My Hospital Bag Essentials: What I'm Packing for Baby Cherry's Arrival (and What I Learned from Stella & Ozzy!)

Okay, you guys, it's almost time!! Baby Cherry is gonna be here any day now and I'm officially in full nesting mode, which means the hospital bag is PACKED. I feel like I've learned so much from my first two deliveries, so this time I'm really trying to be smart about what I bring. Lmk if I missed anything!! I'm freakin out but in the best way possible, like I just can't wait to meet her and hold her and smell her sweet little head. It feels like just yesterday I was finding out I was pregnant, and now here we are, counting down the days. It's wild how fast it goes, isn't it? My heart is just bursting thinking about our little family of five. :,)

So, the hospital bag. It's a whole thing, right? With Stella, I feel like I packed everything but the kitchen sink. I was so nervous and excited, and honestly, a little clueless. I had all these cute baby outfits and a million swaddles, thinking I needed to be prepared for every single scenario. Then with Ozzy, I scaled back a bit, but still probably brought too much. This time, with Cherry, I feel like I've finally hit my stride. I'm focusing on comfort, practicality, and things that genuinely made a difference for me in those first few days. And honestly, a lot of it is for me and Tanner, bc the hospital usually has most of what baby needs.

My bag for this adventure is my trusty @beis weekender! Seriously, if you're looking for a good bag for ANYTHING, these are it. They're so roomy and have all these smart compartments. It's perfect for a hospital bag bc you can separate your shoes, toiletries, and all the random bits. Plus, it looks cute, ngl. You can use code LOBEESTON15 for 15% off your first purchase! Not sponsored, just genuinely love it. Okay, maybe a little sponsored, but I wouldn't tell you to get it if I didn't actually use it and love it. I'm not about that life hahah. It's just a really good bag, okay? Tanner even uses his for his work trips sometimes, against his will but idc, it's practical!

For Mama (aka ME!): Comfort is King (or Queen!)

This is where I'm putting most of my energy this time around. After giving birth, you're not exactly feeling like a supermodel, you know? You're tired, sore, and just trying to figure out life with a newborn. So, comfort is absolutely non-negotiable.

• Robe & Pajamas: I'm bringing my favorite super soft robe and a couple of comfy pajama sets. Think loose, breathable, and easy for nursing if you're planning to. The hospital gowns are… fine, but having your own soft stuff just makes you feel a little more human. I love a good button-down pajama top bc it's easy access.
• Slippers & Cozy Socks: The hospital floors are cold, and you'll be doing a lot of shuffling around. I'm packing my comfiest slippers and some fuzzy socks. It's a small thing, but it makes a huge difference.
• Nursing-Friendly Outfits: I'm packing a couple of simple, loose-fitting outfits for going home and for visitors. Think soft leggings, oversized t-shirts, and nursing tanks. Nothing tight or restrictive. I'm not trying to impress anyone, just trying to be comfortable.
• Pillow & Blanket: This is a game-changer, you guys. Hospital pillows are notoriously thin. Bringing your own pillow from home is like a little piece of heaven. And a small, soft blanket? Chef's kiss. It just makes the room feel a little less sterile and a little more cozy. Tanner usually steals my blanket though, I swear.
• Toiletries & Skincare: Don't forget your own shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, and face wash. I'm also bringing my favorite moisturizer, lip balm (so important!), and a gentle dry shampoo. Feeling clean and fresh, even for a few minutes, can boost your mood so much. I'm not talking full glam, just the essentials to feel like myself.
• Postpartum Essentials: The hospital provides a lot of this, but I like to bring my own super absorbent pads (the bigger the better, trust me), perineal spray, and a peri bottle. Sometimes having your own familiar brands just feels better.
• Hair Ties & Headbands: You'll want to keep your hair out of your face, especially during labor and those first few days. I'm packing a ton of soft hair ties and a couple of comfy headbands.

For Tanner (My Hype Man & Snack Master):

Tanner is my rock, always. He's gonna be running around, getting me ice chips, holding my hand, and probably making me laugh when I need it most. So, I gotta make sure he's comfy too!

• Comfy Clothes: He's packing a couple of changes of clothes, sweatpants, t-shirts, and a hoodie. Nothing fancy, just stuff he can chill in.
• Pillow & Blanket: Yes, he gets his own this time! He learned his lesson from Stella's birth when he was trying to sleep on a tiny couch with no pillow.
• Snacks & Drinks: This is HUGE. I'm talking granola bars, fruit snacks, beef jerky, his favorite soda, and some energy drinks. He'll be there for hours, and hospital food isn't always available or appealing. Plus, I'll probably want some of his snacks too, ngl.
• Chargers & Entertainment: Phone charger, laptop, headphones. He'll need to keep his phone charged for all the updates to family, and maybe watch a show or two during downtime.

For Baby Cherry: Just the Essentials (Trust Me!)

This is where I've learned the most. Hospitals provide almost everything for the baby while you're there – diapers, wipes, blankets, little onesies. So, don't go overboard!

• Going Home Outfit: This is the one thing I really focus on. I've got a super cute, soft, and comfortable outfit picked out for her to wear home. Something easy to get on and off, and appropriate for the weather. I can't wait to see her in it! :,)
• Swaddles: While the hospital has them, I like to bring one or two of my favorite soft swaddles. Sometimes they just feel a little more special and familiar.
• Car Seat: Obviously, this isn't in the hospital bag, but it's installed in the car and ready to go! Tanner made sure it was in there weeks ago, bc he's the best.
• Pacifier: I'm bringing one or two just in case she takes to it right away.

What I'm NOT Packing (Learned from Experience!):

• Too Many Baby Outfits: Seriously, the hospital provides little onesies, and you're mostly just snuggling anyway. Save the cute outfits for home.
• Books/Magazines: I always think I'll have time to read, but let's be real, you're either sleeping, holding the baby, or staring at the baby. There's no time for reading.
• Makeup: Again, thought I'd want to put on a full face for visitors. Nope. A little lip balm and moisturizer is all I need.
• My Own Diapers/Wipes for Baby: The hospital has plenty. Save your stash for home.
• Breast Pump: Unless you have a specific medical reason and have been advised by your doctor, the hospital can provide one if you need it, or you can wait until you get home.

So, that's my list! I feel pretty good about it this time. It's a mix of comfort, practicality, and a few little luxuries to make those first few days as smooth as possible. I'm just so ready to meet our sweet girl and bring her home to her big sisters. Stella and Ozzy are so excited, it's the cutest thing ever. My heart is just so full. :,) Wish me luck, you guys! I'll keep you updated!

Don't forget to use code LOBEESTON15 for 15% off your first Beis purchase if you're looking for a good bag!