After Lawson’s birth I learned a thing or two about packing a hospital bag. There were definitely things I wished I had and others that we didn’t use at all. I had an unplanned caesarean with Lawson and have it planned this time around. My list might be slightly different since caesarean’s are my only experience. Preparing for baby is a special time and packing your hospital bag signals the end is near. Without further ado, here is the final list of what we’re bringing in our hospital bag later this week!
FOR MAMA
- Pajamas – You’ll likely be wearing the hospital gown for at least a day, but it’s nice to change into something of your own. If you’re breastfeeding, pajamas that button are so much more convenient. I also size up since I experience a lot of swelling post-surgery.
- Robe – I’m not normally a robe person, but I do like to have one in the hospital in the event I don’t want to wear/can’t fit into my pajamas.
- Leggings – I had a rough delivery with Lawson with so much swelling I couldn’t have fit into my leggings. I’m hoping this time is better and I’ll be able to wear my maternity leggings. They have built-in support without any seams to bother my surgery wound. I’m also bringing a pair of sweatpants 3 sizes bigger than my normal in case I have a lot of swelling again.
- Cardigan – Hospitals can be cold and it’s good to have a cardigan to throw on for visitors or if you get chilly.
- Dress – Now there’s a chance I wear pajamas out of the hospital, but if I’m feeling good I want a dress along for those going home photos. I’m packing two – the Cybelle from Loyal Hana and this wrap kimono from VIDA MOULIN.
- Nursing bra – I have 3 of these and wore them constantly the first few weeks and then at night until I was done nursing.
- Undies – Now is not the time for your sexy thongs. I bring 3 pairs of my largest granny panties in a size at least 2 above my usual. The last thing you want is something tight along your incision.
- Socks – Hospital floors are cold and presumed to be dirty. You’ll want to keep your feet warm when you’re walking around (they make you walk the day following surgery to start your healing process).
- Flip flops – Bring a pair you don’t mind wearing in the shower.
- Tank – A nursing friendly tank is good to have in your hospital bag. You may not wear it, but if you’re feeling good it’s nice to have a few pieces to make you feel more normal.
- Toiletries & makeup – I’ll admit I didn’t put on any makeup last time, but again it’s good to be prepared. There will be lots of photos taken. I don’t know about you, but I always want to look my best.
- Dry shampoo – Even if you feel good enough to shower, you likely aren’t going to be washing your hair. A good dry shampoo will get you through your hospital stay (this one is my favorite).
- Curling iron – With Lawson’s birth, I could hardly get out of bed much less curl my hair. That’s not stopping me from bringing it this time.
- Nipple cream – I had a ton of problems breastfeeding Lawson. Chapped, dry, bleeding nipples. The Earth Mama, Angel Baby nipple butter is my favorite.
- Pads – Yes, the hospital will have pads for you to wear. The thought of big, ugly pads isn’t appealing, but I can assure you, you won’t care. I did go through a lot and used a few that I had brought with me when Lawson was born so these are making my bag again.
FOR DADDY
- Sweatpants – Sweatpants or shorts for night and jeans for day.
- Tees – A couple of tees and a long-sleeve shirt in case it’s cool is all daddy needs.
- Sneakers – He’ll be on his feet a lot tending to you and changing all those diapers so comfortable and supportive shoes are important.
- Toiletries – The basics should suffice – toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant.
- Water bottle – Last time I brought a water bottle for myself and ended up using the one they give you in the hospital. Dad isn’t their priority though and he’ll need one to keep hydrated through the long days and nights.
FOR BABY
- Swaddles & hats – The hospital will have everything you need for baby, but I still bring a few swaddles and hats. It’s one of the first things I buy for baby so there’s something special about bringing them to the hospital for me.
- Socks – Baby will be swaddled up tight most of the time. You’ll want at least one pair of socks for the ride home and maybe a couple of others for in the hospital.
- Onesies – I did not bring any onesies when Lawson was born and regretted it. The hospital onesies didn’t fit him well and kept riding up. My favorite onesies are the kimono wrap style from H&M because they don’t have to go over their head. When you’re worried about every little movement, they’re a lifesaver.
- Going home outfit – Yeah, they may only wear it for an hour, but it’s still cute to have something special for baby to make their first appearance outside the hospital. I don’t go crazy buying an expensive outfit though.
- Mittens – Babies have sharp fingernails. These little mittens protect their face from said fingernails.
ESSENTIALS
- Electronics – iPhone, iPad, laptops…there’s no shortage of electronics to bring with you. And don’t forget your chargers for each of them. You’ll be taking lots of photos and messaging your good news.
- Camera – Speaking of photos, if you have a good camera now’s the time to use it. We also bring a small tripod to get photos of us.
- Headphones – If you’re a light sleeper, you might want to bring a set of headphones. There will be nurses in and out of your room all day and night.
- Carseat – You won’t get home without one, so make sure your carseat is ready to go with plenty of time to spare. We have an older version of the Chicco Keyfit.
- Snacks – The first time around, we packed way too many snacks. We had cafeteria food or take-out and the rest of the time were too busy or tired to eat snacks. I do crave an ice cold Gatorade/water mix and want to make sure I have my favorite flavors along. Add some granola bars, twizzlers and peanut m&ms. Anything else we can buy at the cafeteria or ask visitors to bring.
- Nursing pillow – We have the Boppy nursing pillow, which worked well for us last time. At the beginning, you’re trying to figure out which position is best for you and baby. A nursing pillow gives you more options until you’re comfortable and in your groove.
- Cord blood kit – If you decide to bank your cord blood, make sure you remember your kit.
- Gifts – Gifts are personal preference. I enjoy planning for and buying them so it’s no surprise I bring a gift for Dad, Lawson as big brother and our nurses and doctors. I’m sure it isn’t expected, but I want to give extra thanks and appreciation to the nurses that care for me in my most vulnerable state and our little one in her first hours. When Lawson was born, I made cookies. This time I’m bringing hand lotion and candles by local businesses.
If you have any questions about anything in our hospital bag, please feel free to email me or comment below!
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