Packing your hospital bag is one of those final steps that makes everything feel real! I focused on essentials that support both recovery and well-being—because a little preparation can make those first hours and days smoother. If you’re wondering what to pack (and what you don’t need), here’s what made it into my bag.

In my bag:

• Black Robe
• Button up PJs or nightgown (2-3 pairs)
• Nursing bras (1-2)
• Slippers and grippy socks
• Pillow and blanket
• Outfit to wear home
• Toiletries (skincare, shampoo/conditioner, makeup, toothbrush, toothpaste, hair tie)
• Prenatals
• Large water bottle
• Glasses/contacts
• Long phone charger
• Towel
• Flip flops for showering  
• Snacks like bone broth (allowed during labor), beef sticks, crackers, protein bars
• LMNT electrolytes for hydration throughout labor
• Nipple butter
• FridaMom postpartum kit (optional)
• Fan (optional – didn’t use)
• Boppy pillow (optional – didn’t really use this but I was glad I had it)

In my husband’s bag:

• Pillow and blanket
• PJ’s or loungewear (2-3 pairs)
• Snacks!!
• Shower shoes
• Toiletries
• Outfit to go home
• Long phone charger
• Water bottle
• Glasses/contacts 

For Baby:

• Coterie Wipes
• Coterie Diapers (the hospital will provide diapers and wipes, but I wanted to use my own!)
• Car seat (the one we have!)
• Hat to wear home (if cold)
• Onesies (1-2 in newborn and 1-2 in size 0-3 month)
  • We brought MagneticMe and Colored Organic brands, but we also love Gap and Baby Mori
• Swaddles (2-3 of these, or you can bring a velcro swaddleme or nb size halo)
• Diaper cream

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