30 Snacks For Your Hospital Bag: From A Mom of 5 Kids

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You have spent the last nearly nine months with cravings, stretch marks, emotions, and a baby growing inside of you.

You have been to your OB appointments, done your research, and now it is time to get ready for the big day!

The day where you can kiss your babies chubby cheeks and welcome them into the world!

While there are so many things on your list to do before baby arrives, one thing that sometimes gets forgotten is packing snacks for your hospital bag.

Do Hospitals Allow Snacks During Labor?

For many women, the thought of going without food during labor is daunting. After all, labor can be a long and strenuous process, and most women are understandably hungry by the time they reach the delivery room.

The first thing you’ll want to do is check with your OB and hospital if they will allow you to bring outside food.

If your pregnancy has been high-risk, or if you’re likely to deliver your baby via a C-section, you’ll likely be dissuaded from bringing snacks to the hospital.

The reason for this is snacks can increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia, a potentially serious complication.

However, some hospitals may make exceptions for ice chips or other small snacks that pose minimal risks.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual hospital to decide what is best for its patients.

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What Are Good Snacks For Your Hospital Bag?

Now, the last thing you need is a huge meal before you go into active labor.

You will want something that is light, yet satisfying and will give you the energy you need to push through those contractions.

Savory Snacks

While you’re in labor, you’ll want to have quick and easy access to nourishing snacks that will give you the strength you need to power through.

Here are a few savory snack ideas that are sure to hit the spot:

String cheese or other individually wrapped cheeses

You’re going to want to have some snacks on hand for your hospital stay and delivery. String cheese is a great option because it’s easy to eat and won’t make a mess.

Plus, it’s a good source of protein and calcium.

Hard boiled eggs

If you’re looking for a snack that will both fuel you and keep you satisfied, hard boiled eggs are the way to go.

They’re easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in your hospital bag so they’re always readily available.

Eggs are also a great source of protein, which can be helpful during labor and delivery.

Vegetable or fruit slices with dips like hummus or peanut butter

Vegetable or fruit slices are a great option, as they’re easy to eat and full of nutrients. Plus, they’ll help keep you energized during those long hours of labor!

Trail mix

Trail mix is a great choice because it’s easy to eat and provides a good energy boost.

Pack a bag of your favorite mix to keep in your hospital room or delivery room so you can munch on it whenever you need a snack.

Roasted nuts

Roasted nuts are a great source of energy. They’re also easy to eat and can be stored in your hospital bag so you always have a snack on hand.

Peanut butter crackers

Peanut butter crackers are a perfect delivery room snack since they’re easy to eat and full of energy-boosting protein. Make sure to pack plenty so you can share with your partner too!

Of course, you should always check with your doctor before consuming anything during labor. But these savory snacks are all great options for keeping your energy up during this amazing time.

Sweet Snacks

When I was giving birth to my second son (he was my first VBAC) the contractions were hard and long.

I had no appetite but the one food I did want was fruit.

Some healthy sweet snacks can be a nice way to show yourself some needed TLC either before or after your labor.

Here are some easy snack ideas to get you started:

Fresh fruit like peaches, pears, or a banana

Fresh fruit is a great option that will give you energy and will help keep you hydrated.

Honey sticks

Honey sticks are a great, natural way to keep your energy up during labor.

They are easy to pack and don’t take up a lot of room in your bag.

Fruit cups

Fruit cups are a great option that will keep you fueled throughout the day.

You can pick your favorite flavors such as peaches or mixed fruit.

Yogurt (individual cups or a tube filled treat)

Yogurt is a great option because it’s easy to eat and provides energy and nutrition. Plus, it’s a good source of probiotics which can help with postpartum recovery.

Dark chocolate

Chocolate can help boost your mood and energy levels, so it’s perfect for a long day at the hospital.

Plus, it’s a delicious treat to have on hand!

Snack pack puddings

Snack pack puddings are easy to eat and come in a variety of flavors.

They are the perfect bite-sized treat to help you keep your energy levels up without feeling like you’re eating a heavy meal.

Dried fruit

Dried fruit is a great option since it’s easy to eat and doesn’t make a mess. One of my personal favorites is dried pineapple.

This delicious dried fruit is so soft and chewy, making it a perfect snack for labor.

Smoothie

I recommend doing a light smoothie like a fruit flavored rather than peanut butter or chocolate flavor.

High Protein Snacks For Labor

Even if you’re not a fan of eating during labor, it’s important to have some high protein snacks on hand to keep your energy up.

You never know how long labor will last, and you don’t want to run out of steam.

Besides, having a few bites of something nutritious can actually help you focus and relax between contractions. 

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Beef jerky

Let’s get you a boost of protein with some chewy beef jerky bites.

Your body needs protein to help repair tissue and this is a great way to get it without feeling like you’re eating a full meal.

Cheese sticks

There are so many options when it comes to selecting your favorite cheese.

This portable and satisfying snack is perfect to give you the boost of calcium and protein that you need.

String cheese is an easy favorite or you can go for a more gourmet variety like brie or goat cheese.

Greek yogurt

With its creamy texture and tangy taste, Greek yogurt is a delicious and nutritious snack. Plus, it’s easy to pack and doesn’t require any special preparation.

Canned tuna or salmon

When stocking your hospital bag for snacks, don’t forget the canned tuna or salmon. These protein-packed options will keep you fueled up during labor and delivery.

Boiled eggs slices

For your hospital bag, pack some snacks that will keep you energized during delivery, like boiled eggs. Slicing them ahead of time will make them easy to eat on the go.

No matter what kind of snacks you choose to pack for your hospital bag, make sure they are easy to eat and won’t make a mess.

Readers Top Snack Choices

To help you decide which snacks you should bring, we asked our readers to share their top snack choices for labor and delivery.

Here are some of the most popular responses:

• Boiled eggs
• Applesauce pouches
• Yogurt
• Fresh Fruit
• Granola bars
• Oatmeal
• Protein shakes
• Veggies and hummus
• Trail mix
• Nuts

As you can see, there is a wide variety of snacks that are perfect for labor, including a good number of healthy fats.

The most important thing is to make sure you have easy access to them and that they won’t make a mess.

You’ll also want to avoid anything that is too greasy or sugary, as those can actually make you feel more tired.

Do you have a favorite labor snack? Share it with us in the comments below!

When To Pack Your Hospital Bag For Your Labor

For many first-time parents, the question of when to pack their hospital bag for labor can be a bit daunting.

After all, no one wants to be caught unprepared when their little one finally arrives.

For myself, I would prepare a small bag in the refrigerator starting at week 37 that would be an easy grab-and-go snack bag.

If you feel like you’re going to deliver your baby sooner, it’s important to pack your bag early – ideally, around 34 – 36 weeks into your pregnancy.

This will give you plenty of time to gather all the essential items, without having to worry about last-minute scrambling.

Additionally, it’s helpful to pack food for both you and your partner.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you’re fully prepared for your labor – and ready to welcome your new bundle of joy into the world.

RELATED: Ponder and pray over these 50 Bible verses about unborn babies as you prepare to welcome your newborn into your home. God has a plan for them

How To Pack Snacks For Your Hospital Bag

You will want to pack snacks that you know you’ll enjoy.

For example if you loved boiled eggs before you became pregnant but haven’t stomached this snack while you’re pregnant, than you probably won’t want to pack boiled eggs as one of your hospital bag snacks.

The goal is to make sure you have easy access to snacks that will give you energy and not make you feel sick.

To do this, I recommend using a small cooler or lunch box.

You’ll want to include an ice pack to keep your food fresh.

Do You Need To Pack Snacks In Your Hospital Bag?

The last thing you want is to have more stress added to your already full schedule.

You’re getting ready to welcome a new baby in your home, adjust to a new mom routine that works for you, and your every bit of energy you have is depleted quickly as you finish your third trimester.

The good news is, you don’t have to pack snacks in your hospital bag if you don’t want to.

If you’re not sure what you’ll feel like eating during labor, or if you just don’t have the time or energy to prepare snacks, there’s no need to worry.

You can always ask your partner or support person to bring snacks with them to the hospital, or you can wait and see how you feel once labor begins.

There’s always the option of hospital food, too – although, let’s be honest, it’s not always the most appetizing.

No matter what you decide, just remember that you have options and there is no “right” way to do things.

The most important thing is that you’re taking care of yourself and your baby during this special time.

RELATED: Here are 10 comfy and stylish outfit ideas from a mom of 5. This is what you really need to wear home from the hospital after you give birth.

Should You Pack Snacks For Hospital Bag for Dad?

One of the things I wish someone would have told me is how to help my husband prepare for labor as a new dad.

We had no idea that some labors last for a few hours and others can last for over 24 hours!

If you need your support person to be alert and his mind active than you’ll want to pack food for your husband.

Your husband will not be restricted in his diet like you are, and will likely want to eat more filling protein meals, so he has plenty of energy to be emotionally and physically available to you.

My husband loves packing cooked chicken, beef burritos, protein bars, and other hearty meals (along with his usual healthy energy drink) to keep his energy levels high.

Think about What Snacks You’ll Want After Surgery or During Recovery

One of the last things you might be thinking about as you prepare for your baby’s arrival is what snacks you’ll want after your C-section or during recovery.

However, it’s important to have a few healthy options on hand so that you can refuel and heal after your big day.

A few good ideas include: whole grain crackers, fruit, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, and nuts.

These snacks are packed with nutrients that will help you recover from childbirth and feel your best.

My favorite go-to snack if you’re planning on breastfeeding is oatmeal.

Oatmeal has tons of nutrients to help with milk production, and is easy on the stomach.

Whatever snacks you choose, make sure to pack them in an easily accessible place so that you can grab them when you need them.

You don’t want to have to search through your hospital bag when you’re exhausted and hungry!

Oh, and don’t forget, if you’re having your baby in the summer, then you’ll want to check out these summer baby essentials for new moms.

Consider Packing Healthy Drinks To Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is important for overall health, and it becomes even more crucial when you’re pregnant.

The increased blood volume during pregnancy can lead to dehydration, which can cause complications like Braxton Hicks contractions, premature labor, and low birth weight.

In addition, dehydration can also cause fatigue, headaches, and constipation.

While you may be tempted to reach for sugary drinks or caffeinated beverages, it’s important to pack healthy drinks that will help you stay hydrated.

It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re breastfeeding, and packing a few healthy drinks with you when you head out with baby can help you do just that.

Nursing can be thirsty work, so make sure to have a glass or bottle of water within reach.

Other great options include unsweetened iced tea, sparkling water, or fruit juice.

And if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, consider packing a nutritious smoothie or protein shake.

With a little planning, you can easily make sure that you’re staying hydrated – and making the most of this special time with your new baby.

As you can see, there are many different snacks and drinks that you can bring to labor and delivery.

The most important thing is to make sure that they are easy to access and won’t make a mess.

You’ll also want to avoid anything that is too greasy or sugary, as those can actually make you feel more tired.

Do you have a favorite labor snack? Share it with us in the comments below!

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