Your Best hospital bag

By Ana Paula Markel, Founder of Bini Birth

As you get ready for your big day, there is a lot to prepare. Here’s an essential hospital bag list that won’t overwhelm you.

ESSENTIALS:

• ID

• Insurance card

• Phone & charger

• Car seat

IF APPLICABLE:

• Written copy of birth plan (2)

• Cord Blood Kit

• Glasses/Contacts

• Medications

• A cooler for placenta

FOR MOTHER/BIRTHING PERSON:

• Toiletries - all basics but also include a body wash, lip balm, hair ties

• Coconut oil for massage or any other massage oil you would like

• Essential oils and diffuser (check with your hospital first about diffuser)

• Birth Ball

• Massage tools you like

• Comfy and warm socks/slippers

• Most people labor in hospital gown but you don't have to if you want to laboring your own clothes. Think of items that may get ruined like old t-shirts, sports bra, or a birthing gown of your own

• Robe

• Underwear

• Your own pillow with bright pillow case

• Flip Flops for shower

• Nursing bra

• Natural nipple cream

• Night gown or pajamas if you don't want to wear hospital gown in recovery (make sure it has easy access to bears if you plan to breastfeed)

• Speakers and headphones

• Go home outfit

• Snacks and drinks (bottled water/coconut water/herbal teas)

FOR FATHER/PARTNER:

• Toiletries

• Change of clothes (think layers and comfort)

• Pajamas

• Swim shorts if plan to shower or use the tub with partner

• Flip Flops

• Snacks

FOR BABY:

• Onesie

• Beanie Hat

• Going home outfit

• Receiving blanket

• Warm blanket

THINGS YOU WILL THANK ME FOR LATER

• Dry Shampoo

• Hair Dryer

• Face Wipes

• An extra bag or a bag with extra room

• An empty folder to gather documents that will be given to you

• Hospital towels are not hotel towels, you may consider bringing a towel of your own for postpartum

• Starbucks gift certificates for your favorite nurses

• A gift for your toddler or oldest children  if this is not your first baby