Packing for Your Hospital Stay

As your due date gets closer, it’s a good idea to have a bag already packed for your hospital or birthing center stay. You’ll be ready to go when the time comes!

Don’t overpack; just bring the necessities (leave jewelry and other valuables at home). Below is a general checklist of what to bring.

For You:

__ Your birth plan if you have one (multiple copies to give to your practitioner and nurses)

__ Your insurance card, I.D., and any required hospital admissions documents

__ Your baby’s pediatrician’s name and contact information

__ Cell phone and/or camera (don’t forget a charger or extra batteries)

__ Snacks for your partner

__ A comfort item, such as your pillow, for you — you may want your own

__ Your cord blood banking kit, if you're banking your baby’s cord blood

__ Toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste; hairbrush; your own soap, shampoo and conditioner (if you prefer this to what the hospital may provide)

__ Clothing: Extra pairs of underwear and a nursing bra; hair clips or ties to keep your hair out of your face; nightgown or PJs; socks and slippers; a comfortable going-home outfit (you’ll still look a bit pregnant at first so plan for that)

__ Breast pump and nipple cream, if you plan to breastfeed. A hospital nurse or lactation consultant can show you how to use the pump so you’ll know once you’re back home. Don't have a pump yet? You can order your insurance-provided pump through www.ordermypump.com

For Baby:

__ Clothing: Going-home outfit, including socks or booties and a receiving blanket; extra layers if the weather is colder

__ A few newborn diapers and a pack of baby wipes (though the hospital also provides these for while you are in the hospital)

__ Correctly installed rear-facing Infant car seat — the hospital won’t discharge your baby without seeing this in your vehicle

Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here.