Are you expecting the arrival of your bundle of joy? Congratulations! As the big day draws near, it’s time to start preparing your hospital bag to ensure you have everything you need when the time comes. Packing for the hospital can feel overwhelming, but with the ultimate hospital bag checklist, you can pack like a pro and feel confident and relaxed on the special day.
From essentials for mom and baby to comfort items and toiletries, this hospital bag checklist covers all the bases. Whether it’s your first time going through labor and delivery or you’re a seasoned pro, having a well-prepared hospital bag can make all the difference. You’ll be able to focus on the joy and excitement of welcoming your little one into the world without worrying about forgetting something important.
Join us as we walk you through the must-haves for your hospital bag checklist, including clothing, documents, snacks, entertainment, and more. With our expert tips and suggestions, you’ll be fully prepared and ready to welcome your baby with confidence. So, let’s get started on packing your hospital bag and making sure it’s all systems go for the big day.
The Importance of Packing a Hospital Bag
Packing a hospital bag is an essential step in preparing for the birth of your baby. It ensures that you have everything you need during your hospital stay and helps you feel more organized and in control. You don’t want to be scrambling around at the last minute trying to gather items while dealing with the excitement and stress of going into labor.
Having a well-packed hospital bag also gives you peace of mind. Knowing that you have everything you need will help you relax and focus on your birthing experience. It allows you to be present in the moment and fully enjoy the journey of bringing your baby into the world.
When to Start Packing Your Hospital Bag
It’s a good idea to start packing your hospital bag around the 32nd to 35th week of pregnancy. This gives you enough time to gather all the necessary items and double-check that you haven’t forgotten anything. It’s better to be prepared early rather than scrambling at the last minute.
It’s also important to have a backup plan in case your baby arrives early. Keep a small bag with essential items ready to go in case you need to rush to the hospital unexpectedly. This way, you’ll be prepared no matter when your little one decides to make their grand entrance.
Still, keep in mind that the average length of a healthy pregnancy is 41 weeks [1]. Further, studies indicate that initiation of labor begins when the baby’s lungs reach a point of maturation before releasing hormone signals into the amniotic fluid which the mother’s body picks up on [2]. It’s important for a newborn’s lungs to be developed enough to be born and go from having fluid in their lungs to breathing air.
If you’re interested in more information on these topics, check out:
Essential Items for the Mom-To-Be
When it comes to packing your hospital bag, there are certain essential items that every mom-to-be should have for herself! These items will help ensure your comfort and well-being during your hospital stay.
1. Postpartum pads
You’ll need postpartum pads or disposable postpartum underwear for postpartum bleeding. However, the hospital provides these for the duration of your stay, often with some extras for you to take home!
Still, if you decide to bring any yourself, I love and use the Rael Overnight Pads as they are organic, chlorine-free, fragrance-free, and have a high absorbency.
2. A nursing bra
If you’ll be breastfeeding after having your baby, a cozy and versatile nursing bra might be a good addition to your hospital bag checklist.
Check out this 5-pack of colorful, wireless, and ribbed nursing bras available for an affordable price on Amazon. While you’ll only need one for your hospital bag, the rest will be useful to have on the daily when you bring your new baby home!
3. Comfortable sleepwear
If you desire, you can bring your own gown to labor and birth in, and other sleepwear outfit for when you go to your postpartum room.
Check out the Bamboo Knit Maternity Robe from Caden Lane as one option for a maternity robe you can bring in your hospital bag. This robe is soft, has easy access for breastfeeding, and comes in almost any color you could want!
Alternatively, I also love this Labor and Delivery Gown with buttons that also comes in various beautiful colors!
4. slippers and socks
Hospital floors can be hard and cold, so having a pair of slippers and warm socks will keep your feet cozy.
Additionally, hospital floors can be slippery! If you’re looking for cozy fuzzy socks for your hospital bag checklist, check out these thick and cozy fuzzy socks with grips.
5. Toiletries
Pack travel-sized toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Also, don’t forget a hairbrush and any other personal care items you may need.
During labor you’re working hard and you might be planning on using some natural labor coping tools such as breathing techniques. With breathing a lot, especially with your mouth open, this can dry out your lips. So, this is why I also recommend lip balm is another hospital bag must-have.
If you like clean products that are also affordable I recently purchased and started using the Cliganic USDA Organic Lip Balms available on Amazon.
6. phone charger
For conveniency sake, bringing a long phone charger is a good idea since there’s rarely an outlet right next to the hospital bed.
A phone charger is an extra important must-have if you’re planning on someone using it to capture those precious first moments with your baby.
7. going-home outfit
Choose a comfortable outfit that is easy to put on and will accommodate your post-baby body. Some ideas can include sweatpants, leggings, a t-shirt, or a pull-over.
Remember, comfort is key!
8. birth plan
No matter what type of birth you’re planning, whether it’s an unmedicated birth, a medically induced labor, or a cesarean, a birth plan is a fantastic tool to add to your hospital bag checklist.
A birth plan is simply a documented way to communicate your wants and needs for your labor, birth, and immediate postpartum care while you’re in the hospital.
Check out: How to Make a Birth Plan – Free Template! for more information about birth plans and to download your free birth plan template.
I recommend bringing two copies of your birth plan to the hospital; One to give to the nurse when you are admitted and one to keep on hand for yourself.
9. snacks
Hospitals often provide meals, but having some of your favorite snacks on hand can be a comforting and convenient option.
Think of labor like a running a marathon. You need a lot of rest and nourishment as you prepare. Especially if this is your first labor, they tend to be longer and sometimes progress very slowly through early labor. Therefore, eating snacks regularly throughout your labor until your appetite dwindles will give you the necessary fuel to work through your labor.
Some snacks that mamas enjoy in labor include:
- Honey sticks
- Dates
- Trailmix
- Bananas or other fruits
- Peanut butter or another nut butter
- Whole grain crackers or pretzels
- Protein bars, preferably without added sugars or artificial ingredients
Additionally, when it comes to drinks, if you want anything besides water look for fluids with electrolytes to continue prioritizing hydration in labor. Some good drinks might include coconut water, even lemonade, or another electrolyte beverage you prefer.
Comfort Items for the Mom-To-Be on Your Hospital Bag Checklist
During your hospital stay, having some comfort items from home can make a big difference in how you feel, which then can benefit your hormones in labor! Consider packing the following items:
1. your own pillow
Hospital pillows are not always the most comfortable, so bring your own pillow for extra comfort and support. Plus, it will likely smell like home to you which can increase your oxytocin, the hormone responsible for uterine contractions and feelings of peace during labor.
Nevertheless, keep in mind that birth can be messy, so you will probably want to avoid using your own as the one you wedge between your legs.
Additionally, if you leave it at the hospital on accident they’re probably pretty quickly going to throw it away so you wouldn’t be able to get it back. So, keep those things in mind when considering bringing your own pillow to the hospital.
2. blanket
A cozy blanket from home can provide comfort and warmth during your hospital stay. Plus, like bringing your own pillow, may smell like home and make you feel more relaxed.
3. camera
Don’t forget to pack a camera and it’s charger if you plan on using that instead of your phone to have someone capture those precious first moments.
4. extra clothes for your partner
Your partner may want to pack a change of clothes, toiletries, and other personal items for their comfort during the hospital stay.
Essential Items for the Baby on Your Hospital Bag Checklist
Your baby will also need a few essential items for their hospital stay. Here’s what you should pack for your little one:
1. diapers
Like postpartum pads, the hospital should provide all of the diapers your baby will need. However, you can add some to your hospital bag checklist if you’d like.
I recommend fragrance-free and more eco-friendly diapers when possible, such as Hello Bello Newborn Diapers.
2. wipes
Baby wipes are great for diaper changes and general cleaning. Again, the hospital will provide wipes for you.
Still, if you want to bring your own wipes for diaper changes, I always recommend fragrance-free baby wipes.
3. onesie
Pack a onesie in newborn size for your baby to wear after he or she is born. Make sure they have snaps at the crotch for easy diaper changes.
4. swaddle
Bring one swaddle that you can use on your baby over their onesie. A swaddle blanket can work great for keeping your baby snug and warm.
5. Hat and mittens
The hospital will provide a hat for your baby, but you can bring your own if you’d like. Newborns lose heat quickly, so if your baby isn’t skin-to-skin, a hat will be helpful to regulate their temperature.
Additionally, mittens are a great hospital bag checklist item as most hospitals do not give them out. Many babies are born with long and sharp little fingernails. Mittens prevent their nails from scratching their face until you can file them at home.
6. going home outfit
Your baby will need a going home outfit for when it’s time to go in the car seat and drive home. Depending on the weather, I would either bring a thick or thin sleeper that zips from one foot to their neck.
Check out these cute and affordable Thermal Footed Sleepers available from Amazon!
Don’t know how much you should dress your baby in? A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in the same amount of clothing as you are wearing for the temperature, plus one more item. Such as their hat, socks, or a onesie underneath their sleeper.
7. bucket car seat
Ensure your car seat is set up securely and correctly in your car. The bucket seat on top can detach and re-attach to the secure bottom that stays inside of your car.
When it’s time to leave the hospital, your partner, doula, or another family member should run out to the car and grab the bucket car seat. Once your baby is dressed for the drive home they can be put in the car seat and buckled properly for a safe drive home!
I love the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System because it comes with the bucket car seat with a secure base, plus, a matching Graco stroller that the bucket car seat can easily snap onto for easy and convenient walks! I used this with my first daughter and never had a complaint. So, I plan on re-purchasing in my next pregnancy.
Conclusion on Your Hospital Bag Checklist
Remember, this checklist is a guide, and you can personalize it based on your specific needs and preferences. The most important thing is to pack items that will help you feel comfortable, relaxed, and prepared during your hospital stay. By following this ultimate hospital bag checklist, you can pack like a pro and focus on the joy and excitement of welcoming your new baby into the world.
Happy packing and congratulations on your upcoming bundle of joy!
Questions or Comments?
If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below👇🏻
Talk soon, mama!
– Katelyn Lauren
Pin it for Later!
Save this post to your Pinterest to view again anytime!
References:
[1] Smith, G. C. (2001a). Use of time to event analysis to estimate the normal duration of human pregnancy. Hum Reprod 16(7): 1497-1500.
[2] Mendelson, C. R., Montalbano, A. P., & Gao, L. (2017). Fetal-to-maternal signaling in the timing of birth. The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology, 170, 19–27. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.09.006
DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding you or your baby’s health. Please read my Medical Disclaimer for more info
DISCLAIMER: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may get a commission if you decide to purchase something through my links at no cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer for more info.
Leave a Reply