‍

When labor hits, the last thing you want to do is head to the hospital without all of the essentials prepared and packed. Even more so, you don’t want to forget anything that you never knew you might need! Check out our hospital bag checklists below for you, baby, and partner.

For You

When it comes to birthing in a hospital, it is likely you will spend at least one night and possibly one week there. Depending on whether you’re having a vaginal or cesarean section, the duration of your stay may vary. Keep this in mind as you are packing your pregnancy hospital bag. Also, consider calling the hospital to see what they may have that you wouldn’t need to bring. Remember: this is your moment, too. Be prepared so you can be the most comfortable and confident soon-to-be-mom that you can be.

With this said, the list below is for you:

For Birth:

• Photo ID
• Insurance Cards
• Hospital Forms
• Your Birth Plan (print a few to give to nurses, doulas, and doctors)
• Cell Phone and Portable Charger or Extended Charger

For Comfort:

• Two to Three Pairs of Warm, Fuzzy Socks
• Robe
• Loose, Comfortable, and Lightweight Clothing
• Pajamas
• Going Home Clothes
• Headband or Hair Wrap
• Maternity Bras

For Hygiene:

• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Hairbrush
• Deodorant
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Lotion/Skincare
• Nipple Cream
• Adult Diapers

For Pampering & Photographs:

• Photograph Outfits
• Makeup/Hair Tools
• Bath Towel
• Pillows
• Portable Diffuser
• Bluetooth Speaker

For the Baby

Luckily, eating, sleeping and filling diapers will be the three main things your baby will be doing in the first moments of life. There’s not much you’ll need, but you still want to pack the basics for your new bundle!

This short list includes:

• Carseat
• Pediatrician Information
• Coming Home Outfit (bring multiple sizes, just in case!)
• Warm Blankets
• Bottles (if you plan on bottle feeding)
• Matching Outfit with Mom
• Don’t Bring Diapers or Baby Wipes! The hospital will have them, and you can take freebies.

For Your Partner/Support Individual

While in labor, it is to be expected that your partner or support individual(s) will have some time on their hands. As such, they will need to pack a bag as well! You don’t want them to be rushing to the store to grab the charger they didn’t bring and miss the event--no, you want everything there, charged, and ready to go.

To keep them occupied:

• Lots of Snacks (for them and mom!)
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Books
• iPad/Laptop and Chargers
• Sleeping Bag or Blanket
• Pillow(s)
• Change of Clothes
• Toiletries (if you plan on staying)
• Camera and Charger

There you go! Remember - when the moment comes, you may have to rush to the hospital. In that case, it’ll save you much time (and stress) to have your bags packed in advance. We recommend that you start to pack your bag at least a few weeks in advance of the due date, so that you have time to add things to your bundle if necessary. Cheers!

‍