Going into labor is an exciting time, and you have a lot to do to prepare for the big day. One important thing you’ll need to do is pack your bags for the trip to the hospital.
Your bags should already be packed when you’re ready to go to the hospital. In fact, you should pack a few weeks before your due date. That way, you’ll be prepared if the baby comes early.
You should pack bags for yourself, your partner, and — of course — your baby.
What to pack for yourself
After your baby is born, you’ll want to keep things simple. Here’s a list of things you’ll want to bring to the hospital:
- Comfortable clothes, including something loose and flowing to wear home
- Robe and nightgown
- Nursing bras
- Slippers
- Sanitary pads
- Toiletries (shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, skin care lotion, hairbrush, deodorant, etc.)
- A few pairs of maternity panties
- A battery-powered CD player with headphones so you can listen to relaxing music while you’re in labor
- A pocket name book if you haven’t chosen a name for your baby
What to pack for your significant other/coach
- Toiletries
- Change of clothes if your significant other/coach will be staying overnight at the hospital
- A camera and film and/or a video camera
What to pack for your baby
- Car seat — By law, you have to have a child car seat to take your baby home. Make sure it’s installed correctly.
- Diapers
- Receiving blanket — Bring other blankets if the weather is cold.
- An outfit to wear home (including socks and booties)
- Onesies — These are baby "bodysuits" that are designed for ease of dressing and changing, and add an extra layer of warmth under the baby's outfit.
- A hat — You might be able to keep the one the hospital puts on your baby.)
You might also want to bring snacks such as granola bars, crackers, dried fruit, etc. After going into labor, you will probably be hungry. You should also bring change for the vending machines in case the hospital cafeteria is closed.
Do NOT bring a cell phone (each room has a telephone for patients to use), cash, credit cards, jewelry, or other valuables with you to the hospital.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 10/31/2006
