Most Important Things to Pack for Your Trip to the Hospital

Congratulations! Baby is arriving soon and it is time to pack your hospital bag. It can be stressful trying to decide on what to bring and what to leave behind. You might even be worried you will leave something behind. You have enough on your plate, the last thing you need to be stressing about is your hospital bag. Here are some packing tips and a bag check list to help minimize your stress during the final days before baby.

Pack your bag in advance

Try to have your bag packed by 8 months or 32 weeks. That way you’ll be ready to go when you go into labor.

Don’t forget! Partners should also pack a bag of their own to ensure their time at the hospital is comfortable as well.

Clothing Labor

A hospital gown if you choose to wear your own
Warm, non-skid socks that you can throw away after delivery (it can get messy!)
Sports bra
Lip balm and lotion
Remember: Leave your fancy jewelry at home! You will be asked to remove it and don’t want to lose it.

Postpartum

One or two pairs of socks
Flip flops
At least one pair of pajamas (Stick to darker colors in case of any heavy bleeding)
A couple pairs of underwear
Nursing bra if you plan on breastfeeding
Going home outfit. (Don’t forget to have your partner pack a going home outfit as well!)

Baby

Going home outfit
Socks or booties if the outfit doesn’t have feet
Baby blanket

Electronics

Cell Phones and all necessary chargers
Camera with extra batteries or charger
iPod and/or speaker if you plan on listening to music

Food/Medications

Sugar-free hard candy
Your favorite non-perishable food items for snacks
If you take medications, bring them in their original prescription bottle (And talk to your doctor in advance!)

Paperwork

Don’t bring your entire wallet (just another thing to lose) • Driver’s license, credit card, insurance card
Hospital forms, birth wishes if you have them
Book/magazine for light reading

Toiletries

Don’t forget a hair tie, hair brush, tooth brush, favorite shampoo
Glasses, contact lenses, and solution

Miscellaneous

• Baby book for footprints
• Although not in your “hospital bag,” don’t forget to have your car seat installed in your car
• If it’s cold, make sure you have extra warm clothing and blankets for baby

Have any questions about your hospital bag? Contact us today!

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