The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for Expecting Moms

Getting ready for the big day?

The big day is finally arriving. You probably have been planning and preparing for this moment for ages. You are busy doing prenatal yoga, practicing hypnobirthing breathing techniques, or even doing perineal exercises to get ready for the big day. Now is the time to pack your hospital bag. Not just for you but for your baby and partner too. This maternity checklist will help you make sure that you have everything you need.

When should you pack your hospital bag?

If you're like most pregnant women, you're probably wondering when the best time is to start packing your hospital bag. The answer? It depends. Most women pack their bags during the seventh or eighth month of pregnancy, but there are a few things you may want to add to your list if you're going into labor early.

What should you pack in your hospital bag?

Packing a hospital bag for labor can be daunting, especially for first-time moms. What should you bring? How much should you pack? The answer to these questions largely depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What you should bring depends on how long you plan to stay in the hospital after giving birth. If you have a c-section your stay will be longer than when packing for vaginal delivery. So try to plan accordingly.

Hospital bag checklist for mom for labor

Here is an initial checklist you can work with. Remember that you can always ask a partner to support person to bring additional items if neccessary.

• Your insurance information
• Your driver's license or another form of ID
• Your birth plan (if you have one) A birthplan is a document that outlines yout wishesfor your delivery. It can include everything from the type of pain relief you want to receive to what you would like your partner to do during labor. Having this document is a way to take control of your delivery and ensure you have a say in what happens. While it is not legally binding, most hospitals will try to accommodate as many of the mother's wishes as possible.
• A charger for your phone
• Comfortable clothes to wear and pajamas
• Snacks and drinks
• Toiletries, including shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
• Glasses or contact lenses (if needed)
• Entertainment for you including books, magazines, etc.
• Hair ties or clips
• Makeup, if desired
• A pillow and blanket
• Chargers for any electronic devices you bring
• Nipple cream
• Positive affirmation cards
• TENS machine (if required).
• Perineal massage oil such as sweet almond oil (if required to do perineal massage)
• Socks and slippers for you
• A robe or wrap for you
• Important phone numbers (doula, midwife, hospital)

Hospital bag checklist for mom for after birth

It's important to be prepared with all the necessary items for after the baby arrives. Here's a helpful checklist to pack in your hospital bag for after birth:

• Sanitary or maternity pads
• Comfortable clothes and underwear
• Maternity outfits you can wear when going home.
• Nursing bras and pads

Hospital bag checklist for the baby

• A going-home outfit
• A receiving blanket or swaddling blankets
• Wet wipes and diapers
• 1–2 baby hats
• One outfit that's easy to put on and take off (preferably footed sleepers)
• A car seat installed and ready to go. Bring the little one home safely.

Hospital bag checklist for partner (or another support person)

• A camera to document the experience and a charger
• A phone and charger
• Laptop, tablet, another form of entertainment
• Cash
• Snacks and drinks
• Change of clothes and a going-home outfit
• A pillow and blanket
• A washbag with toiletries
• Important phone numbers (doula, midwife, hospital)

Prepare the hospitals bag but just don't go overboard

By packing a well-stocked hospital bag ahead of time, you'll have peace of mind during this special time in your life. Just don't go overboard! You can always ask a partner or support person to bring additional items if necessary. Remember - all that matters is a safe and healthy delivery for you and your baby. So take some time to gather your essential items, alleviate any stress, prepare for childbirth, and focus on the exciting journey ahead of you!

Note: Always consult with your healthcare provider before packing anything related to your medical needs.