What to Bring to the Hospital when having a baby | Airdire + Calgary Newborn Photographer

From Meagan Paige Photography

Preparing for your hospital stay when you're having a baby involves packing essential items for both you and your newborn. Here's a comprehensive list to help you get started:

For Yourself:

1. Hospital Documents: ID, insurance information, and any necessary paperwork.

2. Birth Plan: If you have one, bring copies for the medical staff.

3. Comfortable Clothing: Loose-fitting, comfortable clothes for labor, delivery, and recovery.

4. Robe and Slippers: For moving around the hospital comfortably.

5. Maternity Bras and Nursing Pads: If you plan to breastfeed.

6. Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and any other personal hygiene items.

7. Hair Ties: Keep your hair out of the way during labor and delivery.

8. Pads: Maternity pads for postpartum bleeding. Most Hospitals will provide you with pads and diapers but make sure to check with your doctor just in case.

9. Nursing Pillow: Provides support while breastfeeding.

10. Snacks and Drinks: Healthy snacks and drinks to stay nourished.

11. Phone and Charger: Keep in touch with loved ones and capture precious moments.

12. Entertainment: Books, magazines, or a tablet for passing the time.

13. Medications: Any prescribed medications you're currently taking.

14. Pain Relief Items: Items like massagers, birth comb, or stress balls for comfort during labor.

15. Eyeglasses/Contacts: If you wear them, as well as contact lens solution.

16. Comfort Items: Items that bring you comfort, like a favorite pillow or blanket.

17. Cash/Change: For vending machines or small expenses.

18. Small Nerf Gun: Okay I know it seems silly but this is one thing I actually with I packed because Malik was so tired that he would go in such a deep sleep I couldnt reach him to wake him up without waking the baby when I needed help so all those funny tiktoks you see where the mom packed a Nerf Gun will totally make sense once you give birth.

    
    

For Your Partner/Support Person:

1. Change of Clothes: Comfortable clothing for your partner.

2. Toiletries: Similar to your own toiletry items.

3. Snacks and Drinks: Keep your partner energized and hydrated.

4. Entertainment: Books, magazines, tablet, etc.

5. Phone and Charger: For communication and updates.

   
   

For the Baby:

1. Baby Clothes: Onesies, sleepers, socks, and hats.

2. Diapers and Wipes (if your hospital doesn't provide them, but most do so you can normally skip this): Newborn-size diapers and gentle wipes.

3. Car Seat: Required for bringing the baby home.

4. Baby Blanket: For wrapping the baby.

5. Burp Cloths: Help with spit-up and messes.

6. Going-Home Outfit: Something cute and weather-appropriate for the trip home.

   
   

Remember, every hospital may have slightly different policies and available resources, so it's a good idea to check with your healthcare provider or the hospital where you'll be delivering to ensure you're well-prepared. Also, consider packing a small bag with just essentials for labor and delivery, and have a larger bag for your postpartum stay.

If I forgot anything on this list, feel free to comment more suggestions below!