Hospital Bag Checklist

Bringing a new life into the world is a miraculous experience, but it can also be nerve-wracking. Childbirth can be unpredictable and there are many factors that are out of your control. However, there are certain things you can control, such as what you bring with you to the hospital.

Packing your hospital bag ahead of time can help ease some of the stress and tension you may be feeling before the big day. But, it's important to pack the right items. We've got you covered with our hospital bag checklist, which includes essential toiletries, comfortable clothing, and items for the baby. Our labor bag checklist ensures that you'll have everything you need for a comfortable hospital stay.

What to Bring to the Hospital for Baby

Packing your hospital bag checklist for labor and delivery can feel like a daunting task, especially if you're a first-time parent. You want to ensure you have everything your little one will need at the hospital, but you also don't want to overpack and be stuck dragging a heavy bag around. Stick to the essentials when it comes to what you bring to the hospital for your baby.

Car Seat

A car seat is the most important thing you will need to bring. The hospital will likely provide essential items for your baby, such as swaddling blankets, pacifiers, wipes, and diapers. If you bring one item to the hospital, make sure it is this one.

Socks and Caps

The hospital will likely provide hats and socks to keep your baby warm, but you could bring a few of these items as they won’t take up much room in your hospital bag.

Pacifiers

You can bring a few pacifiers if you want to test out the different styles. Hospitals will usually have a few on hand, but they may not have a wide selection.

Bottles

If you will be bottle feeding your baby, you can bring your preferred brand of baby bottles. There are so many different types of bottles, and the hospital may not have a wide variety to choose from.

Swaddle Blankets and Burp Clothes

The hospital will likely have blankets to swaddle your baby, but if you have a specific style in mind, you could bring a few. Some parents prefer certain materials and feel more comfortable bringing their own.

Nursing Pillow

If you will be nursing, a nursing pillow could help a great deal. They are designed to make nursing more comfortable for baby and mom.

You really don’t need to pack much for your baby because the hospital will have everything they need while they are there. If only the rest of your infant’s care so easy.

What to Bring to the Hospital for Mom

While the baby’s needs are undoubtedly important, don’t forget about Mom’s comfort. Items like a comfy robe or slippers can go a long way to making the experience more manageable. Don’t forget to pack essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, and any necessary documents. With a well-packed hospital bag, you can focus on bringing your beautiful baby into the world with a little more ease.

Robe and Slippers

Comfortable items to help you relax can make labor and delivery less stressful. A cozy robe, soft slippers, and warm socks can go a long way in helping you get through labor and the discomfort that comes after.

Cell Phone & Charger

In the digital age, a cell phone and phone charger are essential. You can play games to pass the time, chat with family and friends, and take photos of your baby once your bundle has arrived.

Lotion and Massage Oil

During and after labor, lotion and massage oil can help you relax and help relieve stretched skin.

Toiletries and Cosmetics

Be sure to bring essential toiletries, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, and deodorant plus any makeup you would like to apply at the hospital.

Clothes to Wear Home

You will want to have comfortable loose-fitting clothes to wear home.

Identification and Insurance Information

You will need to bring identification and insurance information. Make sure you tell friends and family they may also need to bring identification to the hospital, as there are likely access control measures at the hospital to protect mothers and babies. In order to pass security checkpoints, visitors may need an I.D. and need to know what name you checked into the hospital under.

Pads and Underwear

Although the hospital will provide you with pads and mesh underwear, you can bring some of your own if you would prefer.

Snacks and Water

You can bring your favorite snacks if those will bring you comfort during your stay.

Extra Money for Hospital Services

Hospitals sometimes offer little extras to make labor and delivery special. For instance, you can pay for hospital photos taken by a professional. You can get a digital infant footprint scan to ensure your baby’s identity is documented, plus you can keep baby footprint scans as a keepsake. Feel free to bring money for these little extras you may want to take advantage of.

Items to Pass the Time

You can bring a few games, stress balls, fidget spinners, or whatever else will help you pass the time during and after labor.

Special Pillow

A special pillow or pillowcase may help you feel more at home.

Make a List Before You Pack

Preparing for the big day of giving birth can be overwhelming. However, making a hospital bag checklist can help ease your stress. Although hospitals provide the necessities, it's important to bring things that will make you feel comfortable and at ease during this unpredictable life event.

Remember to pack smartly and only bring what you need. There's no need to overburden yourself with a lot of stuff. With your labor bag checklist completed, you can now focus on the exciting arrival of your little one!