptop/iPad/headphones
  • Snacks and water bottle

When to start packing your bag for labour?

Any time between 34-36 weeks would be ideal, in my opinion.

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