Hospital bag checklist for mom and baby
Pack around 36 weeks and keep the bag by the door. You'll use less than you think, but a few things make a hospital stay much easier.
When to pack
Most families pack between 34 and 36 weeks. If you have a planned induction or C-section, pack a week before. Keep the bag in the car or by the door, and make a short list of last-minute items such as phone chargers and glasses.
Paperwork
- Photo ID and insurance card.
- Hospital pre-registration forms.
- Your birth preferences, if you've written them, with a few copies.
- Your pediatrician's name and phone number.
For labor
- A long phone charging cable (outlets are often far from the bed).
- Lip balm and hair ties.
- Glasses, if you wear contacts.
- Non-slip socks or slippers.
- Music, headphones or anything else that helps you relax.
- A water bottle with a straw.
For recovery
- A robe and loose, comfortable clothes.
- A nursing bra or soft bra, and nursing-friendly tops if you plan to breastfeed.
- High-waisted underwear that sits above a C-section incision.
- Your own toiletries: toothbrush, shampoo, face wash and deodorant.
- Maternity pads. Hospitals provide them, but some moms like their own for the trip home.
- A loose going-home outfit. Most people still look about six months pregnant after birth, which is normal.
What we mention
Nursing Pillow
Lifts baby to a comfortable height for breast or bottle feeding and saves…
Cotton Bodysuit Set
Soft short-sleeve bodysuits with envelope shoulders for quick…
Cotton Swaddle Blanket
Light, breathable cotton for swaddling the first weeks, then for tummy time,…
Diaper Tote
A structured tote with insulated bottle pockets and a wipe-clean changing…
For baby
- One or two going-home outfits in newborn and 0–3 month sizes.
- A swaddle or light blanket for the ride home.
- A hat and mittens in cooler weather.
- An installed infant car seat. Hospitals usually won't let you leave by car without one. Install it a few weeks early and have it checked if you can.
The hospital usually provides diapers, wipes and basics for your stay.
For your partner or support person
- A change of clothes and toiletries.
- Snacks and a water bottle.
- A pillow and a sweater (hospitals can be cold).
- Phone charger and any medications.
Leave at home
Valuables and jewelry, a full newborn wardrobe, and most baby gear.
Know the warning signs
Before you go home, ask your nurse to go over postpartum warning signs. Call 911 or your provider right away for heavy bleeding, chest pain, trouble breathing, a severe headache, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.
