Here's what you'll need to pack in your hospital bag—and what you don't.
Your due date is approaching, and it’s time to pack your hospital bag.
Not sure where to start?
Here are some ideas. When to Pack Your Hospital Bag:
1. Don't forget to pack a comfortable robe! I found it useful to purchase mine a few months in advance. I'm linking to a lightweight and soft one from Amazon that I personally found cozy without feeling too hot. It proved to be quite handy throughout my postpartum experience.
2. Comfortable Clothes. Comfy clothes are a must postpartum. Avoid anything too restrictive (other than a supportive bra) and keep in mind a few options in case of a C-section. If you plan on breastfeeding after delivery, pack a nursing bra or tank in your bag. Pair your tank top with a soft, loose pant like joggers or lightweight sleep pants. Another option is packing a nursing-friendly pajama or nightgown. Postpartum leggings (like these from Belly Bandit) can also be comfy. If you plan on laboring in water at any point, pack a dark-colored sports bra or a bathing suit top. For footwear, slipper socks are great for keeping cozy (and for gripping slippy hospital floors). Bring slip-on shoes like Birkenstocks, Crocs or flip-flops for going home. Your feet might be swollen from IV fluids, so you’ll be thankful for shoes you can easily slip on.
4. Toiletries: Make sure you bring along your toiletries, including a hairbrush, regular or dry shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, extra hair ties, and face wipes. It's a good idea to pack extra contacts and/or glasses if you wear them.
5. You're birthing plan: Don't forget to bring a copy of your birth plan to share with your labor nurse(s) and have on hand in your hospital room. Consider highlighting key points for easy reference.
6. Extra long charger: Another essential item to pack is an extra-long cell phone charging cord. Hospital beds are often far from electrical outlets, and you'll want a fully charged phone to capture all the special moments with your new baby and to video chat with family and friends.
7. snacks and drinks: be sure to bring snacks and drinks, such as a reusable water bottle and electrolyte drinks like Gatorade or coconut water, as well as easy-to-eat snacks like bars, pretzels, and dried fruit.
8. pillows and bath towel: It's a good idea to bring your own pillows and a bath towel from home, as hospital towels tend to be thin, scratchy, and too small. If you're planning to breastfeed, be sure to pack some nipple cream to keep your nipples comfortable
9. adult diapers or pads: many Babylist parents suggest bringing adult diapers or reusable postpartum absorbent underwear, as they can be more comfortable and secure than the pads and mesh underwear provided by the hospital. Don't forget a perineal spray for added postpartum relief.
10. Portable Speakers and que up your Spotify play list: If you enjoy music, consider bringing a portable Bluetooth speaker and a Spotify playlist with plenty of songs to last through long labor hours. Some nice-to-have items to consider include a diffuser to create a relaxing spa-like atmosphere in your hospital room, and a portable fan for added comfort as windows cannot be opened.