Hospital bag checklist

Everything for you, the baby, and whoever is with you. Pack it by week 36.

For you

• Photo ID, insurance card, birth plan if you have one
• Phone charger with a long cable
• Lip balm and hair ties
• Your own pillow in a colored pillowcase
• Robe, slippers with grip, warm socks
• Nursing bra or soft wire-free bra
• Loose going-home outfit, sized as you were at 6 months
• Peri bottle, cooling pads, disposable underwear (the hospital's run out)
• Snacks you actually like and a big water bottle
• Toiletries, dry shampoo, glasses if you wear contacts

For baby

• Installed and inspected car seat (do this in week 35, not on the way out)
• Two going-home outfits in two sizes
• Swaddle or blanket for the car seat
• Hat and mittens in cold months
• Pacifiers if you plan to use them

For your partner or support person

• Change of clothes and toiletries
• Snacks, cash for vending machines, chargers
• List of people to text, with the message drafted

Paperwork and after

• Pediatrician chosen, first appointment booked
• Know your hospital's discharge time so you are not rushed
• Recovery supplies waiting at home so nobody has to shop on day two