Packing for the hospital was actually one of my favorite parts of getting ready for the big delivery day. It almost felt like therapy during such an overwhelming and unpredictable time. I ended up being a week overdue and that week felt like the longest week of my life. I was actually grateful for the extra time because I felt like I got more done in that week than during my whole pregnancy. Getting my hospital bag ready was one thing I could 100% control during a time I felt pretty helpless and just waiting for the baby to come.
I asked around and did my research on what to pack for the hospital and I got a bunch of recommendations. Some were pretty obvious and others were newly introduced to me. Needless to say, I’m definitely an over-packer and that did not change in this instance. But as I always say, it’s better to be over packed than under packed and I’m glad I had things I didn’t even use in my bag…. it put a sense of ease knowing I had everything I needed and then some. I put together a list of items I packed for the hospital and then I’ll share some tips of what I’m glad I packed and what I didn’t really need.
Hospital Bag Checklist:
For Mom
Frida disposable underwear
Peri bottle
Nipple covers
Breast Pump
Underwear
Shower cap
Nipple cream
Hairbrush/dry shampoo/scrunchies
Going home outfit
Fuzzy socks
Comfy slippers
Shower slippers
Nursing friendly PJs
Nursing bra
Chapstick
Perfume/deodorant/moisturizer
Matching robe and swaddle
Toothbrush/tooth paste
For Baby
Diapers
Diaper cream
Going home outfit
Extra outfit
Hat and mittens
Blanket
Miscellaneous
Phone charger
AirPods
Snacks
Water bottle
I wanted to share a couple things I thought were super important to bring along with me and I would definitely recommend for any future mamas. I was debating getting the Frida postpartum kit for the longest time but in the end, I decided against it and only bought the Frida disposable underwear and peri bottle. The disposable underwear were a million times more comfortable than the ones given at the hospital so I was glad I bought my own. The hospital provides a pretty decent peri bottle that I could take home so I didn’t really need to have my own. Packing shower slippers was a great move for sure and I would recommend it! The matching robe and swaddle was also a good idea because I got to match baby for pictures and stay in a comfy robe the whole time. I honestly didn’t even end up wearing any of the PJs I packed because I wanted something super easy to get in and out of and the robe did that. Nursing bras were a must and made me a lot more comfortable after the delivery. I would definitely advise to pack more than one outfit for the baby just incase the first one doesn’t fit. Also, for mamas like me who are due during the winter, don’t forget lots and lots of layers for baby…. hats, gloves, etc. Diapers are provided by the hospital so I didn’t need any of the ones I packed. Lastly, do NOT forget to pack your own snacks. The kitchen closes at night so if you end up delivering during those hours, you will definitely need some yummy snacks of your own afterwards. It’s such an emotional time for anyone and we should definitely focus on making it as comfortable and memorable as possible!
