Ha! I couldn't help but make a list to keep myself organized: I've included it below, and it sure doesn't seem minimal to me now. Any advice for additional items to include or for things to leave behind? I made my packing list based on advice garnered from others, as well as my own preferences. But obviously, I've never done this before, so I'm very open to hearing from anyone with seasoned insight. My doula will bring along a few extra labor-assist items such as an exercise ball and massage tools.
Clothing for Mama:
Nursing Bras (2)
Cozy socks (2-3)
Lightweight Bathrobe (1)
Slippers
Pack of black cotton undies in large size
Outfit to wear home (maternity leggings, t-shirt, loose cardigan sweatshirt)
Flip-flops for shower
Toiletries:
Toiletries (shampoo/conditioner, face wash, soap, lotion, toothbrush/paste, deodorant, lip balm, etc.)
Makeup bag
Hairbrush/Comb + extra hair ties
Disposable Nursing Pads
Recovery Items (nipple cream, soothing bottom spray, arnica oil, maxi pads, vitamins, belly bandit)
Nourishment:
Reusable water bottle + a few bottles of gatorade
Granola Bars, Fruit Snacks, Trail Mix
Paperwork:
Hospital Registration Form
Pediatrician Contact Info
Midwife + Doula Contact Info
Copies of insurance cards + driver's license
Folder for baby's paperwork (birth certificate info, forms, etc.)
Notebook + Pen
Electronics:
Fully charged camera with formatted SD cards
Laptop/iPad + charger
Phone + charger
Friends & Family email contact list to send the initial "she's here!" announcement
For Baby:
Blanket
Going Home Outfit (Onesie, leggings, booties, hat, sweater, extra footie pajamas)
Car Seat
For Tiho:
Toiletries Kit
Boxers + Socks (2-3)
Sweatpants (1)
T-shirts (2-3)
Hoodie (1)
Slippers
Flip-Flops for shower
Miscellaneous:
Plastic bag for dirty laundry
Quarters for vending machine
Baby Book (for foot/hand prints)
Nurse Gifts (Edibles?)
Breath Mints
//
Whew! Go ahead and make fun of me now. It's cool.
*There are additional common items that several packing lists recommend which I personally don't find necessary, such as diapers/wipes/pacifiers/swaddle blankets (will use hospital-provided ones) and my own pillow/towel (why the hassle?).
**Top photo shows baby girl's items. They're definitely the prettiest of the bunch!
