Hospital Bag Checklist & Pregnancy Essentials

Getting ready for your bundle of joy is so exciting. You’ve been waiting nine months for his or her arrival, and now it’s almost time for that big day — your baby’s birth. Whether you have a scheduled C-section or are letting nature take its course, there are two things you should have ready to go: your hospital bag and your baby’s diaper bag. Get them prepared and packed by your eighth month of pregnancy just in case your baby makes an earlier-than-expected appearance. 

What to pack in your hospital bag

• Birth plan – This document outlines your labor and delivery preferences, including who you want in the room during labor, your delivery preferences (do you want to avoid an episiotomy? are you planning a vaginal birth? etc.) and how you want to manage pain. 
• Hospital paperwork and medical insurance card
• Bathrobe and slippers for walking around the hospital hallways 
• Pillow – Bring your favorite from home if you have one. It may come in handy for your neck or back. 
• Water spray – A spritz of water can provide a bit of cooling relief during labor. 
• Eye mask to block out bright hospital lights
• Nightgown – Bring a few since they will get dirty. Choose short sleeves or loose sleeves since you’ll be having your blood pressure checked and may be hooked up to an IV. Also, you’ll want a nursing-friendly nightgown if you will be breastfeeding. 
• Underwear large enough for maternity pads, or bring adult diapers
• Bras, including nursing bras if you will be breastfeeding
• Nipple cream to soothe and heal sore nipples 
• Toiletries – Deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, hairdryer, hairbands/ponytail holder, any cosmetics you typically use, etc. 
• Plastic bag for dirty clothes
• Snacks – Check with your doctor to see if you will be able to eat at all during labor. If so, pack some snacks that can provide some energy mid-labor. If not, you should be able to eat them post-labor. Easily digestible crackers, healthy granola bars, and hydrating sports drinks with electrolytes are good choices.
• Glasses or contact lenses if you use them
• Phone and an extra-long charger to reach what may be an out-of-the-way outlet
• Clothes for going home – Comfort is key. Many moms like drawstring waist pajama-like pants. 
• Towel – Yes, the hospital will have towels, but they are not the same comfy, absorbent ones you are probably using at home. 

What to pack in your baby’s diaper bag

Along with your hospital bag, you’ll also need a diaper bag for your baby’s necessities — which, surprise — are a lot more than just diapers. Hospitals provide many items for your newborn’s immediate needs, but you’ll probably want to bring some of your own things. 

• Pediatrician’s contact info – You’ll be asked for this information repeatedly during your hospital stay, so keep this readily available. 
• Blanket – Bring soft blankets from home. The nurses will teach you how to swaddle your baby with them, and you’ll also be able to use the blankets for the car ride from the hospital.
• Going home outfit – The most fun part of your diaper bag is probably this all-important, photo-ready outfit! Keep in mind the weather when packing your little one’s going home clothes. Consider bringing two outfits, one in a newborn size and another in 0-3 months. A hat may also be necessary to protect him or her from the cold or sun.
• Burp cloths – You’ll need at least three or four of these to clean spit-up and other messes. 
• Socks and booties to keep those tiny feet warm
• Bottles – If you plan to bottle feed exclusively, pack at least two bottles and your preferred formula brand.
• Diapers and wipes – You’ll leave with a bunch from the hospital but bring some of your own just in case. 
• Nursing pillow – Get extra support while nursing with a nursing pillow that props up your baby’s head. 

Keep your packed hospital and diaper bags by the front door. When the time comes, you’ll be ready to leave your home, head to the hospital, and welcome your new member of the family into the world. 

The information in this blog is provided for educational purposes only. Baby Brezza does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss, or risk incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information included in this article.