Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Labor and Delivery
- Lauren Catron
- Jul 13, 2021
- 4 min read
If you are an expecting mom, I am sure you have scoured the internet in search of the perfect checklist of what you need to bring to the hospital for your labor and delivery. I, too, have done this. Yet as a second time mom I feel some of the items on these lists are a little much. So, as I've been preparing for baby number two, I've come up with my own packing list.
Here's what I'll be bringing for my hospital stay...
Robe - Whether you're walking the halls during labor, or walking the halls after a Caesarean, you'll want to have a comfy robe to wrap around you.
Slippers - Same thing with the robe, you'll want something to easily slip-on whether in the halls or getting up to and from the bathroom.
Pajamas (2 pairs) - When I was in the hospital with Henry, I didn't really shy away from the hospital gowns. They were easy to have on and provided easy access for nursing. However, after that first shower, it was nice to slip on my own clothes. I'm packing two due to an anticipated C-section (a longer hospital stay).
Nursing Bra - It takes a couple of days but once your milk comes in, your breasts will be rock-hard. You will want that extra support, and easy access if you do plan on nursing.
Hydrogel Pads - If you've read any of my pregnancy-related blog posts by now, you know I'm obsessed with these. Throwing a pack in my bag just to have on hand.
Pillow - No matter where you go, having your own pillow makes all the difference in the world. Plus, let's face it, those hospital pillows suck.
Blanket - After my C-section, I had the shakes so bad. I also had lost blood and was anemic, so I was shivering. It was nice to have that little comfort from home.
Phone Charger - This one is a no-brainer. Just make sure to bring a long cord so you don't have to reach as far for it. Or, if you have a portable charger, that would be nice to throw in your bag too. No need to worry about where the outlet is!
Pen - Eventually you will have to fill out a bunch of paperwork regarding your new little bundle of joy. Birth certificate information, fill out their baby book, etc. It's nice to have a pen on hand.
Wallet including insurance card, photo ID and change for vending machine/gift store snacks - Granted you probably already pre-registered for the hospital, it's still nice to have this stuff on hand, just in case. Plus, depending on COVID restrictions, your partner may not be able to leave the hospital. It's good to have some change available for any vending machine or gift store snacks.
Glasses/Contact Lens - If you are having a C-section, they won't let you wear your contacts, so make sure you have your contact case, solution, and your glasses so you can see that sweet new baby!!
Toiletries - Make sure you have all your essential toiletries. That first shower after birth is glorious.
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Shampoo and Conditioner
Body Wash
Deodorant
Hair Ties
Hairbrush
Any medications you take
Shower Shoes - The showers at the hospital remind me of a public shower at the local pool; they gross me out. I always take a pair of flip-flops or shower shoes to wear. I found these flip-flops from Target in the college section. They are made to be shower shoes!
Maternity Leggings/Shorts - After delivery, you will still look about five months pregnant. Be sure to pack comfortable maternity leggings or shorts (hello August) to wear home. Plus, if you do have a C-section, you will want something high enough to go over your incision.
Maternity Shirt - Something loose and comfortable. Bonus if its nursing-friendly!
Slip-on Shoes - My feet swelled up SO bad after having Henry. I made sure I had my Birkenstocks to slid on and off on the way home.
Extra Bag - Unless you have extra room in your bag, I'd be sure to bring an extra bag to bring all the hospital goodies home: i.e., diapers (for you and baby), pads, peri bottle, water bottle, any gifts you received, all the baby things, etc.
Nice to have but not necessary: If you are unsure if how to use your breast pump, bring it! The lactation consultant can help show you how it works.
For Baby
Announcement Prop - That first social media post introducing your baby to the world... we obsess over it. If you have found your Pinterest-worthy prop, bring it!
Coming Home Outfit - The hospital will provide clothes for your baby to wear - typically a onesie or t-shirt. But you will want an outfit or two to bring them home in.
Baby Book - You may have some down time in the hospital, so now is a great time to start filling out your baby book. Aren't you glad you brought that pen?
Car Seat - This is literally the one thing you HAVE to have for your baby. You cannot leave the hospital without it. You will have to bring it in, and someone will check to make sure it is ok to use.
Am I missing anything? What else would you include in your hospital bag?
Enjoy!
Lauren
XOXO
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