Hospital Bag Packing List

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by Tessa Vasiliadis, Doula 

Packing your hospital bag can be a task that’s easily overlooked. Sometimes you wait until the last minute and sometimes you have no idea what to pack. Oftentimes though, you pack tons of things you don’t need, while overlooking the things you do. Here’s the ultimate guide to what to pack in your hospital bag for the birth of your baby:

Basic

• Phone chargers
  
• Toiletries / toothbrushes
  
• Changes of clothes (button down and open top are great for breastfeeding) 
  
• 2+ outfits for the baby (think of the weather!)
  
• Flip flops 
  
• Baby car seat
  
• Insurance card
  
• Any necessary medication
  
• Eyeglasses if you wear them
  

Special / Optional

• Thermacare heat wraps for back and hips
  
• Essential Oils 
  
• iPod / birthing playlist 
  
• If you want to wear your own clothes during birth and labor - pack a dark colored sundress / robe
  
• Nursing bra
  
• A ceramic bowl or mug / spoons and forks (hospitals only have plastic)
  
• Drinks and snacks you enjoy 
  
• Sleeping bag for partner or blanket and pillow
  
• Going home outfits for mom and partner
  
• Your own soap / shampoo
  
• Yoga mat for laboring on floor
  
• Photos of children / family / pets / whatever makes you happy
  
• Hair bands
  
• Unscented diapers for baby 
  
• Baby nail clippers
  
• Breastfeeding support pillow
  
• Birth pump
  
• Twinkly holiday lights or soft lamp to provide dimmer light during labor and nighttime feedings
  
• Camera ​