Healthy And Easy Snacks for Your Hospital Bag

When packing your hospital bag for labor and delivery, you might not think about bringing snacks. A big misconception around giving birth is that you can’t eat while in labor. Well, that’s not always the case! Finding the best snacks for your hospital bag can be crucial for your comfort while in labor.

Let’s dive right in!

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The Best Snacks For Your Hospital Bag

Crackers

First up on our list of snacks for your hospital bag is crackers. If you experienced morning sickness during your pregnancy, then you know how essential crackers can be when you feel nauseous!

While you are experiencing contractions, there’s always a chance that you can feel a little sick from the pain. Eating a few crackers can be so helpful to settle your stomach.

Some great options for crackers are saltines, cheese crackers like Goldfish or Cheez-Its, Graham Crackers, or even pretzels. Any cracker you like will do!

One thing to keep in mind is to stay away from strongly flavored crackers. Anything spicy or ranch-flavored, for example, can have the reverse effect and make you feel even worse.

Granola Bars

Granola bars are great snacks to pack for any occasion; they don’t take up much room and are easy to eat.

Plus, many granola bars are made with oats, which is fantastic for your developing milk supply if you plan on breastfeeding.

I prefer Chewy granola bars, but you can opt for protein bars, too! Any boost of protein is so helpful during labor.

Trail Mix

Trail mix is a fantastic snack because it includes a variety of snacks in one. Typically, trail mix includes things like M&M’s, mixed nuts, and dried fruit.

The great thing about trail mix is that you can make your own and only include items you enjoy.

If you decide to buy premade trail mix, it’s cheaper to buy a large bag. Then, when it’s time to pack the snacks for your hospital bag, portion the trail mix into smaller ziplock bags for easier access.

Nuts

If you don’t want the sweets that are in trail mix, pack some plain nuts instead! Cashews, peanuts, and almonds are all great choices with healthy fats and quite a bit of protein.

Fruits And Veggies

Fruits and vegetables are fantastic snack options that are simple and light. Not to mention, most fruit and veggies have high water content to help keep you hydrated.

The best fruits and vegetable snacks to pack in your hospital bag are ones that aren’t messy or easily squashed. Popular fruit options are clementine oranges, apple slices, bananas, and grapes.

For vegetables, things like celery, carrots, and cucumber slices are all great! You can also bring hummus cups to add a little extra protein.

Cheese Sticks

Like granola bars, cheese sticks are great snacks for your hospital bag because they are small and easy to eat. Cheese sticks also have a good amount of protein to give you a boost of energy.

Greek Yogurt

When it comes to yogurt, I prefer Greek yogurt because it typically has less sugar and more protein. Plus, you can add toppings like granola or berries to make it your own!

If you want to add yogurt to your list of snacks for your hospital bag, make sure you get single-serving cups. Single cups of yogurt will be much easier to pack, and you won’t run the risk of the lid coming off in your bag.

Sandwiches

Packing simple sandwiches in your hospital bag is a terrific idea, especially if you end up having a long labor. Peanut butter and jelly is a great go-to; it’s easy to make, easily stored in a cooler, and easy to eat!

Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are another simple snack that’s easy to prepare and loaded with protein! Although, if you have been sensitive to smells during pregnancy, you might want to pass on this snack.

While you can store boiled eggs already peeled in a hard-sided container, it’s best to leave the shell on and have your partner peel the egg for you when you are ready to eat it.

Honey Sticks

Honey has many antibacterial properties that can help with the healing process. Not to mention, they are a sweet treat! Honey sticks are also great for giving you a little energy boost.

Muffins

Muffins are such filling snacks, which is why they are fantastic to bring with you to the hospital! You can find so many varieties at the grocery store, or you can make your own. Another thing to keep in mind is that you can freeze muffins to save for later!

Bagels

Similar to muffins, bagels are another filling snack that comes in many flavors. You can also add toppings like cream cheese to give yourself a little extra boost of protein.

When packing bagels as snacks for your hospital bag, pack them in a hard container, and opt for the tubs of spreadable cream cheese instead of the bricks. It will make assembling your bagel much easier!

Jerky

Jerky is a go-to snack for my family for many occasions, so it was one of the snacks that automatically made the top of the shopping list!

During pregnancy, I typically craved savory foods, and jerky hits the spot! Not to mention, you can throw jerky in your hospital bag and not worry about it spoiling.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is another excellent snack option as it’s packed with vitamins and fiber. Raisins are always a good option, but banana chips or dried mangoes are great too!

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Comfort Snacks

You will not regret bringing some comfort food snacks with you to the hospital. Even if you choose the healthier snacks during your labor, you can always indulge in a treat after delivering your baby!

I packed Rice Krispies and Pop-Tarts in our hospital bag, and it was nice to have a comfort snack between frequent breastfeeding sessions.

Water

While most hospitals will provide you with a large water bottle shortly after getting settled into your delivery room, you need to make sure your partner has their own water bottle too.

Electrolyte Drinks

Labor and delivery is hard work. It can be helpful to have a drink like Vitamin Water with electrolytes to keep you hydrated. Plus, if you plan on breastfeeding, you will also need plenty of fluids for your milk production.

Can I eat snacks during labor?

Packing snacks for your hospital bag is always a good idea since you will be in the hospital longer than just your labor and delivery. But, can you eat snacks while in labor?

The answer to this burning question is typically up to your hospital. Some hospitals or birthing centers encourage you to stay fueled up during your labor, while others will only let you eat ice chips in case of the need for an emergency C-section.

In the weeks leading up to your due date, give your hospital a call to verify if you can eat while in labor.

Keep in mind; your partner will also get hungry during your labor! It’s essential to make sure there are enough snacks for them too. You want them to have enough energy to be your support system!

How to pack snacks for your hospital bag:

When it comes time to pack snacks for your hospital bag, there are a couple of things to think about.

Perishable Snacks

If you decide you want to bring perishable snacks, like yogurt, for example, then you will want to bring an insulated bag or a small cooler. I found that this bag is great because it’s a perfect size- not too big or too small.

Then you will want to add a few ice packs to the bag. The ice packs will ensure that your perishable snacks stay cold.

Nonperishable Snacks

Nonperishable snacks are the easiest to pack because you can add them to your bag as they are.

As you can see, packing the best snacks for your hospital bag is pretty crucial. Even if you can’t eat during labor, you will want to have food available for your partner during labor, as well as for you after you deliver your baby.

Plus, not all hospitals have great food. You will be grateful for the nutritious snacks that you remembered to pack!

Before you go, check out these related articles:

• Postpartum Recovery Essentials You Will Need!
• Must-Haves You Should Pack In Your Hospital Bag
• Simple Postpartum Weight Loss Tips
• How To Make The Best New Mom Care Package
• Fun Gift Ideas For Expecting Dads

What are your favorite snacks to pack in your hospital bag? I would love to know in the comments below!

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