Now that you’ve entered your third trimester, you’ve probably hit prep mode.
Between nesting and buying lots of baby clothes, you’re probably wondering what you actually need to bring to the hospital.
Don’t fret, I’ve created a hospital bag checklist to cover you, dad, and baby!
This is a complete list of items that you’ll need and want to bring to the hospital with you when it’s time to deliver.
When should you pack your hospital bag?
So when exactly should you pack your hospital bag?
To be safe, you should pack your hospital bag between 32-35 weeks. Of course, you can always pack earlier, but you want to be ready in case the baby comes early.
You at least want to have everything done by week 37, which will give a couple of weeks before your estimated due date.
Babies are known to be on their own time, so its better to be prepared than not.
Once you have your bag packed, simply toss it in your car or beside the door so that it’s readily available.
What not to bring to the hospital?
The hospital will be loaded with everything that you’ll need to take care of your new bundle of joy. So, a few items can be left at home, if you choose.
- Diapers – the hospital will (should) provide tons of diapers for your newborn. In fact, you may want to stash up for when it’s time to leave.
- Wipes – just like diapers, the hospital will also have wipes as well. It may not be your preferred brand, but if you’re not too picky you’ll have “free” diapers to use and take home.
- Formula – If you’re not planning on breastfeeding, the hospital will have formula for you to feed your baby. Ask for extras before you get discharged.
- Breast Pump & Bottles – The hospital will have hospital-grade breast pumps available if you need to pump. No need to bring your own.
- Uncomfortable clothes – Ditch the jeans and tight-fitting top. You’ll want to have comfortable clothes to lounge and walk around in while you recover.
Hospital Bag Essentials
Now that you know everything that you need to know about prepping for the hospital, it’s time to start packing. Here is a list of items that you should include for your hospital stay!
Remember, you don’t have to include everything, but below is the ultimate hospital bag checklist.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom
For details on the exact items that I purchased for my hospital bag, check out my Amazon Store.
- Copy of your birth plan
- Purse & wallet
- Cell phone & charger
- Headphones
- Robe
- Gown
- Pajamas
- Dark, cotton underwear
- Comfortable, loose clothes
- Adult diapers (if not comfortable with hospital maxi pads)
- Slippers
- Socks
- Shower shoes
- Dark towels
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Body wash
- Lotion
- Lip balm
- Contacts/solution (if applicable)
- Makeup
- Face wipes
- Hairbrush/comb
- Hairstyling products
- Blanket
- Pillow
- Nipple cream (hospital should also have some, but may charge)
- Nursing bra/tank
- Prenatal vitamins
- Tablet/Laptop
- Disinfecting wipes
- Bluetooth speaker
- Reusable water bottle
- Book
Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad
- Change of clothes
- Pajamas
- Slippers
- Shower shoes
- Towels
- Body wash
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Snacks
- Bottled drinks
- Cell phone & charger
- Camera
- Wallet
- Pillow (if you prefer not to use the hospital’s)
- Blanket
- Tablet/Laptop
- Headphones
Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby
- Car seat & base (installed)
- Going home outfit
- Extra bodysuits
- Blanket/swaddle
- Cap & mittens
- Socks
As Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI), she has been teaching personal finances to women & youth for over a decade.
Fo is an established writer and expert contributor on the topics of personal finance, budgeting, debt payoff, money mindset, saving, entrepreneurship, investing, motherhood, personal development, and more.