What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom-to-Be
Delivery day is fast approaching, and as a mom-to-be, you're likely full of excitement, and nerves! As the day gets closer, you know it's time to pack your hospital bag so you’re fully prepped for the big day. So, where to begin? We’ve got you covered with our pregnancy hospital bag checklist that rounds up of all the essentials.
When to pack your hospital bag:
Experts suggest that you should aim to have your hospital bag packed and ready by the door by 35 weeks. For high-risk pregnancies, your bag should be ready even earlier. To feel extra prepared, a good time to start packing (or at least thinking through the specifics of what you’ll need) is the beginning of your third trimester, or the 28th week. You’ll feel less anxious and more in control knowing that you are ready whenever baby is!
For mom-to-be:
When packing, keep in mind how long you are expecting to stay in the hospital. The amount of days will be different if you delivery vaginally or by C-section, so be sure to prepare accordingly. (You can always throw in an extra comfy outfit just in case you need it!)
IDs/Insurance/Paperwork: Ask your doctor or hospital what (if any) specific paperwork, forms, or medical records you need to bring with you or what you can potentially do online ahead of time. (I remember having to register with my hospital online well ahead of time, at which point I was also prompted to select my future pediatrician, since he/she will visit the baby in the hospital after delivery.) When you check into the hospital, it’s definitely a good idea to have your photo ID and insurance card with you, so make sure your wallet is fully stocked!
Toiletries: Just like when you go to a hotel for a few days, you’ll want to make sure you bring the necessities, like your toothbrush and toothpaste, a hairbrush, your favorite non-toxic deodorant, (dry) shampoo and conditioner, hair ties!!, face wash, lotions, and any medications you’d normally be taking. (Also, remind your partner to bring these necessities as well!) Don’t forget other important personal care items, like eyeglasses or contact solution (if you wear them). Consider transferring some of your items into travel-size to conserve space. And then, think through all the extra personal care items that make you feel more soothed, comforted, and more like yourself, because you’ll be feeling a little sore and messy (for lack of a better word) after birth. Hospitals are notoriously dry, so having a nourishing lip balm is crucial. If you are planning on breastfeeding, a nipple balm will help soothe irritated skin. We also suggest a luxe face spray to keep bedside, some quick and easy makeup for a natural pop of color and to feel a little more pulled together for all those photos, , maybe even a special, natural hand cream to elevate a tired moment! Whatever you choose to pack, the goal is to remember a few of your favorite personal care items that help you feel more comfortable in your own skin.
Clothing: We highly recommend you bring a beautiful yet comfortable maternity robe (that transitions perfectly to post-partum). These are great to wear during recovery: it’s loose around your midsection, makes it easy to nurse your baby, and looks so pretty in all those newborn/mom photos. In addition to a robe, we suggest wearing and bringing nursing bras, long loose nursing-friendly tops, and comfortable yoga pants. We also suggest comfortable socks, and/or slippers. Slipper socks with grippers at the bottom are useful for walking before and after delivery. Slip-on shoes are helpful in case your feet are swollen from IV fluids leaving the hospital. Flip-flops are good to have for the shower (and/or to wear home IF your feet are swollen and won’t fit in your shoes…happens to some of us.)
Technology: Obviously, don’t forget your phone and charger. Plus, you’ll want some other entertainment to distract you during a long labor and to pass the time during the days after birth. (We brought a lap top to stream and watch our favorite show in the evening while baby slept, and that made me feel more like myself during a pretty surreal and exhausting time!). Music is also great to have during labor/delivery and during the next few days at the hospital.
Other Comforts: Many women suggest bringing your favorite pillow (I didn’t want to lug mine, so didn’t bother). Hospitals provide pillows, but it may add an extra level of comfort to bring yours from home. I did however bring a nursing pillow, which made breastfeeding during those first few days a lot easier. Also, if you have any favorite snacks (ex: granola bars, larabars, etc.), stash those in your bag for yourself and your partner, especially if you labor through the night and your partner needs a snack! A reusable water bottle is also helpful to bring along. Another great item to bring is a journal. Some mothers may find comfort in jotting down thoughts after delivery. You can also use your journal for recording feeding times for baby, any questions you might have, and any notes from the pediatrician. And finally, a breast pump and cooler bag (optional). I didn’t bring mine but I’ve seen it on other hospital bag lists so I want to include it here!
For baby:
Once you are all set, it's time to start packing essentials for baby! Don't worry about packing any diapers, wipes, or bottles (if you plan on using them.) the hospital will provide all of these.
Clothing: You don’t need much for baby (the hospital provides everything during your stay), but you will want a “coming home” outfit with a hat, booties, and separate legs (not a gown) to fit the car seat strap between to take him/her home in (it’s nice to have both a size Newborn and 0-3 Months). Plus, a pretty swaddle blanket if you’re interested in including it in photos and a soft, warm blanket to tuck in the car seat. (If it’s winter, consider any other layers you might need.)
Car seat. It's important to have baby's car seat installed around the same time your hospital bag is packed. That way, you will be prepared and won't have to rush. The hospital will not let you leave without an infant car seat, so this one is especially important!
That’s it! Once you pack your hospital bag with all the essentials for mom and baby, leave it by the front door or in the car. Now, it's time to wait for baby's arrival…Good Luck Mamas! Comment below with anything we missed!