Hospital bag must-haves: What’s best to pack?

The time has come: baby is almost here! As your due date approaches, it’s a good idea to prepare for the trip to the hospital. Here’s a handy list of items you may want to consider packing in your hospital bag for you and baby – and partner, too!

What to Pack for Mom

• Important documents and information (insurance card, photo ID, birth plan, pediatrician’s name and office number)
• Phone and phone charger (with an extra-long cord)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, lotion)
• Extra hair ties
• Lip balm
• Nursing bra and pads
• Glasses, contacts and contact solution
• Comfortable, loose pants, underwear and top
• Pillow
• Snacks (once you get to the hospital, don’t eat anything until you check with your doctor)

What to Pack for Baby

• Car seat for going home (learn more about car seat safety and where to go for professional help installing it)
• Receiving blankets
• Going home outfit
• Newborn diapers and wipes

What to Pack for Partner

• Snacks
• Cell phone charger
• Change of clothes
• Toiletries

Before Going Home

Before being discharged, your baby’s pediatrician will visit you in the hospital to give baby their first check-up and ensure that all newborn screening tests have been performed. If your baby’s pediatrician does not make rounds in the hospital, your baby should still be seen by the hospital’s doctor. This is a great time to ask any lingering questions and talk with the pediatrician about baby’s well child visit schedule. Babies will visit the doctor many times in the first two years, starting with their first office visit within the first week. Be sure to write down the date and time of baby’s first well child visit; putting the appointment in your phone is an easy way to remember.