What to pack in your hospital bag

Gunjan thakurJanuary 7, 2024

The excitement and anticipation of bringing your new baby into the world can make it easy to overlook packing for your hospital stay. But having the right items with you will help ensure you and your new arrival are comfortable and prepared during those first precious days together.

Here’s a checklist of must-have items to pack for a smooth hospital stay

For Labor and Delivery

The early stages of labor can progress slowly, so bring items to pass the time before the big event. Pack books, magazines, tablets loaded with movies or music, and other entertainment options to distract yourself from any discomfort. Breathing exercises during contractions can also help, so you may want to bring a focal point like photos of loved ones or motivational images. Be sure to pack the essentials for getting through delivery as well. This includes your birth plan, insurance card, ID, and any forms required by your hospital. Having your own pillows from home, socks with grips, chapstick, and lotion can also lend familiar comfort during this intense experience. Don’t forget hair ties, headbands, and other items to keep hair out of your face.

For Recovery

The hospital stay after delivery revolves around healing, bonding with your baby, and finding your new normal as a mother. Comfortable pajamas or nursing nightdresses are must-haves for the recovery period, as are soft slippers with rubber soles for walking the halls. High-waist underwear and maxi pads will provide extra coverage and absorption as you recover. Breastfeeding mothers should pack a supportive nursing bra and breast pads. A robe offers warmth and modesty for visitors or trips around the hospital. Don’t forget toiletries like toothbrush, deodorant, and dry shampoo to freshen up. Preparing a little care package for yourself with lip balm, lotion, face wipes, and other pick-me-ups can lift your spirits after the exertion of labor.

For Your New Arrival

Though hospitals provide basics for newborns, packing a few special items from home can ease a baby’s transition into the world. A starter supply of diapers, wipes, and diaper cream is handy for changes between nurse visits. For feedings, new moms can pack a nursing cover and bottles or cups, if not exclusively breastfeeding. An adorable going-home outfit, hat, and receiving blanket will make those first photos extra special. Swaddling blankets and a pacifier can soothe a fussy newborn. To monitor the baby’s health, bring a rectal thermometer and nail clippers or file. And don’t forget the car seat – you’ll need this indispensable item before being discharged.

For Your Support Person

Whether your partner, relative, friend, or doula, your labor support person deserves some packing consideration too. Comfortable clothing and footwear for them will ensure they can assist you through a long labor without distraction. Healthy snacks and a water bottle will keep their energy up. Cash or coins for parking or cafeteria runs are handy too. Packing an outfit to wear for family pictures is also wise. Your support person can also bring insurance information, paperwork, and other items you need but may be too preoccupied to manage during labor. And don’t forget phone chargers, toiletries, and any medications they may need during an overnight hospital stay.

For Postpartum Recovery at Home

Preparing for re-entry into the world after your hospital stay is also important. Have your partner install the car seat and stock up on frozen meals, paper plates, and other household items in advance. You may want to pack super absorbent overnight pads, nipple cream, witch hazel or soothing wipes, and other supplies to aid healing after vaginal birth or C-section once you’re home. Loose, stretchy clothes and shoes that slip on easily are ideal as your body recovers post-birth. Setting up a station for diaper changes, feeding, and skin-to-skin bonding can make things easier as you adjust. Baby nail clippers, a rectal thermometer, and gas drops are useful to keep on hand as well. With preparation and the right supplies, the transition from hospital to home will be smoother.

Bringing  Baby Home

Those first days together as a new family are an incredible gift. Having the items you need for your hospital stay ensures you can focus completely on bonding with your newborn when the long-anticipated moment finally arrives. With your birth plan, important paperwork, and a lovingly packed hospital bag in tow, you can enter this new chapter with confidence. The excitement of meeting your baby will eclipse any physical discomfort or stress. All that truly matters is cradling your beautiful child for the very first time. Congratulations and best wishes!