What you actually need in the Hospital Bag

        Since I am only 2 weeks out from being at full term (37 weeks) with this pregnancy, I figured I should get started with packing the hospital bag. We are obviously hoping she decides to wait until at least 39 weeks to make her appearance, but we want to be prepared just in case she comes anytime now. There were several things we packed with our last baby that were never even removed from the bag until we came home and unpacked the hospital bag. Here's a list of what you will actually need to take to the hospital for you, your partner, and the baby. Just below is a link to our YouTube channel video about all you will need, or if it's easier, there's a list below for you.


How to pack your Hospital Bag

                                                   Image from: www.gardenista.com
You:

-Insurance information and ID
-Outfit (at least 2, in case your stay is extended)
*with all clothing, including pj's, be nursing conscience if you plan to nurse*
-Toiletries (Shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, etc.)
-Toothbrush and Toothpaste
-Hair brush
-Nursing Bra : I've read that wearing one to the hospital isn't a terrible idea
-Pajamas
-Underwear: I suggest some that you won't mind getting messed up)
-Pads: the hospital will usually provide you with some, but it you do not like the kind they have, it's great to know you have some you like
-Nursing pads: Even if you are not planning on nursing, you may start leaking colostrum
-Flip flops or house shoes (or both): Because hospital floors are cold on bare feet, and I know many people like to wear flip flops when showering in places other than their own home
-Snacks
-Phone and/or Camera Charger

That's about it for you, for the necessity side of things. There are a few more things I will list that you will see on other hospital bag lists, but most of these items NEVER saw the light of day until we returned home with the baby and unpacked our bag.
-Robe
-Towels (my hospital provided me with them)
-Magazines
-Blanket (hospital will provide you with plenty)
-Razor (yeah right, you just delivered a baby... )
-Make Up (I did put a little on the second day just to make me feel like I didn't look like a total zombie, but definitely was not on the top of my list of priorities)

Partner/Spouse:

-Outfit (at least 2, in case your stay is extended)
-Toiletries (Shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, etc.)
-Toothbrush and Toothpaste
-Hair brush
-Underwear
-Pajamas
-Snacks and Drinks
-Money for Vending (Oddly, it's like one of the most important things!!)
-Phone charger and/or camera charger
-Entertainment (there will probably be plenty to keep them entertained. There usually is a TV in the room. Magazines, tablets, books, or anything they may like. For that matter, if labor is taking a long time, like 17 hours for me, any of these can offer as a nice distraction for you, as well.)

Baby:
Let me point out, most every thing you may need for the baby, will be provided by the hospital. Almost every thing on this list may not actually be a necessity, but it is nice to have your own.
-Diapers
-Wipes
-Hat
-Blanket
-Nightgown
-Onesie
-Going Home outfit *must have*
-Bottle (nursing or not. If for some reason you need to supplement, you will want the baby to start off with the bottle of your choice. The hospital will provide formula and tips, if necessary).
-Nursing Pillow
-Car seat *must have*(The base should be already installed in car. Hospital staff will usually walk you out when you are discharged to check it)
-Gift for big sibling (if you are doing that)