This post contains affiliate links meaning I make a small commission
If you’re searching for a hospital bag checklist, you’ve come to the right place! There are tons of similar posts floating around the internet with checklists, but being a labor and delivery nurse and a second time mama, I’m sharing what you really need to pack in your hospital bag!
I remember with my first babe, we got sent in for induction after our appointment at 37 weeks. I was in no way prepared so I literally threw everything in a bag and off we went to the hospital. I remember strolling in looking like we were going on a week’s long vacation. This time, I definitely plan to be more prepared and intentional with packing my hospital bag.
Here is the down and dirty of what you really need to pack in your hospital bag
from a Labor and Delivery Nurse:
Flip Flops – I love these Croc flip flops. They are so comfy for walking around, grip to your feet and can also be worn in the shower.
Comfortable dresses/nursing gowns – I’m all about the comfortable dresses and these are like all I wore last time. They’re easy for nursing, a loose, non-binding option for csection recovery mamas and a simple way to look a little more put together. I love this one from the Nesting Olive. I bought it in a few colors.
Yoga Pants – I like these ones from Target because they are loose fitting and stretchy (so great for csection mamas).
Nursing Tops – I love this three pack of nursing tops on Amazon
Nursing bras – I got this three pack on Amazon. They are wirefree.
Swaddle blankets – seriously you can never have enough. I got a few from Copper Pearl and I love them because they are big, soft and super stretchy. They also have lots of different, fun prints.
Going home outfit for baby – Amazon has lots of cute ones. I like this one for a girl and this one for a boy
Boppy – I loved having my Boppy with me at the hospital to help with breastfeeding. The lactation consultant was able to show me different positions that were comfortable post c-section.
Pillow – your own pillow. I know sometimes on L&D especially when we’re slammed we run short on pillows so I always tell people bring your own from home. That means dad or your support person too.
Diffuser – Not only is it nice to have going during labor, but also in postpartum for overall rest and relaxation. I have mine that I use from Young Living but I like this one from Amazon as well. My favorites for sleep and relaxation are lavender and frankincense.
Phone charger – I have this extra long one from Amazon.
Camera
Headbands/hairties – I found these cute ones with a bow on Amazon.
Toiletries – Ok so the hospital does have some stuff but I’m a little particular. I got a cute cosmetic bag and hit the travel sized toiletry bins at Target and stocked up on everything I needed. Don’t forget the dry shampoo and chapstick!
Pacifiers – some hospitals no longer provide them especially if they are Breastfeeding Friendly. So if you know you are going to want them, bring your own just in case.
Things that you don’t need to pack because the hospital will most likely provide to you:
– Underwear – the hospital will give you that sexy mesh kind so why pack your own?
– Pads/topical numbing sprays and creams/icepacks
– Non skid socks
– Gown to labor in (unless you want to wear your own but it’s most likely going to get covered in lots of fluids just saying)
– Diapers/wipes
– Nipple cream
– Onesies
– Breast pump – most hospitals have them for you to use during your stay but ask before you go.
Click here to download my printable checklist
For more about what to expect check out:
8 Tips for Preparing for your Csection and Recovery
My honest post about Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
Pin for Later
