It’s finally time to pack my hospital bag. When I was pregnant with Avery, I barely had a hospital bag packed and her birth was fairly unexpected at 37 weeks. I ended up in the hospital without the things I needed and had to rely on my husband to grab the things that I needed. So this time, I decided to try to pack everything ahead of time to fully be prepared when the day comes. As a third time mom, I have finally dwindled down the things that I actually need in my hospital bag and have added them to this hospital bag checklist for delivery for others to have and learn from!
Hospital Bag Checklist: For Mom
Comfy Clothes
I love stretchy high-waisted yoga pants, comfy sleep pants and dresses to wear after giving birth. Especially with a c-section.
Toiletries
I like bringing my own toiletries to the hospital including my own shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush and toothpaste as well as my. own hair. dryer. As someone who wears contacts, I also make sure that I pack my contact solutions and glasses. Another item I make sure to pack is Vaseline lip balm. Hospitals can be so dry and it is my favorite product to have on hand.
Nursing Bra
Since I will most likely have a c-section, which means a 2-3 hospital stay, I pack two nursing bras in my hospital bag. Here are some of my favorites if you are looking for new ones: SOMA.
Sandals and/or Slippers
I don’t like wearing socks unless I am also wearing shoes so I always make sure to bring sandals with me to the hospital. Plus, they are way easier to slide on when getting in and out of bed and moving around. If you prefer slippers, pack those.
Sweater/Sweatshirt
Postpartum hormones are wild. One minute you are sweating and the next you are freezing. I also make sure to have a sweater with me to throw on in case I get cold and need something to throw on.
Hospital Bag Checklist: For Baby
Boppy
Every single baby that I have had, I have brought the boppy with me to the hospital. It’s helpful to have the extra support handy while trying to handle and feed a baby.
Carseat
Obviously this is a no brainer. You need the carseat with you.
Going Home Outfit
The only outfit I pack for the baby is the going home outfit. Mostly because it is way easier to keep the baby in what the hospital provides. I do pack a swaddle from home to take a picture in while at the hospital.
Other Must Haves
Phone Charger
Again, for obvious reasons. I suggest bringing one with a long cord.
Camera
I like having my DSLR camera with me to take pictures after the baby is born, especially since I don’t hire a birth photographer.
Personal Items
Such as a pillow, blanket, anything that may make your hospital stay more comfortable.
Wallet
Another obvious item but can be easily forgotten. I can’t remember what the requirements are now for identification when filling out the birth certificate.
Water Bottle
The hospital I deliver at provides one to you but if not then they are great to have after you deliver in order to always make sure you have water at the bedside, especially if you are breastfeeding.
And….The Stuff You Don’t Need
Breast pump
Unless you want the lactation consultants to show you how to use it, bringing your breast pump to the hospital is not really necessary. There are great youtube videos that can show you how to use your as well
Stroller
You don’t need it in the hospital so leave it at home.
Diapers/Wipes
Another item that is provided by. the hospital. I guess this may only be the norm in the United States, so check with your hospital about what they provide while you are there.
Formula
The hospital also provides this unless there is a special formula that you need or want for the baby. Again, check with your hospital to see what they supply after the birth.
What other things were must haves in your hospital bag for delivery? Let me know in the comments!
Click the image to download your own Hospital Bag Checklist.
Leave a Reply