Packing your hospital bag when you're expecting a baby can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. As a mom of three myself, I can tell you it's very easy to overpack. You want to make sure you have everything you need to feel comfortable during your hospital stay, while also keeping in mind that you'll have limited space to store your belongings. In this blog post, we'll share a comprehensive list of items to pack in your hospital bag when having a baby.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
It's important to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go well in advance of your due date. While it's impossible to predict exactly when your baby will arrive, you don't want to be caught off guard without your essential items when it's time to go to the hospital.
Most experts suggest packing your hospital bag around 34 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. This gives you plenty of time to gather all the items you need and ensure that everything is organized and ready to go.
In addition to packing your hospital bag, you should also have a plan in place for how you will get to the hospital when the time comes. Make sure you have your transportation arrangements sorted out, such as having a car seat installed in your car or arranging for a ride with a friend or family member.
It's also a good idea to keep your hospital bag in a place that's easily accessible, such as near the front door or in your car, so that you can grab it quickly when it's time to go. You may even want to consider having a smaller bag packed with just the essentials that you can take with you to your prenatal appointments, just in case your baby decides to make an early arrival.
What Not to Pack
If you're giving birth at a hospital, it's important to keep in mind that many of them will provide some essentials, such as sanitary pads, disposable underwear, diapers, wipes, baby shampoo, and receiving blankets. Contact the place you're planning on giving birth in advance to know what will be provided, so you're not packing items that will already be there.
What You Should Pack
Toiletries
- Shampoo and Conditioner
- Bodywash/soap
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Face lotion/Skincare
- Makeup remover
- Prenatal vitamins
- Contacts/glasses
- Hairdryer, brush and styling tools
- Makeup
- Lip balm
For Mom
- Birth Plan
- ID and insurance card
- Phone charger
- Nipple cream
- Breast pads
- Pajamas (2-3 sets)
- Robe
- Nursing tank (2-3)
- Nursing bras (2-3)
- Zip-up or button down long sleeve shirts (1-2)
- Announcement photo outfit
- Coming home outfit
- Underwear (2-3)
- Socks (2-3 pairs)
- Slippers
For Baby
- Car Seat
- Announcement photo outfit
- Coming home outfit
- Zipper footies (2-3)
- Swaddle blankets (2-3)
- Knot gowns (2-3)
- Hats/headbands (1-2)
- Socks (2-3 pairs)
- Pacifiers
For Support Person
- Phone charger
- Shirts (2-3)
- Pants/shorts (2-3)
- Pajamas (2-3 sets)
- Socks (2-3 pairs)
- Announcement photo outfit
- Coming home outfit
Misc.
- $2-3 in quarters (for vending machines)
- Labor gown
- Birth announcement photo props
- Bobby pillow
- Mints/gum
- Mini speaker
- Cameras and charger
- Computer and charger
- Snacks and drinks
- Breast pump
- Water bottle
- Books
Remember, it's always better to over-pack than under-pack, so don't be afraid to bring along a few extra items that will make you feel more comfortable during this special time.
(Download a FREE printable PDF of the Hospital Bag Checklist)