Congratulations, mama-to-be! Whether you’re a new mom or experienced, this guide helps with what to pack for hospitals & birthing centers in Southern California. As your due date nears, it’s time to prep your hospital bag. Packing key essentials ensures a smoother experience.
When to pack for your stay at Birthing Centers in Southern California?
It is recommended to pack a hospital bag around the 36th week of pregnancy, as this gives enough time to gather all the necessary items without feeling rushed. However, if there are any preexisting medical conditions or a high-risk pregnancy, it is best to pack the bag earlier, around the 32nd week. This allows expecting mothers to have peace of mind knowing that they have everything they need in case of an early delivery. It is also important to regularly check and update the hospital bag throughout the third trimester to ensure that all essential items are included and readily available when it’s time to head to the hospital.
Essentials items for Labor at Hospitals or Birthing Centers in Southern California
- A Diaper Bag, we love this one from Dover
- Photo ID, Insurance info, Hospital forms, and Birthing Plan (If you have one)
- Cell phone & Charger
- Eyeglasses (if applicable)
- Non-Skid Socks for walking the halls
- A warm robe
- Lip Balm, because hospitals are dry
- Hair-Tie (Not hair clips to avoid poking)
- Comfortable clothing, such as a loose-fitting nightgown or a nursing bra, will help you feel more relaxed. check out a good list of hospital approved labor & delivery gowns here
- Snacks
- Sugar-Free Hard Candy to keep your mouth moist
- Maternity Bras WITHOUT underwire & nursing pads
- Toiletries and personal items
- Any medications you take
Additional optional items
- Packing Cubes/sleeves like these resealable pouches
- Your own pillow or cozy blanket to make the room feel like home
- A diffuser with essential oils, stress ball, and your favorite music playlist
- Earbuds to listen to your playlist
- Bath Towel (hospitals only have very thin ones)
- Maternity Underwear (Hospitals usually have disposable ones)
- Postpartum recovery essential (Hospitals will have pads and ice packs)
- Breastfeeding pillow, a good one from amazon
- An instagram worthy wooden baby name announcement or PERSONALIZED BABY NAME SWADDLE BLANKET FONT DUO
- Lactaction Cookies
After delivery items items for baby
- Infant Car seat
- Matching outfit for you and baby
- Baby Blanket
- newborn diapers, wipes, pacifier, hat, mittens (although the hospital and birth centers in southern California will usually provide some)
For Your Partner or Support Person
- Comfortable clothing
- Snacks
- Phone charger and camera
- A list of important phone numbers to notify, including your newborn photographer
Closing Remarks
Packing your hospital bag for birthing centers in southern California or hospital can feel overwhelming, but by following this guide, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and smooth labor and delivery experience. Remember to pack essentials for labor, toiletries and personal care items, comfort items for recovery, items for your partner or support person, and baby essentials. By being prepared and organized, you can focus on welcoming your little one into the world with peace of mind. Wishing you a safe and smooth delivery!
