Congratulations! As your due date approaches, the excitement (and maybe a touch of nervousness) is bound to build.
Having your hospital bag packed and ready can be a huge stress reliever during these final, unpredictable weeks.
This comprehensive checklist equips you with everything you might need for a smooth delivery experience, from essential items for mom during & after delivery, to cosy first outfits for your precious newborn.
Remember, feeling prepared and comfortable is key. We’ve included some optional extras as well, but don’t worry if your list isn’t exhaustive. Most hospitals provide basic supplies, and focusing on essentials will help you avoid overpacking.
Table of Contents
When to Pack Your Hospital Bag
“Aim to pack your hospital bag around 36-37 weeks of pregnancy”, according to Dr Chloe.
This gives you enough time to gather everything you need without packing too early and potentially forgetting something.
Here’s a helpful tip: Pack alongside your partner or whoever will be with you at the hospital. This ensures you don’t miss anything important, and they’ll be familiar with what’s packed.
Once your bags are packed, keep them in a convenient location, like near the door or in the car, for a quick grab when needed.
Now, let’s delve into the specific essentials and optional items you might need for the mom, baby and partner/guardian!
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom (Labor and Delivery)
The core hospital bag items ensure a smooth delivery experience. But what about making your stay as comfortable and personalized as possible?
This section explores a variety of optional items that can help you manage stress, promote relaxation, and cater to your individual needs during labour and delivery.
From entertainment to comfort items, feel free to pick and choose what will enhance your birth experience.
Essential Items Checklist for Mom During Labor and Delivery
| Essential Items | Description & Importance |
| Hospital paperwork, ID, and insurance card | Essential for registration and billing purposes. |
| Antenatal check-up book | Contains your medical history throughout pregnancy. While the hospital may keep it during your stay, having it readily available can’t hurt. |
| Personal medication | Bring any medications you take regularly to ensure continuity during your stay. |
| Comfortable robe | Provides warmth and comfort during labour and delivery. |
| Loose, lightweight clothing and comfortable going-home clothes | Allows for ease of movement and comfort during your stay. |
| Maternity bras (without underwire) | Provide support and comfort for changing breasts. |
| Toiletries (travel-sized) | Essential for personal hygiene during your stay. |
| Slippers or flip-flops | Provide comfort and protect your feet while walking around the hospital. |
Optional Items Checklist for Mom During Labor and Delivery
| Optional Items | Description & Importance |
| Birth plan | A written outline of your preferences for labour and delivery. Discuss this with your doctor beforehand. |
| Body lotion or massage oil | Can be soothing during labour and help with relaxation. |
| Relaxing entertainment (books, music player, etc.) | Provides distraction and helps manage stress during labour. |
| Eye mask and earplugs | Promote relaxation and sleep during your hospital stay. |
| Lip balm | Combats dryness, especially helpful during labour. |
| Sugar-free hard candy or lozenges | Helps keep your mouth moist during labour (check with the doctor for restrictions). |
| Non-perishable snacks | Provides energy during labour, especially if delivery takes longer than expected. |
| Hairdryer (travel-sized) | Speeds up drying your hair after showering. |
| Diffuser | Can create a calming atmosphere with essential oils (check with the hospital for restrictions). |
| Bath towel | Hospitals may provide towels, but you might prefer your own from home. |
| Comfy pillow from home | Familiar pillow can promote better sleep during your stay. |
| Maternity underwear | Provides extra comfort and support postpartum. |
| Breastfeeding pillow | Can help position your baby for comfortable breastfeeding. |
| Nipple cream | Soothes and protects nipples during breastfeeding. |
| Adult diapers and postpartum care products | Provides additional comfort and support after delivery. |
| Portable fan | Helps you stay cool during your hospital stay. |
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom (After Delivery)
While the focus during labour and delivery is on welcoming your little one, the postpartum period is equally important for mom’s recovery and well-being.
This section dives into the essential items that will promote comfort and hygiene during your hospital stay after delivery.
We’ve also included some optional items that can help you feel pampered and prepared for the initial days of parenthood. From cosy clothes to helpful resources, this checklist ensures a smooth transition into motherhood.
Essential Items Checklist for Mom After Delivery
| Essential Items | Description & Importance |
| Nightgowns (comfortable for lounging and breastfeeding) | Provide easy access for breastfeeding and comfort during postpartum recovery. |
| Heavy-duty maternity pads | Essential for postpartum bleeding. |
| Underwear (high-waisted briefs are a good choice) | Offer comfort and support after delivery, especially high-waisted options. |
| Nursing bras or comfortable bras (without underwire) | Provide support and easy access for breastfeeding. |
| Toiletries (travel-sized) – including tissues, hairbrush, hair band, comb, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste | Essential for personal hygiene during your stay. |
| Phone and charger | Allows you to stay connected with loved ones and document special moments. |
| Comfortable clothes for hospital stay (loose pants, comfy shirts) | Offer ease of movement and comfort during recovery. |
| An extra outfit for discharge | Allows for a fresh start when you head home with your new baby. |
Optional Items Checklist for Mom After Delivery
| Optional Items | Description & Importance |
| Cosmetics and skin care products (if desired) | Can help you feel refreshed and more like yourself after delivery. |
| Glasses and contact lenses (if needed) | Ensure you can see clearly during your postpartum stay. |
| Handouts and reference books (on breastfeeding, postpartum care, etc.) | Provide additional information and resources on newborn care and recovery. |
| Snacks and drinks | Keep your energy levels up during your stay. |
| Hairdryer (travel-sized) | Speeds up drying your hair after showering. |
| Hair clips and ties | Help manage your hair after delivery. |
| Breastfeeding pillow | Can improve comfort and positioning during breastfeeding. |
| Nipple cream | Soothes and protects nipples during breastfeeding. |
| Adult diapers and postpartum care products | Provide additional comfort and support after delivery. |
| Breast pump | Pack your own breast pump (if you have one), in case the one provided by the hospital doesn’t suit you. |
Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby
Your newborn may be tiny, but their comfort is a top priority!
This section provides a checklist for essential items, ensuring your newborn baby stays warm, snug, and comfortable during their hospital stay.
We’ve also included some optional items that can cater to your specific needs and preferences. From the basics like bodysuits to thoughtful extras like a hat, this checklist equips you with everything you need to welcome your little one in style and comfort.
Essential Items Checklist for Your Newborn Baby
| Essential Items | Description & Importance |
| Bodysuits (in a couple of sizes) | Easy to change and comfortable for everyday wear. Consider a newborn size and a size 0-3 months to accommodate growth. |
| Socks and booties | Keep your baby’s tiny toes warm and comfortable. |
| Receiving blanket | A versatile blanket for swaddling, cuddling, or providing warmth. |
| Going-home outfit (in two sizes – newborn and 0-3 months is recommended) | A cute outfit for your baby’s first trip home. Consider getting two sizes to account for potential growth spurts. |
| Car seat | This is not for the hospital bag, but it should be installed securely in the car before you leave for the hospital. This ensures a safe and legal way to transport your baby home. |
Optional Items Checklist for Your Newborn Baby
| Optional Items | Description & Importance |
| Bottles (if planning to bottle-feed) (check with hospital about samples) | Only necessary if you plan to bottle-feed. The hospital may also provide samples. |
| Warm blankets (consider weather conditions) | An extra blanket can be helpful depending on the season and temperature. |
| Hat for going-home outfit (depending on weather) | Protects your baby’s head from the elements, especially in cooler weather. |
| Package of unscented baby wipes (most hospitals provide these) | Convenient for cleaning up messes. However, most hospitals will also have wipes available. |
Hospital Bag Checklist for Birth Partner/Guardian
Your partner or guardian plays a vital role in your delivery experience.
This section focuses on the essentials they’ll need to stay energized, comfortable, and present during labour and delivery.
We’ve also included some optional items to enhance their experience and ensure they feel fully supported throughout this special time.
From keeping their energy levels up to having their own comforts, this checklist equips your partner to be the best support system possible.
Essential Items Checklist for Partner/Guardian
| Essential Items | Description & Importance |
| Snacks and drinks | Provides energy for your partner to support you during labour and delivery. |
| Phone and charger | Allows them to stay connected, document special moments, and make necessary calls. |
| Change of clothes (comfortable) | Ensures comfort during their extended stay at the hospital. |
| Toiletries (travel-sized) – including toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant | Essential for personal hygiene. |
Optional Items Checklist for Partner/Guardian
| Optional Items | Description & Importance |
| Entertainment (books, music player, etc.) | Helps your partner pass the time during labour and delivery. |
| Spare glasses or contact lenses (if needed) | Ensures clear vision during your hospital stay. |
| Small pillow | Provides extra comfort for your partner, especially if they plan to stay overnight. |
| Daily prescription medication (if needed) | Ensures your partner has their necessary medication during their stay. |
Pack Smart for a Smooth Delivery
Having your hospital bag packed and ready can bring peace of mind during the exciting (and sometimes unpredictable!) final weeks of pregnancy.
These comprehensive checklists equip you with everything you might need for a smooth delivery experience, from essentials for mom during labour, delivery, and after delivery to comfy clothes for your newborn.
But remember, packing light is key!
One mom packed too many extra clothes for her hospital stay but ended up wearing the hospital gown the entire time. She was glad she packed loose sweatpants and t-shirts for going home but otherwise overpacked on the clothing.
Here are some additional tips to ensure you’re prepared and comfortable, without overdoing it.
- Focus on essentials and comfort: Pack loose-fitting clothes, pyjamas, and toiletries you’ll use. Let the hospital provide diapers, wipes, and other basic baby supplies.
- Leave valuables at home: Jewelry, cash, and expensive electronics are best left at home to minimize the risk of theft.
- Bring snacks and drinks: Pack enough for your needs, but avoid bringing excessive amounts of food.
- Consider a two-size going-home outfit for baby: Newborns grow quickly, so having options ensures a perfect fit.
- Pack for postpartum recovery: Include comfortable clothes for the days after delivery, along with essential toiletries.
- Minimize electronics: Your phone and charger are crucial, but larger devices like TVs or music players are unnecessary.
- Skip certain items: The hospital will likely provide diapers, wipes, bottles, and nipples. Medications need hospital pharmacy approval, and candles and tobacco products are strictly prohibited.
Remember: The goal is to be prepared and comfortable, not to bring your entire house! Pack what you think you’ll need, but don’t stress about having absolutely everything.
These checklists should serve as a helpful guide, and you can always adjust it based on your individual preferences. Now, let’s dive into the specific items you might need for mom, baby, your partner, and more!
If you looking for expert postnatal care with a comfortable environment for your confinement period, consider Joie Confinement Center for a nurturing experience tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and facilities. We’re happy to support you during your special time!
