Just another month to go over here! But, I slowly began tossing items into my hospital bag a month or so ago. After watching countless hospital bag videos on YouTube and scouring all Mommy blogs, I finally think I have everything that I feel necessary for me. I tried to pack as light as possible (forgoing items that the hospital will provide) but I’ll have to do a recap once I actually see what I used and what I didn’t. Should be interesting!
Whether you are also an expecting mama, planning on having kids, or just interested or nosey, this post is for you. Just a quick peek into what I’ve been focusing on! This bag is only for mama and baby (dad’s will be his own situation).
NOTE: This post contains affiliate links, which means that I’ll receive a commission if you purchase from this link. This will not change or increase the cost of your purchase. This extra income provides for my family and keeps The Friendly Fig running strong.
Here’s what you’ll find inside my hospital bag:
Non-slip fuzzy socks + slippers: grabbed cheap slippers from TJ Maxx because hospital floors can be grimey. I’m also packing some grip-socks. Fuzzy for comfort.
Button-down front gown: grabbed a pretty pink one for cheap at Wal-Mart with buttons down the front. I figure that will be easy access for breastfeeding and also for the nurses who may need to check on my lady bits (it’s about to get real invasive).
Robe: just a touch of modesty and silky comfort for when she’s arrived and we start having guests pile in. Plus, I really just love being cozy.
Nursing tank tops (2): packing one large and one x-large size (because I have no idea what my boobs are going to look or feel like – tmi, it’s fine). I love the ones by Jessica Simpson. Truth be told, I thought “hey, she has a big bust too… she must take this into consideration when she designs). Definitely a good choice, because these offer great support even without a bra and are super comfy and cute.
Nursing bra: just bringing one cloth one without any wires, bells, or whistles.
Cotton underwear (2): in a larger size than what I usually am to accommodate those big ass pads I’ll be rocking. I know they give you mesh panties, which I will embrace, but wanted these as an alternative (in case I am uncomfortable).
Chapstick: I’ve heard it is a must-have, as your lips get very dry. Burt’s Bees for me.
Minimal make-up: I don’t wear too much to begin with, but wanted to pack just a few things for when we have guests. It may help me to feel myself, too. Just some cover-up, mascara, and lip color.
Toiletries: carrying some of the essentials, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion, hair brush, and cleansing wipes. I loved the idea of these cleansing/make-up wipes from Pacifica to freshen up in case I don’t make it to the shower or need a quick pat down before visitors.
Hair elastics + headband: because you can never have too many hair elastics. Headband to keep my long bangs out of my face if necessary.
Nursing pads: the hospital probably provides these, right? Bringing two sample packs I received for the hell of it. Lansinoh brand.
Nipple cream: I hear nursing is a bitch and this stuff will be your best friend. Lots of great reviews on the Motherlove nipple cream – certified organic and cruelty-free.
Prenatal vitamins: still gotta take ’em cause I’m planning on breastfeeding. I take vegan prenatals by DEVA and have had no issues with them.
Flip-flops: for the shower.
Going home outfit (for me): just a comfy pair of loose black pants and my softest deep v-neck. Comfort is key, baby.
Going home outfit (for baby girl): September weather is either really warm or pretty cool, so I am packing one long-sleeve onesie and one elephant print sleeper (both in NB size). I may actually pack the same situation in 0-3 month sizes, in case she is bigger than we’re expecting!
Swaddle blanket: Just one, because I know that the hospital provides blankets. It’ll either be the strawberry print pictured above or this pretty purple one by Carters. I haven’t decided which I’d like in her newborn photo!
Snacks, gum, mints: I heard you cannot eat after the epidural, so I figure the gum and mints will be good to have on hand. I may even grab a bag of lollipops. LUNA protein bars (chocolate peanut butter) to keep my energy alive and well after she’s arrived.
(NOTE: Replaced the LUNA bars with Clif bars because I realized the protein bars are actually NOT vegan. Thank God I decided to double check!)
Cellphone + charger: lifeline and camera.
Birth plan: it’s just a sheet of paper that my hospital had me fill out. Nothing crazy.
Wallet: need that license and insurance card.
Boppy: I am keeping this nursing pillow in the car until needed, basically. I figure it may help to have it on hand when the lactation consultant comes by. Maybe it will help me be more comfortable using it if he/she can show me positions. We’ll see! I debated this one, so I’m all ears to your experience, fellow moms!
My own pillow: When we toured the hospital, the guide actually recommended this. So hey, why not. I also have a bright pillow case for it so no one gets confused as to which is mine!
I’m not bringing my own pads, dermoplast, ice packs, water, etc. I just feel like these are necessities that my hospital will be providing. Why waste space and pack things I will only have to unpack when I get home? On the baby front, I am really packing minimal (basically just the going home outfit and swaddle blanket!) because I know that everything she needs will be provided to me. Diapers, wipes, hat, onesies, socks, clippers, nasal aspirator, etc. I was even hesitant about the swaddle blanket, but I bought so many cute prints that I just said oh what the heck, and threw it in. I think we should be all covered! My husband of course has his own bag ready to roll, too.
So what do you guys think – am I missing anything really huge or is this enough to get me by? I have a good feeling it is just enough (possibly even more than I need). Would love to hear your thoughts and experiences below. Is it time to go yet? We’re ready when you are, baby girl. Letting the waiting game commence! xx bianca
