Here is an article from the bump.com. After all the lists I've looked at, I feel like this is the most realistic. Some people are telling me that I need to bring my whole apartment while others are trying to tell me that the hospital will give you everything you need. I know hospitals and people are different but there's still some certain things you need to bring to the hospital to make sure you're comfortable and not as stressed out (not like having a baby isn't stressful enough).
Checklist: Packing a Hospital Bag
Forget all those other (excessive) checklists — this is the only one you’ll need, we promise.
Have your bags (one for you, one for baby) packed and in your car by
35 weeks. (Taxi-taking moms — stash your bags in the front hall closet.)
A tip for the thrifty: Ask your hospital what they provide for babies and mothers, and take those items off your list.
Must-Haves:
[ ] Insurance info, hospital forms and
birth plan (if you have one)
[ ] 2-3 pairs of warm, nonskid socks that can get ruined (for walking the halls before and after
labor)
[ ] A warm robe or sweater you don’t mind sacrificing to the cause
[ ] 2
maternity bras — no underwire — and nursing pads (whether or not you plan to nurse, you’ll appreciate the support and leak-protection)
[ ] Lip balm (hospitals are very dry)
[ ] Toiletries and personal items — hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, makeup (as if), shampoo, conditioner, lotion, contact lens case and solution (remember, travel-sized products are your friends)
[ ] Eyeglasses
[ ] Headband or ponytail holder (avoid clips — they’ll probably poke you)
[ ] Sugar-free hard candy or lozenges to keep your mouth moist during labor (candy with sugar will make you thirsty)
[ ] Pen and paper
[ ] Lots of change for the vending machines and non-perishable snacks (you’ll probably be hungry after labor, and the hospital cafeteria could be closed)
[ ] Cell phone and charger, phone numbers of people to call after birth, prepaid calling card (if your hospital doesn’t allow cell phones)
[ ] Camera, film or extra memory card, battery or charger
[ ] A gym bag packed with a change of clothes and basic hygiene products for your partner
Take it or leave it:
[ ] Extra pillow (with a case that can get ruined, in a pattern distinguishable from hospital white)
[ ] Comfortable going-home clothes in six-month maternity size and flat shoes (or, just wear the clothes you came in… sorry, but they’ll probably still fit)
[ ] Bath towel (the hospital will likely supply a small, very thin one)
[ ] Hairdryer
[ ] Your favorite brand of soap, shampoo and heavy flow sanitary pads (the hospital supplies these things, but bring your own if you’re picky)
[ ] A few pairs of
maternity underwear that can get ruined (the hospital will have disposable pairs, which some women find handy and others find gross)
[ ] A ruin-able nightgown (you can use those lovely hospital gowns, but your own might help you feel more human)
[ ] Slippers that can get dirty
[ ] Very light reading (think mags and newspapers, not War and Peace)
[ ] Your MP3 (loaded with your favorite tunes, of course)
[ ] Massage oil and tools like rolling pins or tennis balls, and lucky or inspirational objects (honestly, we doubt you'll use 'em…but feel free to prove us wrong!)
Leave Home:
[ ] Any clothes or nighties you really like (they will get ruined)
What to Bring For Baby:
[ ] Warm blankets (for the ride home)
[ ] Outdoor gear like a snowsuit and hat, as seasonally appropriate (remember, babies are extra sensitive to cold)
