We deliver thousands of babies every year and this list is a great guide on what to pack for you, your support person, and your baby. 

For mom

• ID/wallet/insurance card. It can be easy to forget the basics, so make sure your wallet and essential items make it to the hospital with you.

• Health care providers’ contact information (name/phone number). Have this written down and ready to go when asked. 

• Phone and charger (with extra long cord). You’ll want to make sure your phone is charged for pictures and calls from excited loved ones. 

• Glasses or contact lenses and case. If you wear contacts, be sure to pack your case and glasses for your overnight stay. 

• Robe, socks, and slippers. Instead of a hospital gown, make labor and delivery as comfortable as possible with a soft robe and socks/slippers to keep your feet warm on the cold tile. 

• Hair ties, headbands. Hair ties and headbands will keep hair out of your face during delivery. 

• Focal point (ex: ultrasound or vacation photo). Something soothing to focus on can help you stay calm and grounded. 

• Massage lotion and tools. Taking a few moments for a massage can help you relax and feel more comfortable. 

• Hard sour candy lollipops. Sour candy helps you salivate and prevent a dry mouth during labor. 

• Nursing bras or tanks. You’ll want a few nursing bras or tanks to make breastfeeding easier. 

• Breast pads. Even if you don’t plan on breastfeeding, breast or nursing pads are a great addition to your hospital bag.

• Comfortable pajamas or gown. Changing into a pair of clean and warm pajamas will help you get the best sleep possible. 

• Loose, comfortable clothing to wear home. Treat yourself with your favorite pair of sweatpants for the trip home. 

For your support person

• Snacks and beverages (or refillable water bottle). Snacks like granola bars and pretzels are easy and quick. A refillable water bottle will help everyone stay hydrated!

• Gum/mints. Mint can help relieve anxiety for both you and your support person. 

• Cash/credit card for vending machine. Money for the vending machine will come in handy if you run out of snacks. 

• Phone and charger (with extra long cord). Your support person will also need a fully-charged phone to communicate with loved ones. 

• Change of clothes. A change of clothes and pajamas for your support person will help with an overnight stay. 

• Toiletries (for both): You’ll both want to freshen up and feel clean while at the hospital. A couple of things to pack include:
  • Toothbrush/ toothpaste 
  • Deodorant/ antiperspirant 
  • shampoo/ conditioner 
  • Body wash/ soap/ face wash 
  • Lip balm 
  • Cosmetics (if they are part of your daily routine) 

For your baby

• Car seat, installed in your vehicle. Install a car seat before heading to the hospital.

• Pediatrician contact info. Just like with your information, have this written down and ready for when you’re asked. 

• Going home outfit. It’s a smart idea to pack two outfits in different sizes. 

• Receiving blanket. Remember to pack your baby’s soft and cozy receiving blanket for the perfect swaddle. 

• Baby book for footprints. Bring a special book to store footprints,