When to pack hospital bag?

Galena99

I don't have any idea when I am supposed to do this whole task.  Wait until 35 weeks?  Start now and keep adding as I think of things? 

absoluteremix

I'm not completely decided but I'm thinking I will do it sometime in May...I don't want to pack too soon but I'm also afraid of waiting too long!!

CarlaAndJames

I'm due June 22nd and my husband told me yesterday he wants everything ready by June 1st. He's convinced baby girl is comin' early!

la_chivita

i have been wondering the same thing as well as what to put in the bag? any ideas?

MrsPBNJ0220

I will be packing a month before, so since I'm due June 17th I would like it to be packed by May 17th.

Here is a link to a list that looks great to me:

It listed everything the hospital mentioned on our tour, including a swim suit if DH wanted to get in the shower with you.  Don't forget a snack or something for him to nibble on!

Also, if you have Short Term Disability don't forget to take any papers to fill out because shortly after delivery you can have someone fill them out and have them faxed so they can get working on your claim asap!

https://www.babycenter.com/packing-for-the-hospital-or-birth-center

Galena99

I've had a fear the baby is going to come early and I won't be prepared at all. 

That babycenter list is great.  I'd just add a few things.  BRING YOUR OWN PADS.  You'll be bleeding when you leave and they provide you with ones big enough to accomodate a menstruating elephant.  Maternity underwear too.  Even if you don't wear them now, if you have to have a c-section regular underwear will sit right on your incision.  Also, comfy pants that can be pulled up over that spot or a pj nightgown would be great. 

They provide everything you'll need for baby (clothes, pacifier if you want, diapers)

The only things I sent DH back home for was the boppy to help with breastfeeding and my laptop so I could go online while baby was sleeping. 

Also, the nurses like getting treats, but you can always send DH out to get them food/chocolate, etc. when he's out getting you the sushi/beer/wine/deli meat/insert forbidden food here.

M&M227

I plan to start making a list in the next few weeks but probably won't pack until the middle of may.  Plus, some things will be last minute additions.

MommaA117

I started last night. Theres still things I need to add..

JuneBug0611

That was a helpful list - I definitely added a few things to my running list.  I'm building the list now and will pack the bag around 36 weeks, I think.

Amaya84

I just finished packing mine. I figured if LO does come early, the last thing I will feel like doing is rushing around trying to get things in order...And if not, it's one less thing I have to do!

I have what I shouldn't be needing until then packed up ready to go. Then I have a list with a few last minute things next to it. This week we ill likely shampoo the car (SO quit smoking finally!) and install the baby car seat. SO doesn't know how to...So again, just makes it one more thing of my check list! 

Motto: It doesn't hurt to be prepared, but it can help! 

Hallil

I'm due June 5th, and my shower is May 7th so I will probably do it right after the shower. That way if I don't get what I need or want at the shower I can just go out and pick it up, but won't end up with doubles. There are of course going to be things in the hospital bag that I won't be receiving as shower gifts, (pads anyone? Lol) so I will just pick that stuff up whenever.