Because of COVID rules, Anel can’t leave our hospital room once we get in so we want to be way overprepared for our stay. Last time, he was able to come and go as he pleased and could pick up things we wanted or needed which made it much easier. We also didn’t have another kid to worry about. We had no idea how easy we had it!
When Amalia was born, I included a bunch of items on my list that I never used (flameless candles and a diffuser, much?) and made note of things that I wish I had (like my own towel). So this time around, I feel pretty solid about my hospital bag game.
THE BAG ITSELF
The bag: I’m bringing my extra-large LL Bean boat and tote (with long handles) for everything Anel and I need and a large boat and tote (also with long handles) for the baby’s stuff and the nursing pillow. That will eventually be his diaper bag. They’re already locked and loaded with everything listed below.
Bag organization: I used these J.Crew Factory pouches and a few old BAGGU zip pouches to keep everything organized inside.
HOSPITAL BAG FOR MAMA
ID and insurance card: Both are in my wallet which is in my purse which is also coming with us. We pre-registered at the hospital so we don’t need to bring any other official paperwork.
Dopp kit: I filled my Dopp kit with travel sizes of my everyday toiletries like cleanser, moisturizer, body lotion, toner, a toothbrush/toothpaste/floss, brush, hair ties, deodorant, eye cream, a loofah, and hand lotion.
Towel: The towels in the hospital last time were the size of a napkin and super scratchy and it was the one item I really wished I had brought with me that I didn’t!
Lip balm: I always have it on me but I packed an extra one just in case. Last time I remember my lips getting really dry in the hospital.
Snacks: With COVID rules, Anel can’t leave the room once we get in, so picking up food is out of the question. We’re going to bring as many snacks as we can and hope that we have a nurse who lets us order in!
Electrolytes: I’ve been taking electrolytes every day because of cramping lately and I remember being really glad when Anel happened to pack them last time for after labor when I was exhausted and out of it.
Flip flops: Everyone told me to bring grippy socks last time but I never wore them because my feet were always so hot. But I’m definitely including flip-flops for the shower. I needed those!
Nursing bras and nursing nightgowns/shirts: I’m bringing nursing bras, a nursing nightgown, and a matching robe. Plus an extra set of nursing clothes. Everything felt icky to me after a few hours of wear in the hospital bed last time and I’d rather have more than I need.
Loose sweat pants: Which is the only comfortable option postpartum IMO.
Going home outfit: LOL. Last time I thought I’d wear a dress. Sweatsuit it is!
Extra-long phone charger: Obviously. I needed an extra long one last time because the plug was far from the bed and I always tell new moms to get a long cord for their hospital bag!
Nipple butter: This is the one I love and packed.
Noise-canceling headphones: I used these last time after I got my epidural to listen to recordings from my hypnobirthing class. I was really gald I had them.
Blanket: Obviously need a Chappywrap with me! I was really glad to have had my own blanket with me last time. It made it feel just that much homier.
HOSPITAL BAG FOR THE BABY
Clothes: We’re bringing newborn-sized, as well as 0-3 month sized onesies and PJs. We have no idea how big he’ll be so we wanted to be covered for every scenario.
Swaddle & blanket: I have a muslin blanket and one of our favorite swaddle-me swaddles.
Breastfeeding pillow: I forgot my Boppy last time and really wished I had had it. This time it’s packed for easier feeding in the hospital bed.
Going home outfit: We’re probably just going to put him in a tiny white onesie and swaddle him up. He can get fancy another day!
HOSPITAL BAG FOR DADA
PJs: We’ll be spending one to two nights there (Five if I end up needing a C-section) and we haven’t decided if he’ll stay or not but because we can’t leave to pick up anything, we want him covered
Dopp kit: His Dopp kit is packed full of travel-sized toiletries, a toothbrush, razor, comb, and all of his everyday essentials.
Pillow and eye mask: Last time he ended up going home to get a blow-up mattress because the cot was so uncomfortable. I think we’re just going to throw it in the car now and keep it there until game day so he has that option again.
Comfortable clothes: Not much to say here. Pretty much a no-brainer! This includes socks and underwear obviously.
Snacks: He’s in charge of his own snacks. I can’t wait to see what he’s going to bring.
iPad: For reading, TV, and sending emails to our friends and family.
Flip flops: For the shower.
When it comes to packing a hospital bag, it’s definitely better to be over-prepared. Talk to your friends who have been through this already, but ultimately, pack what you know will make you feel comfy while you’re there. Am I forgetting anything important?
