Trying to figure out what you might want and need with you when you give birth is overwhelming. At some point in my third trimester, I put up a question box on Instagram asking for input on hospital bag must-haves. Here were the things that people recommended (*denotes duplicates):
- Slippers
- Flip Flops
- Extra long phone charger*
- Comfy clothes/pajamas for post-delivery*
- Nursing bra/top if you’re planning to breastfeed
- Nursing pillow
- Dress for going home
- Giant water bottle with a straw
- Pillow*
- Snacks*
- Baby outfits in multiple sizes
- Face wipes
- Lip Balm*
- Toiletries/shower essentials
- Blanket and pillow for Rob
Another tip: download your playlist if you want to have music since you might not be able to connect to Wifi.
Now that I actually went through the experience myself, I wanted to share what I packed in my hospital bag. I was glad we started putting things aside early since Seth came two weeks before his due date. There are some things you can’t pack until the last minute, but I highly recommend putting as much as you can in ahead of time just in case. We used this weekender bag from Lo & Sons, which is a longtime favorite for overnights and short trips.
I decided that I wanted to bring my own hospital gown, and for me, it was one of the best decisions I made. Mine was soft and breathable, and much more comfortable. There are openings for IV and epidural access, and the top is open for breastfeeding. I also packed pajamas and nursing tanks, but didn’t end up wearing them until I got home.
Rob and I both brought our own pillows, which we really appreciated having. An extra long phone charger is a necessity. The one we ordered came with two, so we could both charge our phones. We did pack toiletries and shower shoes, but didn’t end up showering there. It was nice to have grippy socks and slippers for the cold hospital floors.
We had a couple of outfits for Seth to wear home. Bringing different sizes is smart, since you don’t know how big your baby will be. I also knew that I would want to take a staged photo, so I brought this swaddle and hat set.
Another note: You don’t need to bring any postpartum care items. The hospital will give you enough to use while you’re there, and often extra to take with you. I brought a comfortable dress to wear home, but sweats would also work.
At the end of the day, bring whatever you need to make it the best experience it can be!
