Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Labor, Postpartum and New Baby

Preparing for the arrival of your little one is an exciting time, and packing a hospital bag is an essential part of the process. Having a well-organized and thoughtfully packed bag will ensure that you have everything you need for both the labor and postpartum period. To help you get organized, we have put together a comprehensive hospital bag checklist.

Table of Content

• When to Pack Your Hospital Bag for Labor and Postpartum
• Top 10 Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom
• Top 8 Hospital Bag Checklist for Partner
• Top 9 Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby
• What Not to Pack for a Smooth Experience

When to Pack Your Hospital Bag for Labor and Postpartum

Packing your hospital bag is an important task to complete before your due date. It’s generally recommended to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go by around the 36th week of pregnancy. This timing allows you to be prepared in case your baby decides to make an early arrival. Discussing the checklist with your healthcare provider or taking a hospital tour can also provide valuable insights into specific requirements or restrictions at your chosen birthing facility.

By packing your hospital bag in advance, you can feel more prepared and confident as you approach your due date. It’s one less thing to worry about, allowing you to focus on the upcoming birth experience and the excitement of welcoming your new baby into the world.

Top 10 Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

1. Essential Documents:

• ID, insurance card, and hospital registration forms.
• Birth plan, if you have one, outlining your preferences for labor and delivery.

2. Comfortable Clothing:

• Loose, comfortable nightgowns or pajamas for labor and postpartum.
• Robe and slippers for moving around the hospital.
• Nursing bras and comfortable underwear.
• Cozy Comfort: Warm Socks for Labor Comfort

3. Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash.
• Hairbrush or comb, hair ties, and headbands.
• Body wash, shampoo, and conditioner.
• Face wash, moisturizer, and lip balm.
• Sanitary pads and nursing pads.
• Don’t forget any specific toiletries you may need, such as contact lenses and solution.

4. Comfort Measures:

• Pillows for extra support during labor.
• Your own cozy blanket or pillow for added comfort.
• Massage oils or lotions for relaxation.
• A handheld fan to keep cool during labor.

5. Entertainment and Distractions:

• Books, magazines, or a Kindle for passing the time.
• Your favorite music playlist or a portable speaker.
• A tablet or laptop for watching movies or TV shows.
• Crossword puzzles or other handheld games.

6. Snacks and Drinks:

• Light, energy-boosting snacks such as granola bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
• Bottled water or your preferred beverages.
• Hard candies or mints to keep your mouth fresh.

7. Electronics and Chargers:

• Mobile phone and charger.
• Camera or video camera to capture precious moments.
• Extra batteries or a portable charger.

8. Baby Essentials:

• A going-home outfit for the baby.
• Receiving blankets and burp cloths.
• Diapers and wipes.
• Safety First: Properly Installed Infant Car Seat for Your Baby

9. Postpartum Care Items:

• Comfortable and loose clothing for the postpartum period.
• Maternity pads or disposable underwear.
• Nipple cream for breastfeeding.
• Breast pads for leakage.
• Nursing pillow for added support.
• Over-the-counter pain relief medications, with your doctor’s approval.

10. Miscellaneous Items:

• Important contact numbers and a notepad for taking notes.
• Snacks and drinks for your partner or support person.
• Cash or change for vending machines or parking.

Top 8 Hospital Bag Checklist for Partner

When it comes to preparing for the birth of your baby, it’s not just the expectant mother who needs to pack a hospital bag. Partners and support persons also play a crucial role during labor and postpartum. Having a well-prepared hospital bag ensures that you can provide comfort and support during this special time. Here’s a checklist of essential items for partners to pack:

1. Comfortable Clothing:

• Loose-fitting and breathable clothing for extended periods at the hospital.
• Extra pairs of comfortable underwear and socks.
• Slippers or comfortable shoes for walking around the hospital.

2. Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash.
• Deodorant and personal hygiene products.
• Hairbrush or comb.
• Face wash and moisturizer.
• Any necessary prescription medications.

3. Snacks and Drinks:

• Nutritious and energy-boosting snacks.
• Bottled water or preferred beverages.
• Portable snacks that can be easily shared.

4. Entertainment and Distractions:

• Books, magazines, or e-reader for passing the time.
• Mobile phone or tablet with chargers.
• Headphones to enjoy music, podcasts, or videos.
• Crossword puzzles or handheld games.

5. Supportive Items:

• Camera or video camera to capture precious moments.
• List of important contact numbers.
• Notepad and pen for taking notes or making reminders.
• Comfort items for the mother, such as a favorite pillow or blanket.
• Massage oils or lotions for providing relaxation.

6. Change of Clothes:

• Extra set of comfortable clothes in case of an extended hospital stay.
• Pajamas or sleepwear for resting at the hospital.

7. Personal Care Items:

• Hand sanitizer or wipes for maintaining cleanliness.
• Tissues or paper towels.
• Breath mints or gum for freshening up.

8. Supportive Documents:

• ID and insurance information.
• Birth plan and any relevant hospital paperwork.

Top 9 Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

When it’s time to welcome your little one into the world, having a well-packed hospital bag for your baby is essential. Here’s a checklist of items to ensure you have everything your baby needs during the hospital stay:

1. Clothing:

• Several onesies or bodysuits.
• Sleepers or pajamas.
• Socks or booties.
• Hat or beanie.
• Mittens to prevent scratching.

2. Swaddling and Blankets:

• Receiving blankets for swaddling.
• Soft, lightweight blankets for warmth.

3. Diapers and Wipes:

• Disposable or cloth diapers.
• Baby wipes or cotton squares with warm water.

4. Feeding Supplies:

If you plan to bottle-feed:

• Bottles and nipples.
• Pre-sterilized formula or expressed breast milk.
• Bottle brush for cleaning.

If you plan to breastfeed:

• Nursing pillow for support.
• Nipple cream for comfort.

5. Burp Cloths and Bibs:

• Burp cloths for cleaning up spit-up.
• Bibs to protect clothing during feedings.

6. Pacifiers:

• A pacifier, if desired, for soothing.

7. Going-Home Outfit:

• A special outfit for your baby’s journey home.
• Weather-appropriate layers, such as a sweater or jacket.

8. Car Seat:

• An appropriately sized and properly installed infant car seat.

9. Extras:

• Baby lotion or oil for gentle massages.
• Nail clippers or file for maintaining baby’s nails.
• Baby brush or comb for grooming.
• Baby book or journal for recording special moments.

What Not to Pack for a Smooth Experience

When it comes to packing your hospital bag, it’s important to prioritize and include only the essentials. To help you streamline your packing process, here are some items you should consider leaving out:

Valuables and Jewelry:

It’s best to leave valuable items like jewelry, expensive watches, or large amounts of cash at home. Hospitals are busy environments, and misplacing or losing these items can cause unnecessary stress.

Unnecessary Electronics:

While it’s good to have a mobile phone or tablet for communication and entertainment, leave behind any non-essential electronics that might take up space or distract you from the experience of childbirth and bonding with your baby.

Large Towels or Bedding:

Hospitals typically provide their own towels and bedding for both you and your baby. Bringing your own large towels or bedding can take up valuable space in your bag and may not be necessary.

Diapers and Formula:

Most hospitals provide diapers and formula for newborns during your stay. It’s best to check with your hospital beforehand to confirm their policy. Packing only a few diapers for the trip home should suffice.

Full-Sized Toiletries:
You can avoid the hassle of packing large bottles of toiletries by opting for travel-sized versions or utilizing the toiletries provided by the hospital during your stay. This simple choice will not only help you save space in your bag but also make your travel more convenient.

Excessive Baby Clothing:

While it’s tempting to pack a variety of adorable outfits for your baby, remember that newborns often stay swaddled or in simple onesies during their hospital stay. Pack a few essentials and save the rest for when you’re back home.

Heavy Reading Material:

While a book or magazine can be a great way to pass the time, avoid bringing heavy or lengthy reading materials. Opt for lighter options or consider digital alternatives such as e-books or audiobooks.