Probably from the moment I found out I was pregnant, I started thinking about all of the things we would need for a new baby. Crib, stroller, car seat, clothes, BURP CLOTHS (they spit up a whole lot), diapers, bibs, the list goes on and on.

One of the last things I got together was the hospital bag. I was somewhere around 30 weeks pregnant when I packed it. Two kids later, and I’m laughing. Boy did I bring a bunch of unnecessary junk, and forget a lot of NECESSARY junk.

It was all for the baby, and basically nothing for me except for one change of clothes.

Boy, I learned.

So here’s a list of what you ACTUALLY need in that bag.

Personal hygiene products

Toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, and shampoo. I seriously don’t know why I didn’t think of those things. I was at the hospital for three days after my oldest was born. Not being able to brush my teeth was horrible. I definitely didn’t forget a second time. I did remember deodorant. That made me happy at least. If someone is staying with you, pack an extra toothbrush and their deodorant as well.

More than one change of clothes, including something comfy

I ended up stuck in my hospital gown the entire time I was there. My husband and I lived in a city where we relied on public transportation, so it wasn’t easy just to stop by our apartment and grab things. I had one change of clothes. I wish I had at least ONE more so I could have felt human again sooner. Nothing was worse than changing rooms multiple times, in a hospital gown. I also can’t stress enough, make sure your partner or whoever is with you also brings some things for them if they plan to stick around overnight.

Snacks

My husband was starving while we were at the hospital. Both times. He didn’t want to leave and miss something, so he waited until both of the boys arrived before he ate. Pack some granola bars and other snacks not only for you, because you will be ravenous after that baby pops out, but also for him. As much as it sucks to watch him eat when you can’t, he needs to keep his strength up, to be all the support you’ll need.

Phone charger

I honestly can’t remember if I remembered it the first time. During both of my labor experiences, I chose to get an epidural to make the contractions a little more bearable. Once you’re hooked up, you aren’t going anywhere. So, it can get boring if the progress is slow. Plus, my mom was out of state for both deliveries, and it was really important to me that I was able to keep in touch with her.

A go home outfit for baby

Let’s face it, we all have that picked out. My little one stayed naked until we left, so I realized I didn’t need the 4 or 5 different bodysuits that I packed.

As far as what you don’t need, I only have one thing on that list. It’s diapers. The exception being cloth diapers of course. If you are going with disposable, they have plenty on hand for you. Also, don’t be afraid to take the extras home, and anything else that is provided for you. It is all included in your hospital stay, so it belongs to you anyway.

Obviously, everyone is different but these are what I found most helpful. Yes, you have brought a beautiful new life into the world, but I learned that they don’t need much in those first few days. Labor and delivery are hard enough, so why not plan to make things easier on yourself with what you CAN control? Take care of yourself, mama.