Packing for the Hospital

Having the things you’ll need at the hospital packed and ready to go well in advance of your due date is important. You probably won’t have the time or energy to do it once you’re in labor, and you’ll have the peace of mind knowing it’s already taken care of.

Labor Bag Checklist

For Expectant Mom

Your labor bag will contain essentials and things that will help you feel comfortable during labor. 

  • Insurance card & hospital paperwork
  • Eyeglasses (if you need them)
  • Loose, comfortable clothes
  • Book, magazine, laptop or cards for early labor
  • Bathrobe
  • Socks & slippers
  • Bathing suit or sports bra for labor tub (if modesty is a concern)
  • Hair bands, ties or clips
  • Lip moisturizer
  • Snacks
  • Rolling pin or tennis ball for backache
  • Massage lotions & tools
  • Hot rice sock
  • Aromatherapy scents
  • Sentimental item from home (favorite pillow/blanket)
  • Focal point (ultrasound/vacation photo)Music
  • LED candle
  • Birth plan
  • Basic toiletries

For Partner

It helps to have your own bag of things to make you comfortable during labor and an overnight stay. Bring practical things and don’t be surprised if you’re also in charge of documenting the whole experience.

  • Directions/map to the hospital
  • Cell phone, camera & charger
  • Snacks
  • Money for vending machines
  • Mints/chewing gum
  • Basic toiletries
  • Change of clothes
  • Bathing suit (in case you help your partner in the labor tub or shower)

Postpartum Bag Checklist

Pack separate bags for mom and baby to help you stay organized.

For Mom

  • Nightgown
  • Snacks
  • Nursing bra
  • Breast pads
  • Maternity underwear
  • Toiletries
  • Hairbrush
  • Comfortable, loose going-home outfit and shoes

For Baby

  • Infant car seat
  • Going-home outfit
  • Receiving blanket
  • Socks/booties
  • Cap
  • Baby nail clippers
  • Baby book

Hospital will supply

  • Diapers/wipes
  • Suction bulb
  • Clothes for baby until discharge
  • Breast pump (if needed)
  • Food for mom (but you are welcome to bring in your favorite food from outside)
  • Sanitary pads
  • Nipple cream (if needed)
  • All medications for mom and baby (if needed)

Take a Tour

Come tour our Maternity facility before you deliver.