I'm approaching critical mass in this pregnancy and it's time to pack the good ol' hospital bag. When I had my son, I scoured the internet and read several books to figure out what I needed to bring to the hospital with me and it's probably no surprise that I overpacked. I also underpacked in a sense too. There were a few things I forgot or didn't realize I needed until I'd delivered and wished I had. So, without further ado, let me show you what's coming to the hospital with me this time around:
Overnight bag: First and foremost, you need an actual bag right? You're going to stay at the hospital a minimum of 1 night, and possibly up to 5, so you'll need a bag that accommodate your expected length of stay. I'm hoping to stay the bare minimum but I wanted to pack for 2-3 nights just in case. I'm bringing my trusty Petunia Pickle Bottom Wistful Weekender with me and it should fit everything I need. I had the chance to review the PPB Wistful Weekender in Chenille last fall and fell in love with it's travel friendly size, but I opted to purchase a glazed bag for this trip though since they're so easy to wipe down.
Wallet with your ID and insurance information: I like organization - big time, so I'm transitioning the most important things in my wallet to my Petunia Pickle Bottom New Beginnings Book. This book is like a big, zip around organizer. It's got several pockets and card slots and it was designed to detail your pregnancy and transition to a memory keeper for your child's first years of life. It's perfect to carry all of your important info - like your ID, insurance cards, credit cards, and cash. Don't forget to bring a list of your emergency contacts too. I'm also bringing a few fold away shopper totes with me (reusable bags) to bring home any extras we might get at the hospital or gifts that friends and family might bring.
Birth plan (if you have one): I didn't have a birth plan with my son, but I'm considering writing up a little list for my daughter's birth. I don't think I'm very high maintenance, but there are a few things I'd like to have happen if possible (including a vaginal birth and slightly delayed cord clamping). Having your plan written out will help you focus on what's important to you, and it will also let your providers have a clear vision about your expectations. Bring several copies with you - nurses and doctors change shifts and papers get lost, so bring extras.
Toiletries: The hospital will likely provide you with the bare essentials, but I prefer to bring my own toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, face wash, soap, toothpaste, mouthwash, lip balm (don't forget this one!), brush, etc. Also, don't forget your make-up. I'm not suggesting you have to get dolled up like Miss America, but there's going to be a lot of photo opportunities and you might want to have a bit of make-up on hand. Plus, I feel much more human with a little make-up on my face most days. My toiletries are all packed up in my Petunia Pickle Bottom Travel Train Case and my make-up fits perfectly in my Powder Room Case (both of these are available on Amazon under multiple listings so you might want to search to find the pattern you love most).
Shower shoes: After working in a hospital for several years, I know how well-used the showers are. I'm not going in there without shower shoes. Grab a cheap pair of plastic flip flops and those will serve you well.
Earth Mama Angel Baby Mama Bottom Balm: I know, I mention this product all the time, but it's for good reason. This stuff is like magic in a jar. I had this for the birth of my son, but didn't use it until day 5 (WHY?! Why did I wait so long?!). It provided so much relief to my poor, swollen lady parts and I have a new jar ready to go for this baby and I'll be using it immediately after birth. EMAB's Mama Bottom Balm (be sure you don't get the Angel Baby Balm that's for diaper rash - look for the MAMA bottom balm) is an organic herbal balm for prenatal and postpartum hemorrhoids, episiotomy and perineal bruising, and it helps shrink swollen tissues and speed healing of postpartum bruising. There are no artificial preservatives used, plus it's paraben-free, cruelty-free, and certified vegan. They also have a handy spray, but I preferred the balm.
Socks and/or slippers: I'm big on foot protection. Like the shower shoes, I'm a firm believer that hospital floors are a little gross and you should have something between your bare feet and the floor. Plus, the floors are cold! I even wore socks during delivery - it made me way more comfortable to have socks on knowing my doctor's face was literally right by my feet.
Pajamas + robe: I normally wear short nightgowns to bed, but they're probably a little too skimpy (since they have spaghetti straps) to wear in the hospital - not to mention they won't provide enough support for my postpartum breasts. I like to splurge (if you want to call buying some new PJs from Target splurging) on a few matching pajama sets that are a bit more modest. If you're going to be nursing, look for some PJs that will give you easy breastfeeding access (like the button down PJs I've pictured).
Nursing bra and/or tank tops: Another thing not to forget - nursing bras and tanks. I slept in my nursing tank tops (purchased from Target) last time I delivered, paired with some comfy cotton shorts. Nursing tanks often have built-in shelf bras to offer some support, but no painful underwire. Do yourself a favor and get yourself some decent nursing bras or tanks - your body will thank you.
"Sturdy" underwear: You like that phrase? Too bad I'm serious. Postpartum pads are no joke and you're going to need some full coverage panties to hold them in place. Your hospital may give you some mesh panties (which are oh so attractive), but eventually you're going to need some sturdier options for home use. Postpartum bleeding can last up to 6 weeks and you aren't supposed to use tampons (or menstrual cups) during this time, so embrace the pads and full-butt underwear. I like to opt for black in case leaks happen.
Comfortable clothing: After delivery your hospital will probably allow you to change out of your hospital gown and into your own clothing. At night you'll choose your PJs, but during the day you might want to be more covered in case you have guests. Bring comfortable maternity clothing (not your pre-pregnancy clothes). You'll most likely look 5 or 6 months pregnant when you leave the hospital so you'll want to be as comfortable as possible (remember, you're going to be sore down there and wearing a massive pad, so nothing too restricting). I'll be bringing some yoga pants and tank tops, then a cuter dress for the trip home. Also, your feet might be pretty swollen from the fluids given during your delivery. Don't be surprised if you have to wear your shower flip flops home.
A postpartum girdle: Okay, this one might not be for everyone, but I LOVED my abdominal binder after my first delivery. I requested one of the hospital issued ones last time, but this time I'm going to be more prepared with a Belly Bandit. Not only do I feel like a postpartum girdle offers more support (in terms of making you feel more put-together, it also helps with posture), I think it really does help shrink your belly faster. If you have a C-Section you'll appreciate a Belly Bandit even more for the added stability and protection it gives your incision.
Camera + charger or extra batteries: You're going to want to take a LOT of pictures of your new baby so don't forget your camera and accessories. Be sure to charge the battery ahead of time or bring spares just in case.
Phone charger: Of course, you'll want to call your loved ones to tell them the good news and snap photos on your smartphone to share with the world, so make sure you grab your phone charger on the way out of the house. I'll also be bringing a back up myCharge Razorplus just in case.
Snacks: Depending on what time of day you deliver, you might be a bit hard up for food or snacks. I had my son really late at night and the cafeteria and eating areas were all closed so I was glad that I had brought some snacks with us.
Layette for the new baby: Your sweet new baby is going to need a "going home" outfit for sure, but you'll also want to bring some soft and comfy clothing for him or her for your first few days in the hospital. Your hospital will provide you with some hats, little t-shirts, swaddle blankets, and diapers, but you might want your own clothing handy. I'm bringing a super soft Petunia Pickle Bottom Footed Union Suit with us. Made of 100% organic cotton, I have a 0-3 month size which I'm expecting to shrink up a tad (I'll be washing everything I bring it to the hospital). I just can't get over how cute this little footed set is!
aden + anais swaddles: Sure, your hospital is probably going to give you several of those iconic pink and blue striped swaddling blankets, but I don't want all of my baby girl's first photos to be in that blanket. Plus, you just can't beat the amazing softness of aden + anais bamboo or muslin swaddles. They're just simply perfect. They aren't too heavy - they're just the perfect weight to keep baby cool in the summer or warm in the winter. They're available in both cotton muslin and bamboo and I just love both honestly.
Gift for older sibling: I've read several articles about introducing your new baby to their older sibling, and I definitely think that offering a gift to your older child on behalf of the new baby is a good way to go. This doesn't have to be a grand gesture - just something small so they can feel special and know that the new baby already loves them. My little guy loves Thomas & Friends so he'll be receiving a Thomas & Friends My Busy Book which has a little playset built in. He'll also be getting one of our awesome DIY Big Brother (or Big Sister) Pins.
Car Seat: Not that this will fit in your hospital bag, but don't forget that the hospital won't discharge you home unless you have a car seat for the baby (and usually they want to know it's installed properly and you know how to properly restrain your new little bundle). I donated our last infant car seat to our local pregnancy crisis center, so we opted for a brand new Britax B-Safe for this little lady. A car seat is not something you want to buy used if you can avoid it, and I'd recommend checking out my "5 Things to Consider When Buying a Car Seat" post for some additional tips.
Guess what? The fine people at Petunia Pickle Bottom want to give
one of YOU an adorable Footed Union Suit!
Open to the US only, ages 18 and up. Ends at 11:59 PM EST.
Enter using the Giveaway Tools form below. Good Luck!
Disclosure: I received some of these items at no cost from various sponsors/brands and other items were purchased by me. All opinions are absolutely my own. Amazon links are affiliate links. One winner will be randomly selected using the Giveaway Tools random selector and notified via email. Once notified, the winner will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest or Google. Void where prohibited.
Nicole Hardin says
City carryall bag would be great in blooming brixham.
Gina Hiskes says
So far we're team green so I'm thinking neutral. I would love a Sashay Satchel in the champs-elysees stop. I love the gray!
william gossage says
I would like to have the statement satchel
Katie McHenry says
Thanks for the great and very realistic list. I need to pack my own bag very soon. I would love any type of ppb bag, but I think the boxy back pack diaper bag is adorable.
Mami2jcn says
I like the SOCIAL SET in dainty daisies.
clarissa says
I own a few of their bags now! Love them all. I have been wanting to try the new hobo style
Amber Ludwig says
I love the city carryall bag!! Its so gorgeous and roomy!! I love the breakfast in berkshire print!!
Lisa Garland says
I would also like to have the Downtown tote in Paris Noir!!
Nancy says
I like their Take Along Kit in Relaxing in Rimini.
Barnolds Barnes says
I'd like a haven nursing cover.
Kim vh says
The STATEMENT SATCHEL in paprika is soooo pretty and fun! I would love to get this bag!
michelle gunton says
I love that you have added the camera equipment as things needed to pack for the hospital bag.
Liz Ticona says
Love their diaper bags also like the CITY CARRYALL in sleepy seychelles 🙂
Heather in VA says
I'd love to have a Sashay Satchel in Blooming Brixham. I loved having backpack diaper bags as it kept my hands totally free.
Fari says
I like the
Take-Along Kit in Relaxing in Rimini
Joy says
I like the Boxy Backpack diaper bags.
Dagmar moretti says
I just love the city carryalls!
Cindy Kong says
I would love the Boxy Backpack in Afternoon in Arezzo
barb l says
The ABUNDANCE BOXY BACKPACK in sleepy seychelles is adorable!
Jennifer Williams says
I love the carry all. The design of the bag featured at the start of the article is gorgeous! It looks like a cross between daisy and peacocks. Two of my favorites!
Sarah Barkley says
I would love the Abundance Boxy Backpack in Breakfast in Berkshire! I love that it's large enough to hold all the necessities for two kiddos(4 year old and a newborn in October) without feeling like I'm carrying around a suitcase. Also, not too cutesy for having a girl and a boy. Another added plus is that daddy is willing to carry it around!
Tabi Klopfenstein says
I would love to win a belly bandit!
Alix Kalfin says
I'd love the Sashay Satchel in Succulent Garden.
Jennifer Kreisler says
BOXY BACKPACK
in persimmon spice. I have wanted it for a long time.
Jana says
I want to get my daughthe the Spanish Hi/Bye tee shirt from LittleMissMatched
Kristen says
I like the Travel Train Case in Westminster Stop.
jessica z says
I like the Faraway Fold-Out Tote in Breakfast in Berkshire
Courtney k says
Whereabout wallet I love wristlets
Terri S. says
I would love to have the Downtown Tote in rimini. My 1st color choice for it is evening in islington but it says it is out of stock. 🙁
Jennifer says
so many beautiful options! id love the
Wistful Weekender in Alluring Azaleas
Ashley B. says
I love the Sashay satchel style! The Southwest skies print is super cute!
Elisabeth says
I love the footed Union Suit but also love the Swaddle Blanket in Crisp Cursive!
Crystal Davis says
CITY CARRYALL
in london mist
Cynthia C says
I like the SWADDLE BLANKET
in crisp cursive
joann valdez says
Love the pink one
Robin Abrams says
I would love the HALIFAX HOBO
Katie Bascombe says
I like the city carryalls
Penni says
Love the Sashay Satchel in Desert Dreaming!
Sue M. says
This is really helpful information, a lot of things I never would have thought of! Thanks for posting!
Andrea Troutman says
I like the Downtown Tote.
Ruby Yoshi says
I'd love to try the STATEMENT SATCHEL in constellation
Ashley Chassereau Parks says
I would also love to have the HIDEAWAY HOBO in blooming brixham!
Tatiana Bartlett says
This is fabulous!
DOWNTOWN TOTE
in sleepy seychelles
AC says
the statement satchel.
Cortney s says
toothbrush, deodorant, and a burger. Theses r the things that r missing.
Lisa Coomer Queen says
The swaddle blanket in pink celebration.
Kara burns says
I love the tailored tote!
Carrie Hoffman says
I love that you did this list! Last time I had so much stuff packed my husband had to make multiple trips to the car. I was in the hospital for a week so it was nice to have some things, but I feel like I didn't even use half of what I packed. I just didn't know what to bring. I will be more prepared this time around, but I need to get one of those cute tote bags to pack it all in.
Joanne Gregory says
I would love to have a HIDEAWAY HOBO in sleepy seychelles.
Jo-Ann Brightman says
I like the short-sleeved bodysuit in tribal tides.
Debra Warila says
I would love to have the Receiving Blanket in Persimmon.
Kara Jatoft says
I've always wanted a boxy backpack! I wish they weren't out of my price range!!
Jodi Armstrong says
So many beautiful bags. love the abundance boxy backpacks
Natalie Brown says
Another product of theirs I'd love to have is the Travel Train Case in the Blooming Brixham design. So cute!
Sherrie C. says
I really like the Café Carryall in Dragonfruit Cake. Such a stylish diaper bag 🙂
Sara L. says
I would love to have any of their diaper bags!
cassidy ciazza morelli says
I like the social set in daisey
Amy Tolos says
I'd LOVE to have the footed union suit in yellow....ADORABLE & GENDER NEUTRAL!!!
Kami Bahnmiller says
I like the receiving blanket in blooming brixham.
Keri Justice says
I would love the downtown tote in London Mist!
http://www.petunia.com/diaper-bags/downtown-totes/downtown-tote-in-london-mist
Sherry Compton says
The TAKE-ALONG KIT in sleepy seychelles looks useful.
Paol Trenny says
I like the STATEMENT SATCHEL in in paprika or constellation.
April P says
I'd like the tribal tides swaddle blanket
Christa Lopez says
I love the Tailored Tote in constellation!
Carly D. says
I love the Halifax Hobo in dragonfruit cake design. It looks like a really stylish bag and I love the different pockets inside.
denise low says
I like the boxy backpack. Thank you for the entry
Keara B. says
I'd love to have one of their Take-Along Changing Kits! It would be so handy.
Emma Trimble says
Love the downtown tote!
adri says
I love the wistful weekender diaper bags!
Michelle Elizondo says
I would also love to win TAILORED TOTE
in constellation.
theresa m. says
My favorite has always been the boxy backpack in central park north - and I also love the special edition - just a little more luxe!
Hannah Avery says
I'd love to have a powder room case in Rimini
Anita k says
The Organic Cotton Layette would be perfect,thanks so much for sharing.
Logann Walker says
I would love the City Carryall in the Afternoon in Arezzo print!
Jessica Haynes says
I would obviously love one of their diaper bags! Especially the Abundance Boxy!
Sherry S. says
I like the Pacifier Porter in Blooming Brixham.
Marnie G (Derrick Todd) says
I really like the WISTFUL WEEKENDER in evening blooms.
jenna tomaszewski says
I love this:
WISTFUL WEEKENDER
in westminster stop
Rosa says
I love the boxy backpack in sweet rose!
Stephanie Murphy says
The Boxy Backpack in London Mist! So pretty!
Jessica Lodge says
I would love to have the TAKE-ALONG KIT in relaxing in rimini.
Nikki Strong says
I love the social set in sweet celebration.
Velma Gibbens says
Love the touring tote, would love something bigger
Courtney Lee says
So... I already have one wistful weekender, but I REALLY want another. I have two little girls and I send it with one to grandma's house to spend the night. I also use it to pack for long trips and it fits all their clothes and the diapers too. It would be so nice to have one for our second daughter too!
Kelli Stallings says
The other PPB item I'm eyeing is the Black Boxy Backpack (Central Park North Stop Special Edition). Love.
laurie nykaza says
The take-along-kits-1 would be great to carry in my bag to keep organized
Lily Kwan says
The Shopper Tote in marbella meadow looks very nice!
nrsoul713 says
The tipped triangles snuggle set is a cute gift for a new baby.