Preparing for childbirth is an exciting (and sometimes nerve-racking) journey. In addition to the endless preparations at home, packing your hospital bag is a crucial step that can make your stay at the hospital or birthing center more comfortable and less stressful. It’s recommended to have your bag ready by the time you are about 36 weeks pregnant. Here’s a practical list of things you should consider packing for your baby’s birth day.

For the Expectant Mother:

  • Important Documents: Bring your photo ID, insurance information, and any hospital paperwork you’ve completed ahead of time. Also, it’s helpful to have a birth plan (if you have one) and a list of emergency contacts.
  • Comfortable Clothing: Pack a few sets of loose, lightweight, and comfortable clothes for your hospital stay, including something to wear when going home. You may also want a few pairs of warm socks with non-skid bottoms. Don’t forget to include a couple of maternity bras and nursing pads, whether or not you plan to breastfeed.
  • Cell phone and charger: It’s a good idea to bring phone chargers to the hospital just in case your phone runs out of battery.
    Tip: Buy an extra-long charging cord so it reaches the hospital bed, or bring a fully-charged power bank.
  • Toiletries: Bring your own toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, hairbrush, shampoo, conditioner, and any other personal care items. Don’t forget your glasses if you wear them! Lip balm, lotion, and moisturizer can also be important, as hospitals can have dry air.
  • Entertainment: Let’s face it: labor can be long. Consider packing some light (non-stressful) reading, a tablet with your favorite movie or show downloaded, and some headphones or earbuds.
Maternity Bag WFMC Health

For the Partner or Support Person:

  • Change of Clothes: Pack a change of clothes and comfortable shoes, as you might be staying for a while.
  • Toiletries: Just like before, bring your own toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and any other essentials.
  • Snacks and Water: Bring enough for yourself and the expectant mother.
  • Entertainment: Pack a book, tablet, or anything to help pass the time during the waiting periods.
  • Miscellaneous: Don’t forget to bring any daily medications, a camera or phone for photos, and a list of people to call with the good news.

For the Newborn:

  • Going Home Outfit: Pack a couple of sizing options to make sure one fits!
  • Blankets: While the hospital will provide blankets, you might want to bring your own warm blanket for the ride home.
  • Car Seat: This won’t fit in your bag, but make sure you have a properly installed infant car seat ready for your baby’s first ride home.

Finally, while you’re focusing on what to pack, don’t forget to consider how you’ll get to the hospital and who will be with you during labor. Preparing these details ahead of time can further ease your mind as your due date approaches.

We hope you can use this list as a helpful guide when you’re packing your hospital bag! You may not use everything you bring, but it’s better to have something and not need it than the opposite.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.