Complete Guide

Hospital Bag Checklist Guide

The complete guide to packing your hospital bag for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. Know exactly what to bring for mom, baby, and your support partner — so you can focus on what matters most.

Pack by Week 36

Labor can start at any time after 37 weeks. Having your bag ready early means one less thing to worry about when contractions begin. Keep it by the door or in your car.

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For Mom — Labor Comfort

Comfortable robe or nightgown

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💡 Something you don't mind getting messy

Non-slip socks or slippers

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💡 Essential for walking the halls during labor

Hair ties and headband

💡 Keep hair out of your face during labor

Lip balm

💡 Lips get very dry during labor and pushing

Massage tools or tennis ball

💡 For back labor relief

Pillow from home

💡 Use a colored pillowcase so it doesn't get mixed up

Snacks for labor

💡 Light, easy-to-digest foods — check hospital policy first

Phone charger (long cable)

💡 A 10-foot cable is ideal for hospital beds

Birth plan (3 copies)

💡 One for you, one for nurse, one for doctor

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For Mom — Postpartum Recovery

Nursing bras (2)

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💡 Soft, wireless styles are most comfortable

Nursing pads

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💡 Milk comes in 2–5 days after birth

Nipple cream (lanolin)

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💡 Essential if breastfeeding

Comfortable going-home outfit

💡 Maternity size — you'll still look 6 months pregnant

Toiletries (shampoo, face wash, toothbrush)

💡 Travel sizes save space

Witch hazel pads / Tucks

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💡 Soothing for postpartum recovery

High-waisted underwear

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💡 Comfortable over C-section incision if applicable

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For Baby

Going-home outfit (newborn AND 0–3 month)

💡 Pack both sizes — you don't know baby's weight yet

Infant car seat (installed in car)

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💡 Hospital will not discharge without it

Swaddle blankets (2–3)

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💡 Hospital provides some, but extras are helpful

Newborn hat and mittens

💡 Mittens prevent baby from scratching face

Pacifier (optional)

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💡 AAP recommends offering at sleep time

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For Partner / Support Person

Change of clothes (2 days)

💡 Labor can last 24+ hours

Toiletries

💡 Toothbrush, deodorant, face wash

Snacks and drinks

💡 Hospital cafeteria may have limited hours

Phone charger

💡 For photos and keeping family updated

Cash for parking and vending machines

💡 Many hospital parking garages are cash-only

Entertainment (book, tablet)

💡 Early labor can be slow — bring something to do

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Documents & Insurance

Health insurance card

💡 Required for admission

Photo ID

💡 Required for admission

Hospital pre-registration confirmation

💡 Pre-register online to speed up admission

OB-GYN and pediatrician contact info

💡 Save in your phone AND write it down

Birth plan copies

💡 Keep extras in case staff changes

Frequently Asked Questions