Packing your hospital bag without stress: the luxury edition

Packing your hospital bag is a milestone. It means the big day is getting closer! For many expectant mothers, this feels like a practical, and sometimes stressful, task. But why not use it as an opportunity to pamper yourself and prepare for the most comfortable birth and postpartum period possible? This is the deluxe edition of your maternity bag essentials , so you can surround yourself with comfort and convenience even in the hospital.

When packing, don't just think about the basics, but also about the little extras that make all the difference to your well-being and recovery.

Tip: Start on time. Use a digital pregnancy planner to check off what you already packed. 

The basics: documents and medical

While the focus is on luxury, the basics are essential. Make sure they're on top for quick access:

• Identification: Passport/ID card.
  
  
• Health insurance card: From your health insurance company.
  
  
• Pregnancy card/file: All important medical information.
  
  
• Birth plan (if available): Discuss this with your midwife in advance.
  
  
• Phone & charger: For contact and photos (and relaxation).
  
  

Comfort for mom: pure pampering

These are the items that will make your hospital stay more pleasant:

1. The softest pajamas or lounge set: Forget those hospital gowns! Pack a few comfortable, soft pajamas or lounge sets that are easy to put on and take off, preferably with buttons if you plan to breastfeed. Choose beautiful fabrics like bamboo or jersey.
   
   
2. Luxury travel-size toiletries: Your own familiar fragrances and products make a world of difference. Think:
   • A mild, moisturizing shower gel and shampoo.
   • A nourishing body lotion or oil (ideal after a warm shower).
   • A hydrating facial spray and lip balm.
   • Your favorite toothbrush and toothpaste.
   • A soft hair brush and scrunchies.
     
     
3. Your own pillow: Hospital pillows aren't always comfortable. Your own pillow instantly gives you a sense of home and helps you sleep better.
   
   
4. Warm, soft socks or slippers: Your feet can get cold during labor, and warm socks are wonderful afterward. Choose comfortable, non-slip slippers for walking around the ward.
   
   
5. A comfortable bathrobe: Easy to wear over your clothes and ideal for privacy and warmth while walking down the hall. Choose one made of soft fabric.
   
   
6. Comfortable underwear & Maternity pads (extra soft): Although the hospital provides these, you might prefer to bring your own super-soft, high-waisted underwear that doesn't constrict. Also, bring a pack of your favorite soft maternity pads.
   
   
7. Soft blanket/Eye mask: For extra comfort and to block out light for better rest, especially if you're in a shared room.
   
   
8. Painkillers & personal medication: Your own, trusted painkillers (after consultation with your doctor) and any other medication you regularly use.
   

A treat for the taste buds and mind

Don't forget to feed your inner man:

1. Healthy and luxurious Snacks: Hospital food isn't always inspiring. Pack your own favorite snacks: energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, chocolate, or your favorite cookies.
   
   
2. Refreshing Drinks: A carton of unsweetened juice, herbal tea (pregnancy and lactation friendly), or your favorite bottle of water.
   
   
3. Entertainment & Relaxation:
   • E-reader or Book: To escape for a while.
   • Wireless Earphones: For music, podcasts or guided meditations (e.g. GentleBirth or Calm apps).
   • Music list: Specially for labor or just to relax.
   • Magazines: For light distraction.
     
     

For the partner (if coming along)

Don't forget the co-pilot!

• Own clothes, toothbrush, etc.
  
  
• Snacks and drinks: For the long hours.
  
  
• Chargers and entertainment.
  
  
• Possibly a small pillow/blanket. They are likely to spend the night as well.
  
  

For the baby: the essentials

While the hospital has a lot, these are the items you'll want for those first moments and the journey home:

• Two complete sets of baby clothes: romper, jumpsuit, hat, and socks. Choose soft materials and easy-to-fasten closures.
  
  
• Jacket or cardigan: Depending on the weather.
  
  
• Hat: Even when it's warm, for the first few hours.
  
  
• Maxi-Cosi: Ready in the car for the return journey.
  
  
• A soft blanket or wrap: For extra comfort in the Maxi-Cosi.
  
  

By packing your hospital bag with care and attention and treating yourself to these luxury essentials , you'll create an environment where you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. This will contribute to a more positive birth and postpartum experience. Good luck with the final preparations!

Do you want to be certain that you won't forget anything? Then our sustainable digital planners are a useful tool to keep on track. 

Check out our pregnancy planners.