Get Ready for Your Breastfeeding / Pumping Journey: What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

So, it's the end of your third trimester, and you're getting ready to bring your little one into the world! Now, it's time to start packing that hospital bag. Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, it's easy to get overwhelmed with lists and suggestions.

Let’s cut through the noise and talk about the essentials you’ll need as a breastfeeding or pumping mama, whether you plan to exclusively pump or just want to be prepared for any situation.

First things first, even if you’re unsure if you’ll end up pumping, it’s smart to have your own supplies ready. While the hospital might have pumps and accessories, you won’t be able to take those home, and they may not fit your long-term needs (hello, flange size!). Starting your pumping journey with your own gear sets you up for success. 

Here’s what I recommend packing for pumping moms:

Milk Production: It’s a Slow Start!

Let’s set some expectations—those Instagram posts of freezers full of milk won’t be your reality right away. In the first few days postpartum, you’ll be working with colostrum, aka “liquid gold.”

While colostrum comes in tiny amounts, it’s the perfect nourishment for your newborn. Your mature milk typically comes in around 5 days after delivery, so don’t expect to fill bottles right away.

Here’s a general guide to how much colostrum to expect per session:

- First 24 hours: 2-10 mL (2 tsp)

- Day 2: 5-15 mL (1-3 tsp)

- Day 3: 15-30 mL (½-1 oz)

- Days 4-7: 30-45 mL (1-1.5 oz)

- Weeks 1-2: 45-60 mL (1.5-2 oz)

Tools for Collecting Colostrum

Hand expression is a great way to collect colostrum in the early days, and your Certified Lactation Consultant can guide you on how to do this. (You can check out my educational video about hand expression on Instagram). You might also want to bring a manual pump (I recommend the Medela Manual Breast Pump) for when your hands get tired (How to use a manual pump).

You won’t need large bottles for colostrum. Consider packing silicone colostrum collectors or disposable syringes to store small amounts of milk. These are also great for antenatal colostrum collection if you’re collecting before delivery.

Electric Pumps: Preparing for When Milk Comes In

Once your mature milk comes in, that’s when your electric breast pump (I advise to get a double electric pump - BabyBuddha 2.0 can be your one) will come in handy. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, an electric pump takes the physical effort out of pumping, which can be a lifesaver while recovering. Make sure to pack your manual pump and electric pump so you have options.

Essentials to Pack for Pumping Moms:

- Flanges (make sure they’re the right size!)

- Duckbills

- Backflow protectors

- Tubing

Pro Tip: Pack two sets of pump parts so you can alternate while waiting for one set to dry after washing.

Comfort Items for Pumping

Pumping, especially in the beginning, can be uncomfortable. Here’s what you’ll need to make it easier:

- Pump spray for lubrication

- Silverette Cups to protect and heal sensitive nipples

- Nipple cream (I love lanolin-free options like Tiny Human)

- Gel pads to ease nipple pain (cold) or encourage letdown (warm)

Hygiene Is Key

Keeping your pump parts clean is essential, even if you’re only pumping small amounts. Consider packing:

• A travel-sized drying rack and bottle brush

• A wash basin for keeping parts clean and sanitary

• Sterilization reusable bags for microwave

Don’t forget to enlist your partner’s help in cleaning pump parts while you rest!

The Final Countdown

As your due date approaches, double-check that you’ve packed all the hospital bag must-haves for breastfeeding or pumping moms. Preparing in advance helps make your delivery and hospital stay smoother.

Want more tips for your hospital bag? Check out my post about Hospital Bag Essentials for an expecting mom!

Good luck, mama—you’ve got this! 💙