Hospital bag checklist

Comfort first. Assume you'll stay 24–72 hours.

• Photo ID, insurance card, hospital paperwork
• Birth plan (a few printed copies)
• Long phone charger cable (6+ ft)
• Loose robe or long cardigan
• 2–3 nursing bras / sleep bras
• High-waist mesh or disposable underwear
• Slippers with grip + flip-flops for the shower
• Toiletries: toothbrush, dry shampoo, lip balm, hair ties
• Glasses (skip contacts)
• Warm socks (2 pairs)
• Nipple cream (lanolin)
• Going-home outfit (loose, maternity size)
• Snacks & electrolyte drinks
• Water bottle with straw

The hospital provides most basics — bring the going-home essentials.

• Installed & inspected car seat
• Going-home outfit (newborn + 0–3M, both sizes)
• Weather-appropriate blanket or bunting
• Mittens & soft hat
• 2–3 swaddles
• 1 pack of newborn diapers (backup)
• Pacifier (optional)

They're on the clock too. Small comforts help everyone.

• Change of clothes + pajamas
• Toiletries & deodorant
• Pillow & light blanket
• Phone charger
• Snacks & cash for vending
• Camera (if not using phone)
• List of people to call/text

The boring but essential pile.

• Hospital pre-registration paperwork
• Pediatrician's name & contact info
• Birth certificate paperwork (if in-hospital)
• Social security card application (if applicable)
• Pen & small notebook
• Reusable bag for hospital freebies