Are you an over-packer like me? I have gotten better over the years and have learned to pack light with the things that we need and use when away from home. But one thing I did not pack light for was our hospital bag when delivering our first baby. I would have packed our entire house if I could. With our second, I learned my lesson and packed just the essentials. My husband was probably happy about that part since he did not have to lug so many bags as he did the first time.
I want to make things a little easier for you because you have a lot on your plate already with getting the nursery ready, assembling all the baby gear like the bassinet, stroller, car seat, and crib, to managing all of your pregnancy symptoms. Hoping this list makes your time packing the hospital bag a little bit easier and stress-free. Plus, your partner may thank me for getting you to pack just the essentials. You are welcome.
First things, first. Be sure to pack your hospital bag before you are 35 weeks pregnant. You never know when you will go into labor especially in those last few weeks. The second time around I went into labor at 36 weeks and was so thankful that I listened to my gut and had that hospital bag packed already.
Essentials for Mom
Comfort and Clothing
- Loose-fitting gowns or robes that are nursing/ skin-to-skin friendly
- Comfortable and grippy socks
- Slip-on shoes/slippers
- Nursing bras and tops
- Loose fitting bottoms
- Comfortable going-home outfit
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash
- Contact lenses or glasses if applicable
- Hairbrush and hair ties
- Lip balm
- Lotion
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Deodorant
- Facial wipes
- Skin care regimen: face wash, moisturizer, night cream, eye cream
Postpartum Supplies
- Heavy-duty maternity pads
- Comfortable underwear (consider disposable or old pairs)
- Nipple cream and nursing pads
- Ask for refills for the supplies the hospital provides if possible
Entertainment and Comfort Items
- Books, magazines, or a tablet
- Phone and long charging cord
- Snacks and drinks
- Sound machine
Essentials for Dad/Partner
Comfort and Clothing
- Change of clothes for 1-2 days
- Comfortable shoes
- Pillow and blanket (usually hospital provides this but not the best quality)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash
- Lip balm
- Lotion
- Deodorant
Entertainment and Necessities
- Snacks and drinks
- Books, magazines, or tablet
- Phone and long charging cord
Essentials for Baby
Clothing and Blankets
- Onesies/sleepers
- Going-home outfit
- Swaddling blankets (some hospitals also provide these)
Diapering Needs (some hospitals provide all of this)
- Newborn diapers and wipes for your ride home
Feeding Supplies (some hospitals provide formula bottles)
- Bottles and formula (if not breastfeeding)
- Burp cloths
Gear
- Car seat with newborn insert
- Diaper bag for handy essentials for the ride home
- An empty bag to fill it with all the hospital freebies
Essentials for Delivery
Important Documents
- ID and health insurance information
- Hospital paperwork
- Birth plan (if you have one)
- Birth certification paperwork completed before leaving the hospital
- Pediatrician’s information
Health and Safety
- Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes
- Face masks (if required by the hospital)
Other Essentials
- Camera with charger and tripod for pictures/videos
- List of people to notify after the birth
- List of people to are okay with visiting the hospital if allowed
- Bluetooth speaker with a playlist to play during labor
- Essential oils with diffuser if this is part of your birth plan
Packing your hospital bag doesn’t have to be stressful.
Hoping this checklist provides some guidance and helps take something off your plate so you can enjoy your pregnancy. Remember, every family’s needs are different, so feel free to personalize this list as needed. Wishing you a wonderful and joyous delivery experience!
