Baby Hospital Bag Checklist
What to actually pack for labor and delivery — for the birthing parent, the partner, and the baby — without overstuffing the bag.
Free — save your own editable copy, customize it, set reminders, and share it with others.
- Photo ID, insurance card, hospital formsPre-register with the hospital if you can
- Birth plan copiesA few printed copies for the care team
- Phone chargers with extra-long cablesOutlets are never near the bed
- Comfortable robe or labor gown
- Non-slip socks and slippers
- Lip balmHospital air is extremely dry
- Hair ties or headband
- Toiletries: toothbrush, dry shampoo, face wipes
- Glasses and contact supplies
- Nursing bras and comfortable underwearHigh-waisted, dark, and disposable-friendly
- Maternity padsThe hospital provides some — these are for backup and the ride home
- Going-home outfit for parentLoose and comfortable — think 6-months-pregnant size
- Snacks and drinksLabor is long and the partner will raid this too
- Water bottle with a straw
- Pillow from homeUse a colored pillowcase so it doesn't get mixed with hospital linens
- Entertainment: downloads, book, speaker
- Baby: going-home outfit in two sizesNewborn and 0–3 months — babies surprise you
- Baby: hat and socks or footed sleeper
- Baby: swaddle blanket
- Baby: burp cloths
- Car seat installed and checkedYou cannot leave the hospital without it
- Partner: change of clothes and toiletries
- Partner: cash for vending machines and parking
- Pediatrician's name and contact info
- Camera or fully charged phoneClear storage space beforehand
Free — save your own editable copy, customize it, set reminders, and share it with others.