I love lists. I will make tonnes of them and constantly look over them.
I also like to pack tight; only the essentials.
John and I did our research; we looked at countless lists and asked for recommendations from friends and family that have babies of their own.
Before I open my hospital bag, I will say that even with our extended stay at the hospital (we packed for 1 or 2 nights stay but ended up staying 3 nights), I ended up only using 10% of my list.
You will most likely have a list of your own that caters to you, and being a first time mom you’ll want to be safe than sorry and not forget or miss anything.
Here is my bag nonetheless, and hopefully helps you narrow it down and not over-pack. I have my overall list + highlighted items that i actually ended up using (the 10%)
MYSELF:
- Robe or wrap sweater
- Slippers and flip-flops
- Socks – wool
- Comfy shirt that can get dirty
- Blanket
- Lip Balm
- Eucalyptus spray
- Headphones
- Iphone
- Hairbands/elastics
- Toiletries bag
- Sweatpants
- Loose buttoned shirts (for easy access)
- Underwear – disposable
- Maternity pads
- Bra (maternity bras)
- Breast pads
- Nipple cream
- Makeup bag
- Dry shampoo
- Shower wash
- Face wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Mints/gum
- Camera and camera charger (camera bag)
- Going home outfit
- Maxi-pads (lots)
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- I.D. and health card
- Deodorant
- Prenatal vitamins
BABY:
- 2 onesies
- Hat, mittens and booties
- Going home outfit
- 2 swaddle blankets
- Blanket
- CAR SEAT in car
- Diapers and wipes
JOHN:
- Overnight bag
- Comfy clothes
- Toiletries bag
- Change of clothes (underwear/socks)
- Phone and charger
- Flip flops/ running shoes
- Snacks and drinks
- Moisturizer
Robe:
When everything is all over the place, milk flying here…baby crying there…. and you have friends or family visiting… I just threw my robe over top of my hospital garb. Super easy and also easy access for your baby to feed. Here’s the one I used from H&M – click image for details
Adult Disposables:
Adult diapers. I still giggle a little when I mention them but I would absolutely recommend them over pads when your water breaks (I didn’t need a towel or anything in the car ride there). Full coverage and really absorbent. I also used them after labour; so much easier to use than pads. Trust me!
I grab mine from Loblaws. You should be able to find them in Shoppers too…but i’ll send a link to amazon just in case. I initially bought M/L thinking because I’ve grown in size (I was a Small before being pregnant, now a Medium) but actually, it was too large. I recommend getting a S/M if you were initially S to begin with.
Nipple cream:
Your body isn’t used to feeding. I found Lanolin provides the safest, most effective relief for breastfeeding moms experiencing nipple soreness. Just apply a pea-sized amount after each feeding to soothe and protect sore, dry nipples.
Pond’s Face wipes:
You’ll most likely be in bed from your labour and constantly attending to your baby. Using face wipes definitely made me feel refreshed and clean. Also, great makeup removers too. I have been using this particular brand before my pregnancy and post…when I’m too lazy or forget to wash my face hehe
This is my favourite brand and this too I purchase from Loblaws.
Iphone/+ Camera:
I was going to say a camera to capture all the moments… but I need my iPhone (pictures + more). Make sure your hubby or loved one takes photos. You will forget to because you’re so in the moment with your baby, but make sure to take a lot of pictures and videos. Everything goes by so quickly.
Aside from these essentials… I’d say you need your outfit to leave the hospital in, your baby’s coming home outfit, and a car seat.
