Are you about to have a baby? If so, congratulations! This is an exciting time in your life. One of the most important things you need to do before giving birth is pack your hospital bag. Packing a hospital bag can seem daunting, but don’t worry, we’re here to help with a free downloadable hospital bag checklist!
In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to pack in your hospital bag for mom, dad, and baby. We will also provide a printable hospital bag checklist for you to use. So sit back and relax while we walk you through everything you need to know about packing your hospital bag!
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When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag When Having A Baby
The best time to start packing your hospital bag is during your third trimester. This will give you plenty of time to pack everything you need. However, if you haven’t packed your hospital bag yet, don’t worry – there’s still time! The most important thing is to be prepared for when the baby arrives.
One thing to keep in mind is that baby’s don’t always come on their due date. So it’s important to have your bag packed and ready to go weeks before baby is due.
Need to pack in a hurry? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Use this free printable packing list to pack your bag so you don’t forget anything.
Hospital Bag Checklist: What To Pack For Baby
There’s a lot to think about when you’re getting ready for baby’s arrival. Will the nursery be ready in time? Have you stocked up on enough diapers? And what on earth are you supposed to pack in your hospital bag? It can be a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry – we’re here to help. Here’s a hospital bag checklist of everything you’ll need for a comfortable hospital stay.
Of course, every hospital and every birth is different, so be sure to ask your doctor or midwife about anything else you should pack. And remember, the most important thing is that you and baby are healthy and happy. Everything else is just details.
Car Seat
One of the most important items on your hospital bag checklist is an infant car seat. You will need a car seat to take your baby home from the hospital, so make sure you have one ready to go! Install the base and car seat in the car and check your local area for certified car seat checks to make sure it’s installed correctly. Then practice putting a doll or teddy bear in the car seat before baby comes so you get familiar with how your particular seat works. For more car seat tips, click here.
Going Home Outfit
Another important thing to pack is a going home outfit for baby. Depending on where you live, you may want to pack outfits for varying weather. The hospital usually supplies t-shirts and swaddles for the baby while in the hospital, but if you’d like to bring extra clothes to dress baby in feel free to do so. Interested in what else the hospital supplies after birth? Check out this post.
Pediatrician Contact Information
It’s a good idea to pack the contact information for your pediatrician in your hospital bag. This way, you will have it handy if you need to call them after you leave the hospital. Usually your pediatrician will visit the baby while in the hospital if they have priveleges where you plan to deliver, and we suggest that you call your pediatrician office prior to discharge to schedule baby’s first appointment which is usually within 24-48 hours of discharge home.
Photo Props
If you want to take pictures of your baby in the hospital, make sure to pack some photo props! This could include a blanket, hat, or even a cute sign. Check with your hospital if they have a newborn photography on staff or if you’re allowed to bring in your own newborn photographer. Of course, you can always snap your own shots as well.
Baby Wash/Shampoo
Most hospitals will supply baby wash or shampoo for baby’s first bath, but if you’d like to bring your own from home you can do so as well.
Baby Book
If you plan to fill in a baby book for your baby you can bring it with you to the hospital. Ask the nurses for extra ink pads to do footprints and handprints on the pages of the book and tuck other important information about baby’s stats and early days inside the book to stay organized…because #mommybrain.
White Noise Machine
A white noise machine just may be a god-send if you’re trying to get some sleep with your newborn. A white noise machine mimics the sounds baby was used to hearing in the womb and helps calm them. This little noise machine will fit right inside baby’s bassinet and soothe baby so you can hopefully (fingers crossed) get some precious sleep too.
Blanket
A baby blanket is another great thing to include in your baby’s hospital bag. You can use it for photos, to practice swaddling, and to cover the baby in the car seat if it’s a bit chilly outside.
Hat
The hospital usually supplies a cute little newborn hat for you to take home as a keepsake, but you may want to pack a hat of your own when you take baby home, especially if it’s chilly outside.
Nail File
Most babies are born needing a manicure. Their little nails can feel like daggers on your skin and on their own. We recommend filing baby’s nails verses using clippers initially, so I recommend this electric nail file for all new moms. It’s gentle on baby’s skin and gets the job done.
Diapers
The hospital will supply you with diapers during your stay, but you may want to pack a few extra diapers in your hospital bag just in case. Especially if you have a long drive home from the hospital.
Wipes
Wipes are another item you will want to pack in your hospital bag. This is because they can come in handy for a variety of purposes from wiping off your hands to wiping baby’s bottom. The hospital will supply you with wipes, but it’s always a great idea to pack some as well.
Pacifier
A pacifier is another item you may want to pack in your hospital bag. Some babies love pacifiers and some babies don’t. But, if your baby loves a pacifier if may be the best thing for your sanity on the drive home if baby starts to fuss in their car seat.
Hospital Bag Checklist: What To Pack For Mom
You’re about to become a mom! Congratulations. Becoming a parent is one of the most amazing things in the world. But before you can enjoy all the cuddles and firsts, you’ve got to make it through labor and delivery. And that means being prepared with everything you need in your hospital bag.
To make sure you don’t forget anything important, we’ve put together the ultimate hospital bag checklist. These are the hospital bag essentials that every mom needs to have for a successful labor and delivery.
Nursing Pillow
If you are planning on breastfeeding, a nursing pillow can be a lifesaver. This will help you to position baby correctly and make nursing more comfortable. It’s a great idea to bring your nursing pillow with you to the hospital so you can practice positioning with it while you have the nurses and lactation consultants help.
Breast Pump
If you are able to get your hands on your breast pump ahead of time, bring it to the hospital with you. Most hospitals will be able to supply a hospital grade breast pump for you to use if you don’t have your pump yet. But, if you do have yours bring it with you so you can learn how to use it and set it up with the help of the nurses and lactation consultants.
Nipple Cream
Nipple cream will become your new best friend, especially if you’re breastfeeding for the first time. The hospital can supply lanolin, but you can also bring your own nipple cream. If you are dealing with nipple discomfort during or after breastfeeding, talk to your nurse or lactation consultant who may have other suggestions to bring relief as well.
Nursing Cover
A nursing cover can also be a helpful item to pack in your hospital bag. This will help you to feel more comfortable breastfeeding especially while you have visitors and staff coming in and out of your room. I love these nursing covers that double as a car seat cover to offer privacy and protection for you and baby.
Birth Plan
It’s a good idea to write out a birth plan before you go into labor, and have it handy to make sure everyone is on the same page. Talk with your doctor or midwife about what to include in your birth plan so you feel a bit more prepared for the labor experience.
Photo ID & Insurance Information
This may be obvious, but make sure to pack your photo ID and insurance information in your hospital bag.
Cooling Cloths
Cooling cloths can be a great way to relieve any discomfort you may be feeling during labor and postpartum as your hormones are changing. These can be damp and stored in the fridge to help with hot flashes and nausea.
Fan
You may be surprised at how warm you feel after birth. A fan that can clip right onto the hospital bed can also be a helpful item to pack in your hospital bag to help you stay cool during labor and delivery and during breastfeeding after baby’s born. Then, clip it to baby’s stroller as he grows to keep him nice and cool during summer outings.
Nursing Bra
If you are planning on breastfeeding, a nursing bra can be a great item to pack in your hospital bag. This will make it easier to treat your nipples with cream and shells while you’re getting used to breastfeeding, and offer support to your breasts. Kindred Bravely offers the most amazing, comfortable nursing bras of all time.
Comfortable Lounge Clothes
It’s a good idea to pack some comfortable lounge clothes for after you give birth. This could include sweatpants, a T-shirt, and some cozy socks. A hospital gown will be provided, but I bet you’ll feel more comfortable as you rest and heal in comfy clothes.
Robe
A robe is another item that can come in handy after you give birth. This will help keep you warm and comfortable, especially after that first shower postpartum that feels like a day at the spa.
Non-Skid Socks
Non-Skid Socks or slippers are another must-have in your hospital bag to maintain safety while walking around at the hospital. Most hospitals will provide you with non-skid socks if you don’t have any to pack.
Going Home Outfit
It’s a good idea to pack an outfit for when you leave the hospital. This could be something comfortable like yoga pants and a T-shirt. Just think about comfort. No need to try to cram into your low-rise skinny jeans on the way out the door with baby.
Long Cell Phone Charging Cord
If you are planning on using your cell phone in the hospital, make sure to pack a long charging cord. This way extra long cord is a game changer while at the hospital. Just trust me, you’ll thank me later.
Snacks
It’s always a good idea to pack some snacks in your hospital bag. Hospitals generally have snacks but they may not be the best or what you’re craving during those late-night feedings. For a complete list of hospital snack ideas, click here.
Hairbands
If you have longer hair, it’s a good idea to pack some hairbands in your hospital bag. Not only will they come in handy during labor and delivery, but also postpartum when you’re trying to breastfeed. They’ll just help keep your hair up and away from your face or baby’s extra tight grip.
Toiletries
You may also want to pack some toiletries in your hospital bag. This could include a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, etc. The hospital will have some toiletries for you to use as well, but the hospital isn’t a 4-star hotel so the supplies aren’t the greatest if you catch my drift. You may feel more comfortable bringing your own.
Peppermints/Hard Candy
Packing some peppermints or hard candy can be helpful too during labor and postpartum, especially if you’re dealing with dry mouth or nausea. This can help to settle your stomach and make you feel better.
Breath Mints & Gum
Breath mints can also come in handy after you give birth and freshen your breath a lot quicker and easier than brushing your teeth.
Chapstick
Chapstick can also be a helpful item to pack in your hospital bag especially since the hospital can be a dry place and after breathing heavily during pushing your lips may get really dry and uncomfortable.
Water Bottle
It’s always important to stay hydrated but especially after having a baby and while breastfeeding, so make sure to pack a water bottle in your hospital bag that can be refilled at the hospital. An insulated cup like this one will keep your water nice and cold. And you may want to pack an extra just for ice.
Makeup
If you want to, you can also pack some makeup in your hospital bag too. You may want to feel a little more put together if you plan to have pictures taken or visitors. But, that’s completely up to you.
Makeup Remover Wipes
If you decide to bring makeup, it may be easier to pack makeup remover wipes to make skin care a bit easier while in the hospital.
Hair Tools
You may also want to pack a hair brush, blow dryer, and/or curling iron depending on how you usually do your hair. You’ll never really know what you’ll feel up to doing until after you’ve given birth. So, if you think you may like to style your hair, feel free to bring whatever items help you feel your most beautiful.
Hospital Bag Checklist: What To Pack For Dad or Support Person
As any experienced parent knows, there are certain things you just can’t leave home without when headed to the hospital. From snacks and comfortable clothes to entertainment and personal items, packing a hospital bag is serious business. And while every family’s needs are different, there are some essential items that no dad should be without.
So what should you pack for dad in the hospital bag? Here’s a quick checklist of ultimate hospital bag essentials:
Phone & Charger
Dad will definitely not want to forget his phone and charger. This way, he can stay connected, send those “baby is here” text messages, and take pictures/videos.
List of Who to Notify
It is important to have a list of people that you will want to notify when the baby arrives. This includes your family members, friends, and even your boss if you are planning on taking paternity leave.
Glasses &/or Contacts
If you wear glasses or contacts, it is important to bring them with you to the hospital. And, don’t forget some contact solution too!
Tablet/Computer
A tablet can help keep your mind off of things and allow you to relax or continue work project is needed. Enjoy an impromtu movie night with mom using your tablet while waiting for baby to be born or during those late night feedings.
Camera
If you have a camera, make sure to pack it in your hospital bag. This way, you will be able to capture all of the special moments.
Medication
If you are taking medication, make sure to pack it in your hospital bag. And, it may be helpful to pack some Tylenol or Motrin to help if you have muscle aches or a headache. The hospital staff is not able to administer medications to dads, only to mom, so if you too are experiencing some discomfort it may be helpful to have a stash of your own. Just remember, don’t give mom any of these medications as the nurses will want to keep track of the medicines she’s taking during delivery and postpartum.
Snacks & Drinks
Dad will most likely also want to pack some snacks and drinks in his hospital bag too. Need snack ideas? Check out my epic list of hospital bag snacks.
Pillow & Blanket
Dad may also want to pack a pillow and blanket in his hospital bag. The hospital will most likely provide a bed or a bench for him to sleep on, but bringing his own pillow and blanket from home will make the experience a bit more comfortable. (Bring your own pillow and blanket too, mama, if you feel like it!)
Money
It’s a good idea to pack some cash or change for the vending machine for a late-night snack or caffeinated beverage.
Toiletries
Dad will also want to pack some toiletries in his hospital bag. This could include a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, showerwash etc.
Comfortable Clothes
It’s also a good idea for dad to pack some comfortable clothes in his hospital bag too. This could include sweatpants, T-shirts, and socks.
Extra Face Masks
With the current pandemic, it’s a good idea for dad to pack some extra face masks in his hospital bag just in case.
Headphones
Dad may also want to pack some headphones in his hospital bag. This way, he can listen to music or watch movies while mom and baby rest.
Shower Sandals
If dad is planning on taking a shower at the hospital, it’s a good idea to pack some shower sandals.
Speaker
If dad wants to, he can also pack a speaker in his hospital bag. This way, you both can play music or listen to podcasts during labor or during those late-night snuggle sessions.
Lotion/Massage Oil
If dad is wanting to earn some extra brownie points, pack some lotion or massage oil to give mom a massage during labor or during breastfeeding.
Push Present
And finally, don’t forget to pack a push present for the new mama! This could be something small, like a piece of jewelry or a special card. For the best push present ideas for new moms, click here!
For more ideas of what to pack in dad’s hospital bag, click here.
A Printable Hospital Bag Checklist
This ultimate hospital bag checklist will help you make sure you have everything you need when it’s time to give birth. From essential items like a comfortable robe and slippers to must-have toiletries and snacks, this list has it all. So print it out and start packing!
Click here to download the hospital bag checklist!
By following this hospital bag checklist, you can be sure that you have everything you need for your hospital stay. labor and delivery. Now all you have to do is relax and wait for your little one to arrive!
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