As your baby's due date approaches, packing the hospital bag is one of the most important tasks to check off your to-do list. Having everything you need on hand can make your hospital stay stress-free, allowing you to focus on the arrival of your new bundle of joy. We are here to help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of our top 10 must-have items to pack in your hospital bag for a smooth delivery.
1. DOCUMENTS!!!!
Before you even think about the comfy socks and baby clothes, make sure you have all the necessary documents. This includes:
- Identification (ID or driver’s license)
- Insurance card
- Hospital registration forms (if pre-registered)
- Birth plan (if you have one)
Having these items ready and accessible in your Bellaboo Baby Bag’s document pocket ensures a hassle-free check-in process when you arrive at the hospital.
2. Comfy Clothing
Leave those Louboutin's at home and pack your slippers!
While hospital gowns are available, many moms-to-be prefer the comfort of their own clothing during labor and after delivery. Here’s what to consider:
- Robe: A soft, loose robe is perfect for staying cozy during your stay and provides easy access for breastfeeding.
- Nightgowns: Choose a couple of front-opening nightgowns for convenience during breastfeeding.
- Socks and Slippers: These are a MUST - Your feet get cold during labor! Keep your feet warm with cozy socks and bring along some slip-on slippers for walking around - Preferably ones you are happy to throw out.
- Going-Home Outfit: Pack a comfortable, loose-fitting outfit to wear when you leave the hospital. Remember, you’ll still look about 5-6 months pregnant, so maternity wear is ideal - think stretch - think comfort!!!!
3. Stay Fresh With Toiletries
Having your own toiletries can make you feel more at home during your hospital stay. Be sure to pack:
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Hairbrush and Hair Ties
- Lip Balm: Hospitals can be dry, and you’ll be grateful for some lip balm.
- Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash: Travel-sized versions are perfect.
- Deodorant
- Face Wipes: These are great for a quick refresh.
- Moisturizer: Your skin may feel drier than usual.
- Anti Bac Wipes & Gel
These can be packed in a small bag and placed in a compartment within the Bellaboo Bag
4. Nursing Essentials
However you plan to feed, having the right supplies can make the experience more comfortable:
- Nursing Bra: A supportive, comfortable nursing bra is essential.
- Nursing Pads: These will help absorb any leaks.
- Nipple Cream: To soothe sore nipples, pack a lanolin-based nipple cream.
- Breastfeeding Pillow: A small, portable breastfeeding pillow can help position your baby comfortably. Take a look at our travel nursing pillow here
The Bellaboo Baby Bag offers ample space to neatly organize these nursing essentials.
5. Stay Fed & Hydrated!!!
Hospital food isn’t always the most appetizing, and labor can be long. Bring along some of your favorite healthy snacks and drinks to keep your energy up: Your partner will need some too!!
- Granola Bars
- Dried Fruit
- Nuts
- Crackers
- Electrolyte Drinks
- Mints or Hard Candies: These can help with a dry mouth during labor
Keep these to hand in the Sling Bag by Bellaboo.
6. The BEST Part!!!! Baby's First Outfit
The moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here—dressing your newborn for the first time! Pack a couple of outfit options:
- Onesies - These are comfy for your baby and easy to pack
- Mittens: To prevent scratching.
- Socks or Booties - If I am honest outfits with feet will stay on better!
- Hat: Newborns lose a lot of heat through their heads.
- Receiving Blanket: For swaddling your baby.
- Muslins Cloths - For burping and keeping any dribbles away
Choose soft, breathable fabrics, and pack these in a separate compartment to keep them clean and ready for your little one’s debut.
7. Stay Charged & Entertained
Labor can be long....., and you might find yourself with some downtime. Be prepared with:
- Phone and Charger: To stay connected and take those first precious photos.
- Tablet or E-Reader: For entertainment.
- Headphones: To listen to music or audiobooks.
- Portable Speaker: If you want to play soothing music during labor.
Stash these in a secure, pocket in your Bellaboo Baby Bag to keep them protected. The Sling bag is a great option for this and its small enough to stay near by!
8. Baby’s Car Seat For Their First Journey Home
It’s not something you can pack in your hospital bag - but it’s essential! Make sure your baby’s car seat is properly installed in your car before you head to the hospital. Many hospitals won’t let you leave without ensuring your baby is safely secured in a car seat!
9. Postpartum Care Items
Some essentials to make you more comfortable post partum - :
- Maternity Pads: The hospital will provide some, but it’s good to have extra.
- Disposable Underwear: These are convenient and easy to use.
- Comfortable Underwear: Choose high-waisted, full-coverage options. The high waist will be very important if you have a C Section.
- Cooling Pads or Witch Hazel Pads: To soothe any discomfort.
Keep these essentials in an easy-to-reach section of your bag.
10. The Bellaboo Baby Bag
Finally, the most important item of course!!!! The Bellaboo Baby Bag. Our collection offers options for everyone....The best choice is either the larger Mabel or Ava with enough room for all your baby's bits and yours....and pair this with the Sling bag - this bag will be perfect for storing snacks, drinks, charger and phone close by! It even has an insulated pocket to keep a drink cool.
The Bellaboo Baby Bag isn’t just a practical choice—it’s a stylish one too. It’s a bag you’ll continue to use long after your hospital stay, making it a smart investment for any mom-to-be.
Lets Not Forget Our Partners!
Spare Clothes - They will be with you the whole time too
Contacts Or Glasses
Pillow & Blanket - Sleep may be needed if its a long labor
Snacks
Toiletries
Money - For vending machine or cafeteria
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared for a Smooth Delivery
Packing your hospital bag is one of the final steps in preparing for your baby’s arrival. By making sure you have these 10 must-have items on hand, you can ensure a smoother, more comfortable experience at the hospital. And with the Bellaboo Baby Bag by your side, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or adding another little one to your family, having a well-packed hospital bag can make all the difference. Start gathering these essentials early so you’re not scrambling when it’s time to head to the hospital. And don’t forget—your Bellaboo Baby Bag is ready to help you take on the world of motherhood with style and confidence.