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Excitement mixed with a hint of nerves – it's the classic pre-birth jitters, especially when you are expecting twins. And as you get ready for the journey ahead, there's one essential task on your list: packing your hospital bag.
For example, just imagine this scenario: you are all set to go, bags packed, but suddenly, doubt creeps in – did you remember everything?
Take a deep breath, new parents-to-be!
It’s totally normal to feel that way. And at the end of the day, we all parents are alike, getting super nervous and anxious.
That’s why, in the following discussion, we are going to talk about the ultimate hospital bag checklist for twins. So, you can finally put your worries at ease.
Without further ado, let’s get started:
When to pack your hospital bag For twins?
Well, the general rule of thumb is to start preparing your hospital bag for twins by around 35 weeks into your pregnancy, but we recommend that you start preparing your hospital bag for twins at the beginning of your third trimester, at around 28 weeks. With twins, it's not unusual for them to arrive a bit earlier than a singleton pregnancy, so it's better to be prepared.
Most importantly, keep in mind that every pregnancy is different, so make sure to trust your instincts, right from the get go. That is, if you feel like it's time to pack that bag earlier or if you have specific items you know you will need, go ahead and do it.
Where should you keep your hospital bag For twins?
Now, let's talk logistics. Where should you keep this super-packed bag? Ideally, it should be somewhere easily accessible – maybe by the front door or in your car.
You never know when the babies might decide it's go-time, and you don't want to be scrambling to find your essentials in the middle of the night.
What is the difference in packing a hospital bag for twins than for a single baby?
Whenever you are packing your hospital bag, you should consider your personal situation and any advice that may have been given to you by your doctor. This will help you to know when and what to prepare for. For twins in general, there is a chance that they will come earlier than their due date, so it is good to be prepared and plan to pack the hospital bag earlier than their due date. Also, you may have already been advised for a delivery plan via C-section, which should require a little longer of a hospital stay for recovery, so that can also be taken into consideration when packing your hospital bag. You will also need to plan for extra outfits, etc. for two babies, and any additional items for yourself.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Twins: For Mom
Preparing for the arrival of twins is an exciting journey, and getting your hospital bag ready is a big part of the adventure.
After all, you want to make sure you have everything you need to keep both you and your little bundles of joy comfortable and happy during your stay at the hospital.
Here is a hospital bag checklist for twins, tailored specifically for every moms out there:
1. Clothing
First things first, pack some loose, comfortable clothes for yourself. If the hospital allows it, some moms choose to pack a gown to wear instead of the hospital gown. For after delivery, you can be prepared with a couple sets of pajamas, dress like pajamas and some comfortable pants can work great. You should also have a comfortable set of clothes ready to go home in. If you plan to breastfeed or pump, take that into consideration when choosing your tops so that it can be easier for you. Remember, you want to feel your best and be comfortable.
Also, make sure to pack some cozy socks and to take your favorite slippers for those late-night strolls around the maternity ward. This can help you feel more relaxed during your hospital stay, especially after all the hard work of delivering twins.
2. Nursing Essentials
If you are planning to breastfeed, nursing bras are a must-have. Hence, look for ones that are supportive and easy to maneuver, because when it comes to feeding two hungry babies, convenience is key!
Besides, having these essentials on hand will help make those early nursing sessions with your twins a little easier.
3. Toiletries
Don't leave home without your favorite toiletries. Pack travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. You can also pack a hair brush/comb and hair ties, if needed.
4. Lip Balm
This item deserves it’s own line because it can be easy to forget if you don’t always carry one with you. Hospitals can be dry and your lips can go from moisturized to chapped from one moment to the other while at the hospital. So be sure to pack a lip balm in your bag.
5. Contacts and Glasses
If you wear contacts, you should pack a case and contact solution, and an extra contacts, if needed. If you have a spare pair of glasses, it’s a good idea to pack it, too.
6. Snacks
Labor and delivery can be quite the marathon, and you will need enough fuel to keep you going. Therefore, make sure to pack some nutritious snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit to munch on while recovering. And, if you are a chocolate lover, take some of your favorite delights as well.
After all, you deserve a little treat!
7. Entertainment
There will be a lot happening during and after labor and delivery, but the main thing here is to be prepared with some of your favorite entertainment in case you need it. Having some of your favorite shows to watch or your favorite music to listen to might be helpful during labor to help distract you and give you some motivation. If you’re an avid reader, your favorite book or a quick read might help relax you during recovery and help keep you going.
8. Birth Plan
If you plan to have a birth plan, then make sure to pack a copy of it. This will help ensure that your healthcare team is aware of your preferences during labor and delivery.
9. Comfort Items
Consider bringing along some items from home that bring you comfort, whether it's a favorite pillow, a cozy blanket, or a soothing essential oil blend.
Having familiar items nearby can help make your hospital stay feel more like home.
10. Personal Items and Important Documents
Along with your keys, wallet, phone, and hand sanitizer, don't forget to pack any important documents you will need for your hospital stay, as well, such as your ID, insurance information, and any pre-registration forms you have filled out.
It is also essential that if you take any medications, that you discuss it with your doctor, and take them along with you as advised.
11. Nursing Pillow
If you plan to nurse, a nursing pillow can be a lifesaver when it comes to feeding your twins. You can research to see what type of pillow may work for you. There are nursing pillows for one baby and nursing pillows for twins.
Some parents of twins find that having their twins on the same feeding schedule is easier, so maybe a twin nursing pillow would work best in that scenario, but some parents may find that feeding one baby after another may be easier for them, so a nursing pillow for one baby might work best in that case. You will have to find out what works best for you and your babies, and know that sometimes you will have to adjust your plans. Especially, the first few days and even weeks will be an adjusting period for you and your babies.
12. Breast Pump
If you plan to breastfeed, hospitals will usually provide a breast pump to assist with milk production. You can check ahead of time if the hospital you plan to go to provides breast pumps or if you should plan to bring you own.
13. Nipple Cream
Sore nipples are a common concern for breastfeeding moms, especially in the beginning. Packing some nipple cream can be a necessity if you plan to breastfeed to help soothe and moisturize your skin, making breastfeeding a more comfortable experience.
14. Postpartum Recovery Essentials
Although hospitals should provide postpartum recovery essentials like underwear, absorbing pads, soothing pads, a rinsing bottle, etc. It is good to confirm this and to be prepared with any items that will make your recovery more comfortable. These items can really feel like lifesavers during recovery so it’s good to take them into consideration. Depending on your birthing experience, know that your medical team might be able to recommend some additional items to help with your recovery, like sitz baths or donuts pillows/cushions, etc.
15. Electronics and Chargers
Your phone will likely be your lifeline during your hospital stay, whether you are updating loved ones on your twins' arrival or capturing precious moments with photos and videos. You may want to also take along an iPad or a camera. Also, make sure to pack the chargers.
16. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential, especially during labor and postpartum recovery. Hence, make sure to bring a refillable water bottle with you to ensure you have easy access to hydration throughout your hospital stay.
17. Birth Ball and Other Items for Your Birth Plan
Some hospitals provide birth balls, but if you have a preference for your own, you can check if you can take your own. A birth ball can be a helpful tool for managing discomfort during labor and even for gentle postpartum exercises. It is good to review your birth plan with your healthcare provider and check if there are any other items you should plan to take with you. For example, if planning to use a bathtub during labor, you may want to pack a swimming suit, etc.
17. Baby Book or Journal
Start capturing memories from the moment your twins are born by bringing along a baby book or journal. You can jot down details about their birth story, milestones, and your thoughts and feelings as a new mom of twins.
18. Thank You Cards
You can show your appreciation to the hospital staff who will be caring for you and your twins by bringing along some thank-you cards. A heartfelt note of gratitude can go a long way in brightening someone's day.
19. Cord blood banking kit
If you plan to bank your baby’s cord blood make sure to have all the paper work and kit sent to you early enough to have them ready to take with your hospital bag.
Hospital Bag For Twins: Babies
Having your newborn twin essentials list organized will give you peace of mind and make those precious first moments with your twins even more special.
Here’s what to pack:
- Clothing: Be sure to pack a going home outfit for your babies with a hats and socks or booties, and mittens, if needed. Some hospitals may have a photographer that offers packages for newborns, so if you choose to do this, you can pack some extra cute little outfits for your little ones.
- Swaddle Blankets: Soft, cozy blankets are perfect for keeping your baby's snug and secure. Plus, they can double as nursing covers or makeshift burp cloths in a pinch.
- Diapers and Wipes: Hospitals should provide diapers for your baby during your hospital stay, but if you have a particular brand you would like to use, you can take them along with you. Even if the hospital does provide diapers and wipes, it is still good to have a few in your hospital bag, especially if your trip home from the hospital is a bit long.
- Pacifiers: If you plan to use pacifiers, pack a few extras for your newborn twins in hospital bag.
- Feeding Supplies: Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure to pack all the necessary supplies. This includes bottles, formula (if needed), nipple cream, and burp cloths.
- Special Items: If you have any special items you would like to bring for your babies, like a favorite stuffed animal or a keepsake blanket, be sure to pack them too!
- Sibling Gifts: If you have older children, you can consider bringing along (or have it ready at home) a small gift from the twins to their sibling(s). It's a sweet gesture that can help any feelings of uncertainty about the new arrivals and promote bonding.
- Car Seats: Make sure you have properly installed car seats for your twins to safely transport them home from the hospital. Double-check that the car seats are appropriate for newborns and that you know how to properly secure them in your vehicle.
What to Pack in a Hospital Bag for C-Section?
While the usual hospital stay after a vaginal delivery spans around two days, with a C-section, you are looking at more like three or four days of hospital life.
But, let's not get too stressed about it, because, even if you are not planning on a C-section, it's wise to be ready for anything.
Life has a funny way of throwing surprises our way, right?
So, it's always better to have your hospital bag packed and ready with all the C-section bag checklist items, just in case you find yourself unexpectedly needing them.
This includes the following things:
Hospital Bag for Dad
While Mom is packing her hospital bag with all the essentials for labor with twins, it's easy for your partner to get overlooked in the preparations.
Well, we cannot let that happen. So, let's make sure Dad is all set to support Mom and those adorable twins every step of the way:
- Change of Clothes: Pack a couple of changes of clothes, including pajamas, boxers, and socks. Comfort is key, especially during those late-night cuddle sessions with your newborns. Hence, bring along your favorite PJs, comfiest boxers, and warm socks to keep you cozy throughout your stay.
- Casual Shirt for Photos: You are going to want to capture every moment of this monumental occasion, so take along a nice casual shirt for those precious in-hospital photos with your adorable twins and your partner.
- Basic Toiletries: Keep it simple with your toiletries – toothbrush and deodorant are your essentials. If you plan on taking showers at the hospital, bring along your shampoo and body soap, etc. These simple things will make you appreciate feeling fresh and clean during those long hours at the hospital.
- Comfy Pillow and Blankets: Hospital pillows and blankets can be a bit hit or miss in terms of comfort. So, bring along your own cozy pillow and blankets if you prefer to ensure you get a good night's sleep whenever you can grab it.
- Slippers: Keep your feet happy and warm with a comfy pair of slippers. After all, you will be doing a lot of pacing during those early days, so make sure your footwear is up to the task.
- Eye Mask: Hospital rooms can be quite bright and noisy, so if you know you need darkness to be able to get some sleep, then bring along an eye mask so you can rest up for the adventures ahead.
Two Bundles, One Checklist!
With our hospital bag checklist for twins at your fingertips, you are all set to step foot on this magical journey of parenthood.
Now, as a wrap-up, give your bags one final once-over to make sure nothing gets left behind.
Soon enough, you will be cradling your precious twins in your arms, and every bit of preparation will feel like a small victory. So take a moment to take some deep breaths, mama – you have this!
After all, when you are about to welcome not one, but two tiny miracles into the world, a little preparation goes a long way!
FAQs
How many outfits should I pack for each baby?
Although the hospital should provide outfits your babies can wear during their stay, it is good to be prepared with 3-4 outfits for each baby. This ensures you are prepared for any unexpected messes or changes during your hospital stay.
How many blankets should I pack?
Just as clothing, the hospital should have swaddle type blankets to use during your stay. If you have any preferences, you can take them along. You will also need some to cover your baby while going from the hospital to your car, etc. So it’s good to be prepared. Hence, make sure to pack a couple of soft, cozy blankets for each baby to ensure they stay warm and snug.
Should I bring toys or pacifiers?
While a few pacifiers can be helpful for soothing the babies, toys are typically optional during the initial hospital stay.
When should I pack my hospital newborn twins bag?
It's ideal to have your newborn twins hospital bag packed by the beginning of your third trimester. This way, you will be fully prepared for any surprises and can focus on your twins' arrival with peace of mind.