Turns out those contractions were Braxton hicks and some good ole’ fashioned back pain. Baby is still in the womb, but a little practice run never hurt anybody! I referred back to my blog post on what I packed in my hospital bag with Nora, and it was really helpful. I think this time will be different considering I’ve been there, done that! Here are the goods:

What I’m Packing in My Hospital Bag: Round 2

Mom

Our hospital provides all necessary postpartum items for mama like ice packs, witch hazel, pads, disposable undies, peri bottle and stool softeners (leave room in your bag for these take-home goodies!). This is usually typical of most facilities, but I like to stock up on Frida Mom boy shorts (the BEST things to live in postpartum) and if you think you’ll need more than what the hospital might provide, the full Frida Mom Recovery Kit. Psst… this would also make for an amazing baby shower gift for mom!

The essentials

ID, insurance card, wallet.

Sleep shirt

I wore a similar one throughout my time at the hospital with Nora. It was so comfy to hang out in while soaking up all the newborn snuggles + made for easy icepack/diaper changes for mama.

Throw blanket and pillows

We brought two blankets and two pillows from home last time and thought it was a clutch move! The hospital pillows are thin, so I’m glad we brought our creature comforts from home.

Compression socks

I brought these to the hospital the first time and was so glad I did. My feet were swollen after delivery and these helped so much!

Slides

These are my new favorite things from Amazon Prime Day! Talk about walking on CLOUD 9! These pillow slippers will be great for walking around and keeping my feet protected from plantar fasciitis (can also work in the shower!). I’m usually a size 9, but I’m so glad I read the reviews and got the 7.5-8.5. They’re the perfect fit.

Hatch robe

I didn’t use a robe last time, but I’m going to bring my Hatch robe this time around because it truly is so comfortable and one can never have too many creature comforts from home.

Going home outfit

I’ve been eyeing this set for so long, and I finally pulled the trigger on Amazon Prime Day recently. It’s really cozy with a bit of a waistband that will be perfect for postpartum.

Phone charger

Whether you’re on your phone while laboring or blasting a playlist, the battery can go FAST. Consider this extra long cord in case the plug is further away from the bed.

Dagne Dover diaper tote

I’ve been carrying this around since May as my own carry-on/handbag with no regrets. Yes, it’s a diaper bag which makes it even more useful to me these days 🙂 I swear by it!

Monos luggage

Look. Some people walk in the hospital with a weekender bag, but don’t feel bad if you want to take an entire suitcase. Some of these items are heavy-duty, after all! With blankets, boppys and your partner’s stuff, I promise you’ll fill it in no time!

Baby

The hospital will provide you with formula, diapers, swaddles, blankets and hats for baby. We relied on them for these items with Nora.

Baby toiletry bag

Because baby needs a catch-all, too! Think aquaphor, baby comb, etc. Even if I don’t put a lot in it for the hospital, I’ll use it for years to come at home and while traveling.

Dagne Dover diaper backpack

I don’t think we’ll bring this to the hospital just because baby’s stuff will fit inside the suitcase, but I still wanted to include it here because it’s a phenomenal diaper bag!

Boppy Pillow

I loved using this for feeding support with Nora so we’ll be bringing it back. I just bought this cover for more pillow protection this time around!

Going home outfit

My mom got this gown monogrammed for the baby with this hat. I can’t wait to see her in it!

Baby blanket

I adore this blanket so much because it’s warm without being too hot – the perfect weight!

Bobbie organic formula

Because it’s the best!

Car seat

Don’t forget the car seat on the way to the hospital! We swear by our Doona, and I’m excited to break it out again for baby 2!

Toiletries

Mama toiletry bag

How cute is this one to match the baby’s?! I love mine and use it all the time 🙂

Ilia lip balm

I sleep with lip balm at my bedside and never leave home without it. Hospital air can feel dry so don’t forget this one!

Ritual Prenatal/Postnatal vitamins

My body is about to make miracles happen. I can’t forget to continue to nourish ME while doing it.

Body lotion

Hospital air can be so dry, and I love this moisturizer to throw in my bag/purse. I trust all Honest Beauty and Baby products and love how clean this brand is 🙂

Skincare

I LOVE all things Elemis, Osea and Tula right now.

Dry Shampoo

I never washed my hair at the hospital the first time, but if you need a refresher, dry shampoo always does the trick.

Hair brush

Because who knows what labor will look like (cue nervous laugh).

Makeup bag

To each her own! Some women want all the photo ops and some like it more au naturale. I’m obsessed with all Tarte make-up right now!

Toothbrush/toothpaste/body wash/shampoo/conditioner/deodorant

Ya know, the bare necessities. If you’re able and cleared, a shower post-birth feels oh so good!