As your due date approaches, packing your hospital bag is one of the final steps in preparing for your baby's arrival. Northside Hospital Clinical Manager of Labor and Delivery Marcy Stogner, BSN, RNC-OB, shares what to pack — and what you can leave at home — to help make your delivery day as smooth and stress-free as possible.
"Packing your hospital bag ahead of time gives you one less thing to think about when labor begins," said Stogner. "Our goal is for you to arrive feeling prepared so you can focus on welcoming your baby. We provide many of the essentials you'll need during your stay, so there's no need to overpack."
Many expectant parents find it helpful to have their bag packed by 36 weeks of pregnancy, just in case the baby decides to arrive a little earlier than expected.
While Northside Hospital provides many of the essentials, you'll need during your stay, bringing a few personal items can help you feel more at home.
Essentials for mom
Be sure to pack:
- Photo ID and insurance card
- Your birth plan, if you have one
- Comfortable pajamas or a nursing gown
- A lightweight robe and slippers or non-slip socks
- Comfortable clothes to wear home. Choose something loose-fitting since you'll likely still have a postpartum bump.
- Nursing bras or comfortable, supportive bras.
- Toiletries, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, a hairbrush, deodorant and lip balm
- Glasses or contact lens supplies, if needed
- Your phone, charger and any other electronic devices you'd like during your stay
For baby
Northside Hospital provides diapers, wipes and many newborn care essentials while you're in the hospital. Parents may also want to bring:
- A properly installed rear-facing infant car seat for the trip home
- A going-home outfit
- A soft blanket for the ride home, weather permitting
- Optional hats, mittens or a special keepsake outfit for photos
For your support person
If someone will be staying with you during labor and delivery, encourage them to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and sleepwear
- Toiletries
- A phone charger
- Snacks and drinks
- Any medications they take regularly
- A pillow or light blanket, if desired
A few comfort items
Many families enjoy bringing a few personal touches to make the experience more relaxing, including:
- A favorite pillow
- A playlist or portable speaker
- Healthy snacks for after delivery
- A reusable water bottle
- A small folder for discharge paperwork and baby's keepsakes
"Many parents are surprised by how much the hospital provides for both mom and baby," Stogner said. "Bring the items that will help you feel comfortable, but remember that your care team is here to support you every step of the way. If you forget something, we'll do everything we can to make your stay as comfortable as possible."
Leave these items at home
You can save space by leaving valuables, large amounts of cash and unnecessary jewelry at home. Northside Hospital provides postpartum supplies such as mesh underwear, maternity pads and many basic newborn care items during your stay.
"The best advice I can give expectant parents is to pack early and keep your bag in an easy-to-reach place," Stogner said. "Whether labor starts exactly as planned or comes a little sooner than expected, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're ready for one of life's most exciting moments."
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