Bringing a baby into the world is exciting, but the last thing you want is to be scrambling for last-minute hospital bag essentials. Here’s my no-nonsense, tried-and-true, minimum list of essentials that you should pack, and what to leave behind.
Pack These Early—Your Future Self Will Thank You
Life gets hectic in those final weeks, so do yourself a favor and have these packed in advance. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!
Comfy change of clothes for you and your partner – At minimum, you’ll be spending the night, maybe two. Hospital gowns aren’t exactly known for their comfort. And chances are, you'll still look pregnant when you get discharged to go home.
Take-home outfit for baby – Bring 2-3 options in different sizes. You won’t really know how big or small they'll be, until they get here.
Paperwork & insurance info – Having this ready to go will make check-in smoother.
Extras you’ll appreciate later – Since you already buy these items anyway, grab a backup next time you're at the grocery store:
Empty travel bottles for shampoo/conditioner/body wash (only if you plan to shower—I personally waited until I got home because… public showers are not my thing)
Spare phone/tablet/laptop charger
Travel-size deodorant
Travel toothbrush & toothpaste
A brand-new hairbrush (because who doesn’t need an extra?)
Put These on a “Grab on the Way Out” List
In the rush of labor, it’s easy to forget what to pack for the hospital when you're having a baby. That's why checklist by the door (or on top of your already packed bag!) saved us from forgetting these things that we use daily:
Wallets/ID – Obvious but easy to overlook in the chaos.
Pillow & small throw blanket – Hospital pillows = sad, flat pancakes. And the blankets? like paper. A little extra comfort goes a long way.
Small makeup kit – Because you will want pictures with your brand-new baby, but keep it to the minimum
Laptop/tablet & chargers – Hospital TV is a snoozefest. You'll want something to stream your favorite shows on!
Car seat – The base should already be installed, but don’t forget the actual car seat! If you need help, check out these resources:
Car seat safety check locations: Find a Car Seat Inspection Station in Washington - WA Child Passenger Safety
DIY car seat installation guide: Installing - The Ultimate Car Seat Guide
What to Leave at Home
There’s packing smart, and then there’s overpacking. Here’s what you definitely don’t need:
Diapers & baby supplies – The hospital is going to load you up with freebies, so bring an empty bag instead for all the goodies they'll send you home with!
Full glam kit & hair styling tools – If you’re doing photos, bare-minimum makeup and brushed hair will do. Save the full glam for your more formal newborn session.
Fancy outfits & shoes – No need for a full-on fashion moment. Consider a comfy, cute matching robe and swaddle set instead! Amazon.com : matching robe and swaddle set
Bonus: Things I Didn’t Bring, But Fully Support
These aren’t must-haves, but if they sound good to you—go for it!
Bluetooth speaker – Set the mood for labor with a playlist.
Fancy camera – DIY your own hospital photos (Yeah, I know what you're thinking: "You didn't even bring your camera? You're a photographer! I'm definitely kicking myself for that, but as a first-time mom, I was focused on delivering my baby safely. Besides, I wanted the cutest posed photos of her instead)
Snacks – Because hospital food can be pretty meh. Don't overdo it though, they're stuff isn't THAT bad lol
When you're having a baby, packing for the hospital doesn't have to be difficult!
At the end of the day, focus on your comfort, support, and the essentials. Pack smart, and you’ll be able to focus on what really matters—meeting your baby!
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