Packing Your Hospital Bag for Delivery

When you’re pregnant, there are hundreds of things on your mind – from the nursery to the car seat, diapers to high chairs and more. Packing your bags for the hospital may not be on your top priority list, but it is one of the most important steps when preparing for labor and delivery. You want to make sure you have everything you need for yourself and for baby when the big day arrives in order to prevent added stress. It is often recommended to have your bags packed by 35 weeks – this way you are prepared even if your little one decides to make an early appearance.

While you may find yourself adding some personal items into your bags based on preference, there are some absolute must-haves that you should pack first, such as:

• Insurance information, forms the hospital has asked you to fill out, and your birth plan
• Personal toiletries: toothbrush, deodorant, hairbrush
• Hair tie or headband to keep your hair out of your face
• Maternity bras and nursing pads
• Several pairs of socks for walking around the hospital
• A change of clothes and hygiene items for your partner

Technology makes communicating with others and sharing photos so easy. You’ll want to make sure you have everything you need to share the news with friends and family.

• Cell phone and cell phone charger
• Camera with charger and additional battery
• List of people you want to share the news with and their phone numbers

You will also want a bag for your baby, which is much simpler to pack. Consider bringing the following:

• Approved car seat
• Coming home outfit
• Blankets
• Seasonally appropriate clothing to keep baby warm

Find a printable checklist and start getting your bag together. Already had a baby and want to suggest a hospital bag item you couldn’t have survived without? Share it in the comments below.