My Hospital Bag

Every hospital bag list on the internet was written by someone who has never actually been to a hospital. The recommendations are unhinged. Bluetooth speakers. Diffusers. Snack baskets. A robe, slippers, AND a second robe. I have seen lists that require a rolling suitcase and I need you to understand how unnecessary that is.

I brought a backpack. That’s it. Here’s exactly what was in it.

What I Packed

For Labor:

My own labor and delivery gown [link — see Post 1 for why this matters] and the matching workout set I wore to the hospital. That’s it for labor. You don’t need options. You need one thing that works.

For the Postpartum Stay:

A matching set to change into after birth, my own underwear, and my own pads. This is non-negotiable. The hospital will offer you their underwear and their pads and both are archaic. Bring regular period underwear and heavy flow pads. You’ll thank me.

For Going Home:

Jeans and a sweater. One outfit. You’re going from a hospital bed to a car to your couch. You do not need a curated going home look — but if you want one, one outfit is all it takes. [See Post 1 for mine.]

For the Baby:

One going home outfit. The hospital provides everything else for the baby during your stay. You do not need to pack a nursery in your bag.

Toiletries:

Toothbrush and charger. That’s the list. I went into labor at 8PM, had already showered that day, and had no intention of washing my hair in a hospital bathroom. If I had been there for multiple days I would have packed a small toiletry bag and my own towel — because the hospital towels are rough and small and you deserve better. But for a standard stay, a toothbrush covers it.

What I Didn’t Pack — And Don’t Think You Need

I skipped the postpartum foam, the perineal spray, the ice packs, and the peri bottle that every list insists are essential. I knew I wanted to get home as quickly as possible and the hospital had some supplies on hand. I figured I’d assess my situation when I got there and handle the rest at home where I was comfortable. For me, that was the right call.

I also skipped the snacks, the entertainment, the aromatherapy, and the extra pillow from home. Birth is not a spa weekend. You’re not going to be watching movies between contractions. You’re going to be focused, and then you’re going to be exhausted, and then — if you’re anything like me — you’re going to be trying to figure out how soon they’ll discharge you.

One Thing I’d Add

Slides for the shower. I did end up doing a quick five minute rinse before I left the hospital and I was very glad I had flip flops. Add those to the bag.

Birth is chaotic and unpredictable and exhausting. The last thing you need is to be managing a suitcase full of things you packed because a blog told you to. Pack light, pack intentionally, and leave room in that bag for the only thing that actually needs to come home in it — your baby.