Packing My Hospital Bag: It’s Almost Baby Time

I never knew how interested I would be in learning about what other expectant mothers pack in their hospital bags. I would seriously hate to know how many YouTube videos I’ve watched about labor & delivery, newborn life, and hospital bag packing. Well here is my chance to add to the massive pool of pregnant mama online content. It’s time to pack my bags. Keep in mind this is during a global pandemic, and neither my husband nor I are allowed to leave our hospital room for anything. No visitors are currently allowed; however, the hospital staff will pick up food that we deliver to the hospital entrance and bring it to us (at least at this point). Also, I am definitely new to this, so there may be a “what I actually used in my hospital bag” post coming in the future. For now (sitting at 36 weeks and some change), this is my plan for me, husband, and baby.

For me:

1. Postpartum care
   • Adult Diapers
     • I appreciate how these particular diapers are designed to make you feel as good about yourself as possible.
   • Nipple balm
     • I’ve already started using this Lansinoh Organic Nipple Balm, because hello dryness. So far, I’m really enjoying how it feels.
   • Tucks Witch-Hazel Pads & Dermoplast spray
     • Just about every YouTuber has used these same brands, so they must work right?
   • Stool softener 
     • I’ve just heard this is a good idea.

2. To wear
   • Flip flops (for the shower) 
   • Fuzzy socks
   • Light robe
   • Nursing bra
   • Comfy outfit and postpartum underwear
     • I don’t know what the temperature will be like, so I have flowy capris, a nursing cami, light sweater, and a long sleeve t-shirt. The high is currently 95 today (literally the hottest summer that I’ve experienced in years), but you never know.

3. Earbuds/speaker
   • I’ve been trying to get three different playlists together, because I have no idea what my mindset will be like: hype labor (a lot of rap), chill labor, and inspirational labor (a lot of Christian praise music).
4. Reusable water bottle and straw
5. Make-up remover wipes
   • I am not too fussed about bringing makeup at this point, but I do want to feel fresh.

For husband:

1. Sleeping bag
2. Earbuds
3. Laptop
4. Flip Flops

For both me and husband:

1. Toothpaste/ toothbrushes
2. Deodorant
3. Shampoo/ Conditioner
4. Soap
5. Lip Balm
6. Face wash
7. Pillows
8. Phone chargers
9. SNACKS
   • Are they the healthiest options? No; however, Hot Fudge Sundae Pop-Tarts, pre-packaged Cheez-It bags, fruit snacks, and Clif Bars are convenient and familiar. We can always get something more substantial delivered to us.

For baby (packed in a diaper bag):

1. 2 outfits (one newborn and one 0-3 months)
2. Swaddle blanket
3. Knitted baby blanket
   • I’m not sure how I’ll use this, but my mama made it for me, and I think it will be a comfort for both me and baby.
4. Car seat / nursing cover
5. Car seat
   • We went for the Britax B-Agile and B-Safe 35 Dual Comfort Travel System, and while I haven’t used it yet, it does seem to be very well made.

I question if I have enough ready to go just about every day, so who knows? Maybe an extra outfit or sleeper for the baby will sneak itself into the bag. That said, at the end of the day, I really don’t believe that the hospital will allow me to fail, and I know the true essentials will be taken care of. I have a scheduled phone call with the hospital this week to talk about my birth plan and make sure that I am as prepared as possible. The anticipation is killing me, as I don’t know how far in advance I am planning for. He could sit tight for almost another month, or he could make an appearance in less than 2 weeks. At my last doctor’s appointment, I was .5 cm dilated, and while I know that isn’t much, my body may be starting to think about birth. All that is in my control at this point is how I take care of myself and protect myself so that I walk into the hospital with a negative COVID-19 test.

Depending on how the next month plays out, I will probably share my experiences about how preparing for and delivering a baby is different during a pandemic (at least where I am from). Wish me luck!