Printable Hospital Bag Checklist
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.
*This post contains affiliate links!
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.
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Slippers |
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
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.
AND you will want to check these out too, especially the Padsicles guys, they could save your life!
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Just curious, where did you find your hospital bag? I am looking for one that is simple and fairly cheap. Thanks!
It is actually a really old bag that I think my dad had before I was born!! Here is a similar one on amazon though: http://amzn.to/1RQMupT
It is actually a really old bag that I think my dad had before I was born!! Here is a similar one on amazon though: http://amzn.to/1RQMupT
Just curious, where did you find your hospital bag? I am looking for one that is simple and fairly cheap. Thanks!
Just printed this list! 12 weeks to go til my EDD and I can't wait to have this done.
Woo hooo! Good luck! You will do great!
Thanks for the great list!
You're so welcome!