If you are preparing for your first birth in Tampa, you’ve likely realized that packing light isn’t really an option. Between the unpredictable Florida weather and you being a brand-new mom, your hospital bag checklist needs to be strategic, but also easy so you don’t get overwhelmed.
Hi, I’m Lauren, a Tampa newborn photographer and mama of 2 myself. I know that as a first-time parent, the goal is to feel comfortable while you’re there with everything you need but also allow yourself to be the medical patient. Here is how to master the 3 Bag Strategy for your stay at Tampa General Hospital, St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital or AdventHealth Hospital.
Table of Contents
What is the 3-bag strategy on the hospital bag checklist?
In the chaos of labor, the last thing you need is your partner digging through a suitcase for your hair tie while you’re in the middle of a contraction. By creating your hospital bag checklist and separating out what you need, you stay organized to ensure the right items are in the right place.
Bag 1 – The Labor & Delivery “Go Bag”
This bag goes into the hospital the second you arrive at the triage desk.
- Documentation – Your ID, insurance card, and printed copies of your birth plan
- The Survival Kit – Most hospitals keep their AC low. Pack a robe, thick socks of your own (yes, they provide some, but you’ll like your own), and a warm blanket from home.
- 10-foot charging cord – outlets are never where you need them. A standard 3 food cord will leave your phone dangling off the bed and you’ll want it
Bag 2 – The Postpartum Recovery Suitcase
Leave this in your car until you are moved to your permanent room for recovery.
- Your own pillow – Hospital pillows are thin and not comfortable. Bring yours but use a colorful patterned pillowcase so that the staff doesn’t get it confused.
- Toiletries – The hospital soap is sandpaper, ha! Bring your own little bottle of shampoo, soap, toothpaste and toothbrush, and lip balm. That first shower after baby will make you feel better before you’re released to go home and have a real shower.
- Loose, dark clothing – High waisted joggers are going to be your best friend. You’ll want something easy to take on and off for the bathroom, loose so they aren’t pressing against your midsection, and dark in case you leak. (It’s normal!)
- Nursing Tanks and Bra – Even if you aren’t 100% sure about your feeding plan, breastfeeding bras and tanks are so comfortable for you.
Bag 3 – Your Partner and Baby Bag
This is your survival kit for your partner and baby.
- Snack stash – Tampa hospital cafeterias often have limited night hours, so you’ll want to include some snacks on your hospital bag checklist. Pack protein bars, trail mix, and a reusable water bottle.
- Something to read – Sometimes there are lows to birthing where nothing is happening, consider bringing something to read or puzzle books for the downtime
- Change of clothes – Your partner will want to change during their time at the hospital with you as well
- Baby’s going home outfit – Pack baby’s first outfit according to the weather! A simple cotton onesie is perfect for our Florida weather.
A note on preparation = Make sure you have the car seat installed by week 36 so you’ll be ready to go home.
What to leave at home
Don’t waste space on things your hospital will already provide for free.
- Diapers and wipes – The hospital will provide plenty
- Postpartum care kits – They will provide the mesh undies, giant pads, and peri bottles. Use theirs and save yours for when you get home.
- Jewelry – Leave your valuables at home. Your fingers may swell during birth, and you don’t want to lose anything.
Ready for birth? Use this hospital bag checklist to ensure your first Tampa birth is comfortable!
Don’t leave your comfort to chance. Packing for birth shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Make your hospital bag checklist and get the peace of mind with being fully prepared, so you can focus on what truly matters: meeting your baby!