I feel like it was just yesterday that I was researching all the things that I possibly could to figure out what I would need for my hospital bag when it was finally time to have my sweet baby. Here we are again! I noticed a few things I didn’t need to bring after my first baby because I either didn’t get to them, or they ended up being provided by the hospital. So, if you’re anything like me and looking to keep your packing to a minimum, check out what I packed in the list below.
The idea of packing a hospital bag, in my opinion, has been over-glamourized to the point of confusion, excess, and uselessness in the grand scheme of it all. At most, you will need support, not more stuff. So, I hope you find this information helpful and insightful, whether a first-time mom or a more experienced one simply looking to do things a little differently. As you read, click any picture, and it will take you straight to the item, or click the direct description links below!
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The Bag.
Let’s be honest and transparent. You do not need more than two bags going into the hospital. I will even dare to say one if you have the right sized suitcase or bag. I took one suitcase for both me and baby’s things. Packing cubes made all of our things easily accessible and organized. The hospital provides quite a bit, so unless you want to bring certain things in abundance, it’s usually not necessary. I mean, if all goes well, your hospital stay is only about 24-48 hours maximum, so there isn’t much that you or your baby will be needing in that time.
For Mom:
Apparel
You’ll be more concerned about comfort, rest, and being obsessed with your new baby than anything else, to be honest. A nursing bra, postpartum underwear, gown, or robe of sorts will be your attire.
- 1-2 nursing bras
- 1-2 pair of cozy socks
- 1 pair of slippers/grip socks
- 1 pair of shower shoes
- 1-2 loose fitting outfits or L&D/nursing dress
- Robe
- Going home oufit
Bath & Body
Staying overnight anywhere can make one anxious, and to me, it’s no different when heading into the hospital. Having your day-to-day essentials is a must, in my opinion. I didn’t even get to my makeup bag the first time around, so I definitely didn’t take it this time around. However, it will be a lovely addition for you if you plan to take pictures or want to get cute for a little while.
- Towel set
- Toiletries
- Nipple pads
- Nipple cream
- Peri Bottle
- provided by hospital, but this one is better in my opinon so I will be packing it
- Hair Tie(s)
- Hair tools (comb, brush, etc.)
- Vitamins/Supplements
- Scarf/Bonnet
Additional/Optional
Hospital pillows aren’t the best, so if that’s a big deal for you, then you may want to bring your own. The hospital bed is usually pretty far from the outlets, so an extra-long charger or portable charger is necessary. You will be hungry after you give birth, especially if long labor precedes this beautiful moment. If you’re breastfeeding, you will be hungry. Having snacks on hand is something I wish I had more of and was sure to pack this time around. Take all of your important documents and leave room for the ones you’ll receive.
- 2-3 copies of your Birth Plan
- I made sure to have one for the nurses, doctor, and a copy for me and my husband to refer back to if needed.
- Document Folder
- Insurance card, ID, and any other important documents needed upon entrance, as well as storage for additional paperwork upon your exit.
- Pillow
- Blanket
- Extra long charger
- Entertainment (book, laptop, etc.)
- Camera
- Snacks
- Makeup Bag
For Baby:
Apparel
The hospital provides everything your baby needs to make their transition and connection to you more accessible and ideal. No, the onesies or swaddle might not be your favorite, but an excessive amount of clothes is unnecessary for this short hospital stay. I know, I know. The clothes you bought are adorable, and they are! But my advice would be to keep them at home and just let your baby be unless you’re planning to take pictures in a particular outfit.
- 1-2 pairs of socks
- 1-2 onesies/undershirt (Fall/Winter delivery)
- Hat
- 1 going home outfit
Bath & Body
The hospital will provide diapers, cream, and wipes that will likely be of the Huggies or Pampers brand, so unless you plan to use a different brand or cloth diapers, you may not need to bring any at all. I prefer the brands mentioned earlier, so I used what is provided instead of packing it.
Additional/Optional:
- 1 Photoshoot outfit or Swaddle
- Blanket (for going home especially in late Fall/winter)
- Jacket or Teddy Suit (Fall/winter delivery)
REMINDER: Be sure to install your car seat at the same time as you pack your bag because the baby will NOT be released without it. I will be using this one for a second time because I am obsessed with the Nuna Brand!
In Conclusion
As I have said before, there isn’t much you will need for this short hospital stay and a lot that the hospital already provides. Remember, the hospital has everything you need immediately after delivery so there is no need to pack your home stash of items. If you’re particular about brands and things, I highly encourage you to check with your hospital of choice to see what exactly they will be prepared to provide. By doing this, you will have a much better idea of what you’ll need to bring as a substitute if necessary. Also, be sure to pack your bag well ahead of time and place it in the car. I like to pack around 35-36 weeks and put mine in the trunk to be ready to go at any time.
Now, I would love to hear from you! What will you be packing in your hospital bag? What are your hospital bag must-haves or essentials? Let me know in the comments below! Be sure to share this post with a friend. Happy prepping and packing!