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The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist For Expecting Moms

by Carolyn
(Chicago)

When I was expecting my first child, I thought I had a general idea of what to bring with me to the hospital for the delivery. A couple of outfits for me and the baby, toiletries, snacks and a carseat - and that's about it.

It wasn't until my good friend gave me a 'Hospital Bag Checklist,' that I realized there are so many more things to consider bringing along to the hospital! This was a lifesaver for me so I thought I would share the list with you. Not all items are essential, but this is a great "master list' so you're sure not to forget anything!

It pretty much covers everything you could ever think of!

The Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

Essential Documents
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- Hospital registration forms
- Birth plan (if you have one)
- Emergency contact list

Clothing
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing: Bring a few changes of clothes. Consider nursing tops if you plan to breastfeed.
- Maternity bras and nursing pads
- Robe: A comfortable robe for walking around the hospital and for during labor.
- Socks and slippers: Warm socks and non-slip slippers for comfort and safety.
- Underwear: Bring several pairs of comfortable, high-waisted underwear that you don't mind getting messy.
- Going-home outfit: Something loose and comfortable that you wore when you were around six months pregnant.
- Flip-flops: For the shower or if you prefer them to slippers.

Personal Care Items
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and face wash.
- Hairbrush and hair ties
- Lip balm: Hospitals can be very dry.
- Moisturizer: Your skin might feel drier than usual.
- Makeup: If you want to freshen up for photos.
- Glasses or contact lenses: If you wear them.

Comfort Items
- Pillow: Your own pillow from home, with a distinctive pillowcase so it doesn't get mixed up with the hospital's.
- Blanket: A soft blanket for added comfort.
- Eye mask and earplugs: To help you sleep.

Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Camera and charger: If you prefer using a camera over your phone.
- Tablet or e-reader and charger: For entertainment.
- Portable speaker: For playing your favorite calming music.

Snacks and Drinks
- Healthy snacks: Nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, and crackers.
- Water bottle: Preferably one with a straw.
- Sports drinks: For hydration.

For Labor
- Birth ball: If you have one and plan to use it.
- Massage tools: Tennis balls or a handheld massager.
- Essential oils: If you find them relaxing (check with the hospital first).
- Focal point: A photo or object to focus on during contractions.

For Postpartum
- Maternity pads or adult diapers: The hospital will provide some, but you might want to have your own.
- Peri bottle: The hospital will provide one, but you might prefer your own.
- Nipple cream: To soothe sore nipples.
- Nursing pillow: To help with breastfeeding positioning.

For Baby
- Going-home outfit: Something weather-appropriate and easy to put on.
- Baby blanket: For warmth and comfort.
- Car seat: Installed in your car before arriving at the hospital.
- Baby hat and mittens: To keep baby warm and prevent scratching.

For Partner
- Comfortable clothing: A few changes of clothes.
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
- Snacks and drinks
- Entertainment: Books, magazines, or a tablet.
- Pillow and blanket: If they are staying overnight.
- Cash or change: For vending machines or parking.

Packing a well-prepared hospital bag can help make your stay more comfortable and ensure you have everything you need for your new arrival. Congratulations and best of luck with your delivery! Hope these ideas help you uas much as they did me!