What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

ATHENS GEORGIA BIRTH & NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER

“You’ll want to remember every tiny detail—those first snuggles, the way your newborn’s fingers wrap around yours, and the sleepy yawns. ”

It’s almost baby time! As you prepare for the big day, packing your hospital bag is one of those essential tasks that feels more daunting than it really is. Trust me, you don’t need to overpack—just focus on the essentials for both you and your baby, and don’t forget about the memories you’ll want to capture in those early moments!

Hospital Bag Checklist: The Essentials

-For Mom:

• Comfortable Clothing: Think cozy, stretchy PJs, a robe, and slippers. You’ll want something that feels soft and breathable for those long hospital hours.

• Going-Home Outfit: A comfy outfit that makes you feel like yourself again. Consider leggings or a loose dress—something easy and cozy, especially if you’re still adjusting to your post-baby body.

• Bluetooth speaker: A must-have for your hospital bag because it helps create a calming atmosphere during labor and delivery. Whether you’re playing your favorite playlist, soothing sounds, or white noise, having familiar music or sounds can help you relax and stay focused.

• Essential oil diffuser: It can create a soothing, calming environment. Whether you opt for lavender to help with relaxation or peppermint for a refreshing touch, the diffuser can help reduce stress and promote a peaceful atmosphere during labor and recovery.

• Chapstick: A must-pack essential, especially during labor when your lips can get dry from breathing heavily or being in the hospital for an extended period.

• Your Pillow: The hospital pillows can be a bit stiff or flat, and having your own soft, familiar pillow can make it easier to rest and sleep, especially after labor.

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, dry shampoo (hello, hospital hair!), and smellyyy good body wash! These little items will help you feel fresh.

• Nursing & Postpartum Gear: Nursing bras, pads, nipple balm, and postpartum underwear (trust me, you’ll be so glad you have these).

• Snacks: Labor is a marathon, and you’ll need energy! Bring granola bars, trail mix, or whatever gets you through.

• Important Documents: Your ID, insurance info, and any hospital paperwork. No need to stress here—just keep it all in one place.

• Folder for Keepsakes: Baby’s hospital bracelet, footprints, and any special documents. It’s lovely to look back at your hospital memories.

-For Baby:

• Going-Home Outfit: Pack a couple of options for your little one—newborn and 0-3 months. Babies come in all sizes!

• Swaddle Blanket: While hospitals provide them, your own swaddle adds a personal touch to photos and comfort to your baby.

• Hat & Mittens: Keep baby warm and prevent them from scratching their face.

• Car Seat: Don’t forget to make sure it’s installed correctly ahead of time!

• Pacifier (Optional): Not all hospitals provide these, so if you plan on using one, bring your own.

  Oh, and don’t forget a name sign! It’s such a cute little touch for your baby’s first photos. Not only does it make the pictures even more special, but it’s also something you can keep as a sweet keepsake and hang up in the nursery later.

How to Capture Those First Moments

Now, onto the fun part: capturing those sweet, fleeting moments. You’ll want to remember every tiny detail—those first snuggles, the way your newborn’s fingers wrap around yours, and the sleepy yawns. As a newborn photographer, I know that these moments fly by, and having photos of them is priceless.

1. Use Natural Light

Hospitals are often filled with harsh, fluorescent lighting. Position your baby near a window to take advantage of soft, natural light—it’ll make the photos much more flattering.

2. Keep It Simple

Focus on baby’s little details—fingers, toes, and sleepy expressions. Avoid clutter or props that can distract from the beauty of the moment.

3. Capture Connection

Photos of you and your partner bonding with your new baby are priceless. Whether it’s your first glance at each other or a quiet moment holding hands, these candid shots are the heart of the story.

4. Get In the Frame

It’s easy to forget that you need to be in the photos too! Have your partner or a nurse snap a few shots of you, even if you’re not feeling “camera-ready.” These will be memories you’ll treasure.

5. Book a Newborn Session

The first few hours with your baby are a blur. If you want to make sure you’ve got every sweet moment captured, and you are located near Athens, GA consider booking a newborn session for a more relaxed, in-home photoshoot. I’ll come to you and capture those fleeting moments—those baby stretches, first smiles, and the way your baby fits in your arms. It’s the perfect way to preserve these memories.

Final Thoughts

Packing your hospital bag doesn’t need to be overwhelming—just stick to the essentials, and make sure you’re prepared to take in those first few days with your baby. And when it comes to capturing those moments, remember: it’s not about the props or complicated shots. It’s about the connection, the little details, and the love you share.

Want those memories documented perfectly? Let’s chat about a newborn session and check out my newborn gallery—I’d love to help you preserve these precious moments forever! 💫

And if you’re looking for more tips on surviving the first year of parenthood, check out this blog post to help make those first 12 months a little bit easier!