My Hospital Bag List: What I Am Actually Packing

I am in full nesting mode over here, which means my hospital bag has been packed, unpacked, and repacked approximately four times. I have been doing a lot of research on what actually matters versus what just sounds like a good idea at 2am when you are doom-scrolling baby accounts.

Here is what I am actually bringing, with zero fluff. Some of these are Amazon links, which just means I earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.

A Cozy Labor and Delivery Robe

The hospital gowns are fine, but a robe that opens in the front makes the whole experience feel more like yours. Look for one with snaps for IV access, front opening for skin-to-skin, and something soft enough that you actually want to wear it. I ordered one that has been living in my bag for weeks now and every time I see it I feel slightly more ready. Find one on Amazon.

Your Own Pillow

Hospital pillows are not great. Bringing your own from home means you can actually sleep, which you will want to do the moment labor is over. Use a pillowcase you do not mind potentially ruining, or bring an old one. This is not a glamorous tip but it is one I have heard from every mom I know who was glad she did it.

Dry Shampoo

You are going to want to feel like a human being at some point during your hospital stay, and washing your hair after labor is often not happening. Dry shampoo is the move. A travel size works perfectly.

Good Lip Balm

Labor is dehydrating in ways that will surprise you, and hospital air is dry. Bring your favorite lip balm, bring two, put one in your labor bag and one in the regular bag. This is the most boring item on this list and also one of the most appreciated. Stock up on Amazon.

Your Own Snacks

Post-delivery hunger is real and hospital cafeterias have limited hours. Bring snacks you actually want to eat: crackers, nut butter packets, granola bars, whatever sounds good to you right now. Also bring snacks for whoever is with you, because they are going to be there a long time and a hungry partner does not help anyone.

Disposable Postpartum Underwear

The hospital provides mesh underwear and it is genuinely fine, but a lot of moms prefer to have their own. There are a few brands that make disposable postpartum underwear that are more comfortable and feel a little less clinical. These are worth having on hand.

A Going-Home Outfit for Baby (and For You)

Pack something soft and easy for baby, with snaps at the bottom. For yourself, loose waistband, something you wore at five or six months pregnant will fit on the way home. Do not pack your pre-pregnancy jeans. Just do not.

Phone Charger and a Portable Battery

You are going to take approximately 400 photos in the first hour. Make sure your phone can keep up. A portable battery pack is also smart if the outlet situation in your room is inconvenient. Grab one on Amazon.

You Are More Ready Than You Think

The bag matters less than you think and more than you want it to. Pack the things that will make you feel like yourself. Everything else you can figure out when you get there, and the nurses have seen everything, they are not judging what you brought or did not bring.

If you are currently packing yours, drop a comment with the one thing you are most nervous about forgetting. There is probably a solution.

So glad you are here. Pam