This past weekend I did something I haven’t done in over four years—traveled solo. No kids, no husband, just me (and Baby 3). It was strangely liberating and also… just kinda strange.

When I had down time, I’d spend about 10 minutes reading or web browsing, then just kinda stare, only mildly in shock that no little person was needing me to make a sandwich, wipe a butt or just snuggle. Free time is great, but man, I miss those little boogers when I’m away.

But the trip? So worth it. I visited with my best friend in Houston, who’s expecting twins. Can I just say to all of you mamas who have or are expecting multiples, I BOW DOWN. Dear Lord, my best friend is no bigger than a minute, has heartburn probably every oh, I don’t know, 15 seconds, but is totally rocking it.

We spent the weekend getting her hospital bag packed, rifling through looooads of newborn and 0-3 month clothing and trying to come up with some rhyme and reason to organizing it, and just generally talking about mom stuff.

But as we shopped, it reminded me of how much you DON’T need to buy when having your first baby. On that note, I compiled a list of the only things I would call “Must Buy” for new moms.

Belly Bandit

I’m dubious about its belly-shrinking abilities (I do think it worked, but can’t promise it wasn’t all just in my head). But this did give me great core stabilization (SO money, especially post-C-section), and it also felt like I was getting an all-day hug. That’s all gravy by me, baby.

BONUS! They’re having a 25% off sale through Friday, December 16, with the code “FAMILY25.”

Born Free Breeze glass bottles

They have just TWO PARTS to them—the nipple, and the bottle. What kind of sorcery is this?! Any parent who has fumbled for some random plastic bottle part at 4am in the kitchen will appreciate the simplicity. Also, I’m a fan of using glass over plastic, because #worrywart and #conspiracytheorist.

Check them out here.

Aden + Anais swaddle cloths

I swaddled my babies in these for the first three or so months, then used them as spit cloths/baby blankets/snugglies for months after that. They’re soft, they’re big, wash well, and they’re adorable.

Button-down PJ’s (from any brand)

When you’re nursing, you need easy access. Need I say more? I got a great pair by Gilligan and O’Malley from Target that, to my husband’s disappointment, I still have.

Sound machine

Essential for drowning out outside noise that would otherwise wake up your baby from his/her sweet, peaceful slumber. HAHAHAHA. Just kidding. My kids never napped. But maybe yours will, so try it!

We have used both this model and this one.

Lansinoh nipple cream

Sorry, friends, sometimes motherhood ain’t sexy. Nursing can hurt. This can help.

Bonus: Makes a great lip balm!

See? Not that much. I’ll add to the list if I think of anything else!

Do you have a list of essential baby items? Let me know below!

Talk soon!!