Hey There!
If you are reading this then I’m guessing, you have been googling what to put into your hospital bag. How exciting! This is such a big milestone during pregnancy, but I know it can also be very stressful. Being a newborn photographer, I talk to women who have packed a hospital bag, and I always ask what they actually used and what they didn’t. I know the first time I had a baby I WAY overpacked, and I want to save you from the chaos that brings.
I’m going to share what I have learned from other moms and my own experience on what to put into your hospital baby for you and your baby.
ESSENTIALS & COMFORT
Let’s start simple. You will need your ID and Insurance card, and you will be asked for these multiple times during your stay so make sure they are easy to access. Comfort should be your #1 priority after delivery, things that will help with this are, post-partum panties, comfy pajamas or a nightgown, and non-slip socks. Personally, I would add slippers and your own pillow to the list (hospital pillows are terrible).
Packing toiletries such as trave size shampoo, soap, toothbrush, and hair ties are also important. Anything that brings you comfort will make you feel so much better after delivery.
BREASTFEEDING & POST PARTUM
If you plan on breastfeeding your baby, there are some items that can make the start of your journey much easier. The most important things to put into your hospital bag are a comfortable nursing bra, nipple cream, nursing pads, and a nursing pillow. I also took my breast pump because the nurses are so good at teaching you how to use them and sometimes you need it to get your milk in faster.
COMFY CLOTHES TO LEAVE HOSPITAL IN
Let me tell you, comfort clothes are what you will want to be in until you are healed. A lot of women have it in their head that they should dress up for guests, but I promise you, nobody is judging you for wearing your favorite sweats. Your body is healing, and comfort should be your top priority, so pack breathable, loose, cozy clothing to leave the hospital.
THE MOST USED HOSPITAL BAG ITEMS
When I took a poll on Instagram these were the most common answers.
- A long phone charger, since the beds aren’t near the wall, you want one that will reach.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Snacks you and your SO enjoy
This hospital bag will make your stay comfortable and a lot less chaotic without the unnecessary items.
NEWBORN HOSPTIAL BAG
This is a simple list and will have less things than you might expect.
A coming home outfit, which was always my favorite thing to pack. Zipper pajamas or sleepers-I recommend them to all new parents because buttons are difficult while sleep deprived. Make sure to pack multiple, trust me when I say blowouts are real.
Velcro swaddles are another big hit with new parents, which are way better than the stiff ones you get from the hospital.
Personalized name signs are a sweet way to introduce your little one to the world, all you have to do is set it next to your baby and snap a picture. It also has become one of my favorite keepsakes.
Some families even pack their own diapers and wipes. I did this because skin allergies ran in my family and I wanted my baby to be comfortable from the very start.
Baby soap is another thing you should bring if you plan on giving them a bath.
ONE LAST TIP FROM A NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER
Don’t overthink packing your hospital bag. Think about the things that will bring you comfort, support, and preparedness. Thos first few days of your baby’s life go by so fast, and before you know it, they are changing.
If you have thought about newborn photos, it is never too early to plan. A newborn session should be scheduled during pregnancy so we can capture them at their sleepiest and tiniest within the first couple weeks. If you’d like to talk more about preparing for the session or you are ready to reserve a spot, message me today!