What To Pack In Your Hospital Bag
Hi mama’s !
I know waiting for the arrival of your little one is like having a one way ticket on an emotional rollercoaster so I’m here to help. My hope is that this post acts as an easy breeze checklist for you so it’s one less thing you have to think about! But before we jump into the logistics, I want to send my congratulations and best wishes your way. As I sit with our one week old baby boy by my side I cannot express to you the joy that will soon overtake your heart.
Okay, back to business.
Even though I am the farthest thing from an expert I would advise you to have your bags packed by week 36 of pregnancy. Coming from someone who had to unexpectedly sprint out of the house to head to the hospital, I was so thankful that our bags were ready to go. The below are my personal recommendations but remember . . . to each their own ;)
WHAT MOM SHOULD PACK:
You will have just given B I R T H (you go girl) so there is no need to feel like you are entering a glam squad competition, ok? Let’s focus on you being comfortable and soaking in snuggles with your perfect bundle of joy. The below may seem like a long list for mama but hospitals are far from lavish so making sure you set yourself to feel as comfortable as possible will be key. Ok, you ready? Grab a pen and paper and let’s do this.
TOILETREES:
- toothpaste + toothbrush + mouthwash (I use RISEWELL // discount code: Scott10)
- shampoo + conditioner + body wash (pro tip: use travel size bottles to save space)
- hairbrush + hairties
- deodorant
- body lotion
- if you wear contacts, bring your solution (or a few packs of daily) + don’t forget to pack your glasses as well
- skin care routine + the ultimate ice roller
* * At first I felt a little silly packing what felt like a skincare store but oh my LORD I was so glad I did. Once I was in our recovery room and washed my face + did all the things, I instantly felt like a new person.
CLOTHING
- hospital gown (Even though the hospital will provide you with one, I opted to bring my own. I got this one off Amazon and def recommend it.) ** update: I wore this one during labor with Cooper and would give it a 10/10
- button down PJs
- socks with anti slip soles
- underwear (this set of oh so flattering maternity underwear are a must have)
- nursing bras
- outfit to wear home (I would suggest a loose fitting maxi dress or a jumpsuit like this one, You won’t want anything tight around your waist)
SNACKS
Let’s call a spade a spade . . . hospital food kind of sucks, ya know? Having snacks was a game changer for us so I highly suggest you do the same. A few ideas for what to bring:
- dried fruit
- trail mix
- protein bars
- also if you have space, bring your own B I G waterborne to refill . . . hydration is key !
MISC
- birthing ball (most hospitals will be able to provide but I liked the idea of having my own)
- portable fan (use during labor / delivery, you’ll thank me later)
- essential oils
- shower towel
- pillow + blanket
- phone charger
- extension cord (the plugs are never close enough)
- portable speaker + charger
- polaroid camera / tripod to capture all the fresh moments
POSTPARTUM:
Here’s the deal ….
The hospital will provide you with everything that you need, postpartum, during your stay but I really enjoyed having my own.
FRIDA has a wonderful postpartum kit that I suggest purchasing for yourself and having ready to be used once you get home. Your delivery may dictate which products you use but you can’t go wrong with having the whole kit on standby! I would also suggest looking into Earth Mama products and as far as pads - I used Rael organic menstrual pads.
WHAT DAD SHOULD PACK:
They don’t require much but you want to make sure your counterpart is comfortable during your hospital stay as well. For dad I would make sure he has:
- toiletries
- change of clothes
- sleep attire
- shower towel
- pillow
WHAT TO PACK FOR BABY:
Now for the guest of honor ! I packed all of our baby items in my diaper bag.
- swaddles
- blanket
- hat(s)
- burp clothes
- onesies
- we brought our own bassinet sheet set. Again, the hospital provides you with one but these options from Newborn Nest are made of organic cotton and are heavenly soft for baby. Plus, they are picture perfect !! (discount code: millennialmiss15)
Since you don’t know beforehand how long your stay in the hospital will be, it’s ok to pack on the heavier side. Better to be over prepared with fresh clothes then to be stuck with dirty ones ! That goes for you, dad and baby !
As always, if you have any follow up questions you know where to find me. In the meantime, know that I’m sending love your way for a healthy and speedy labor + delivery!
