When it comes to giving birth [1], there's so much that's out of our hands. So it makes sense that we might pay extra-close attention to what is in our power — like having a thorough hospital bag checklist. Knowing what to pack in a hospital bag, and having a hospital bag packed and ready to go ahead of time, can go a long way toward making us feel marginally less stressed as the due date approaches.
That said, while it can make us feel better to know we have some key pieces of comfortable clothing and useful equipment in a hospital bag, the most important thing you can bring with you to the hospital is something you can't stow away in a suitcase or backpack, and that's patience, says Emily Montaigne, a nurse practitioner, certified lactation consultant with SimpliFed [2], and mom: "Nothing is controllable, and no amount of showering, grippy socks, or nipple cream will allow you to be in control, so be patient with yourself, your partner, your baby, your visitors, the staff."
While you're working on a patient mindset, review this hospital back checklist. It outlines the items soon-to-be parents can pack in their hospital bag for the mom and new baby, all recommended by experts to ease stress, maximise comfort, and ensure mom and baby have everything they need. Let's get packing.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Slippers
This is one not many people consider, but new parents spend some time on their feet in the hospital, and walking around barefoot on the cold hospital floor is less than ideal. You'll likely want socks or shoes on the entire time, says Montaigne. And something with a grippy bottom is a must for safety. Opt for something comfortable, cosy, and easy to take on and off like these Ugg Fuzz Slides [3] ($120).
Hospital Bag Checklist: Portable Charger
Here's one that many people don't think about, but that's essential in this day and age: a portable charger like this Anker Portable Charger [4] ($22), says Montaigne. You may also want to stow away an extra-long charging cable for your devices, she adds. You'll use your phone to take and send pictures, text, call to loved ones, and even just cue up some music; having a convenient charger and cord on hand so you don't have to fiddle around with an out-of-the-way wall charger is one less thing you'll have to worry about.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Nursing Robe
Comfort and practicality is a priority when giving birth, and a nursing robe like the Kindred Bravely Maternity/Nursing Robe [5] ($40) is a functional way to stay covered, says Rebekah Diamond, MD, a pediatrician, working mom, and the author of Parent Like a Pediatrician [6]. You can also go for nursing pajamas, but a robe is extra easy to open and close when needed — for a doctor to examine you, for instance, or if you're breast-feeding.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Comfortable Clothes
In addition to a robe, other comfortable clothes for mom are a must, if only for travelling home. Don't forget to pack a few loose outfits for yourself, says Montaigne. Layers are helpful depending on the weather and temperature in the hospital, but opt for non-restrictive, dark-coloured bottoms like the Hatch Over/Under Lounge Pant [7] ($128).
Hospital Bag Checklist: Pumping and Nursing Bra
"This Essential Pump&Nurse Bra [8] ($24) was super helpful to keep pumping while I was trying to get my milk in and I didn't need to hold the pumps myself," says Tiara Jakeway, a new mom of twin boys. Personal preference here varies, but having a pump and/or nursing bra in your hospital bag is a good idea, especially if you plan on breastfeeding.
Hospital Bag Checklist: High-waisted Underwear
Hospitals usually provide disposable (and shockingly comfortable) mesh panties to people who've given birth, but it's always helpful to have your own stash on hand too. If you have a C-section, high-waisted underwear like the Bodily All-In Panty [9] ($16) is the way to go, since it won't press on your incisions, says Dr. Diamond. If you give vaginal birth, high-waisted may still be a more comfortable option, helping you feel supported with less pressure points. These panties in particular are made from ultra-soft material that will feel smooth and non-irritating on the skin.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Chapstick
Giving birth comes with a lot of "mouth breathing" and sterile, dry, hospital air, so your lips will likely get chapped, says Montaigne. Luckily, this Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm [10] ($8) is guaranteed to soothe dry, irritated lips.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Toiletries
Your favourite travel-size toiletries can "help you feel a bit more human when giving birth," Montaigne says. Your go-to shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion might make you feel more comfortable at the hospital and offer a smidge of normalcy, so funnel your favourites into easily packable bottles like these Portable Toiletry Containers [11] ($9).
Hospital Bag Checklist: Personal Documents
Make sure you have your driver's licence or ID card on hand, as well as your baby's pediatrician information, says Montaigne. You'll need all documents (multiple times) for paperwork and birth certificate information, so keep them safe and organised in these Plastic File Folders [12] ($8).
Hospital Bag Checklist: Swaddles
Most hospitals provide swaddles, but The Ollie World Swaddle [13] ($65) is a moisture wicking, softer swaddle that is easy to use and allows for easy nappy changes. (It has an opening at the bottom, so there's no need to un-swaddle when you're swapping out a dirty nappy.) Another reason to BYO: at the hospital, healthcare experts are on hand to help you learn the ins and outs of things like swaddling, which can be tricky for first-time parents, and it's helpful to get that assistance while using the same swaddles that you'll continue to use when you're back at home, rather than a hospital-issued one, says Dr. Diamond.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Nursing Pillow
"This My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow [14] ($53) was a lifesaver when trying to breastfeed in the hospital," says Jakeway. "I was able to focus on helping the baby latch while knowing they were still in a good position." Again, it's also useful to try out these sorts of products in the hospital with professionals on-hand to help as needed.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Outfit For Baby
Most hospitals provide all the baby clothing necessities for the first few days (especially since that time can be . . . messy), but it's a good idea to pack one or two newborn outfits for pictures and going home, says Montaigne. This gender-neutral 100% cotton Kissy Kissy Classic Rib Silver Stripe Zip Footie [15] ($49) is cute and ultra-soft.
Hospital Bag Checklist: Postpartum Recovery Garment
This Motif Medical Recovery Garment [16] ($80) can provide some extra comfort and support after giving birth, says Montaigne. Technically known as abdominal wraps, garments like these, which provide gentle pressure and support, may aid in wound healing if you have a C-section and may help relieve pelvic, lower back, and hip pain. (But it's a good idea to check with your doctor before using a garment like this.)
Hospital Bag Checklist: Snacks
Hospital food may not be your ideal post-birth meal, so pack some of your favourite snacks to keep you going. These That's It. Fruit Bars [17] ($20) are simple, delicious, and easy to throw in your bag for you (and your partner, or whoever's with you on your birthing journey).
Hospital Bag Checklist: Car Seat
Okay, this technically won't go in your bag, but don't forget about a car seat, says Montaigne. Make sure it's already installed (if you have your own car), or at the very least you know how to use it and have practiced installing it a few times, because when you're discharged from the hospital, you'll want to be able to get home ASAP. (In fact, some state laws require you to have an infant car seat if you're leaving the hospital by car.) Luckily, this UPPAbaby Infant Car Seat [18] ($330) is easy to install and comes with advanced safety features.