Your due date is just around the corner – time to get that hospital bag ready!
Feeling a bit lost on where to begin? No worries, we've got you covered. (Hint: Don’t miss the handy hospital bag checklist at the end!)
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
Aim to have your hospital bag packed by 36 or 37 weeks, just in case your little one decides to make an early appearance.
It's totally okay to toss a few last-minute items in, like your toothbrush, but by this stage in your pregnancy, you'll want the essentials all set and your bag within easy reach.
From must-have necessities (yes, you will need a car seat) to those comfort items that make you feel at home, we’ve got the details. We gathered input from Babylist parents and sprinkled in some wisdom from our own childbirth journeys.
Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you might want or need to bring to the hospital.
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
Packing for the big day? Let's make sure you've got everything you need to feel comfortable and ready to meet your little one.
- Comfortable Clothes: Think soft, stretchy, and easy-to-wear. You’ll need postpartum-friendly outfits, especially if a C-section is on the table. Nursing bras or tanks are essential if you’re planning to breastfeed. Match them with cozy bottoms like joggers or lightweight sleep pants. A nursing-friendly pajama set or nightgown is a great option, too. And don’t forget a dark-colored sports bra or bathing suit top if water labor is in your plan. For shoes, opt for grippy socks and easy slip-ons like Birks, Crocs, or flip-flops—your possibly swollen feet will thank you.
- Robe: A comfy robe is a postpartum lifesaver, no matter how you deliver.
- Toiletries: Bring your hairbrush, dry or regular shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, body lotion, extra hair ties, and face wipes (these are a godsend if you’re not feeling up to a full shower). If you wear contacts or glasses, pack spares and solution.
- Your Birth Plan: Have a birth plan? Print a few copies: one for your chart, some for labor nurses, and another to tape up in your room. Highlight key points for quick reference.
- Extra-Long Cell Phone Charger Cord: Hospital beds + outlet distance = frustration. Pack a long cord (or two) so you can capture those precious first moments without your phone dying.
- Snacks and Drinks: A reusable water bottle with a straw for easy sipping, electrolyte drinks, and easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, pretzels, and dried fruit will keep you fueled and hydrated.
- Pillows and a Bath Towel: Hospital pillows and towels are… eh, let’s just say not five-star quality. Bring your own for that much-needed comfort.
- Nipple Cream: Breastfeeding? Pack this for some early relief.
- Adult Diapers and Postpartum Care Products: Hospital-provided pads and mesh undies are great, but many parents swear by adult diapers like Depend. Reusable postpartum absorbent underwear, perineal spray, and your prenatal vitamins are also good to pack. Or, grab a postpartum recovery kit like those from FridaMom or Bodily.
- Portable Bluetooth Speaker and Playlist: Labor can be long, so create a playlist (with lots of songs) to keep the vibes right. Some parents prefer silence, but it’s good to have music as an option.
- Nice-to-Haves: A diffuser to create a spa-like atmosphere, a portable fan (since windows often don’t open), and a nursing pillow for extra comfort if breastfeeding.
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Baby
Once you've got your comfort items sorted, it’s time to think about what your little one will need. Here’s a quick checklist to keep things smooth and stress-free:
- A Car Seat: This is your golden ticket home. Install it ahead of time because they absolutely won’t let you leave without one. No car seat, no adorable car ride home with your bundle of joy!
- A Coming-Home Outfit: Babies like to keep us guessing with their sizes, so pack two options—one in newborn size and another in 0-3 months. Toss in a hat and some socks if it’s chilly to keep those tiny toes and head cozy.
- Pediatrician’s Contact Info: You’ll be asked for this multiple times, so better to have it ready. Jot down the phone number and also the email or fax number of your pediatrician’s office to streamline those medical record transfers.
- Bottles: If you’re going the bottlefeeding route from day one, pack at least a couple of your preferred brand. Likewise, bring along some formula if that's your plan, although hospitals usually have samples to get you started.
- No Need for Diapers or Wipes! The hospital’s got you covered on this front. In fact, it’s a good idea to bring an extra bag because one savvy parent suggested you'll likely be hauling home a treasure trove of freebies.
What Your Partner or Support Person Should Pack
Hey there, modern parents! If your birth partner or support person is joining you for the big day and staying at the hospital or birth center, make sure they’re prepped too. Besides the usual clothes and toiletries (they'll want to brush their teeth too!), here are some essentials to toss in their bag:
- Entertainment Essentials: Book, iPad, laptop, headphones—whatever keeps them occupied. Pro tip: Download some fresh podcasts for those unpredictable downtimes.
- Comfy Sleeping Gear: Lightweight sleeping bag and pillow. Hospital blankets, sheets, and pillows can feel like sandpaper—your partner deserves better!
What Snacks to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
Yes, snacks get their own spotlight here. Pack lots of them! Here’s a handy breakdown to make sure you’re covered:
- Salty: Think pretzels or Goldfish crackers.
- Sweet: Hard candies, M&M’s, or gummy candy.
- Protein: Beef jerky or protein bars.
- Healthy/Fresh: Granola bars, dried fruit, or carrot sticks.
Both the laboring parent and their support crew will thank you later! For that triumphant first post-birth meal, scope out nearby restaurants that deliver—you might want to skip the hospital cuisine. (Just double-check with your hospital or birthing center for any specific guidelines.) And don’t forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated!
Once your bag is packed, you’ll be all set to make a dash to the hospital when baby decides it’s go-time!
