I have a little over two weeks left to prepare for this baby unless she decides to make an earlier debut. I have been back and forth on what to pack in both my hospital bag and the baby’s bag and finally decided today to sit down and get it done because you never know what could happen!
I spent some time looking at Pinterest which is full of check lists and advice on what the best things are to pack in the hospital bag. Since I don’t want to seem like I’m moving in to the hospital I decided to condense the lists to fit what I feel like I will truly need.
My plan is to stick with one bag for me and one bag for the baby. In addition to these I also plan on bringing the car seat (obviously) and the beautiful boppy my sister gifted to me at my shower.
MY BAG
Nursing Bras x 2
Comfy pants x 3: I’m scheduled for a c-section so I made it a point to pack pants with elastic or stretchy waist bands to prevent rubbing against the incision site.
Tank tops, shirts and a sweatshirt: I find tank tops way easier to nurse in. Also since I’m always cold I figured I needed to pack a sweatshirt.
Tummy band: you know to try to suck it all in after birth.
Toiletries: I may have gone overboard here but I am not someone who looks amazing upon waking. It takes some products. Plus the hospital shampoo and body wash is absolutely terrible.
Flip flops and socks: Flip flops for the shower and possibly wearing home if my feet are still swollen. I know some people say to bring slippers from home but honestly hospital floors are disgusting (I know I work in one) and I can simply throw these $1.00 pair of sandals from Old Navy away. (Don’t worry I didn’t forget about underwear but I also plan on getting those super sexy mesh undies from the hospital).
Going home outfit: again looking at comfort and something that will fit considering I’m sure I will still look 5 months pregnant upon leaving the hospital.
I also made a list of things I need to grab prior to leaving for the hospital since these are things I use on a daily basis and can’t pack at this time.
BABY BAG
Coming home outfit: I was gifted this adorable outfit from a woman I know and hopefully if my baby isn’t a giant, she will fit into it!
Swaddles and matching head band
Breast pads: I got these from Target and they are reusable.
Breast pump: while I know it’s not technically for the baby it’s in the baby bag since there was room.
Onesies x 3, sleeper, and a couple pair of socks
Blanket: My mom made this beautiful quilt for the baby
Milk Snob car seat cover and breast feeding cover: this thing is amazing! Lightweight material can cover the car seat and be used as breast feeding cover. I can’t wait to use it!
While my bags are what I consider to be minimally packed, I’m sure that if i need something then Aaron or my family will be able to grab it. Anything you found absolutely essential to have in your hospital bags? Let me know in the comments!
Snacks. Even though the hospital provides food for moms, the ones I delivered in had cafeterias that closed at night, so snacks were a must since both kids came in the afternoon and I didn’t realize I was starving until 9pm. You’ll also have more control over what you eat if you bring your own snacks, especially if you’re breastfeeding! Congratulations and good luck!