Preparing for your baby's arrival is an exciting time, and having a hospital bag ready can make the experience smoother and more comfortable for first-time parents. Here's a checklist to ensure you have everything you might need for the hospital stay:
For the Birthing Person:
- Identification and Documents: Photo ID, insurance card, hospital paperwork, birth plan (if you have one).
- Clothing: Robe, nightgown (preferably front opening if planning on breastfeeding), socks, slippers, and a going-home outfit (choose something roomy and comfortable).
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, deodorant, lip balm (lips can become very dry during labor), face wash, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and moisturizer.
- Comfort Items: Pillows (with a non-white pillowcase to distinguish from hospital pillows), your own blanket, and anything that might make you feel more at home.
- Other Essentials: Glasses/contact lenses if you wear them, any medications you take regularly, phone charger, and earphones.
- Breastfeeding Supplies: Nursing bras, nipple cream, and nursing pads.
- Snacks and Hydration: Water bottle and easy-to-digest snacks like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit.
For the Partner/Support Person:
- Clothing: Change of clothes, comfortable shoes, and pajamas.
- Toiletries: All personal items they may need.
- Snacks and Hydration: Additional snacks and drinks.
- Entertainment: Books, magazines, tablet, or anything to pass time.
- Phone Charger: To ensure you both can keep phones charged.
For the Baby:
- Going-Home Outfit: Something comfortable and suitable for the weather.
- Blankets: Swaddle or receiving blankets.
- Car Seat: Most hospitals require you to have a car seat to take your baby home.
- Diapers and Wipes: The hospital usually provides these, but it's good to have a few just in case.
- Baby Care Items: Baby lotion, a gentle baby wash, and baby socks or booties.
- Photo Outfit: Optional, if you plan to have professional photos taken at the hospital.
General Tips:
- Pack your bag at least a few weeks before your due date.
- Keep the bag in an easily accessible place.
- Check the hospital's policy about what you can bring, as some items might be restricted.
Other Logistics to Consider:
Photography at the Hospital:
- Do you plan to take photos during or after the birth, capturing those first family moments? If so, who will be responsible for taking these photos?
Support Group:
- Do you have a backup group of people you can text if anything needs to be brought to the hospital or if any last-minute errands need to be run, such as a pharmacy trip? First-time families often find it useful to create a group chat with close friends and family who live nearby for sending messages about last-minute tasks.
Post-Hospital Meal for Mom:
- What is the first meal mom wants to have after leaving the hospital? Any specific comfort food? Is it stocked at home or is there someone you can assign to bring it over?
Meals during Early Days Home:
- How will the family manage meals during the first few days after returning from the hospital? Do you have a meal train or meal kit service set up?
Visitation Policy [Optional] :
- Have you decided on and communicated your baby visitation policy? Many parents find it helpful to leave instructions for visitation and masks (if required) at the door for visitors.
This checklist will help ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and stress-free hospital stay. Congratulations, and best wishes for a smooth delivery!
