I have been busy packing and preparing to go on vacation during my son’s spring break. We are heading to Atlanta, Georgia but I will do my best to post a little bit while away as long as the hotel has high speed internet!

Packing my suitcase reminded me of something everyone who is preparing to go to the hospital and give birth in the near future should think about: Packing your suitcase!

Somewhere in the third trimester (earlier if you are at high risk for early labor) of your pregnancy you probably should go ahead and think about packing a bag with the items you will need to have ready so that when you do actually go into labor, you are prepared. By doing this ahead of time, you will not have to rush around throwing things in a bag or have someone else do this for you, so you will be able to choose personal items that will make your hospital stay more comfortable. (Or as comfortable as a hospital stay can be!)

But what should you take to the hospital with you? Suggested items include:

• Birth plan (if you have one)



• Pajamas/Night Shirt, robe and slippers



• A few pairs of socks to keep your feet warm



• Telephone numbers of family and friends (maybe bring a calling card)



• Camera and/or video camera (check with staff on hospital policy regarding videotaping etc.)



• Barrette, rubber band, or scrunchies if you have long hair



• Stop watch to time contractions



• Insurance card and other needed medical information (If you pre-register through the hospital they will probably already have this on file, but it’s a good idea to bring it just in case.



• Toiletries (shampoo, toothbrush, tooth paste, hairbrush, etc.)



• Snacks as hospital food can get yucky!



• Hard candy or lollipops (Your mouth will get dry during labor. But check with the hospital on their policy of food/candy during labor. I was only allowed ice chips during labor.)



• CD player and soothing music to help you relax



• Chapstick for dry lips



• Outfit to leave the hospital in

Click here for a printable checklist of what you should bring with you to the hospital.

Once your bag is packed, stick it in an out of the way place such as a front closet so it will be out of the way until its d-day!

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Related posts:
Making a birth plan
Childbirth Education Classes