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Is there anything more exciting, wonderful, and utterly nerve-wracking than waiting to welcome your first child? You may not even know it yet, but your body is already preparing for the birth of your child. While most first-time moms deliver after their due date, the reality is your baby could come at any time, so it's important to be ready!

Having your hospital bag ready to go by month eight of your pregnancy is the best way to go. Labor is challenging enough without last-minute scrambling. This checklist includes everything to pack in your hospital bag to keep you and your baby comfortable during labor and delivery.

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Essential items to bring to the hospital

These are the basic items a hospital or birth center requires of expecting parents:

• Photo ID, health insurance card, and hospital paperwork.

• A copy of your birth plan, if you have one.

• Contact information for your baby's pediatrician.

• Money for parking.

You'll also want to keep your hospital or birthing center phone number handy so you can call when you're on the way. Pre-registering speeds up the admission process so you're not filling out paperwork in active labor.

One more tip: Keep your gas tank full in the weeks leading up to your due date. You don't want to stop for gas — or worse, run out — on your way to the hospital.

More hospital must-haves

Here are a few more things you won’t want to forget before going to the hospital:

• A car seat. Your baby's car seat needs to be ready and installed before leaving the hospital. This is harder than it sounds, so don't wait until the last minute to install a car seat. Once installed, get it inspected and register your car seat with the manufacturer for recall notices.

• A phone charger and portable power bank. Between texting family, taking pictures, and scrolling to pass the time, it won't be long before your phone's battery is at 0%. Pack a charger and a portable power bank just in case you can't find an outlet. The best power banks charge a phone more than four times.

• A camera. Cell phone cameras are pretty good these days, but if you prefer something of higher quality, pack a camera with a spare battery and SD card to capture the birth experience.

• A water bottle and lip balm. Dry hospital air doesn't make it easy to stay hydrated during labor. Pack lip balm to prevent chapped lips and a water bottle with a straw so you can drink while laying down. 

• Sugar-free candy and snacks. Sucking on hard candy is another trick for dry mouth, but avoid candies with sugar as they actually make you thirstier. You'll also appreciate snacks to keep your energy up during labor. Just be mindful that nausea is common in labor, so stick to snacks that are easy to digest.

• Overnight items for your partner. Don’t forget a phone charger, toiletries, change of clothes, and reading material to help your partner pass the time by your side.

What to pack in a new mom’s hospital bag

Let's be honest: There's nothing comfortable about labor. However, packing the right stuff in your hospital bag makes a world of difference in a new mom's experience. These are the hospital bag items expecting mothers swear by.

• Toiletries. You probably won't be wearing a full face of makeup in labor and delivery, but you will appreciate the ability to freshen up. In addition to a toothbrush, toothpaste, and other basics, pack face wipes and dry shampoo for quick cleanups.

• Slippers or non-slip socks for walking around the L&D ward. You can even find non-slip compression socks to relieve swelling.

• Nursing bras and pads. Regardless of breastfeeding plans, you'll appreciate the wireless support of a nursing bra when your milk comes in. Include absorbent nursing pads for leak protection and an extra nursing bra just in case.

• Cute and comfy clothes. Breastfeeding moms also need to consider nursing access when choosing what to wear after delivery. Look for drapey, lightweight tops and loose-fitting lounge pants or a nursing and maternity nightgown with pockets for your phone.

• Postpartum underwear and pads. Less stylish but just as important are a new mom's undergarments. Hospitals provide mesh underwear and pads, but it's wise to stock up in case they're stingy with freebies. You can find disposable mesh underwear online or buy high-waisted undies designed for postpartum recovery. Just remember to choose underwear that sits above your scar if having a C-section.

Baby items to bring to the hospital

Other than a car seat, your baby doesn’t need much for his or her grand entrance into the world. However, these items will keep your newborn cozy (and photogenic!) after delivery and on the way home.

• A receiving blanket. The blue and pink striped hospital receiving blankets are a classic. However, some moms prefer something more personalized for their little ones. After your baby outgrows his or her receiving blanket, you can repurpose it into a keepsake.

• A going-home outfit. This is possibly the most fun item you'll pack in your hospital bag! Consider the weather when choosing your baby's outfit and include a spare in case your first pick gets soiled.

• A warm blanket or car seat cover. Did you know babies shouldn't wear coats in car seats? Draping a warm blanket or car seat cover after your baby is buckled is a safer way to keep warm.

As you can see, there's a lot to consider as you prepare to give birth. However, while it's important to keep yourself comfortable through labor and delivery, it's equally important not to overpack. Resist the urge to pack a million outfits, your entire makeup bag, and a ton of snacks you'll be too nauseous to eat. Focus on the basics to keep you and your baby comfortable. Before you know it, you'll be out of the hospital and settling into life as a family.

Are you about to be a mom? What are your recommendations for new moms?

Post a comment or question below and don’t hesitate to share this post and help create a cycle of supported mothers 😘

& remember to allow your authentic self to empower the women around you

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