There's no one-size-fits-all approach to pregnancy, and that's true even down to the smallest details, like your hospital bag. And while there's no right or wrong way to prepare for your delivery, there are definitely some secrets from moms who have been there before that you may find helpful as you start looking towards your final push. That's why we asked two of our Perelel co-Founders, Alex Taylor and Victoria Thain Gioia, to share their hospital bag packing lists and their (very) different approaches to prepping for the delivery. Keep reading to see which approach feels right for you—you may even be somewhere in the middle.
The Basics
No matter if you're a maximalist mom or a minimalist mom, these are the basic essentials you'll need post-delivery.
- Car Seat
Tip: We suggest installing it in the car ahead of time so you're ready to go with your new little one once you're able to head home. - Infant Head Support Pillow
Perelel Pick: We love this neutral grey from Boppy. - Baby Blanket
- Baby Swaddle
- Baby Hat
- Baby Outfit
- Postnatal Vitamins
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The Minimalist Mom
"I was so focused on getting the baby out and caring for my newborn, that I barely used most of the things I brought for post-delivery. That said, now that I'm on my third, I'll definitely be adding an eye mask to my list for those few moments where I can try and get some sleep."
- Victoria Thain Gioia, Perelel co-Founder
- Electronics: Phone Charger, Headphones and iPad
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Shampoo, Conditioner, Face Wash, Lotion, Hairbrush and Lip Balm
- Socks
- Pajama Set with a Button-Down Top
- Nursing Bra
- Brief Underwear
- Comfortable Spandex
- Cozy Shirt or Sweater to Wear Home
The Maximalist Mom
"When I have access to all of my usual comforts, I find that I’m more relaxed and at ease in new situations where there might be a lot of unknowns. Now that I’ve gone through the process of having a baby at the hospital, I can attest to the fact that I did use every item on my list!"
- Alex Taylor, Perelel co-Founder
For the Delivery Room
- Birthing Robe
"I bought my own so I didn’t have to wear a hospital gown, which I highly recommend." - Saje Natural Wellness Head Soother Kit ($42)
- Entertainment: Book, Magazines and iPad
- Phone Charger with an Extra-Long Cord
- Healthy Snacks
- Gum or Mints
- Honey Sticks
"I use these for my tea, but I'd suggest bringing any go-to drink that keeps you calm." - Water Bottle with a Straw
- Sugar-Free Hard Candy or Lozenges
"This helps to keep your mouth moist during labor as candy with sugar will make you thirsty and dry."
For the Recovery Room
- Toiletries: Makeup, Toothbrush and Toothpaste, Face Wash, Shampoo and Conditioner and Body Wash
- Hand Lotion
- Hair Ties
- Brief Panties
"Depending on how you deliver, most hospitals will send you home with a few pairs of mesh underwear to support your recovery." - Slippers
- Shower Sandals
- Cashmere Socks
- Belly Bandit
- Robe
- Lounge Clothes: Loose Pants, Loose Top or Tank, Sports and Nursing Bra
- Headphones
- Bluetooth Speaker
- Towel
- Stool Softener
- Folder for Hospital Paperwork
- Extra Tote
"This came in handy to carry home all the supplies and gifts I received." - Recovery Essentials: Witch Hazel ($11), Tucks Cooling Pads ($10), Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle ($16), Dermoplast Pain Spray ($13)
- Nursing Pads
- More Healthy Snacks
For Your Partner:
- Pillow
- Blanket
- Call and Email List
- Phone Charger
- Camera
We Curated Our Favorites So You Don't Have To
Oak Essentials Body Oil + Face Mist, Perelel Essential Oil, Baby Onesie by Perelel, Perelel Take Five Water Bottle, Perelel Mom Multi Support Pack, Goop Lip Balm, Emi Jay Claw Clip, Parachute Socks, Storq Robe, Yuni Body Wipes, Golde Matcha and Ceremonia Hair Care Set.
What's on your hospital bag packing list? Be sure to add postnatal vitamins to replenish your body after birth and support you throughout the early years of motherhood. Read next: five science-backed techniques to get your baby back to sleep with Dr. Harvey Karp.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and we recommend that you always consult with your healthcare provider. To the extent that this article features the advice of physicians or medical practitioners, the views expressed are the views of the cited expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Perelel.
