Hospital bag checklist

What to pack in your hospital bag

A few weeks before your due date, pack a small overnight bag for you and your support person for your stay at the hospital. We recommend you leave jewelry and other valuables at home for safekeeping, as you may have to remove them during your hospital stay. Below are some suggestions on what to pack.

Keep this checklist handy as you pack your bags.

For you

• Your birth plan
• Comfortable nightgown or pajamas that open in the front so you can breastfeed easily, a robe and slippers
• A nursing bra
• Toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and whatever else will make you feel comfortable
• Eyeglasses (it’s best to leave contact lenses at home)
• A camera and/or video camera with plenty of film or memory
• Music of your choice
• Lip balm to use during labor
• Your insurance card and any hospital paperwork you need
• A notebook and pencil to write down any questions you may have for your health care provider
• Massage equipment like oils, lotion, and tennis balls or a plastic rolling pin to roll across your lower back
• Anything else you want to put in your room to make you comfortable (like photos or your favorite pillow)
• Something to wear home – remember, after birth, most women are the same shape they were at approximately five months of pregnancy
• A list of prescription medications that you are currently taking, along with their dosage. Be sure to share this list with your doctor upon check-in.

For your support person

• A change of clothes
• Comfortable shoes – there is usually a lot of standing during labor and delivery
• Snacks and beverages
• Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
• Pillow and blanket
• Chargers for your personal electronics (MP3 player, camera, cell phone)

For your baby

• A set of clothes, a hat and a blanket
• Something special for your baby to wear for newborn photos, if you choose to take them
• An infant car seat