Hi guys, since I’m days away from delivering baby #2, I figured today’s topic would be about what you should pack in your hospital go bag. First, it’s super important to pack your bag early, ideally somewhere around 35 weeks. Babies come early all the time and let’s be honest, you don’t want to be scurrying around trying to pack a bag while in labor. You also don’t really want to have to rely on your partner or family member to pack your bag after you’ve already had the baby and are sitting in the hospital. So add it to your to do list early and get it done!
Everyone’s needs are a little different so I’ve tried to make this list as broad as possible. Many of the items on the list are optional. If you pack your bag early, you’ll have time to figure out what else you might need to add to it before delivery day. I suggest making a note on your phone of what you need to pack last minute for each person so it’s quickly accessible.
I’ve included a printer-friendly checklist you can download at the bottom of this post of everything below.
Momma Bear’s Bag
Pack Early (ideally around 35wks)
- Birth plan
- Clothes (2-3 outfits)- make sure they are loose-fitting just in case you end up with a cesarean section
- Something to sleep in
- Underwear (again, c/section friendly)- the hospital usually provides nice stretchy throw aways though if you just want to wear theirs
- Socks
- Slippers
- Breastfeeding bras/shirts
- Snacks
- Lanolin (nipple cream)
- Tucks pads (for hemorrhoids)
- Breast pump- most hospitals provide these for you while you’re in the hospital but it doesn’t hurt to bring one just in case
- Heavy duty pads (no tampons allowed)- the hospital will usually provide pads but they aren’t great quality
Pack Last Minute
- Toiletries
- Makeup
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Floss
- Shampoo/conditioner/body wash
- Deodorant
- Hair bands
- Hair brush
- Lip balm
- Skin care products
- Phone charger + Phone
- Other desired devices + chargers (laptop, tablet, camera & memory card)
- Shoes
- Cash/Card for snacks and food
- Health insurance card
- License
- Pillow(s)
- Meds
Papa Bear’s Bag
Pack Early (ideally around 35wks)
- Clothes (2-3 outfits)
- Something to sleep in (sweatpants/gym shorts)
- Underwear
- Socks
- Snacks
Pack Last Minute
- Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Floss
- Shampoo/conditioner/body wash
- Deodorant
- Comb
- Phone charger + Phone
- Other desired devices + chargers (laptop, tablet, camera & memory card)
- Shoes
- Cash/Card for snacks and food
- License (you’ll likely need this to get in)
- Pillow(s)
- Meds
Baby Bear’s Bag
Pack Early (ideally around 35wks)
- Clothes (onesies, sleepers, coming-home outfit)- the hospitals usually have baby shirts that baby can wear so clothes are optional. Just make sure you have a coming-home outfit)- Ideally pack newborn and 0-3month clothes (also consider the weather)
- Hats/Mits/Socks/Headbands (also optional)
- Boppy pillow (optional)
- Sleep sack/blankets (also optional)- the hospitals will provide blankets and possibly sleep sacks too for use while there
- Pacifier(s)- take a few different shaped ones- some babies have a preference (the hospitals might NOT provide these as most hospitals are transitioning to “baby-friendly” so be prepared with your own!
- Baby lotion (optional)
Typically provided by hospital: diapers/wipes/formula/bottles/baby shirts /baby blankets
Also, make sure you bring a car seat that is NOT expired.
So that’s everything that comes to mind right this minute. If I forgot something, feel free to leave a comment below. Here’s the printable checklist. Enjoy guys! And remember to pack that bag EARLY!!