Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack

Pack your hospital bag by 36 weeks. Here's what to bring for yourself and baby — and what to leave at home.

For Labor & Delivery

• Comfortable clothes: Loose dress or nightgown, robe, slippers
• Hair ties: Keep hair out of your face
• Lip balm: Hospital air is dry
• Snacks: Protein bars, crackers (for after delivery)
• Phone charger: Long cord so you can reach from bed
• Bluetooth speaker: For music or white noise
• Massage tools: Tennis ball, massage oil

For Postpartum

• Nursing bras (2): Comfortable, easy access
• High-waisted underwear: Disposable or old pairs
• Maxi pads: Hospital provides, but bring favorites
• Nipple cream: Lansinoh or Earth Mama
• Going-home outfit: Maternity size, comfortable
• Toiletries: Travel-size shampoo, soap, toothbrush, deodorant
• Towel: Hospital ones are small and scratchy

For Baby

• Going-home outfit: Newborn and 0–3 month sizes (you don't know which will fit)
• Swaddle blanket: For warmth and photos
• Car seat: Installed before you go to hospital
• Hat and mittens: Newborns lose heat through their heads
• Pacifiers: If you plan to use them

Documents

• Insurance cards
• ID and registration paperwork
• Birth plan (if you have one)
• Pediatrician contact info

For Your Partner

• Change of clothes
• Snacks and drinks
• Pillow (hospital pillows are terrible)
• Toiletries
• Camera (if not using phone)

What to Leave Home

• Jewelry and valuables
• Full-size toiletries (TSA-size is plenty)
• Baby toys (unnecessary for newborn)
• Your entire wardrobe (you'll be there 1–3 days)