Congratulations, you’re expecting a little blessing! You’ve already got the nursery ready, wrote your birth plan and have baby shopped until you dropped. The only thing left to do is to pack the hospital bag. If you’re a new Mama, read on to see the must-haves for your hospital stay. If you’re a veteran Mama, I hope you learn some new tips!

Labor Necessities

You’ll want your hospital bag to contain a few basic things for labor. When packing for labor, think of comfort items. Things like fuzzy socks, a robe, lip balm, hair ties and a favorite pillow can do wonders when labor pangs hit. You may want things that will distract you such as a tablet, books/magazines, a specific playlist, or a favorite puzzle book. If your hospital allows eating and drinking during labor, pack some strengthening snacks like granola bars and juice. Packing things that calm you is also a great idea. Essential oils, calming music, visualization podcasts are great examples of nerve-soothing labor tools.

Don’t Forget Daddy!

Your partner will love having a few special things packed. It can be hard to leave a hospital room, so pack your man’s favorite snacks and drinks. A phone charger and pillow will help your partner have all the comforts of home and be able to rest. Pack an extra change of clothes for Daddy as well! Put Daddy in charge of electronics, like cell phones and cameras.

For After the Delivery

After your baby arrives, you deserve star treatment. Focus on packing items that help you feel comfortable and pampered. Pack comfortable clothes that will easily accommodate your healing body. Pack your favorite bath and beauty products for your post-partum shower. If you are nursing, pack things that will help the transition such as nipple cream, prenatal vitamins, and a nursing pillow. The hospital will have post-partum pads and underwear, so you don’t need to worry about those until you get home!

For Baby

The hospital will have diapers, wipes, pacifiers and baby hats. Pack those fun items that you chose specifically for your little one like knotted sleeper set (duh). They are easy to slip on and off for diaper changes. Bring baby lotion and other baby hygiene items.

Going Home!

For your trip home, you’ll want a comfy outfit for yourself and a special outfit for your little one. You’ll want to bring your car seat, as most hospitals check to make sure you know how to properly secure your baby. When leaving the hospital, go through your room and take leftover diapers, nose aspirators, hats, wipes, and pacifiers. These things can’t be used for another patient and are added to your bill, so they won’t be missed!

What are your hospital bag essentials?