The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for a Smooth Delivery

Preparing for the arrival of your little one is an exciting and joyous time, but it’s crucial to ensure you’re ready for the big day. One essential aspect of your pre-baby to-do list is packing your hospital bag. This is something that I procrastinated way too long, and then when we had to rush to the hospital for an emergency delivery I was NOT prepared. Having a well-prepared bag can make your stay more comfortable and stress-free during labor and delivery. To help you navigate this important task, here is the ultimate hospital bag checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable birthing experience.

Essentials for Mom

• Medical Documents and Insurance Information:
  • Photo ID, insurance card, and any necessary hospital paperwork. Often you are able to pre-register with the hospital where you will deliver. If this is an option in your area, be sure to pre-register.
  • Birth plan, if you have one, to communicate your preferences with the medical team. See more about birth plans on my other post. 
• Comfortable Clothing:
  • Loose, comfortable clothing for labor, such as a comfortable nightgown or a large T-shirt. I recommend something that buttons in the front for ease with nursing.
  • A robe for walking around the hospital. You can always wear one of the hospital gowns, but you may be more comfortable in something from home.
• Personal Care Items:
  • Toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
  • Hair ties or headbands to keep your hair out of the way.
  • Lip balm to combat dry lips caused by the hospital environment.
  • Your favorite lotion for a bit of self-care.
• Nursing Bras and Breast Pads:
  • Comfortable nursing bras for breastfeeding convenience.
  • Disposable or washable breast pads to manage leakage.
• Postpartum Essentials:
  • Maxi pads and comfortable underwear- these are essentials for postpartum. But the hospital will usually provide both pads and disposable underwear. Take advantage of that!
  • Comfortable pajamas or loungewear for relaxation after delivery- again I recommend pajamas that button in the front.
  • Perineal spray or witch hazel pads for soothing relief.
• Snacks and Hydration:
  • The hospital provides food and snacks, but they may not have your favorites. Make sure all your favorite snacks are in your back. 
  • A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Entertainment:
  • Your favorite book, magazine, or tablet for downtime between contractions.
  • An extra long phone cord/charger.
  • Relaxing music or a playlist to create a calming atmosphere.

Comfort Items for the Labor Room

• Pillow and Blanket:
  • A familiar pillow for added comfort during labor. The hospital pillows are truly the worst. So bring one from home.
  • A cozy blanket to stay warm in the often cool hospital rooms. They will give you warm blankets, but they are definitely not as good as your cozy blankets at home, I promise!
• Essential Oils:
  • A few calming essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile, to create a soothing ambiance.
• Focal Point:
  • An object or photo that can serve as a focal point during contractions.
• Battery-Powered Fan:
  • A small fan to keep cool during labor.

For the Birth Partner

• Comfortable Clothing:
  • Comfortable clothing and extra layers for the duration of the hospital stay. Yes definitely extra clothes for the partner. 
• Snacks and Hydration:
  • Just like you need your favorite snacks, be sure to include your partners favorite snacks and some water to stay hydrated
• Entertainment:
  • Books, magazines, or electronic devices to stay occupied during the waiting periods. Labor can take a while, and it’s quite boring for those who are just waiting. So be sure to bring entertainment. 
• Toiletries:
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal care items for a fresh feeling.
• Camera or Smartphone:
  • To capture those precious first moments with your newborn.
• Pillow and Blanket:
  • If your partner is staying the night, be sure to bring an extra pillow and blanket. Although they are usually provided, the hospital pillows are truly the worst.

Baby Essentials

• Going-Home Outfit:
  • A cute and weather-appropriate outfit for the baby’s journey home. Of course, you will be needing some newborn pics! 
• Swaddle Blankets:
  • Soft and breathable blankets for wrapping your newborn. Occasionally the hospital will provide a sleep sack for your newborn to use while at the hospital. Sleep sacks are amazing. Our favorite brand was the Halo.
• Diapers and Wipes:
  • Don’t worry about these, the hospital will provide you with diapers and wipes!
• Baby Toiletries:
  • Gentle baby soap, lotion, and a soft brush for your baby’s first bath. These are often provided by the hospital, but not always. 
• Car Seat:
  • Don’t forget the car seat! You can’t take the baby home without one. I recommend getting one WELL before labor, around 36 weeks. Take it out, and practice installing it in your car. You won’t regret it.

Packing your hospital bag is a significant milestone in your pregnancy journey, and being well-prepared can contribute to a more positive birthing experience. I recommend packing your hospital bag around 36 weeks. It’s never too early to prepare. And you can always add things later as well. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you have all the essentials for both mom and baby. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so feel free to tailor this list to your specific needs and preferences. With a well-packed bag, you can focus on the most important thing – welcoming your new bundle of joy into the world with confidence and comfort. As always, good luck mamas!