Hi ladies! Let’s get real for a second here. We’ve seen this post done hundreds of times, or read websites that tell you what you “think” you need to bring to the hospital. When I had Niko I read through and researched and some of the items were helpful, but a lot of the items weren’t. I also found that so many of the lists I read were keeping out the stuff that you really need, like adult diapers/underwear and the spray that helps numb the pain. I’m here to list some of the fun and not so fun items you’ll need in hopes that it narrows down your list when going into the hospital.

1 // Sole Society Weekender Bag 

This bag has always been a favorite of mine and I have used it on so many trips. It’s perfect for a weekend away- or a few days at the hospital. I love that it is super roomy and sturdy.

2 // Elephant Muslin Blankets

These blankets are perfect for swaddling- or nursing. I love having options when it comes to blankets and these do it all. I love how soft they are and the print is just too cute!

3 // Snacks – 8 // Lollipops

This goes without saying, bring lots and lots of snacks! If not for you- then for your hubby or whoever stays at the hospital with you. You may be hungry after you have the baby too and you’ll want options. I couldn’t get dinner till very late on my induction date so snacks were key! Some good ideas are things that don’t need to be refrigerated like nuts, trail mix, granola bars and chips. The lollipops are my biggest suggestion to have during the birthing process. If you have a natural delivery or C-section you cannot eat anything during this process. You WILL BE STARVING. You can however chew on ice chips or have lollipops. I took full advantage of this during my delivery.

4 // Comfortable Robe

I actually didn’t think of this last time but my Mom bought me one as a gift right before I went into labor for this purpose. I am so glad I had a comfortable robe to be in if any guests stopped by or if the nurses came in. This year I am buying myself a new robe for Christmas and I love this one.

5 // Carseat

This is a must for every new parent. The hospital will NOT let you leave without a proper carseat and installation. Make sure you go to your local police department to get the carseat checked prior to your delivery. I also suggest getting one of these to line the inside of your carseat, it will keep the baby nice and warm if you deliver in the winter time!

6 // Comfy Blanket

If you follow me on instagram you know I am obsessed with this blanket. The blankets at the hospital can be hard and rough on the skin, having your own blanket makes the whole experience feel more like home. I am obsessed with this barefoot dreams blanket and I will definitely be bringing mine with me!

7 // Nipple Balm  – 11 // Dermoplast Spray – 19 // Always Underwear

Let’s face it, motherhood is a beautiful thing but it can also be painful. I suggest bringing nipple cream/balm if you plan on nursing. It is a MUST. Your skin does get very irritated and this helps soothe the pain. The dermoplast spray is also a MUST HAVE in your bag. This spray is used in the perineal areas after birth to ease some of the pain associated with ripping and stitching. This helped a lot, coupled with ice packs and comfy women’s underwear.  These undies from Always are perfect for postpartum. They are more comfortable than the hospital ones and if you buy one pack it should last you your entire postpartum recovery time.

9 // Burp Cloths

I love these affordable cloths from amazon. You will definitely want to have these handy to help clean up the baby or any milk that may spill- whether that is formula or your own.

10 // Diaper Bag

Definitely make sure you are prepped with a GOOD DIAPER BAG! I love this one because it also clips onto the back of your stroller, which makes it much easier to carry. The first time around I made the mistake of getting a bag that I had to hold, and between that and everything else I was carrying – it became a pain. This bag is also currently on sale and I am in love with it. I love having a place to store all of the baby’s things separate from my own.

12 // Nursing Pads – 16 // Nursing Bra

Whether you plan to breastfeed or not- I promise you your nipples WILL LEAK. It’s not fun, but it’s true, haha. These are inserts that go into your bra to help keep your bra dry throughout the process. You can buy them in cloth or disposable versions (I find these easier because you just toss them when you’re done). It’s also imperative to get a good nursing bra! These have clips on the straps that make nursing a breeze, they also have room for pads inside the cups. I got fitted for mine at Jojo Maman Bebe and love this brand so much!

13 // Flip Flops

If you plan on showering at the hospital (trust me you’ll want to) then make sure you pack flip flops for the shower, and don’t forget all of your toiletries. I brought small travel size shampoo, conditioner and body wash so we wouldn’t have to use the 2-1 in stuff offered in the hospital- I am definitely doing that again this time.

14 // Baby Hat & Socks – 17 // Going Home Outfit For Baby

I gave birth in the winter the first time, and will be doing it again in a few short weeks. Having baby hats and socks is imperative in this weather! I love these little slippers  and this hat from Jojo Maman Bebe that matches the baby’s onesie perfectly. I also love being able to take the baby’s hospital photo photo and announcement with them in a cute outfit and blanket from home.

15 // Comfortable PJ’s for Mom

You will want pants that are comfortable and tops that are loose- TRUST ME on this one. This pajama outfit set was what I wore during my last hospital stay and it was perfect. It didn’t hug the wrong places and even came with a matching baby onesie which I love.

18 // Hair Ties

Don’t forget your hair ties! I made the mistake of wearing my hair down during the delivery process and two hours in my hair was all kinds of knotted. I HIGHLY suggest getting some of these as they don’t hurt your head, and they don’t tangle easily.

20 // Phone Charger Cord (Extra Long)

If you don’t already have the extra long iphone cord (6ft) then you should definitely invest in one. The hospital bed is usually far from the wall and you’ll need an extra long cord to reach your bed. The laboring process is not as intense the entire time as you see on TV. There is a ton of down time and having your phone will help the time pass. Having a cord that reaches the best helps so much!

All photos via Fox & The Hare Photography