Pregnancy: What to Pack for the Hospital

Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy

It’s a good idea to pack your bag a month or two before your due date, so you don’t have to rush around when it’s time to get to the hospital.

Here are some ideas for what to pack for labor:

  • Back massage aids
  • Music
  • Hair accessories to pull your hair back
  • Lip balm
  • Personal toiletries (glasses, contact lenses, toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, lotion, etc.)
  • Robe
  • One or two nightgowns (optional as hospital gowns are provided)
  • Three or four pairs of underwear
  • Slippers
  • Socks
  • List of names and ph2 numbers of family and friends to notify about your news
  • A book or magazine
  • Baby book

Here’s what your labor coach should pack:

  • Money for snacks and meals
  • Change of clothes
  • Slippers, socks
  • Comfortable clothes for sleeping
  • Camera
  • Camcorder

Here’s what you should pack for your baby:

  • Car seat – It’s a good idea to install the car seat you will be using to travel home about one month before your due date.  Installing the car seat early will help you make sure it’s installed properly.  Some car dealers and police or fire stations offer free safety inspections on car seat installations.  Check what’s available in your community.
  • T-shirt (not a onesie since you don’t want to cover the umbilical cord)
  • Sleeper
  • Receiving blanket
  • Hat
  • Clothes to wear home
  • Snowsuit (depending of weather conditions)

Note:  Everything your baby needs for his or her stay in the hospital will be provided, including diapers and formula.

Other items you should pack for after delivery:

    • Nursing bras (2 or 3) or supportive bras if you aren’t going to breastfeed
    • Comfortable clothes to wear home (early pregnancy size)