Hospital Bag Must-Haves

One of the things that new moms-to-be can do to help with any pre-delivery jitters is getting their hospital bag packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice. Most experts agree that pre-packing around week 34 or 35 will ensure that you still have plenty of time before you need to grab it and go. Packing some of the “comforts of home” items will help keep you calm and minimize unwanted stress when it comes time to the actual delivery. We researched some of the best Mom blogs on the Internet and Pinterest and here’s a list of some of of the absolute must-haves when packing your hospital bag.

Documents & Paperwork

While not terribly exciting, be sure that you have all the necessary documents and paperwork you might need, such as:

Identification
Insurance information
Birth plan

Toiletries

That first shower post-delivery will feel oh-so-good. Bringing a travel size bottle of your favorite body wash can really bring a small comfort of home into your hospital room. Here some other toiletry items to pack:

Travel bottles of shampoo & condition
Travel size bottles of skincare items like face wash and moisturizer
Deodorant
Hair ties or headband to keep hair out of your face
Make-up, if you want it

Clothing

After delivery, your wardrobe should be all about comfort. Don’t forget the following:

Comfy robe
Pajamas with open-front top
Nursing bra(s)
2-3 pairs of comfy, non-skid socks
Loose, comfortable outfit to wear home
2-3 pairs of loose maternity underwear, preferably those that you don’t mind if they get ruined.
Slippers / comfortable shoes
Change of clothes for your partner and/or siblings

Electronics & Miscellaneous

Cell phone and charger
Camera
Snacks (in case the hospital’s kitchen is closed)
Tablet (For dad and for you, in case your labor is long)

Baby Items

Approved car seat
A coming-home outfit
2-3 warm blankets
Season-appropriate clothing like hats, mittens and coat

And a few other helpful resources:

Daily Mom – Hospital Bag Necessities

The Bump: Packing a Hospital Bag

Parents.com – The Ultimate Hospital Packing List

What other items do you plan on packing in your hospital bag? If you’re done having babies, is there an item that you’d recommend to new moms? Share with us by leaving a comment below!