Maternity Hospital Bag Checklist

Pack your bags! We're going to the

It can be pretty hectic once you go into labor and have to rush to the hospital or birthing center. That's why it's important to have your maternity bag packed and ready to go weeks before the big day. But where to start? We've compiled a list of essential items for you and baby and your partner to have packed for the big day.

Let's not forget...

• Photo ID
• Insurance Information
• Hospital Forms
• Birth Plan (bring a few copies)

What's Mom Packing?

A comfortable nursing bra and nursing pads are a must for some moms, while other moms prefer to go braless because of frequent nursing. Do whatever makes you comfortable.

Pack a small toiletry bag.

• Toothbrush
• Hair Ties
• Hair Brush
• Deodorant
• Travel-sized Lotion
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Toothpaste

Wait!
There's more...

1. If you wear contact lenses, we highly recommend packing your glasses. You definitely don't want to fool with contacts when you're having a baby.
2. Do bring your cell phone charger. A 10-foot charging cable is a total game changer, especially when you need it to reach from the outlet to your hospital bed. It's also a good idea to bring along a portable power bank, just in case.
3. Another game changer when it comes to packing your hospital bag? Lip Balm. Hospital air tends to be dry, and labor can really take a toll on your lips.
4. Hospitals aren't exactly known for their luxury bedlinens, so bring your favorite pillow from home. Make sure you use a colored or patterned pillowcase so your pillow doesn't get whisked away by staff.
5. Bring a warm, comfy robe that you don't mind getting ruined.
6. Hospital food is pretty much the worst and you're going to get extra hungry, so remember to pack some non-perishable snacks for in between meals.
7. You may not be a fan of the postpartum supplies the hospital provides, so bring along some comfy disposable underwear, absorbent pads, and/or adult diapers.
8. Also be sure to pack some loose, light-weight clothing for the hospital, as well as a "going-home" outfit (your maternity clothes should still fit).
9. Finally, bring some warm and comfy slipper socks or house shoes to walk all over that cold hospital floor before showtime.

Packing for your
little one.

You’ll need some comfy clothes for baby while still in the hospital, so bring along a couple of onesies for your stay in the hospital (3 to 4 if you’re having a c-section). Don’t forget a “going-home” outfit for your new bundle of joy. Bonus points for matching mommy-and-me swag.

• The hospital may provide some, but bring along some diapers just in case.
• This won’t fit in your bags, but please don’t forget the car seat to get your little one home in.
• A soft, warm baby blanket and/or swaddle will make baby feel warm and cozy while in a potentially cold hospital.

Hospital Bag for Your

1. Your birthing partner will need some snacks too—hands off Mom’s snacks!
2. Labor can be a looooong process, so bring along a tablet, books, magazines, or other favorite forms of light entertainment to pass the time while your partner waits.
3. You’re probably going to want to take a ton of photos, so if you want something more heavy duty than a cell phone can offer, bring along your camera and an extra memory card to capture this beautiful moment in time.

• Your labor sidekick probably doesn’t want to wear the same thing throughout your stay in the hospital, so pack a couple of changes of clothes for them too.
• They still need to shower, so pack some travel size toiletries for your partner so they can stay fresh and clean along with you.
• Like I said before, hospital pillows and linens can leave a lot to be desired, so bring along your birth partner’s favorite pillow and blanket. Now all three of you can be comfy cozy during your stay in the hospital.

Download your own personal checklist!

Looking for a Cord Blood Bank?
Look no further than AlphaCord.

FREE - Newborn Stem Cell Banking Information Kit ♡

THE CONTENT OF THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you have a medical emergency or question, immediately call your doctor or dial 911 for assistance.