This part I feverishly researched. Pinterest, Instagram, other mommy blogs. The lists were LONG, but this being my first pregnancy, of course I trusted them. I compiled lists and packed up what I thought I really needed.
Fast forward to my actual three-night stay in the hospital and I don't remember even really touching that bag aside from the last day when I had to look somewhat like a human walking out of the hospital in something other than an adorable looking hospital gown. I packed several outfits, underwear [LOL rookie], several outfits for my newborn, outfits for my husband, socks, shoes, snacks on snacks, toiletries, robes, the list goes on. And I will not bore you with what I actually brought, but let me give you the list of what you actually will need.
For The Mama
Hair ties
Going home outfit (I had loose pajamas)
Cheap sandals for the shower
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Chapstick
Hairbrush
Deodorant
Shampoo & Conditioner
Face wash & Lotion
Face towels & Bath Towels
Donut pillow (if you are having vaginal birth)
Nursing bras to leave the hospital in
Robe for post-labor
Favorite easy-to-open and eat snacks
Contact case & Solution (if you are blind like me)
Glasses
For The Dadda (or birthing partner)
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Cheap sandals for the shower
Going home outfit
Shampoo & Conditioner
Deodorant
Pillow & Blanket
Contact case & Solution (see above)
Glasses
Electronics
Phone
iPad
Two extra long phone or tablet chargers
AirPods
For The Baby
Outfits for pictures
Going home outfit (just pick ONE)
Birth announcement sign
Baby mittens
Swaddle for pictures
Carseat & base
When I gave birth we were still very much in COVID restrictions. No one was allowed to visit us in the hospital. My mother (the best mama in the world IMO) dropped off food to my husband for me twice during our hospital stay. You really do not need to bring any type of food for yourself as you can eat the hospital food there -including snacks- or order take-out to be sent to you (or have your birthing partner go get it for you-that is why they are there). If you have had a craving your entire pregnancy for a turkey & American sandwich with spicy mustard-definitely get that ready or have someone get it for you for postpartum. I ate my first turkey sandwich at 2 AM the night of my sons birth (thanks mama). [We had a mini-fridge in our room-ask your hospital what you have available].
I would definitely consider myself to be a minimalist when it comes to what to pack, but keep in mind you are leaving with a new human. You do not want to have to remember to pack-up everything that you brought.
Another thing that people forget to tell you is that the hospital will likely provide you with SO MUCH of the stuff that is on every Pinterest hospital bag list. You will get everything for your baby and yourself postpartum that you really need, including access to a hospital-grade breast pump and parts if you plan to breastfeed. AND you can bring a ton of it home (so definitely bring a large bag with plenty of room-another reason not to overpack).
Do not overwhelm yourself with packing for your hospital stay. As they say, it takes a village and it starts from day one-if you forget anything use your village to bring it to you! (I will make another post about visitors at a later date)
I hope this is helpful, mama!
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