A Helpful Guide on What to Bring to the Hospital when You Have Your Baby

I remember being pregnant with my first child. I had many emotions running through my head. I couldn't wait for her to make her arrival, but at the same time, I was nervous. Looking back, I was definitely clueless. One of the things that had me most confused was packing my bags for the hospital. What do I need? What should I bring? I had no clue. Even after speaking with my midwife, reading countless books, and speaking with moms who had been in the same situation, I was still clueless. Basically, I needed someone to spell it out for me and I never got that.

Two and a half kids later (yes, I am pregnant again), I have a better clue. I am often asked that infamous question that had me so stumped just a few years ago, "What should I take to the hospital?" While I don't mind helping people out, I don't ever want someone to think I'm telling them what they need to bring. At the same time, I want to be able to spell it out for soon-to-be-moms in a helpful manner. Basically, I want to do what I never had done for me.

Therefore, I have compiled a guide of sorts. I tried to spell out everything you may or may not need to bring to the hospital. I tried to include suggestions as well as some of my personal preferences. I also wanted to leave it open because what I think is necessary isn't going to be necessary to the next person. Just remember, what you bring is a personal choice. Although you don't want to bring too much, you also don't want to forget anything either. Try not to stress much about it. If you do forget something, you can always send someone to get it.

I have broken the guide down into to categories: things you need to bring for yourself, and the things you need to bring for the baby. When I go, I take a bag for myself and a small diaper bag for the baby. That way, nothing gets mixed up and it stays better organized. The majority of the things you take will be for yourself. The hospital provides practically everything for the baby, but there are a few things you may want to take.

For mom

Clothes-Bring two to three outfits that you are comfortable in. Don't worry about what it looks like. Whether it be a pair of pajamas or workout clothes, just make sure it is something you find comfortable.

Other Garments-You will also need some underwear, bras, and socks. I always suggest bringing extra underwear for obvious reasons. Most hospitals do provide undergarments that you can choose to wear, but I always found them to be quite uncomfortable. I also like to take a robe with me, but that is just a personal preference and it is definitely not necessary.

Footwear-I suggest bringing either slippers or flip-flops. This is only necessary if you don't want to wear socks around the hospital. Basically, you will only need them for around the room and perhaps a few trips to the nursery.

Toiletries-This is perhaps the hardest category to differentiate between a necessity and a luxury. I personally suggest bringing shampoo, conditioner, and body soap as well as a toothbrush and toothpaste. Although these items can be purchased at the hospital and some hospitals even provide them, I prefer to bring my own. I like to get the travel size items so that way it doesn't take up too much space. You will also need a hair brush, deodorant, and various other items that all depend on your personal needs. For example, I have long hair so I always take hair ties. I also have fairly dry skin so I take a moisturizer as well. It all depends on your personal needs.

Entertainment-This category is not necessary, but it is definitely something to consider. You will probably be busy between the baby, visitors, and taking care of yourself; however, there will still be a lot of "quiet time" where you may even find yourself bored. Almost all hospitals have a television in the room for you to watch. For me personally, I can only watch so much television. I always like to take something extra to keep me busy. This all comes down to personal preference but some suggestions for items include a book, magazine, puzzle book, handheld game, cards, mp3 player, etc.

Other items-There are many things that fall under this category. I personally suggest taking a camera. If you choose to bring a digital camera or a camcorder, I also suggest bring extra batteries. Once again, it comes down to personal preference. Anything you think you may need, go ahead and bring it. Some people have "comfort" or "focus" items they like to bring for labor. This may be a stuffed animal or an ultrasound picture of the baby. Another suggestion is to consider bringing a few snacks. Although the hospital does provide food and there are probably vending machines available, it is always a good idea to consider. I also suggest bringing some money just in case you want something from the vending machines or from the gift shop.

Important items-There a few important items. Some hospitals require you to bring in paper work and/or your insurance card. Check with your OB/GYN or hospital in advance just to make sure. Don't forget to bring any medicines you are on. Also, anything else your doctor tells you to bring.

For baby

Clothes-Although the hospital does provide some sort of clothing, I always like to bring my own. If you choose to bring clothes for baby, I suggest three to four sleepers and one to two outfits. If it is a colder month, it wouldn't be a bad idea to bring onesies so you can layer baby. If you are wanting to have newborn pictures taken at the hospital, make sure one of the sleepers or outfits is something you would like baby to wear in the picture.

Other garments-Once again, this isn't really necessary, but more of a personal choice. Consider bringing some socks, especially if you are planning to dress baby in a footless outfit. Also, consider bringing a few newborn hats. The hospital generally provides them but if you are wanting them to match his clothes you may want to bring your own.

Blanket(s)-This category is definitely not necessary because the hospital provides blankets. However, some women choose to bring at least one from home. Personally, I made one blanket for each of my children so I brought it to the hospital with me.

Car Seat-This is pretty much the only item that you must bring for baby. If you are not familiar with the car seat, I suggest bringing the manual as well. You will more than likely have to adjust the straps.

Other items-You don't need to bring much for baby as it is all provided by the hospital, but if there is anything you feel you need, bring it. One consideration is to bring pacifiers. The most hospitals have some to offer if you choose to give baby one, but they generally only have one brand. If there is a specific brand you are wanting to use, I suggest bringing it. On a personal note, both of my babies took pacifiers but they would only take one type. Therefore, it wouldn't be a bad idea to bring two types to the hospital just in case baby is picky.

Whatever you decide to bring or not bring, I hope this guide helped you a little. I wish you the best of luck with your upcoming arrival!