Preparing for a baby can be stressful. You may feel like you have a never-ending "to-do" list and a quickly approaching deadline. If you plan to give birth at a hospital or birth center, one of those to-do list items will be packing a bag to bring with you for the stay. Worried about remembering everything you'll need? Don't worry, we've thought of everything for you.
Here is the ultimate hospital bag checklist to help you pack for labor and delivery to ensure you'll have everything you need for a smooth stay.
When To Pack Your Hospital Bag
Some pregnant people will begin packing their hospital bag at the start of their third trimester, which is great planning in case the baby comes early. But typically, you can safely start your packing prep around 34 weeks. (Nearly 90% of pregnant people give birth sometime between weeks 37 and 41.)
Once you've packed your bag, stash it near your front door or in your car so you (or a partner) will know where it is when you need it. In addition to thinking about what you'll need during labor and after delivery, plan on who will be taking care of your home and pets while you're away. Enlist the help of trusted family, friends, and neighbors to check on things in your absence.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests mapping out routes you'll likely take to the hospital and making a dry-run trip to help determine how long it will take to get there. Also consider how weather, traffic, and times of day can affect the timing.
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Important Documents To Pack in Your Hospital Bag
Everyone has different preferences for what will make them comfortable during their hospital stay, but there are some essentials that all brand-new parents need on hand, including personal identification as well as insurance and medical information. It's a good idea to assemble both an actual folder with hard copies of these items as well as a folder with digital copies on your phone.
- Copies of your birth plan (if you have one)
- An up-to-date picture ID (driver's license or passport)
- Health insurance information
- Hospital registration forms
- Pregnancy medical files, pregnancy journals, or notes, if any
- List of current medications (including any supplements)
- List of emergency contacts
Even if you've already registered at the hospital, they may need to confirm your records before they can admit you. Your prenatal care provider will send your medical records ahead of time, so you won't need to worry about bringing them.
Personal Items To Pack in Your Hospital Bag
Yes, hospitals and birth centers typically provide you with a gown, hospital socks, and some basic toiletries. But you may want some creature comforts with you, too. Your stay may be a short one (24–48 hours for most uncomplicated vagin*l births) or longer (48–96 hours for C-sections and high-risk births), so you'll want to have all the items you may need for both scenarios.
Phone and charger
We know: You're never without your phone. But be sure you pack chargers in the hospital bag, too. Besides needing a phone for obvious reasons (calling, texting, and updating your social accounts with your exciting news), you may want to download helpful apps, like a contraction timer and white noise. Bonus points if you have an extra long charging cord, so no matter where you plug in, you can still use it from your bed or comfy chair.
Music, movies, and magazines
Load up your phone or tablet with music and anything you might want to watch on your favorite streaming app. Depending on how your labor goes or how long you are in the hospital after childbirth, it may provide a welcome distraction.
Relaxation tools
Comfort items you might consider packing in the hospital bag for labor include a back massager, a stress-relieving squeeze ball, and pregnancy- and baby-safe essential oil or lotion. You also can ask the hospital staff for single-use heat packs once you get there. Research has shown that gentle heat therapy can decrease both the pain intensity and duration of labor.
Soft pillow
The hospital pillows can be uncomfortable, and bringing one you're familiar with may help you relax. To avoid any mix-ups, use a brightly colored or patterned pillowcase that will stand out against the hospital linens.
Snacks and candy
Lollipops and gum are especially great for conquering dry mouth during labor, so consider adding them to your hospital bag checklist. Keep in mind that some hospitals may have different policies on what you can eat during labor, so be sure to check before noshing.
Cash or credit card
Bring at least $20 in cash or a credit card (ideally, downloaded to your phone) for snacks, gift store purchases, and any of your miscellaneous cravings. Because…hospital food.
Toiletries
Most hospitals will have the basics, but bringing your own deodorant, body wash, shampoo, facial cleansing wipes, toothpaste, toothbrush, and hairbrush can be incredibly helpful and comforting. Don't forget lip balm and unscented moisturizer—medical facilities are dry, and pregnancy has likely already taken a toll on your skin!
If you wear contacts, stash extras, along with cleaning solution, in your bag. You may also want to bring your glasses. A ponytail holder, scrunchie, or stretchy headband will help keep your hair out of your face during labor.
Sleepwear and robe
A cotton nightie or pajamas (with easy nursing access if you plan to breastfeed) will be much more comfortable than a hospital gown, and a robe will come in handy for walking the hallways, which is recommended as soon as you feel mobile after giving birth. Don't forget any other items you use at night like a silk or satin bonnet.
Extra underwear
Bring several pairs of undies—briefs, maternity, or disposables like Depends—if you don't want to wear the mesh underwear the hospital gives you after delivery. (Although you may find those mesh numbers surprisingly comfortable!)
Nursing bra
If you plan to breastfeed, a comfortable nursing bra is a must. Buy a few at the end of your pregnancy—most people are about that same size postpartum—that are comfy enough to sleep in and go home in. Your milk probably won't come in during your hospital stay, but your breasts will still start to swell thanks to your body revving up milk production.
Slippers and/or thick socks
Keep your toes toasty and clean, whether you're in bed or strolling around on the cold tile floor. Bring a pair that's easily laundered, as they may get a bit dirty. Most experienced parents will tell you that comfy socks with rubber grips on the bottom will serve you well.
Flip-flops or shower shoes
Pack flip-flops for the hospital shower or to wear home if your feet are too swollen for other shoes. Flip-flops (or shower shoes) can help prevent fungal infections such as athlete's foot from showering in public spaces.
Going-home outfit
Here's a hint: You'll probably still look about 5 months pregnant (which is totally normal as your uterus shrinks back down) in the days after giving birth, so don't expect your non-maternity clothes to feel good. Pack your favorite comfy maternity dress or soft leggings and a tunic.
Baby Gear To Pack in Your Hospital Bag
After months of eating for two, it's time to pack for two! Your baby will need some items for safety and comfort when it's time to go home.
Infant car seat
Many hospitals have specific policies around infant car seats—you might be asked to bring yours in to be inspected before you're allowed to leave the hospital with your baby. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infants are safest when riding in a rear-facing car seat that properly fits them.
Homecoming outfit for your baby
Pack a newborn-size gown or sleeper so you can skip dealing with tiny pants and socks as you get the hang of diaper changes. You'll likely get a newborn hat in the hospital, so you can skip that unless you've got your heart set on a specific one. If it's cold outside, be sure to have a safe and snug car seat blanket to keep your baby warm on the way home.
Extra bag
With all the goodies from the hospital—diapers, blankets, and creams—and all the gifts from well-wishers, you're bound to have more stuff coming out than you did going in, so an extra bag like a foldable reusable shopping bag or tote will probably come in handy.
What About Diapers and Wipes?
While it's a good idea to have a changing station ready for your baby's arrival home, you won't need to bring diapers and wipes to the hospital or birth center, as you will be given plenty during your stay. You might even end up with a goodie bag that has extra to bring home!
Hospital Bag Items for Partners and Support People
If you have a partner or support person you'd like to accompany you, they may want to pack a small bag to be ready for a quick trip—and, potentially, a long stay—at the hospital or birth center, too. After all, it takes a village to bring a baby into the world.
Some items that might make your support person feel more comfortable at the hospital include a phone and charger for themselves, toiletries, a change of clothes, and some favorite snacks or refreshments.
Prepare for Post-Childbirth Cravings
Consider making a list of favorite restaurants in the delivery range—or if you plan to have a support person with you, within walking distance—of the hospital or birth center. Once the baby is born and you are cleared by a doctor to eat, having something you love to nosh on can feel incredible. Just make sure to ask what the hospital policy is on bringing in food from the outside.
Things To Leave Out of Your Hospital Bag
You want to be prepared, but there is such a thing as overpacking—or packing the wrong things. Here is a quick list of things to avoid bringing with you to the hospital.
- Valuables: Don't bring large sums of cash, expensive jewelry, or expensive tech gadgets like a smartwatch, fancy camera, or expensive hand-held gaming systems.
- Alcohol: Some folks will want to celebrate with a glass of champagne, but check with hospital policy on alcohol in delivery rooms. Not all hospitals will be on board with the bubbly.
Key Takeaways
Having a hospital bag checklist can ensure that you don't forget anything important as you prepare for the big day (or night!). Not sure if you've packed too much or too little? Just stick to this checklist and when in doubt, and when in doubt, ask a family member or friend who has been there to take a peek and give you some advice.
What to Pack in Your C-Section Hospital Bag
