With my first baby, I definitely overpacked. There were too many what-ifs — like, what if I wanted to read two novels? Or what if I needed my full makeup kit? Spoiler: I didn’t. I opened that bag once to grab my toiletries and a change of clothes. The rest just sat there.
This time around, I was more confident in what I truly needed — especially knowing that I had support close by in case anything was missing. And best of all, this isn’t a “what I’m going to pack” post… our sweet girl has already arrived! So this is what I actually brought and used, and I hope it helps you pack with peace, not panic. You’re not moving in for a week — just bring what matters, mama.
Loose & Comfy Clothes
With my first, I made the classic mistake of packing jeans and a tight shirt. I thought I’d bounce back quickly and want to look cute. Nope. I was uncomfortable, swollen, and just wanted to cry.
This time, I packed soft, roomy dresses and biker shorts that I wore both before and after baby came. They were cozy, stretchy, and made me feel feminine again after the wild ride of birth. I can’t recommend them enough. (Pack some comfy socks, too!)
Pro tip: Pack your hospital bag before your due date. My water broke before I could do laundry, and I had to grab whatever was clean. Give yourself that grace and prep a week or two ahead of time with cozy layers, clean undies, and an outfit to go home in — comfort is queen.
Milk Catcher
With my first, I brought my entire pump kit and never touched it. Just extra weight. This time, I packed my milk catcher — a simple silicone insert that sits in your bra and catches let-down. It was subtle, comfy, and helpful for those early days of cluster feeding and colostrum.
I didn’t love the Haakaa with my first — it felt bulky and awkward while I was still figuring out breastfeeding. You have to give it a try! Here is a great one from Momcozy: Breast Milk Collector
Phone Charger
I barely touched my phone in those early hours, but I’m glad I had a charger packed. My husband kept my phone charged and checked it for me when needed. Definitely worth bringing.
Baby Clothes & Toiletries
Yes, put baby outfits in your hospital bag. Newborns can go through clothes quickly (blowouts, spit-ups, etc.), so a few changes are helpful. I also packed a weather-appropriate going-home outfit. Our first was born in winter, our second in spring — and both needed layers.
As for toiletries, keep it simple: diapers, wipes, and diaper cream. You won’t need soap or a baby towel just yet, so don’t worry about packing those.
Your Toiletries
Keep it minimal: toothbrush, face lotion, body wash, deodorant. Unless you’re someone who wants to glam up for post-birth pics (no shade if you are!), there’s no need for your whole skincare lineup packed into your hospital bag. You’ll mostly be focused on baby, breastfeeding, and healing — not a full beauty routine.
Slippers
The floors are cold and don’t feel super clean at a hospital, but who would want to put socks and shoes on to walk around? I have my favourite slippers that I wore the whole time. Kept me comfy and I didn’t need to spend extra time doing anything.
Your Favourite Snacks
The hospital doesn’t have much snacks, and the meals are quite small. Unless your husband is willing to go out and constantly grab some food, I’d recommend bringing your own favourites.
Your Own Healing Products
The hospital usually provides the underwear, pads and squeeze bottle you’d need, but there are few things they don’t include. I know this is such a trend, but I honestly loved using these products for my first baby. These were my top products that really helped with the healing process:
- Frida Mom Peri Bottle: The one they give you at the hospital just doesn’t work as well as the peri bottle. Gets the job done of course, but the peri bottle really helps.
- Cooling Pad Liners: These have some really great products in them to help with the healing process, especially if there are some tears down there. These were easy to just pop on my pad and move on.
- Disposable Underwear: I’m not a fan of diapers, which some women do. These were actually comfortable and didn’t make me feel too bulky. Of course I added a pad there, but the shorts-style really help with comfortability.
I didn’t use any fancy pads, just super thick ones I knew I needed. There’s a lot of blood exiting your body during this time, so make sure the pads can withstand it all!
Your Waterbottle
You will need to drink a lot of water. You’ll be so exhausted after giving birth you’ll need to really recharge. At the same time, your breasts will be filling with milk, so you really want to help that process.
You’ve got this, sweet mama.
Packing your hospital bag is one of the last little things you’ll do before meeting your baby — and that’s such a tender, beautiful thing. So take a deep breath, pack light, and trust that whatever you forget, someone can bring later. What matters most? That you’ll be holding your baby so, so soon. 💛
Do you need more product tips for your newborn? Check out My Top 10 Best Baby Products for Newborns as well as my Survival Guide For The New Mom for some help!
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