At the end of the third trimester, your labor can start at any time, so it’s important to prepare yourself for the hospital. You should get your hospital bag ready with all the essential items you’ll need during childbirth. Having everything prepared for labor, delivery, and your stay at the hospital will help reduce stress and ensure you’re comfortable during this significant moment. When I was giving birth to my baby, Faraz, I felt stressed and tense. I was mentally and physically exhausted, so I decided to pack my hospital bag early. This way, if I missed anything, I could add it before heading to the hospital. Trust me, it reduced a lot of my stress. From buying everything to washing and finally packing for the hospital, it takes time, so it’s better to prepare in advance.

Below is a detailed list of things you’ll need during your hospital stay for the mother, baby, and partner. Check it out, and I hope it helps.

Essentials for Mom

1. Important Documents

   • ID, Insurance Information, and Hospital Registration Forms: These are necessary for admission and ensuring a smooth check-in process.
   • Birth Plan: If you have a birth plan, bring a few copies to give to the nursing staff and your doctor.

2. Comfortable Clothing

   • Hospital Gown: Although the hospital will provide one, you can bring your own if you prefer a more comfortable or stylish option.
   • Robe: A soft robe is great for added comfort, especially when you’ll be moving around during early labor or postpartum.
   • Nursing Bras: If you plan to breastfeed, pack a couple of comfortable, supportive nursing bras.
   • Loose Pajamas or Nightgowns: After giving birth, you’ll want loose, breathable sleepwear that’s easy to maneuver, especially if you had a C-section.
   • Going-Home Outfit: Choose loose, comfortable clothing for leaving the hospital. Keep in mind, your body won’t return to pre-pregnancy size immediately, so opt for maternity-friendly options.
   • Flip-Flops or Slippers: Hospitals can be cold, and these are great for walking around during labor or after delivery.

3. Toiletries

   • Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Bring travel-size versions to freshen up during your stay.
   • Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash: Some hospitals provide basic toiletries, but having your own familiar brands can feel more comforting.
   • Moisturizer and Lip Balm: Hospital air can be very drying, especially during labor, so keep your skin and lips hydrated.
   • Deodorant: An absolute must to keep fresh during and after labor.
   • Hair Ties and Headband: Keep your hair out of the way during labor.
   • Towel: Hospital towels are often small and scratchy, so bringing your own soft, absorbent towel can make showering much more pleasant.

4. Postpartum Care Items

   • Heavy-Duty Pads: While hospitals provide postpartum pads, you may prefer your own brand.
   • Disposable Underwear: These are lifesavers for postpartum bleeding and comfort.
   • Nipple Cream: If you plan to breastfeed, nipple cream helps soothe sore or cracked nipples.
   • Perineal Spray or Pads: If you have a vaginal delivery, products that offer cooling relief can ease discomfort.

5. Labor and Delivery Comfort Aids

   • Birthing Ball: Some hospitals provide these, but check ahead of time. A birthing ball can help ease labor pains and encourage dilation.
   • Massage Tools: A tennis ball or handheld massager can be used by your partner to ease back pain during contractions.
   • Essential Oils or Room Spray: If you’re into aromatherapy, lavender or eucalyptus oils can create a calming atmosphere.
   • Music and Headphones: Create a calming or motivating playlist to help you stay relaxed or focused during labor.

6. Snacks and Drinks

   • Energy Snacks: Protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, and crackers can be useful, especially after delivery when you’ll be hungry.
   • Water Bottle: A large, easy-to-sip water bottle can help you stay hydrated.

For Baby

1. Going-Home Outfits

   • Onesies: Pack a few onesies or sleepers, depending on the weather. Newborn-sized clothes should fit, but pack a larger size just in case.
   • Socks, Mittens, and Hat: Keep your baby warm with soft socks, mittens to prevent scratching, and a hat to maintain body heat.
   • Swaddle Blankets: Hospitals often provide swaddle blankets, but bringing your own can make your baby feel cozier.

2. Diapers and Wipes

   • Newborn Diapers: The hospital will provide diapers, but it doesn’t hurt to bring a small pack in case your baby has sensitive skin.
   • Sensitive Wipes: Hospitals provide wipes, but some parents prefer to bring their own.

3. Car Seat

   • Car Seat: This is non-negotiable. Make sure your car seat is installed properly before heading to the hospital. Most hospitals will check that you have a suitable car seat before letting you leave.

For Your Partner or Support Person

1. Clothing

   • Change of Clothes: Labor can be long, and your partner might want to freshen up or change into more comfortable clothes.
   • Comfortable Shoes: For walking around or standing for long periods during labor.

2. Toiletries

   • Toothbrush and Toothpaste: If your partner plans to stay the entire time, they’ll need these for freshening up.
   • Deodorant: Essential for freshening up after long hours in the hospital.

3. Snacks and Entertainment

   • Non-Perishable Snacks: Protein bars, chips, and trail mix are good options for keeping energy levels up during a long labor.
   • Books or a Tablet: Labor can be slow, and having a book or downloaded movies can help pass the time. 

Additional Items

1. Phone Chargers

   • You and your partner should both pack long phone chargers (6-10 feet), as hospital outlets may be far from the bed.

2. Camera

   • If you want to document your baby’s first moments, consider bringing a camera with extra memory cards and batteries.

3. Extra Bags

   • Hospitals will often give you freebies like diapers, wipes, and baby supplies. Pack an extra tote or plastic bag to bring them home.

4. Cash or Change

   • Some hospitals have vending machines for snacks or drinks, so it’s good to have small amounts of cash or change on hand.

Things You May Not Need

1. Too Many Clothes

   • It’s tempting to pack lots of cute outfits for your baby, but they’ll mostly be swaddled during the hospital stay. One or two outfits should be enough.

2. Jewelry

   • Leave valuable jewelry at home. Labor can be messy, and it’s easy to lose things during the hustle and bustle.

3. Diapers and Formula

   • The hospital will likely provide all the newborn diapers and formula you need for your stay, so unless you prefer specific brands, you can skip packing these.

4. Pillows and Blankets

   • While some moms like to bring their own pillows and blankets for comfort, be cautious. Hospitals are busy places, and personal bedding can easily get dirty.

Packing your hospital bag early, around 36 weeks, ensures you’re not caught off guard when labor starts. With this comprehensive checklist, you’ll have everything you need to make your hospital stay comfortable and stress-free, allowing you to focus on the incredible experience of bringing your baby into the world.

Last but not least, having your partner by your side is the most important thing. A woman’s body goes through a lot during this time, and being surrounded by loved ones can help her recover more quickly. That’s all for today! Check out my other blogs to learn more about parenting. Ta-da!