Preparing for labor can seem like a daunting task, but with this simple list, you’ll be ready in no time! It’s important only to bring what you will actually use and leave behind the excess items that will get in the way. Keep it simple, and don’t overthink it!

Top Items for Mama

1. ID, insurance card, and paperwork: Be sure to bring all your medical information so that there won’t be any hiccups when arriving at the hospital.
2. Luggage: find a bag that will hold all of your belongings. You don’t want to worry about grabbing multiple bags when the time comes – luggage organizers are super helpful for keeping things separate and easy to find! Any weekender or duffle bag will work just fine. 
3. Pajamas: You will want pajamas that have a light and loose-fitting fabric. Anything too itchy or tight will be uncomfortable. 
4. Nursing Bras: This will be necessary if you plan on nursing. Be sure to find bras that are not too form-fitting, yet offer some support as your milk comes in to keep you as comfortable as possible. I’ve found that the ones with slits or flaps are often too small (but great for holding pump flanges in place). The ones that have a detachable cup work well for nursing. 
5. Underwear: Bring several pairs of underwear for your stay. Some moms like to wear the hospital ones because you can just throw them away. If you bring your own, get large cotton briefs (yup, granny panties). You’ll have pads and ice packs to deal with, so buy underwear specifically for this. Hipster or low-rise underwear are ideal if you have a C-section to sit below your incision. 
6. Socks, slippers, and sandals: You will want to pack socks and slippers to keep your feet warm during your stay. Sandals are recommended for the shower – and you’ll probably want a warm, relaxing shower. 
7. Hair ties: The last thing you want to be worrying about is your hair during labor or when you’re trying to get your baby to latch. Keeping your hair out of your face will be a huge help.
8. Toiletries: Face wash, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, deodorant, a hairbrush, and moisturizer. These items will help you to feel like your best self after labor. 
9. Makeup: You may only want this if you plan on taking pictures after delivery. 
10. Chapstick: Dry lips are the worst! Avoid this by bringing your favorite moisturizing Chapstick.
11. Extra pillows: While hospitals provide pillows, they aren’t always the best, and you may want to bring your own from home. Many people also recommend using pillowcases you don’t mind throwing away after. 
12. Phone charger: Keep your phone battery charged so you can share updates with family or distract yourself during downtime. 
13. Entertainment: You may want an iPad or book to pass the time and help calm your nerves. Some people like to bring a deck of cards since the hours get long fast.
14. Snacks and drinks: While you may not be able to eat during labor, you’ll probably want some of your favorites on hand after delivery.
15. An outfit to wear home: Be sure that this outfit is loose-fitting and comfortable. You’ll want to stick to pants with elastic instead of buttons that could pinch. A dress or yoga pants are great options.

Top Items for Dad or Birth Partner:

1. A few changes of clothing
2. Snacks and drinks: The hospital provides some food (or they may have options to purchase food at the hospital or nearby), but you may want your favorite snacks from home. 
3. A camera to capture the big moments: make sure there is plenty of space on your memory card (or space on your phone), and don’t forget to charge the battery!
4. Pajamas and socks to wear around the hospital room
5. Toiletries and Shower Shoes: they’ll probably want to freshen up, too.
6. Phone charger: Be sure to keep your phone charged. Everyone will be waiting for updates on your sweet newborn!
7. Entertainment to pass the time: book, iPad, or music
8. An extra pillow: Hospitals provide pillows, but you may want to bring your favorite from home just in case.

Top Items for Baby:

1. Baby Clothes: Keep it simple here – onesies with pants and socks will do just fine. You may also want to bring a hat if you don’t want to use the hospital caps. You can bring a cute outfit if you plan on taking newborn photos there.
2. Blankets: It’s important to make sure your baby is warm enough, especially on the ride home (since your baby can’t wear a jacket in the car seat). Hospitals usually provide a blanket, but you may want to bring your own. If you’re doing lots of skin-to-skin and trying to breastfeed, blankets offer a bit of privacy and warmth, too.

Car Seat:

While this won’t fit in your tote bag, it is a must for the car ride home. Be sure the car seat is already secured in your vehicle safely (they won’t let you go home if it’s not correctly installed).

Items to Avoid:

1. Too many baby outfits: While you may have purchased several cute outfits for your little one, your baby will probably only need two basic onesies for the hospital stay and ride home. 
2. Pacifiers: The hospital should provide you with these. However, you may want to purchase a few for when you get home. 
3. A swaddle: The hospital should provide you with this. Feel free to pack one if you prefer a certain pattern or style for photos.
4. A full makeup bag: Many moms want after-delivery photos, but most just stick to the basics. Apply a little mascara and concealer, maybe a little blush, and you’re good to go. 
5. Jeans: You’ll want to avoid tight-fitting clothing with buttons. These can feel painful and restrictive after delivery. 
   

Make sure your bags are packed and ready to go well before your due date. Babies are unpredictable, and you probably won’t want to pack a bag when your water breaks! It’s also important to keep your bags in an easy-to-find location so that you aren’t hunting for them when the time comes (or if a friend or family member needs to come back for them). 

Congratulations on your big day! Your little one can’t wait to meet you!

Have any questions before or after the arrival of your precious little one?  Schedule a newborn consultation with The Newborn Lady today!