Your little one will soon be here – and packing for the hospital is a big part of preparing for birth. This guide includes 75 things new moms recommend for your labor and delivery, as well as for bringing baby home. Pick and choose to create a customized hospital packing list that works for you!
Required Paperwork
Know what’s required and be sure to have it on hand. Hospital administrators will need to see your insurance card and your photo ID. If you have a birth plan or pre-registered, be sure to bring any associated forms.
Toiletries
A toothbrush, toothpaste, and a tube of your favorite lip balm are just a few essentials to pack in your hospital bag. Other toiletries include:
- Dental floss
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body wash or soap
- A soft towel or two
- Deodorant
- Lotion
- Hairbrush
- Blow dryer
- Flat iron or curling iron if you normally use one
- Hairspray or other hair products you normally use
- Hair clips or ties if you have long hair
- Glasses, if you wear them, along with a storage case
- Contact lens solution and lens case if needed; spare contacts if you wear disposables
- Disposable underpants
- Heavy-duty sanitary pads
- Breast pads
- Basic toiletries for your partner to freshen up; i.e. toothbrush, toothpaste, body wipes, etc.
- An emery board and baby nail clippers for trimming your baby’s nails if they’re long
You might want to add your favorite skin care products and basic cosmetics if you normally wear them. Consider packing travel-size items to save space in your hospital bag.
Drinks and Snacks
Many women feel hungry during labor. It’s a good idea to be prepared in case you’re one of them. You can pack non-perishable items ahead of time, and consider keeping a selection of perishables such as fresh fruit and veggies ready to go once you get closer to your due date. Toss perishables in a small cooler just before you head to the hospital.
- Coconut water
- Herbal teas
- Electrolyte powder to mix with water
- Single-serving juices, preferably all-natural with no sugar added
- Whole-grain pretzels with single-serving packs of nut butter
- Nuts
- Trail mix
- Granola bars
- Protein bars
- Your favorite crackers
- Fresh fruit, i.e. grapes, bananas, and melon cubes
- Fresh veggies, i.e. cherry tomatoes, celery sticks, carrot sticks
- Single serve packs of hummus and/or guacamole
- Sandwich ingredients
- Treats for after birth, i.e. your favorite chocolate or even a bottle of sparkling juice to stand in for champagne
Entertainment and Electronics
Prevent boredom and don’t leave yourself or your partner at the mercy of whichever channels the hospital happens to receive. Here are just a few ideas for staying entertained.
- Laptop or tablet
- Camera
- Chargers for all electronics
- Headphones or earbuds
- Books
- Magazines
- Journal and pen
- Adult coloring books and colored pencils
- A portable craft project such as knitting or crocheting
Clothing for the Whole Family
You don’t need much, but clothing is one of the most important items to pack in your hospital bag. Here are a few ideas:
- Comfy bathrobe
- Two pairs of your favorite pajamas
- Socks
- Slippers
- Flip flops for showering
- Nursing bras
- Comfortable underwear
- A comfortable going-home outfit for yourself
- Spare pair of comfortable shoes
- Quick clothing change for your partner
- Cute, comfy going-home outfit for baby
Other Essentials
As you prepare to pack for the hospital, remember to add the following items:
- Your own pillow and maternity pillow, preferably in colorful cases to prevent any mixups with hospital-owned items
- Prescription medications if needed
- Massager and/or heating pad
- Your favorite comfy blanket or throw
- Your baby’s properly installed car seat, ready for the ride home
- Blankets for your little one’s ride home
- Your baby’s diaper bag, packed with a few basics for the ride home
- A folder for take-home paperwork
- A mesh or plastic laundry bag for soiled items
Not sure about your due date? Pamper’s due date calculator can give you a good estimate and provide you with some helpful insight. Be sure to begin packing for the hospital ahead of your anticipated due date, so you have everything you need in case your baby decides to surprise you by arriving a bit early!
Lastly, it’s worth noting that packing for the hospital might involve more than one bag. Consider creating a kit with items you’ll need during labor, and another with things you’ll need after your baby arrives. Decide what to bring in with you, and what to leave in the car until it’s needed.
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