I asked my 7.5K instagram followers for tips on what to put in your hospital bag when having a baby in Japan.
Many people talked mostly about just how amazing the hospitals were and how wipes, nappies, underwear, sanitary pads and toiletries were all provided !
But in order to be even more prepared, here are all of the fantastic suggestions I received :
COINS TO PURCHASE WATER & A STRAW
Many Japanese hotels won’t allow you to drink the hospital water so you will need to purchase bottles of water from the vending machine or bring along the 2L bottles yourself.
Many new mums also mentioned that it is useful to have straws or PET bottle straws ( available for purchase at 100 yen stores) in case you need to sip water while lying down.
SLEEPWEAR (FOR YOU AND BABY) FOR THE ALTERNATE SEASON
Many Mums let me know that the hospital was really overheating in winter and heavily air-conditioned in Summer. So perhaps bring a few options for you and baby.
SNACKS
Many Mums said they liked those little silver pouches with the vitamin or protein jelly inside ( sold at Japanese convenience stores.)
VELCRO UNDERWEAR
Many Mums said that there were the best. Find them in the maternity sections of Aeon Malls, Akachan Hompo and Babies R Us.
SLIPPERS
Many hospitals will ask you to bring your own “indoor shoes. ” Slip on and off type is best.
Remember, its not polite to put your feet up on the bed while wearing any kind of footwear.
AN EXTRA LONG PHONE CHARGING CORD
This is fantastic tip. Love this.
CHOPSTICKS OR OTHER UTENSILS
Some hospitals will ask you to prepare these in advance.
CHAPSTICK
LONG BANDAGES & TOWELS
Some hospitals will ask you to bring in bandages so they can wrap your back, tummy and or hips post-birth for additional support, while you recover.
Some hospitals may also ask you to bring in a bath towel and a hand towel.
