Birth preparation: What really needs to go in the hospital bag

The big day is approaching, and one of the most important preparations is packing your hospital bag for the birth. But what do you really need? Here you'll find out what absolutely shouldn't be missing from your hospital bag and when you should start packing it. You'll also find a packing list to download and personalize. This list has been carefully compiled from items that have proven useful based on personal experience.

Your packing list for the hospital

Many expectant parents tend to pack far too much. Often, only the essentials for the first 24 hours in the hospital are sufficient. Everything else can be provided by your partner or family members. Ideally, you should pack two smaller bags right from the start: one for the delivery room and the second for your subsequent stay in the postpartum ward.

Packing list for the birth:

Pack only the essentials to avoid unnecessary weight and have everything readily available.

• Documents : Health insurance card, identity card, birth plan
• Hygiene items : toothbrush, toothpaste, hair tie (especially for long hair)
• Comfortable clothing : Loose shirt or nightgown for childbirth, jogging pants, breastfeeding-friendly top
• Socks & slippers : Warm socks help you relax better.
• Snacks & water bottle : Energy for the birth – dextrose or energy bars are ideal if the birth lasts for several hours.
• Massage oil & fan : Helpful for relaxation
• Glasses & contact lens accessories : If you wear contact lenses
• Mobile phone with charger and headphones : For music, communication and souvenir photos

Tip: Pack a small bag separately for the first 24 hours – that way you don't have to search through everything at once.

Packing list for the postpartum period:

Many mothers stay in the hospital for a few days after giving birth. The following items should not be missing from your postpartum bag:

• Your own hygiene and cosmetic items : toothbrush, shower gel, shampoo, hair tie (hair clips can be uncomfortable depending on the birthing position), lip balm (dry lips during birth!)
• Medications: that you take regularly
• Comfortable clothing : clean and comfortable clothing for the following days
• Nursing bra (one size larger!) : Your breasts will grow once your milk comes in, so bras will still need to be a bit bigger.
• Important documents : Maternity record, questionnaires from the birth department, possibly the receipt of documents
• For married parents : family ID card or family record booklet
• For single or divorced parents : proof of residence for both parents and, if applicable, the acknowledgment of paternity.
• For foreign parents : family certificate, residence permit, passport copy and residence permit; in the case of a foreign marriage, also an international marriage certificate.

What do you need for the trip home with the baby?

After a short hospital stay following the birth, you can finally go home! Here's what you'll need:

• Essential baby items : bodysuit, romper, hat, socks (appropriate for the season)
• Muslin cloths : For cuddling and breastfeeding
• Baby car seat : Safety first! The Thule Maple baby car seat offers optimal protection
• Sleeping bag : A cozy sleeping bag , like the The Bugaboo Cocoon provides security and warmth during the colder months.

Less stress through good preparation

Proper preparation for childbirth ensures greater peace of mind. Instead of packing too much, focus on the essentials. Thanks to a well-thought-out packing list, you'll have everything you need without creating unnecessary chaos. For an even more relaxed preparation, you can easily and worry-free order many essential baby products, such as the car seat or sleeping bag , from [website/store name]. Rent a loopi . This way you have high-quality, sustainable products at hand without having to worry about buying and storing them. With a well-packed hospital bag and the right products, you'll be perfectly prepared for your baby's arrival!

Checklist from Swissmoms.ch