Hospital Bag: What I Wish I Packed
Hi guys! Mother’s Day is next week, so my present to you future mamas is this selection for a hospital bag. This is the list I wish I’d found anywhere on the internet before I went to the hospital myself. Here is what is special about my list: while you can find the basics anywhere, I’m giving you ideas on what can make your delivery day and postpartum a little more "comfy and breezy." Yes, we are looking at things from a Breeze & Bloom perspective!
Last year on Mother’s Day, I was in labor. It was tough and amazing at the same time. It wasn't "ideal"—my boy really wanted to stay in the womb! I spent 30 hours inducing labor before needing an emergency C-section. So after five days at hospital here my five cents opinions:
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Okay, Let’s Pack Your Bag!
Before you start, check your hospital’s website for their specific checklist, as items vary.
The basic list:
Documentation: Photo ID, insurance card, birth plan, and pediatrician info.
Electronics: Phone and extra-long chargers.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, and soap.
Postpartum Clothing: Loose-fitting, nursing-friendly pajamas or nightgowns.
For Baby: A going-home outfit (onesie, sleeper), swaddle blanket, hat, and socks.
Car Seat: Required for discharge; ensure the base is installed!
For the Support Person: ID, cash/cards, snacks, and toiletries.
My picks for hospital bag:
So this picks are not essential, they can make your stay more smooth, for you and your baby have that amazing time together.
For Mom:
Comfy Pajamas: Bring 3 sets in case of milk spills. Get the button-front style to make breastfeeding and pumping easy.
A Robe: Hospital rooms are colder than usual. A long-sleeve pajama set works too—just make sure it’s nursing-friendly.
Nice Slippers: Get one size up from your regular shoes. Bring a pair you already love or a model that is good for walking (if you have a C-section, walking helps the recovery!).
Nursing Pillow: You can practice positions at the hospital so you’re ready to replicate them at home.
Nursing/Pumping Bra: I suggest Bravely. They are so comfy! If you have a larger bust, these are a go-to. If you’re on a budget, get a "hybrid" model that works for both nursing and pumping. Buy them two sizes up from your current size.
Baby Carrier: Great for skin-to-skin contact. The Baby Bjorn is my husband’s favorite because it fastens in the front. My favorite is LÍLLÉbaby—I gained weight during pregnancy and have a larger bust, and this brand has the most comfortable support.
Water Bottle: The hospital gave me one, but I missed mine because it keeps the water colder. My favorite is from Corkcicle—it’s non-spill with a silicone straw.
Creams: Choose fragrance-free for the baby. Nipple creams are essential; I liked Lansinoh.
Breast Therapy Packs: I thought these weren't essential, but I really missed them. My go-to is Frida Mom. Tip: Bring Ziplock freezer bags with your name on them so you can use the hospital fridge without fear.
Sleep Mask: Hospital rooms have light everywhere. To take naps between feeds, you’ll need this.
For Baby:
Velcro Swaddle: The nurses are pros at wrapping blankets, but I wasn't! Get something easy. My pick can be used as a conventional swaddle or with arms out.
Pacifier: Even if you aren't sure, it’s good to have. The only one my son would take was the Philips Avent Soothie.
Burp cloths: I suggest a big one for nursing and extra for clean the baby.
Hat, socks and onesies: the hospital usually use a regular white onesie, check the policies. I brought and was really happy to use.
Blanket for the car ride: depends of the temperature, I have one always and use a bunch in the car seat.
For the Support Person:
A Sleeping Bag: The "dad couch" is notoriously bad. Treat it like a camping trip!
Blanket & pillow: The hospital takes care of the mom, so get some basics cover.
Snacks and Water: Always good to have something to nibble on.
Sleep mask: same reason that moms, lots of light.
Toiletries & towel: depends how much your support person can stays with you.
For memories:
I don’t make this part well and wish had this two product early. Specially the photo prop, comes with a blanket, super cute. The foot print I highly recommend too, I make one for us and one as a gift for the grandparents at Christmas.
Monthly Baby Milestone Photo Prop
Baby Hand and Footprint Kit
Preparing Yourself
Birth Certificate: This is often done at the hospital, so bring a nice pen and some paper for notes.
Umbilical Cord Donation: If you do this, make digital copies of your paperwork. Also, keep in mind that collection crews often don't work on weekends, so you may have to arrange the mailing yourself.
Breastfeeding: It’s not always "natural" (nervous laugh!). Find your support groups and classes before delivery. I wish I had done this.
The Pump: You can usually get one for free through insurance. Even if you don’t plan to use it, it helps with milk supply or gives you a break if you need to heal.
All these products can make your stay a little better, but remember: the hospital is a short stay. Your recovery at home is where you should truly invest in your "nesting."
References:
https://bidmc.org/services/pregnancy-birth/labor-delivery
https://americanpregnancy.org/giving-birth/hospital-bag-packing-list/
