Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Dad

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Free printable hospital bag checklist for having a baby! This covers it all!

Since we both have tiny babies at home we decided it was high time we share this hospital bag checklist that we both used to get prepared to go deliver! This list has everything you really need to take to the hospital to have a baby plus a few spots for adding your own things. You can totally pare it down to less stuff if you want, too. We made a copy you can print (for free!) as well.

When to pack our hospital bag?

It's generally recommended to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go by about 36 weeks of pregnancy. This timing is suggested because labor could start at any time during the weeks leading up to your due date, and in some cases, it may begin earlier than expected.

Having your bag ready by 36 weeks ensures you're prepared for any surprises and can head to the hospital without worrying about packing last-minute essentials. It's also a good idea to have a list of items you can't pack until it's time to go (like your phone charger or glasses) so you or a partner can grab them quickly when needed.

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Maternity Hospital Bag Checklist for Birth

Photo ID
Insurance info
Hospital forms
Birth Plan (If you have one...)
Warm socks or slippers
Nightgown + robe This is just if you don't want to wear the hospital gown. I found them scratchy and uncomfortable so I preferred wearing my own. Keep in mind that they could get ruined! If you plan to nurse you'll probably want one with easy access - I bought this set and love it!

Clothes to wear home Keep in mind you'll still have a belly and probably be swollen. Maternity clothes or yoga pants are your best bet!
Nursing pillow
Nursing bras (I love these camis.)
Nursing pads
Breast pump + I highly recommend a pumping bra as well! It makes pumping soooo much less of an ordeal!
Laptop/Tablet + Chargers if you think you'll use them
Long Phone charger (So nice to be able to use your phone while it's charging!)
Book or magazines - I loved this book!
Favorite movie
Birth playlists + something to play them on

Pregnancy Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom's Toiletries

Glasses or contact lenses
Hair accessories
Makeup
Toothbrush + Toothpaste
Face wash
Lotion
Chapstick
Deodorant

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

Clothes, hats + bows for pictures
Outfit to wear home
Blanket
Infant carseat this should be installed in your car and not in your bag, of course.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad (or any Support Person)

Change of clothes + underwear
Pajamas + a pillow If Dad is staying the night he will probably be on a hard 'couch' or in a chair. Let's help him be a little more comfortable!
Deodorant + Toothbrush
Snacks
Book or Ipad
Digital/Video Cameras + Chargers

Hospital Bag Checklist for Older Siblings

Snacks
Coloring books or toys

Add Your Own to our Printable Hospital Bag Checklist

I left a spot on the checklist for you to add your own ideas to the list. I know a lot of people prepare gifts for their nurses, or you could bring a journal and a pen if you want to write down your thoughts or your birth story.

Something I didn't have but wished I did was change and small bills for the vending machines! My husband ran out to the bank to get some for us the day after the baby came, but it would have been great to have that night. The cafeteria had closed by the time I delivered and the only thing they could offer me to eat was a ham and cheese sandwich. I know I'm spoiled, but that was the last thing I wanted to eat after being in labor for like 10 hours. #hangry

Add your own at the bottom of this FREE hospital bag checklist!

Printable Hospital Bag Checklist

To print your checklist, click HERE! I hope this list helps you get some of your nesting taken care of and maybe you'll get a little bit more sleep knowing that your bag is packed and ready to go whenever baby decides to make his or her debut. Speaking of which, you're going to want to make some of these padsicles for afterward, too.