Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Really Need for Baby’s Arrival

Packing your hospital bag might seem like an easy task, but you will appreciate every item you included when labor begins. From toiletries to onesies for your newborn, being more prepared can help you have a more comfortable and stress-free hospital stay. With the help of this newborn hospital bag checklist, you will know exactly what to pack for the big day.

When to Pack Your Hospital Bag

It is best to pack your hospital bag between weeks 35 and 37 of pregnancy. This way, you will have plenty of time to gather essential items without feeling rushed. As you may already know, babies can sometimes arrive earlier, particularly in high-risk pregnancies.

To stay on track with key milestones like this, you may find it helpful to follow a pregnancy calendar week by week. It can guide you through what to prepare and expect during each stage.

However, if you have a plan to travel around your third semester, it would be wise for you to always have your bag ready by your side. You can consider it like an insurance policy—something you will be very grateful to have on hand when the time comes.

What to Pack for Mom

There’s a saying that goes “a comfortable mom is a happier mom”. Certain hospitals usually provide some basics, but packing your own stuff will make you feel more at ease. Below is the newborn hospital bag checklist for moms:

Clothing and Comfort:

• Nightgowns or loose-fitting pajamas, preferably with front buttons for nursing
• A sweater or robe
• Slippers or non-slip socks
• Comfortable attire for returning home
• Maternity underwear and nursing bras
• Loose-fitting, high-waisted pants if you are having a C-section

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant
• Dry shampoo, body wipes, hairbrush, and hair ties for moms with long hair
• Lip balm and hand cream
• Soap or shower gel

Essentials:

• ID card, insurance card, and hospital documents
• Birth plan, if you have one
• Phone and charger
• Reusable water bottle with a straw
• Some snacks, like dried fruits, protein bars
• Sanitary pads and breast pads
• A personal pillow for extra comfort

Newborn Hospital Bag Checklist: Baby Essentials

The hospital bag checklist for your baby doesn’t have to be extremely detailed. Instead, a few key items are more than enough to help you care for your newborn right from the beginning.

Clothing:

• 2-3 sleepsuits or onesies
• Outfit for going home, but this one is optional
• Baby hat and scratch mittens
• Soft blanket for swaddling and warmth

Feeding supplies:

• Burp rags or muslin cloths
• Nipple cream if you are breastfeeding
• Formula starter pack if you consider bottle feeding
• Insulated cooler bag for storing colostrum, if it’s applicable

Diapering:

• One full pack of newborn diapers; you will probably need about 10 diapers per day
• Baby wipes or cotton pads
• A small bowl for the water if you use cotton pads
• Diaper rash cream

Other essentials:

• A soft washcloth and baby towel
• Car seat for going home
• A few extra outfits

This newborn hospital bag checklist will make your first few days much more manageable and less stressful. Besides, it will ensure that your baby is fed, clean, and warm during your hospital stay.

Items You Can Skip

One thing you need to keep in mind is that you don’t have to take your whole nursery to the hospital. Here are some commonly packed items you don’t have to bring to the hospital:

• Too many clothes: Newborns usually only need basics, and hospitals will always keep the rooms warm.
• Diaper bags: Instead of using a diaper bag, consider using a basic overnight bag.
• Books or magazines: You probably won’t have the time or even energy to read them.
• Jewelry or valuables: You don’t need to bring them for your own safety and comfort.

Additionally, most hospitals usually provide several essentials, such as baby wipes, postpartum pads, and sometimes even onesies. So, consider calling your maternity unit in advance to find out what you should include so you don’t have to pack extra stuff.

In conclusion, having a well-packed hospital bag can make your first days with your newborn feel more manageable and less overwhelming. Consider using this newborn hospital bag checklist to help you stay prepared and comfortable when the special day arrives—because preparation doesn’t stop once you have a labor.

As a new mom, it’s just as crucial to start paying attention to your postpartum diet—your diet can significantly impact both your recovery and breastfeeding journey. Some foods can even help you increase milk supply naturally, making your early days of nursing smoother and more fulfilling.

So, start strong, start supported, and give yourself the best care.

Are you ready for the big day? Share this checklist with other expecting parents and let us know in the comments what must-have items you plan to pack!