What You ACTUALLY Need in Your Hospital Bag
It Doesn’t Have to be Hard!
First time moms are easy to spot when they walk into the labor unit. Mostly because their partner’s back is loaded up with luggage galore and, just when you think that’s all, they still have more bags to get out of the car!
It doesn’t have to be like that. In fact, once you have your baby, you may realize that you didn’t even need HALF of what you wanted to bring to the hospital!
1. Clothes
It can be confusing on what to pack for clothes, because you never truly know just how long you’ll be at the hospital. I believe the average couple stays two days for a natural birth and three days for a caesarian (barring any complications for both!).
Just think about this, what type of birth do you have planned? If you believe you’ll only be at the hospital for one day or for three, make sure to pack accordingly. But, honestly, and please don’t come at me for saying this… Mama, you don’t really need that many clothes!
I know you want to look cute when delivering that baby, but the hospital provides gowns and you’ll be more focused on cuddling than you will be on having a photoshoot. That being said, if you want to dress to the nines after birth, bring your cute outfit and ROCK IT.
If you’ll have a partner with you, I’d recommend packing a pajama set, two pairs of socks, two pairs of underwear, and one or two sets of comfy clothes.
For the baby, I wouldn’t bring many outfits either. I promise you don’t need every outfit you received from your baby shower. Just pick out one preemie, one newborn, and maybe one sized 0-3 months. I say this, because when I had Eleanor, they told me she would be a hefty baby, and she was only 6 pounds! Expect the unexpected, and be prepared just in case! But not THAT prepared.
2. Toiletries
It’s so tempting to dump your entire bathroom into your bag, but save your energy!
Think about it. Most hospitals these days have it all. They provide shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, and towels. Some may even have a toothbrush and toothpaste!
When it comes to toiletries, just bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, your makeup bag, and any specialty products that you think you can’t go without for one or two days. And maybe bring a pair of flip flops if you plan on using the shower.
3. Baby Items
There are SO. MANY. baby items. Swaddles. Diapers. Clothes. Rattles. Binkies. Toys. The list goes on. But I promise you, mama, the hospital will provide all you need. In fact, they’ll even have diapers and wipes for you to take home!
My only suggestion is to bring that cute picture worthy outfit with you unless you think it can hold off until you get home. To be frank, I brought matching robes for us to wear for pictures and was so tired we never even bothered to take them!
4. Postpartum Care
I see you, mama. You’re the prepared type. Well don’t worry because the hospital should have this covered for you, too. Always call beforehand to confirm they have what you need but from my experience here in Nashville, they had it all. Cooling pads? Done. Healing spray? Covered. Nipple cream? You got it!
5. Extras?
Just you, your baby bump, a mode of transportation, and a CAR SEAT! The rest can be figured out later after the main event is over.
But definitely don’t forget the car seat. You can’t take the baby home without it!
