I have a minimalist philosophy when it comes to being a parent. I don’t subscribe to what I call the huge travel system stroller ideal (complete with diaper bag on shoulder, purse on shoulder, baby in hand while shopping), I don’t pack everything in the house in my diaper bag, and I absolutely do not think you need toys wherever you go with your kids. Some don’t agree. For you, this post will not be your favorite. For all of you that like to travel light, however, this is THE post for you.

Yesterday I talked about what to bring to the hospital with you when you deliver your baby. It may have seemed like a lot but it’s really not once it is all neatly packed in your overnight bag and diaper bag. Yes, that’s it. Two small bags. If you missed the post, read it here!

Today I’m going to talk about what you DON’T need in the hospital. I consider the following superfluous items that will simply stay in your bag during your stay…just adds extra weight. Who needs that?

DO NOT BRING:

1) Jeans or more than one outfit.

You need the pajamas and cute robe and you need a comfy going home outfit. That’s all. Jeans (or tight, restrictive pants) will either not fit right or be uncomfortable (cut into your C-Section stitches or be terrible…for reasons that are pretty obvious, I think…after a vaginal delivery). Save them for a few weeks out. Any other outfit you bring you won’t wear because you just want to be comfortable after the delivery marathon. Trust me.

2. Diapers and Wipes = bulk, bulk, bulk. Plus, they give you all of this in the hospital.

3. Heels. Do I really need to explain this one? NO.

These DO rock, however. I DO want them, STAT. Cole Haan

4. Snacks and drinks.

The hospital most always provides you with  a snack station and plenty of fluids (if you are allowed to have them) for during labor and in recovery. Like I said yesterday, bring the cash for the pizza post-delivery. That’s all.

5. More than one book or magazine.

Listen: I had the longest delivery ever. EVER. If you want details, email me. I never touched my mags and books. I was either sleeping or concentrating on the labor thing. That’s the funny thing about labor…it’s a little distracting! Then, post delivery, let’s be honest. You will be taking care of that baby and resting.

6. Any legal paperwork other than your registration materials and insurance information.*

Be safe so you don’t lose it. If it becomes an issue, you will likely have your husband or a family member run off to get it for you. The likelihood is that you don’t need it so don’t risk it.

*Make sure to ask your hospital/doctor to make sure.

7. A WHITE or similarly solid colored pillow.

DO bring your own pillow. DO put it in a crazy pillow case. If you don’t, it will be easily whooshed away with the standard issue hospital linens. Oops!! That would stink.

A super fun and bright option from PBTeen

8. Expensive jewelry or other seriously valuable items. You will be tired. It’s hard to keep track of everything. This is another “just in case” scenario!

I’ll settle for this ring as a baby present from my hubs…hint hint, honey!!

There are a myriad of other silly things to not bring with you. I am assuming we all have common sense, however. If you have any questions or thoughts about what to bring/not to bring, let me know!

Adrianne