Your due date is drawing nearer, and it’s time to pack your hospital bag. Packing a hospital bag is an important task to prepare for a hospital stay, whether it's for yourself or someone you're accompanying. Here's a checklist of essentials you might want to consider:

Not beyond any doubt where to begin? Here are a few thoughts. (There’s moreover a clinic pack printed checklist below!)

When to Pack Your Hospital Bag?

Packing your hospital bag well in development of your expected due date or arranged clinic remain is prescribed. Packing your hospital bag well in advance of your anticipated due date or planned hospital stay is recommended. Here are some general guidelines:

• For expecting parents, it's advisable to have your hospital bag packed and ready by the time you reach 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. This timeframe ensures that you're prepared in case your baby decides to arrive earlier than expected.
• If you're scheduled for a planned procedure or induction, it's best to have your bag packed a few weeks before your scheduled date. This allows you to be ready for any unexpected changes in your situation.
• If you're experiencing signs of labor, such as regular contractions, ruptured membranes (water breaking), or other concerning symptoms, it's time to grab your hospital bag and head to the hospital. Ideally, you should have your bag packed before these signs occur.
• In cases where there are known complications or you're considered high-risk, it's wise to pack your hospital bag earlier, perhaps around the 30-week mark. This ensures that you're prepared for any unexpected hospital admissions or medical interventions.
• By packing your hospital bag in advance, you alleviate stress and ensure that you have all the essentials when the time comes. It's also a good idea to review your bag periodically to make sure everything is up to date and that any necessary items are included.

Here’s an extensive list of everything you may want or need with you in the hospital.

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag?

To begin with, pack your hospital bag for yourself-you all need individual things to create you're feeling more comfortable amid and after labor.

• Comfortable clothing: Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing for labor such as a nightgown or oversized T-shirt. If you plan on breastfeeding after delivery, pack a few nursing bras or tanks in your bag. Pair your tank top with a soft, loose pant like joggers or lightweight sleep pants. Another option is packing a nursing-friendly pyjama set or nightgown. Postpartum leggings can also be comfy. If you plan on laboring in water at any point, pack a dark-colored sports bra or a bathing suit top. For footwear, grippy socks are great for keeping feet warm and cozy (and for handling slippy hospital floors). Bring slip-on shoes like Birkenstocks, Crocs or flip-flops for going home. Your feet might be swollen from IV fluids, so you’ll be thankful for shoes you can easily slip on.
• Robe and slippers: A lightweight robe and comfortable slippers for walking around the hospital. It’s useful if you have a vaginal delivery or a C-section.
• Nursing bras or comfortable bras: If planning to breastfeed, nursing bras can be convenient.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, moisturizer, and any other personal hygiene items. Don’t forget these! You’ll want your hairbrush, regular or dry shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, body lotion, extra hair ties and face wipes (Baby list parents recommend these in case you’re not up to showering right away). Remember extra contact lenses (plus contact lens solution) and/or glasses, if you wear them.
• Snacks: Energy-boosting snacks for both during and after labor. Pack a reusable water bottle (we like ones with straws for easier sipping), and, if you want something more than water, an electrolyte drink, like Gatorade or coconut water. You’ll also want some easy-to-eat snacks, like granola bars, pretzels, dried fruit etc.
• Hair ties or headbands: Keep your hair out of your face during labor.
• Nipple cream. If you’re planning to breastfeed, your nipples will appreciate you being so proactive.
• Entertainment: Books, magazines, music, or other items to help pass the time during labor.
• Birth plan: If you have a birth plan, bring copies to share with your healthcare providers.
• Comfort items: Items that provide comfort, such as a favourite pillow or blanket.
• Phone charger: Ensure you can stay connected and charged throughout your stay.

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Baby?

Packing a hospital bag for your baby is an exciting part of preparing for their arrival. Here's a checklist of essential items you might want to include:

• Going-home outfit: Choose a soft, comfortable outfit for your baby to wear when you leave the hospital. Depending on the weather, this might include a onesie, sleeper, hat, and socks or booties.
• Receiving blankets: Pack a couple of receiving blankets to swaddle your baby and keep them warm during your hospital stay and when you're heading home.
• Diapers and wipes: Bring a small supply of diapers and wipes for your baby. Many hospitals provide these, but it's good to have your own just in case.
• Burp cloths or cloth diapers: These are handy for cleaning up spit-up and other messes.
• Baby car seat: Install the car seat in your vehicle before you head to the hospital, and bring it with you when it's time to go home.
• Baby toiletries (optional): While new born don't need much in terms of toiletries, you might want to pack gentle baby shampoo and body wash, diaper cream, and a soft-bristled baby brush or comb.
• Blanket or swaddle: Bring an extra blanket or swaddle for added warmth or comfort.
• Baby socks or booties: Keep your baby's feet warm and cozy with a pair of socks or booties.
• Nursing supplies (if applicable): If you plan to breastfeed, consider packing items like nursing pads, nipple cream, and a nursing pillow.
• Remember to pack these items in a separate bag or section of your hospital bag for easy access when the time comes. Additionally, double-check with your hospital to see if they have any specific recommendations or guidelines for what to bring for your baby's stay.

What Your Partner or Support Person Should Pack?

• Your partner or support person plays a crucial role during your hospital stay, so it's essential for them to have their own bag packed with everything they might need. Here's a checklist of items they should consider packing:
• Book/iPad/laptop/headphones & general entertainment. Download a few new podcasts to listen to in case there is some down time. A lightweight sleeping bag and pillow. Hospital blankets, sheets and pillows can be scratchy and thin.
• Partner should bring any important documents you might need during your hospital stay, such as your health insurance information, identification, and contact information for your healthcare providers.
• Your partner should bring a camera or smartphone to capture special moments during your hospital stay, such as the birth of your baby and also should have a list of important contacts, such as family members, friends, and healthcare providers, in case they need to reach out for support or assistance.

What Snacks to Pack in Your Hospital Bag?

Packing snacks in your hospital bag is a great idea to keep you energized and satisfied during your stay.

Indeed, it deserves its own category. Carry a large supply of snacks! Include at least one item from each of the following categories: protein (such as protein bars or beef jerky), sweet (like M&Ms, hard candies, or gummy candy), salty (like pretzels or Goldfish crackers), and healthy/fresh (granola bars, dried fruit, or carrot sticks, for example). These would also be appreciated after delivery by the expectant parent. If you don't want to celebrate with hospital food, you may also look into local eateries that deliver for that first meal after giving birth. (Ask your hospital or birthing center about their particular policies.) Add a reusable water bottle as well.

Remember to pack snacks that you enjoy and that align with any dietary restrictions or preferences you may have. Additionally, consider packing a mix of sweet and savory options to satisfy different cravings.

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag Printable Checklist?

Download or print this hospitable bag printable checklist as a reminder of what you’ll want to bring in your hospital bag.