Hospital Bag Revisited

I've had a couple questions about my hospital bag. Did I use everything in it?  Is there anything I didn't have packed that I would've wanted?

So I thought we'd revisit it just to give all you expectant moms, the low down on what to pack and what to leave home.  Here's the picture of what all I took:

 

Now let's talk about what I used and what I didn't.  First off, remember this is all just personal preference but as a mom already, I packed even less than I did the first time around.

 

 

First of all, my husband made fun of me for having such a huge bag but when he saw all the stuff the hospital sends you home with (diapers, alcohol swabs, pacifiers, little hats, etc) and all the mommy stuff (pads, witch hazel pads, sexy undies, nipple cream, medications, etc); he realized we needed the extra room.

The big shocker for me out of everything I took was the Brest Friend Pillow.  I tried using it a little and I just found it more of a hassle.  I ended up not using it much at all.  I guess as a second time breastfeeder, I just know how to hold the baby comfortably so that we're both good.  I still haven't used it much. I used the boppy the first time around and that was ok but this pillow just feels to big and bulky.

I used all the clothes I packed for myself as well as the going home outfit for allie but the entire time in the hospital, she stayed in the hospital clothes.  I didn't use any burp clothes because she just wasn't getting much milk at that point. 

The slippers and shower shoes were a definite plus.  I used them all the time  Walking out to get water, snacks, etc they were great to have. 

E also loved his surprise.  I'm glad I had that packed. 

 

I wish I would've remembered to pack her baby book.  The hospital would've done her hand and footprints right in it for us. 

 

I also wish I would've packed a pillow case.  I used to do this when I traveled for work every week and it made living in a hotel room just a little more bearable.  I took my little pillow but the hospital sheets just aren't great and I am sucker for my pillow so maybe one of my pillow cases on their pillows would've sufficed and made it feel a little more homey but it was fine really. 

 

Pretty much everything else was a success.  I'm trying to think of other things I wish I would've had with me but it nothing jumps out at me. 

 

I didn't pack or take a diaper bag since we were coming straight home there wasn't anything in the diaper bag that I needed at the hospital or for the car ride home (all 20 min of it).  If you have a longer trip, you might want to think about it.

 

I hope that helps all you mama's out there.  It can be daunting to try to think through every scenario but just think through what it takes to keep you comfortable and pack it!  You're hubby will carry it for you so pack away!

 

Check out our Baby Story here!

 

What did you have in your hospital bag that you didn't use?  What did you wish you had packed?

 

Hopefully that helps you