What to Pack in your Birth Bag
Every time we pack a bag for a trip there is unknown on what’s to come! Packing your birth bag is no different. Just like with any trip, there is a sense of mystery in what you may need! We are here to help with that. Today we will give you some tips on what to pack in your birth bag. Please use these lists as a resource while preparing!
Make sure to grab…
These are the most important things to remember to pack for your birth, the items that can’t easily be replaced or purchased at a hospital gift shop. We recommend having these items together and ready to go early on! *Pro-tip* be sure to install your infant car seat ahead of time!
- Insurance cards
- Id
- Wallet / cash/ credit card
- Birth preferences ( birth plan)
- Medications
- Allergy list
- Make sure to have a car seat installed in the car you will be taking!
The basics
We’ve all gone on a trip before and packed a million things, and then gotten there and realized we’ve forgotten something silly, like our toothbrush! This list will help ensure that during your packing process, the basics are not forgotten! Make sure to pack these items in your birth bag, or have them readily available when you are ready to go!
- Tooth Brush & toothpaste
- Facewash, serums, etc
- Any medications
- Your favorite pillow/ fuzzy blanket
- Glasses
- Phone charger
- Hairbrush/ shampoo/ hair ties
- Waterbottle
- Snacks
- Postpartum pads and underwear
- Nursing bra, nursing pads
- Fuzzy socks
- Slippers
- Robe
- change of clothes for going home
- pajamas
- Nipple Cream
- Haakaa
Comforting items
Packing items that bring a feeling of comfort can be nice to help you feel at home during your delivery. There are so many different items that can bring this feeling, but here are some common items we find people packing for comfort. Please tailor this list to your specific needs and bring an item or two that gives you comfort.
- Oil diffuser
- Speaker and your favorite playlist
- Tablet for watching tv
- Heating pad
- Birthing ball
- Family photo
For your baby
The hospital or birthing center that you birth at may provide you with some of these things. It is nice to bring your own just in case you prefer the things you have chosen to what they provide. We know there are so many items and gadgets that you may have for your new bundle of joy, we recommend packing small and bringing the essentials.
- One to two outfits
- Socks
- A hat
- Size 1 diapers
- Wipes
- Swaddles
- Formula ( if you are planning to formula feed)
- Pacifier
A couple more recommendations…
We hope that you found these shortlists helpful, and have a better idea of what to pack in your birth bag! We recommend having this bag prepared by 36 weeks, just in case you go into labor early. If you are not packed when you do go into labor, don’t worry! Many people go into labor without having their birth bags prepared, and the hospital will provide you will the essentials needed, or you can have someone bring you your most valuable items! This list is full of suggestions, but of course, we all want different things with us. We recommend printing this page out and using it as a resource when packing. Congratulations! You are about to welcome a baby!
For more great tips on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, check out our weekly blog!
