I spent hours researching what to pack in our hospital bags when I was pregnant with my first daughter, Piper Rose. I must have read 20+ blog posts about the topic, message boards and books….needless to say it became an obsession! I posted at length about it here , and while I still recommend packing three bags for your trip (yes, three) and I do like to be over-prepared there were really only a handful of necessities that I used. Here they are….
Kindle or Book
I packed my Kindle as an after thought and kind of laughed at the time but because I was induced I spent many hours laying in a bed (blood pressure rising, Pitocin not working) with no contractions and needed a distraction. I’m so glad I was able to read for a while! It helps if you start a book you know you’ll get hooked on before you head to the hospital.
Slippers
Let’s just say no one wants to walk around a hospital without slippers.
Nursing nightgown, tanks and bra
I’m go glad I got this nursing nightgown while I was pregnant – it’s super soft and was really helpful for the round the clock feeds a new baby requires. I also wore nursing tank tops (loved this style from Target) to sleep in and under cardigans during the day while we had visitors.
Baby Outfits In 2 Sizes
You never know what size your baby will be so be sure to pack a few sizes (I should have packed a premie outfit for Piper since she was so small) — newborn, 0-3 or premie. This is really the only item we ended up using for Piper during her stay, we used everything else the hospital provided (diapers, wipes etc.). We bought this onesie & hat from L’oved Baby (pictured above) and it was so soft and cozy.
Your own pillow & blanket
It’s worth it to have your birth partner lug your pillow and blanket to the hospital room — I suggest not bring it into your L&D room but waiting until you get settled in the room you’ll stay in with your baby. It’s a small comfort from home that makes you feel a little more at ease in the hospital.
Image by Krista A. Jones
The only other thing i would add is your own shampoo and soap. The hospital will give you some but there is something very comforting about the smell of your own stuff for that first shower post giving birth.