What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

The big day is almost here, and if you’re preparing for labor and delivery, one of the key things to check off your to-do list is packing your hospital bag. While it might seem like a simple task, knowing what to bring (and what to leave behind) can help you feel more prepared and relaxed as you head to the hospital. Here’s a comprehensive guide for what to pack for mom, baby, and your partner to ensure you have everything you need for the big day.

For Mom: Comfort & Essentials

When you’re heading to the hospital to welcome your little one, comfort is key. You’ll want to bring items that help you feel comfortable during labor, as well as post-delivery. Here’s what to pack for mom:

Labor & Delivery/Postpartum Care Essentials:

Comfortable Clothing: A loose, comfortable robe or a nightgown for labor. Many hospitals provide gowns, but having your own can offer a sense of familiarity.
Socks and Slippers: Hospitals can be cold, so bring a pair of cozy socks and slippers to keep your feet warm and comfortable.
Lip Balm: Hospitals can be dry, and you may find that your lips get chapped, especially if you’re breathing through contractions.
Snacks & Drinks: Check with your doctor or midwife about what you’ll be allowed to eat and drink during labor. For longer labors, having snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or even some juice can be helpful.
Phone & Charger: Keep your phone handy to capture those first moments with your baby, as well as to stay in touch with family and friends.
Toiletries: Think basic, but include items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, dry shampoo, hairbrush, hair ties, and facial wipes. These can help you feel fresh after delivery.

Comfortable Underwear: Hospital-issued mesh underwear is practical, but you might want to bring some of your own comfortable, high-waisted options.
Maternity Pads: While hospitals provide these, you might prefer your own brand or a specific type of pad that feels more comfortable for you.
Nursing Bra & Breast Pads: If you’re planning to breastfeed, bring a nursing bra and disposable breast pads to help with leakage in the early days.
Perineal Spray or Witch Hazel Pads: These items can help soothe soreness or discomfort after delivery. Check with your doctor before packing to see if they recommend anything specific.
Going-Home Outfit: A loose-fitting outfit for going home is ideal. Consider something comfy, like leggings or stretchy pants and a soft top.
Nursing Pillow: If you plan to breastfeed, a nursing pillow can make feeding more comfortable in those first few days.
Medical Supplies: Don’t forget your glasses or contacts and any prescribed medications.

For Baby: Everything They’ll Need for the First Few Days

Your baby may be tiny, but they’ll need a few essential items right from the start. Here’s a checklist for baby’s hospital bag:

Newborn Essentials:

Going-Home Outfit: A cozy, soft outfit that fits your newborn’s size (don’t forget a hat, socks, and mittens to keep them warm!). Be sure to check the weather to ensure it’s suitable.
Swaddle Blanket: Hospitals typically provide blankets, but you might want to bring your own swaddle to wrap your baby in, as they tend to love the security of a snug fit.
Baby Socks & Hats: A small hat for your baby to keep their head warm, and soft socks to keep little feet cozy.
Diapers & Wipes: Hospitals generally provide diapers and wipes, but you may want to bring your own brand if you have a preference.
Bottles & Formula (if not breastfeeding): If you’re planning to bottle-feed, be sure to pack a few bottles, along with any formula your baby will need.
Baby Nail Clippers or Emery Board and Mittens: Babies are born with sharp nails that can easily scratch their delicate skin, so a small pair of baby-safe nail clippers or an emery board can come in handy, as well as baby mittens.
Car seat: Make sure the car seat is properly installed.
Pacifiers (optional): If you plan to use a pacifier, bring one along to see if your baby will take it.

For Your Partner: Staying Comfortable & Involved

Your partner plays a vital role during labor and delivery, and they’ll need a few items to stay comfortable and be prepared for the journey. Here’s what to pack for your significant other:

Comfort & Essentials for Your Partner:

Comfortable Clothing: Comfortable clothes like sweatpants, a hoodie, and a few T-shirts for long hours at the hospital. It’s a good idea to bring extra clothes, in case they get dirty.
Pillow & Blanket: Hospitals often provide basic bedding for visitors, but having an extra pillow and blanket can make the stay a little more comfortable.
Snacks & Drinks: Labor can last a while, so it’s important for your partner to stay nourished. Pack some of their favorite snacks, granola bars, or sandwiches, as well as a refillable water bottle.
Phone & Charger: They’ll want to capture moments with you and baby, plus stay in touch with family and friends. Make sure to bring a charger!
Toiletries: Pack basic toiletries like deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and facial tissues. They’ll want to stay fresh throughout the day.
Medical Supplies: Don’t forget your glasses or contacts and any prescribed medications.
Cash/Change for Vending Machines: A small amount of cash for snacks or vending machines in the hospital can come in handy when hunger strikes, especially if it’s late at night.

Bonus Items You Might Want to Include:

Camera or Video Camera: If you plan to take more high-quality photos than just on your phone, don’t forget to pack your camera or video camera.
Extra Bag: Bring an extra tote or backpack to take home all the gifts, cards, and baby items you may receive from the hospital.
Comfort Items: This could include your favorite blanket, essential oils, a favorite playlist, or any other items that help set a calming atmosphere for labor.
Birth Goals: Print these out and bring them with you so the nurses can easily reference your goals.
Baby Book: You can have them put their footprints directly into the book after delivery.

Final Tips for Packing Your Hospital Bag:

Don’t Overpack: It’s easy to go overboard when you’re preparing for such an important event, but try to keep your bag streamlined. Most hospitals provide the basics like blankets, diapers, and wipes for baby, so you don’t need to bring everything from home.
Leave Room for Post-Birth Necessities: As you may end up with extra supplies, gifts, or items from the hospital, make sure you leave a little space in your bag for all the new things you’ll bring home.

With a little preparation, you’ll feel more relaxed and ready for the big day! Packing your hospital bag in advance ensures that you’ll have all the essentials you need when you head to the hospital, allowing you to focus on the exciting and life-changing moments ahead. Don’t forget to check in with your healthcare provider for any additional items specific to your delivery plan or hospital policies!

Happy packing, and best of luck on your journey to parenthood!