How to Pack for a Birth

You’re pregnant and ready to welcome the little one into the world. But do you have everything you need for the hospital? Packing a mommy bag for the impending birth is very quick and easy, and you won’t need a line of suitcases to hold everything. Read on to learn how to pack for a birth.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A large duffel bag or single suitcase
• Snacks such as animal cookies
• Books and/or magazines
• MP3 player with extra batteries
• A regular camera and a disposable camera
• Toiletries
• A nightgown (if you don’t like hospital gowns)
• Slippers and socks
• A robe
• Money
• Your list of people to call
• An outfit to bring the baby home in
• Your clothing to come home in

1. Begin by making a list of things you need, such as the items listed here, and lay them on the bed. Try not to bring too much since you will only be there for a few days, and the hospital will supply the basics for you and the baby anyway.
2. Get a nice roomy duffel bag or small, single suitcase, and set it on the bed with the items and your check list. Begin packing the things that you will not need until the last day of your hospital stay, such as the clothes you will be wearing home and the outfit for the baby.
3. Place your other items such as batteries, camera, books, an MP3 player, a robe, slippers and socks, extra money, your list of people, books and magazines and snacks in your bag. If you buy extra travel toiletries you can pack them too, otherwise if you are close to your due date, pack them after using them and then take them out as needed.
4. Double-check your list and make sure you have everything you listed. If you forget certain things, like a toothbrush, don’t worry because most hospitals can give you one Focus on the important items such as spare money for vending machines, your clothes, the baby’s clothes, your slippers and robe and the camera.
5. Once you have packed your bag, keep it in your car if you are close to your due date. If you do not have a car, keep it by the front door so everyone knows where to find it when the time comes. Once labor begins, the last thing you will be thinking about is your bag for the hospital.

Tips & Warnings

• If your partner is staying in the hospital with you, pack them a separate bag so your bag isn’t too full.
• If you don’t want to worry about the list of people to contact, add them to your cell phone for easy access. Most hospitals allow cell phone use on the maternity floor now.
• Even though they suggest that you rest during labor, it could take hours or days so make sure you have enough books, magazines, and music to keep you occupied and distracted.
• Don't forget the snacks. Even if you can't eat them before, you will be very hungry afterwards.