Our Top Tips for Packing Your Birth Bag
As you anticipate your birth and work through your birth preferences, you will also want to spend some time thinking about your birth bag. For many birthing people, this task feels overwhelming, as they don’t know what to expect or anticipate. Others are so busy thinking about the birthing process, that “stuff” slips their mind.
Project Teenbirth is here to offer you some guidance based on what has worked for our past clients. As always, take what works for you, leave the rest, and trust yourself through your process.
What You Need to Know About Packing Your Birth Bags
You will need and want a range of items, and we recommend grouping items into 2 categories: “labor and birth” and “postpartum.” For ease, we recommend packing these items in two separate bags, especially if you are birthing in a hospital and will be there 2+ days. When you arrive, take in just your labor and birth bag. Once you are in postpartum, then a partner or other support person can return to the car for your other items.
What To Pack in Your Birth Bag
Comfortable labor clothes. If it makes you feel more like YOU, more “at home,” more comfortable, we suggest packing your own outfit, PJs, or gown to labor and birth in.
Blanket and/or pillows. These items can help you take ownership of your space, and the pillows can really come in handy if the unit is full.
Sandals or slippers. If you plan to be mobile during labor, you’ll appreciate shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
Change of clothes. One change of clothes for you and one for your partner, if applicable.
Hair ties or headbands. Labor is hard work! You’ll want a way to keep your hair out of your face.
Basic toiletries. You’ll want your toothbrush and toothpaste for refreshing during labor. Chapstick is crucial too; with all the hard work and heavy breathing, your lips will get dry!
Snacks and drinks. Depending on your birthing location and your preferences, you may choose to snack during labor. If you have a partner, they’ll need snacks too! Drinks to consider include Gatorade and coconut water.
Music. Lots of birthing people make labor playlists, and others prefer to listen to their go-to artists/songs. If music is a tool you typically use for coping, there’s a chance you’ll enjoy (or need!) it during labor. If you have a bluetooth speaker that can be helpful as well.
Phone + charger. You may use the phone for music, as well as photos during labor and birth. After birth, there are probably people you’ll be looking forward to contacting, so a charged phone is crucial!
Bathing suit. If you have a partner or support person, they may like to bring a bathing suit in case you are laboring in water at some point.
What To Pack in Your Postpartum Bag
Comfy clothes and feeding bra or tank. If you are bodyfeeding, consider something that will be conducive to feeding.You’ll want 1-2 outfits that are loose-fitting and comfortable.
Feeding pillow. Again, if you are bodyfeeding, a pillow can be super helpful as you learn to work with your baby. Typically, you’ll have the support of nurses and/or a lactation consultant, so they can offer tips specific to the tools and support you have available.
More toiletries. If you have specific shampoo and conditioner or soaps that you enjoy, pack small bottles or samples. (If you have a partner/support person staying, they’ll need the same.)
More snacks. The hospital will have some snacks available, and meals for the birthing person, but it can be comforting to know you have some of your favorite items on hand. If you have access to a small cooler, great; we can bring it!
Clothes for the trip home. Pack clothes for all members of the family, including the baby! The birthing person will continue to want to prioritize comfort in clothing choice.
Car seat. You won’t be able to leave your birthing location without this one! Should you get into a car accident with the car seat installed, you’ll have to purchase a new one before you give birth. Thus, we recommend installing just the base. Yes, take time to familiarize yourself with installing the car seat and removing it, but don’t leave the seat in the car until you are in labor and ready to walk out the door. When you arrive at your birthing location you’ll leave the seat in the car until it’s time to go home. Here’s a video that offers an intro to car seat safety. Check in with your local fire department for classes and/or car seat checks, as well. Finally, there are some great IG accounts to follow for car seat safety, like this one and this one.
Other Considerations
You will also have access to postpartum healing supplies, such as pads, underwear, and a peri bottle, so these are things you can leave at home. Your birthing location will also supply diapers, wipes, clothes (including hats), and blankets for baby.
As you prepare for labor and birth, we invite you to ask questions, take up space, and make yourself as comfortable as possible.
If you need help packing your bags and preparing for birth, reach out to us! The Project Teenbirth team is here for you!
Author: Courtney Harris is a witness, space-holder, supporter, and caregiver for families of all types and in all stages; she has worked with youth and their families since 2008. Currently, Courtney serves as a Life Coach for Teens and a Companion for Birth and Beyond. She is passionate about honoring life’s transitions and believes that all birthing people deserve compassionate, steady, and informed support throughout their unique reproductive journeys. You can connect with Courtney here and across all social media platforms at @companioncourtney.