As the delivery time of our first little one approached, I wanted to plan as best as I could. Since going into labor can be sudden and unexpected, it was my goal to be as prepared as possible - and as little like this as possible. ;) At the time, I read a handful of articles, blogs, and got some advice from some friends on what they packed. Since having Emet, I've had several mothers-to-be ask about how I packed and prepared for my time in the hospital, so I thought I'd share it with you here too!

I realize that some of this stuff may not necessary for everyone, so feel free to cross out anything that isn't needed.

Here are some specific notes and items I particularly liked from lists above. I've also  provided some links for you below so if you need any of these items you can easily get them. 

CLOTHING

• Clothing to Wear Home (Loose Maternity): When I was leaving the hospital, I wanted to make sure I had something nice and comfortable to wear home. We did some photos of putting Emet into the car for the first time. I brought along a maternity outfit - comfort is everything!
• Leggings: While in the hospital I wanted something that was comfortable and practical. Bringing along a comfortable pair of leggings allows you to get out of the bed and walk around with visitors without the worry of covering up. I really like these leggings from Old Navy. I prefer the low-rise fit rather than the over the belly ones.
• Loose-Fitting T-Shirt: Again, comfort is everything. After giving birth, the last thing you will feel like wearing is tight clothes. I brought along a loose-fitting nursing top made out of t-shirt material. It was such a great addition. Here is one that I really like using: Nursing Top.
• Nursing Bra: Since I knew ahead of time that I wanted to nurse, I made sure to bring along a nursing bra. I tried a couple of different brands and I really loved the brand Bravado. Here are some links to two that I really like: Bravado Ballet Nursing Bra &  Bravado Seamless Nursing Bra.
• Nursing Cover: Finding a good nursing cover can be tricky. I tried out several different kinds. I found the wraps to be the best combination of style and functionality. This style is my top pick: Nursing Cover.
• Nursing Nightgown: A dear friend of mine recommended this line of nursing nightgowns. It's embarrassing how much I wore these at the hospital and after I got home. They're amazing. You can check them out here: Baby Be Mine Nightgown.
• Nursing Tank Top: When you're nursing, there are two things that matter when it comes to clothing: (1) Comfort (2) Ease.  The Motherhood Nursing Tank provides both of these. This is another one of those pieces that I wore all of the time. It's great!
• Robe: Baby Be Mine Nursing Robe.
• Socks: It's cold in the hospital. I wanted something to help keep my feet warm as I tried to sleep and relax.
• Slippers: I needed something to slip on my feet as I got up to care for my little one. A good pair of slippers were a necessity for our time in the hospital.
• Sweatshirt: Again, it's all about comfort. I wanted something soft and warm available.

TOILETRIES / PERSONAL

• Chapstick: I hate having chapped lips. I always keep a stick of Burt's Bees with me.
• Face Wipes: I've found that a great way to keep my face feeling clean and fresh is using the Burt's Bees face wipes. I've been using these for many years, and I don't go out of the house over night without them.
• Face Wash / Face Lotion: I have a nightly regiment of products I use - once again Burt's Bees. Whatever your routine is, bring those products with you. I enjoyed having as much of home with me as possible.

Here are also some things I've found helpful to think through as I get ready to be gone for a few days in the hospital:

I hope these lists are helpful for you as you prepare to meet your new little one. I'd love to hear your thoughts on these and any additions you think would be beneficial!

| Credits: Author & Photography - Jacintha Payne |