Pregnancy and Childbirth: What to Bring to the Hospital

Pregnant woman sitting on bed putting items in overnight bag.

You’re likely feeling anxious as your child’s birth approaches. This is normal. To give yourself some peace of mind, pack a bag ahead of time. Do this about 1 month ahead of your estimated delivery date. Here is a list of things to bring:

Personal care items (toothbrush, hair brush, lip balm, lotion, mints or breath strips, and shampoo)

Eyeglasses (if you wear them)

Nightgown (if you plan to breastfeed, pack one that allows for nursing)

Nursing bra if you plan to breastfeed

Nursing pillow and sleeping pillow

Bathrobe and slippers

Many hospitals provide maternity underwear, but you may want to bring underwear that can be soiled because you will have bleeding after delivery

Comfortable clothes for you to wear home (sweatpants, yoga pants, or other stretchable clothes). Your prepregnancy clothes may not fit after delivery.

Clothes for your baby to wear home

Personal music player and headphones

Camera or video camera with new batteries or charger

Coins for vending machines

Phone numbers of people to call after the birth

Cell phone and charger

Insurance information and any other paperwork needed for your hospital stay

A list of baby names you are thinking of

An infant, rear-facing car seat for bringing home your baby (this is required by law)

Add anything else that you don’t want to forget:

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