I would be lying if I told you I was totally prepared for this blog post and packing yet another hospital bag. I didn’t think I would prepping to do this again but I am thrilled to be able to. Life has such a fun way of surprising and uprooting plans. John Lennon put it best, “Life happens while you are busy making plans”. I fully agree with Mr. Lennon, except when it comes to hospital bags. Plan, plan with all your might; you will be happy you did. With that said, I did pull out some of the older blog posts that I used when I was packing the first three times around to refresh my memory. While I only gave birth to Makenna 18 months ago, she was born in April 2020. My head was elsewhere given all that we were experiencing with COVID. (I have Makenna's birth story posted on the blog as well).
I also want to say I think I tend to pack much lighter in comparison to most. I read blogs where people are bringing bluetooth speakers, personal fans, and Christmas lights (to help with mood lighting). The thought of carting all that extra stuff is very unappealing to me and just more stuff I have to put away when I get home. However if that is going to help your hospital stay, then I say do it. While reflecting on Makenna’s birth, I think it is noteworthy to mention that my birth experience with her was practically a drive through. In total I was at the hospital 30 hours. I was only in labor for about 6 hours and I was discharged at exactly 24 hours post delivery. No need for mood lighting when the goal is to get in, get the baby out, and then get out. However if you have a more complicated birth, or have a C-Section you may find your stay is extended and having a few more amenities with you will make your time there more comfortable.
Below are the items that I actually use and need during my stay.
Weekender bag - I usually pack my stuff in a carry on. I like it because it rolls and makes getting it in and out of the hospital easier. I also like that it has 2 different sides so I can pack stuff for my husband as well.
Pajamas - Dark in color and several pairs. Also, take note if you are someone who is always cold or hot and bring accordingly. You’re going to want something comfortable and loose fitting. Also, possibly nursing friendly if you plan to BF.
Bras - nursing bras are amazing if you are planning on BF. However, soft, cotton barrettes are the way to go despite your feeding plan.
Underwear - This is a very personal topic. Some people live in the mesh underwear that the hospital provides. For me, I prefer something a little bit more snug. After birth I feel like everything is falling out of me (sorry TMI) so I prefer something that holds it all in.
Socks - I am always cold and my husband can attest to my feet constantly being like ice. The hospital provides the grip socks but I prefer to bring my own socks as well. I get grossed out walking around and then climbing into bed.
Slippers - Are absolutely necessary! This also helps with my issue of walking around in socks and then getting into bed.
Nursing Friendly Layers - I breastfed my babies so for me I need stuff that is comfortable and soft but also easy access. No matter how you feed your babies, you are going to want loose and comfortable tops. You will have your blood pressure taken regularly, likely have an IV and getting exams pretty frequently. Having easy access clothing is a game changer.
Coming home outfit (me) - Think about your coming home outfit. First of all you’re going to want to be comfortable. Think practical footwear and the time of year you’re giving birth. Keep in mind you will likely be shuffling along. But also, there are probably going to be pictures of you bringing the baby home. You might not care much about that but for me I prefer some comfortable, yet cute, athleisure is my go to here.
Bath Towel - I have forgotten this in the past and regretted it. Taking a shower post delivery is one of the more rejuvenating experiences. Having a larger, fluffy towel makes that experience even better. The ones at the hospital work fine but they are small and scratchy. You could add a robe in here as well. I personally don't use one but it might be helpful.
Shower Cap - I don’t wash my hair frequently. And as the baby gets closer I try to make sure my hair is done - does that make me vain, maybe, but it’s one of the things that make me feel most like myself. And if my hair is done I just feel more put together; I can thank my mom for this! So, for me a shower cap is helpful so I am not dealing with my unruly and difficult hair in the hospital.
Extra Long Charger - I have also forgotten this in the past and its the worst. If you pack nothing else bring this! Outlets are not readily available and the last thing you want to do is get in and out of bed to check your phone. Do yourself a favor and bring 2 - one for you and your significant other.
Water Bottle - The hospital will always provide you with cups of water and a small pitcher but its much easier to get water in you if you have your bottle with you.
Shower Flip Flops - I mean any kid that went to sleep away camp, went to college, or grew up playing sports knows this is just something you DON’T want to forget.
Camera - I bring my Canon with me to document those first few hours. Phones are great but if you have a camera don’t forget to throw that in (and bring the charger)
Pillow - I don’t pack this but so many people suggest it. Again, I get a little grossed out being at the hospital, the last thing I want to do is bring one of my good pillows with me and then feel the urge to toss it in the trash on the way home. But… that is just me. If you are bringing your own pillow I would suggest buying a cheap pillow case that you can dispose of post hospital stay.
Change of Clothing for your Significant Other - The last thing you want while you’re breathing through labor pains is to wait for your S/O to pack his or her bag. Do yourself the favor, now, while you’re not in a panic and throw in an extra set of clothing for them. If they plan on staying the night you want to include pajamas and a change of underwear as well as a stuff to wear during the day. They won’t be changing as much as you since they likely won’t be bleeding in some capacity but they will feel better having fresh clothing.
Laundry Bag - If you haven’t picked up on it yet, I get a bit skeeved at the hospital. I like to bring a bag to put my dirty stuff in so its not mixed with my clean/unworn stuff. Also having a place to put the dirty laundry helps keep the room orderly and uncluttered.
Spare Bag- We learned this the hard way. The hospital sends you home with a TON of stuff. Take everything they give you, you will thank me later. But you need a way to haul all that home. Throwing in a reusable bag or extra tote will help you cart all this stuff home.
Snacks - Every hospital is different. My hospital has amazing food and a ton of snacks. However having extra snacks on hand for you and your S/O will be helpful. Jon pretty much ate his way through JJ’s birth (stress eating I am sure). Also, you don’t want your S/O’s blood sugar getting low during labor and they end up on the floor.
Toiletries:
Skincare Travel Kit - I always order a travel kit of my skin care routine. Again, a small luxury to have all my essentials with me without having to cart the full size bottles. Plus I can pre pack this and not worry about forgetting it.
Body Cream - the air in the hospital is super drying. I like to have body cream with me post shower.
Chapstick - put these everywhere. Not having chapstick in the hospital is one of the most frustrating experiences. My lips are dry as it is, the hospital makes this so much worse.
Tooth Brush - My hospital provides this in case you forget one but I like to throw a fresh one in for the hubs and I.
Disposable Diapers or Pads - Again, another very personal decision. I prefer to get out of the mesh underwear as quickly as possible. I prefer a pad over the diaper but I have heard having a pack of adult diapers with you can be immensely comfortable and helpful.
Don’t forget to packed toiletries for your S/O too!
My hospital literally provides everything for your lady parts so I don't feel the need to pack extras. However, it would be helpful to stock up for your home stash. Things I would have on hand: Tucks wipes, nipple cream, an extra peri bottle (helpful to keep one in each bathroom), epsom salt for a sitz bath, Tylenol, disposable ice packs.
Baby:
The first time around I packed an entire wardrobe and I quickly realized I used none of it. While in the hospital, we used what they provided. It made it much easier and the baby was perfectly comfortable. The following items are what we actually needed and used.
Coming Home Outfit - Lots of photo ops here. Especially if you are bringing them home to other family members and siblings. This also tends to be a keepsake item for you.
Props - I totally dropped the ball here with the boys. And I remember regretting it both times. I didn’t plan ahead with name plates or cute swaddles. I made up for it with Makenna and I am so happy I did. I will be prepared this time around as well. For some this isn’t an essential and that is totally ok. For me, I remember wishing I had them.
Blankets - Depending on the time of year you’re giving birth, you will want some sort of blanket to wrap the baby in for the drive home. BB Is a November baby so the blanket is very necessary.
Bows - I mean, if you follow me, you know this is a non negotiable. For Boys make sure you grab a hat. Even summer babies will need something on their head.
Special Swaddles - This goes along with the prop idea. Think about any photos you want to have or maybe there is a sentimental item that you want to wrap the baby in. Your hormones are everywhere after birth. What might not seem important right now might be very important once you have that babe in your arms!
Also noteworthy, if this is not your first, I found it immensely helpful to have a gift that the "baby" gives to the older siblings. We have done this with each new baby and it really helps with the transition and introduction. You may want to pack this in your hospital bag ahead of time so you can present it when the big brothers and sisters come to meet the new babe.
I would love to hear about what else you brought with you! Feel free to drop me a note letting me know!
SNB
JJ 2014
Westyn 2016
Makenna 2020
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