You’ve reached your third trimester, and naturally, you’re nesting—organizing everything and getting all your ducks in a row. One key item on your to-do list is packing your hospital bag. But what do you pack? You want to make sure you have everything you need, but you also don’t want to overpack if the hospital provides many essentials.
It’s important to know the essentials, the extras, and what to pack for your spouse. Here’s my guide to packing your hospital bag, based on my experience delivering at Reading Hospital.
The Essentials for Your Reading Hospital Delivery
The hospital provides a lot when it comes to your recovery and baby’s needs. They’ll supply a robe, pads, recovery items, some lactation supplies, baby formula, diapers, wipes, baby swaddles, and even a baby comb. Essentially, they’ve got most of the basics covered for you and your baby.
Here are the essential items the hospital doesn’t supply that you’ll want to pack:
Comfortable loungewear: Enough for a three-day stay.
Toiletries: Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, soap, and lotion. Don’t forget your toothbrush and toothpaste.
Hairbrush and hair ties.
Coming-home outfit for your newborn.
Baby car seat: Have it installed and ready to go in the car.
The Extras for your Reading Hospital Delivery
Extras are items that can make your stay more comfortable. These are things you use daily that you might not want to go without. Here are some recommendations:
Chapstick: Your lips will get really dry during labor and delivery.
Favorite snacks: Pack snack-sized portions of chips, trail mix, or granola bars for a 2-3 day stay. Remember, the hospital will provide meals.
Water bottle: Bring your favorite reusable one if you have it.
Makeup: If you wear it and want to freshen up for photos.
Special blanket or sign: Great for newborn photo moments.
Breastfeeding pillow: Optional. If you don’t want the bulk, the nurse can provide an extra pillow to prop the baby while nursing.
Don’t Forget to Pack for Your Spouse
Your spouse can leave to grab snacks after labor and delivery, but you’ll likely want them by your side during labor. Pack a few essentials for them too:
Bottled water
Meat sticks
Snack bags of chips
Trail mix
Protein or granola bars
I packed my husband’s snacks in a separate bag to make sure he wasn’t hungry. Just because I couldn’t eat didn’t mean he couldn’t. Keep it simple—pack enough to last through labor.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
Packing your hospital bag is one of the most important things to do in your third trimester. In fact, I recommend packing it before setting up your nursery. Aim to have it ready by 32 weeks pregnant. Babies are unpredictable and can arrive early, so it’s better to be prepared. Keep your bag in a spot you won’t forget.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to pack in your hospital bag for your Reading Hospital delivery can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Stick to the essentials, pack a few comfort items you can’t live without, and don’t forget snacks for your spouse. With your bag packed and ready, you’ll be all set for your big day.
You’ve got this, girlfriend!
Ashlie Bradley is a two-time first-place winner in the Portrait Masters newborn category. She has a true passion for newborn photography and has photographed over 100 babies in her Reading, Pennsylvania photography studio, capturing precious memories of these fleeting moments. Ashlie also understands how important it is for moms to look and feel beautiful in family portraits, especially since we’re often behind the camera.
Interested in her professional newborn portrait experience? Click here for more information.
Comments