If you’re planning a hospital birth, don’t put off packing until you go into labor. The hospital already has a lot of the items for your postpartum care, such as pads, cool packs, a breast pump, and a peri bottle, along with items for your new baby, such as diapers, receiving blankets, and a hat. So what do you actually need to bring? Use our handy printable Hospital Bag Packing List and get to packing. Plan to pack around 35 weeks to ensure you have everything ready to go before baby makes a debut.
Must haves:
Birth plan and insurance info
ID and hospital paperwork
Chapstick (all that heavy breathing can leave your lips dry and cracked)
Hair tie or headband (to keep your hair out of your face for pushing)
Hair brush
Camera and battery charger
Cell phone and charger
Mom’s going home outfit
Baby’s going home outfit
Carseat (already installed)
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Breath mints
Snacks and fluids
Nursing tank and comfy pants
Comfy socks
Change of clothes for partner
Receiving blanket
Consider packing:
Labor gown
Birth ball
Rebozo
Music or white noise machine
Hot water bottle
Oils or lotions
Essential oil diffuser
Cooler for placenta transport
Bathing suit (for labor tub)
Slippers
Make-up
Entertainment
Own pillow or throw blanket
Leave home:
Jewelry
A lot of cash or valuables