Preparing for the arrival of your little one includes packing a well-prepared hospital bag. This essential step ensures that you have everything you need to make your stay comfortable as you welcome your baby into the world. To help ease your mind and ensure you don’t miss a thing, we’ve put together a comprehensive checklist of items to pack in your hospital bag.
For Mom-to-Be
- Personal identification documents (ID, health insurance card, etc.)
- Comfortable and loose-fitting clothing for labor and postpartum
- Nursing bras and breast pads
- Maternity pads or disposable underwear
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc.)
- Your preferred comfort items (pillow, blanket, slippers, etc.)
- Snacks and drinks to keep your energy up during labor
- Entertainment (books, magazines, music) for distractions during the waiting period
For Baby
- A few sets of newborn onesies or bodysuits
- Comfy blankets and receiving blankets
- Diapers and baby wipes
- Baby hat and socks
- Swaddle blankets for cozy and secure wrapping
- Baby mittens to prevent scratches
- Going-home outfit for baby
For Partner / Support Person
- Comfortable clothes and toiletries
- Snacks and drinks for their own nourishment
- Entertainment (books, magazines, music) for distractions during the waiting period
- Phone charger and a camera to capture precious moments
Additional Considerations
- Phone and charger
- Nursing pillow for added comfort during breastfeeding
- Lanolin cream for sore nipples
- Nursing cover or shawl for privacy during feeding
- A going-home outfit for yourself
- Extra pillows or a pregnancy pillow for added comfort
- Some loose change or small bills for vending machines
Remember, every pregnancy and birth experience is unique, so feel free to personalize this checklist based on your specific needs and preferences. It’s always a good idea to pack your hospital bag several weeks before your due date to avoid any last-minute stress. Having everything you need conveniently available will allow you to focus on the incredible experience of bringing new life into the world.
And when you’re home and ready it’s time to schedule your pre-booked newborn session with Emerson Grace Photography.
Emerson Grace Photography studio is based in Franklin, KY and service Bowling Green, KY and Nashville, TN area clients. I specialize in photographing newborn, babies, toddlers, 1 year cake smashes, families and maternity. If you are expecting in 2023, please contact me today about your scheduling your Maternity, Newborn or Milestone package. Now booking September to January due dates.