Thoughtful packing and planning for a stress-free satogaeri shussan experience
1. Choosing What to Bring
We were lucky to receive many baby items from my sister’s family, who had already experienced childbirth. However, selecting only the essentials for the return home was unexpectedly challenging. Since we planned to stay at my parents’ home for at least a month after the birth, we had to consider both prenatal and postnatal periods when packing.
2. Plan Based on Your Routine at Your Parents’ House
Unlike staying at a hotel, returning to your childhood home involves adjusting to daily life again—this time with a newborn. We discussed with my mother how we would share space, where to place the crib (in our case, a futon), and how to organize feeding and diaper-changing stations.
3. Decide What to Buy Locally
To reduce what we had to carry, we decided to buy some basics like diapers, wipes, and gauze at a nearby drugstore after arriving. We didn’t bring bulky consumables, knowing they’re easy to find in most Japanese neighborhoods.
4. Consider the Length of Stay and Transportation
Since my parents’ house is only about two hours away by car, we weren’t particularly concerned about minimizing our luggage. Having a car allowed us to pack liberally. However, the timing of the return—just six weeks before the due date—meant the pregnancy was already well advanced. Traveling with a large belly was tiring, and we made sure to plan regular breaks and hydration.
5. Be Prepared for the Season
Summer in Japan can be brutal. Since we would be staying in August, we packed lightweight baby clothes, breathable swaddles, and moisture-wicking underwear for mom. Although the home had air conditioning, we still brought enough bedding and changes of clothes to accommodate the high humidity and fluctuating temperatures.
6. In Conclusion: Reduce Anxiety Through Preparation
Preparing for childbirth can be overwhelming, especially with your first baby. But thinking through the daily routine ahead of time—what to bring, what to buy, and how you’ll use the space—makes a big difference. Even small details like labeling bags and organizing baby gear made the first few days after arrival feel less chaotic.
