You’ve probably spent the past several months eagerly anticipating your little one’s arrival. By now, you would have also stocked up on all essential baby gear and looked at baby room ideas to create a perfect space for your munchkin. However, as your due date approaches closer, you should pay special attention to one of the most crucial third-trimester to-do’s—packing your hospital bag for a smoother and stress-free labour and delivery experience.
Now when it comes to packing for the hospital, the list of essentials can go on and on. But the truth is, you only need a few basic items and don’t need to worry about squeezing your baby’s entire wardrobe into the suitcase or packing tons of other unnecessary items. To make things a tad bit easier for you, we have curated the ultimate maternity hospital bag checklist, which includes all the necessities you and your little one will need.
What To Pack For Your Baby?
Your VIP is arriving, and you need to gear up on some special essentials to take care of them. Here’s a list of items that you should carry for your baby.
A Going Home Outfit
Bringing your baby home from the hospital is a memorable moment for the new parents as well as the family members. A lot of pictures will be clicked to help remember this special event, so make sure to pick the cutest outfit that your munchkin will wear while coming home. Be sure to consider the weather while you plan, and pack a spare outfit too, just in case one gets dirty.
Diapers And Wipes
Bring a pack of diapers to the hospital, and make sure that the diaper material is super-soft and highly absorbent. You can opt for natural and plant-enriched wet wipes, such as BabyChakra’s bamboo water wipes, which is formulated with bamboo fibre, aloe vera, and almond oil that soothes and nourishes your newborn’s delicate skin and prevents rashes.
Blankets
If it’s winter or chilly outside, you can consider packing a couple of thick blankets to snuggle your baby while coming back home. You may also carry a swaddle blanket and learn some swaddling hacks from the caregivers in the hospital.
Vapour Patches
A vapour patch is a must-have item in your hospital bag if you are delivering your baby in the colder months. It can help ease nasal congestion in your little one and also promote better sleep in them. Go for organic options, like BabyChakra’s natural vapour patch, which is enriched with eucalyptus and peppermint oil that gives 8-hour relief from nose block and guards against other respiratory problems.
Booties, Mittens, And Caps
If your little one has long fingernails, a pair of mittens can prevent them from scratching and injuring their face. Additionally, depending on the weather, you can pack a pair of booties and caps to keep your munchkin warm and cosy.
Tummy Relief Roll-On
This is a precautionary item that you can carry in your hospital bag. Just in case your little one cries due to gas or stomach cramps, you can use the tummy relief roll-on on their stomach to ease their pain and prevent gas or indigestion.
Car Seat
If you are planning to bring your munchkin in a car, you may want to consider installing a car seat before you leave for the hospital. Try to install one a few weeks before your due date so that you are fully prepared when you leave for the hospital.
What To Include In Your Bag?
Depending on whether you have a vaginal delivery or a c-section, the items in your hospital bag may vary a bit. Nevertheless, these are some of the common items that you will need to keep yourself comfortable during labour and childbirth.
Identification Card And Other Essential Documents
Do not forget to carry your ID as you will need it during admission to the hospital. You must also carry your medical insurance papers and any other documents or medical records that your doctor advises you to.
Medications And Birth Plan
Pack all the medications that you are currently taking and also your medications list that you can submit at the hospital while you check-in. Along with our medications, bring in your birth plan if you have drafted one and hand a copy of it to your caregivers in the hospital if needed.
Pyjamas Or Nightgowns
If may want to wear comfortable clothing while in labour and during delivery. So pack a pair of the most comfortable outfits you have at home, for instance, nightgowns, and change into them once you settle in the hospital.
Toiletries
Carry your own toothbrush, toothpaste, a bar of soap, and shampoo to make your stay comfortable. You can also bring in essential skincare products, such as hand cream, moisturiser, and lip balms to tend to your dry or irritated skin.
Underwear And Pads
You may experience heavy bleeding in the first day or two postpartum. Hence, pack some comfortable underwears that can give you full coverage and hide stains as well. Also, carry a good number of pads in your bag for safety purposes, and avoid wearing tampons after delivery.
Besides packing these essentials, don’t forget to pick an adorable outfit for yourself as well. If possible, you can also try to find a matching set for you and your newborn. Just ensure that the clothes are comfortable and not too tight to allow easy access for breastfeeding and prevent discomfort.
When you are nearing the end of the third trimester, you should be extra careful and ready to welcome your baby at any moment. Hence, organise your maternity items beforehand, and use our maternity hospital bag checklist as a reference so that you don’t forget to carry any essentials.
Also read:
Baby winter travel tips: Taking a vacation with your little one soon? Here’s a list of items that can make your journey smoother.
Baby care tips for new mums: Wondering how to strengthen your bond with your little one? We have got you covered with some essential tips and failproof tips.
Diaper side effects: Protect your newborn’s skin from the side effects of diapers with these preventive measures.
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