Hospital Bag Checklist for Pregnancy

Hospital Bag Checklist for Pregnancy By Jaquetta T. Ragland

Pregnancy, although stressful at times, can be a joyous occasion. However, to lessen the stress, you should prepare as much as possible. Therefore, a hospital bag checklist is a must for every expecting mom. You never know when you’ll be rushing to put a bag together or end up in the hospital unexpectedly. As most experienced moms know, babies can come early! So having everything written out for you or your spouse to quickly grab things is a must to decrease some of the stress delivering a baby creates.

So what should be on your checklist? Here are our top choices.

Hospital Bag Checklist

Important Identification Documents

Make sure you have your driver’s license and insurance card. If you pre-registered at the hospital, bring all paperwork too.

Clothing

You’ll need a variety of clothing while in the hospital. Before you deliver, you’ll be in a hospital gown, but you may want a comfortable robe. You don’t know how long you’ll be in labor or where you’ll be walking to get things moving. Comfortable socks are a must too.

You’ll also need comfortable clothing to go home in – think anything stretchy and comfortable. Elastic waistbands and a loose fit are what you want. Also, include button down shirts if you’re nursing or any comfortable shirt if you aren’t.

Baby Clothes

Pack a ‘going home outfit’ but also pack plenty of onesies and warm clothes for your newborn baby. One piece sleeper pajamas work great because they’re easy to maneuver for diaper changes and checkups.

Also, pack a few newborn hats and mittens to keep his/her head and hands warm. If you’ll swaddle your baby and have a swaddling blanket, pack it as well.

Breast Pump

If you’re breastfeeding, pack your pump. You don’t know how often your new baby will or won’t eat. Being able to pump breastmilk is important to encourage milk production.

Undergarments

Pack several pairs of underwear because you never know what may happen after delivery. If you’re nursing, pack a couple of nursing bras, and if you aren’t make sure you have a comfortable bra to throw on when you’re ready.

Toiletries

You may have people visiting you and your new baby (guidelines permitting), but even if you don’t, you’ll want to feel like yourself. Pack your own toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant.

Notebook and Folder

You’ll likely have a lot of paperwork to complete and notes to take as you learn all about your new baby. Be prepared with ways to write things down and a secure place to keep any important documents.

Snacks

You may want snacks after delivering your baby, especially if you’re in the hospital for a few days. Pack nutritious and non-perishable snacks such as energy bars, nuts, trail mix, and fruits that don’t require refrigeration.

Make your Hospital Bag Checklist

Make your hospital bag checklist early on in the pregnancy. You never know when your baby will make his/her grand entrance into the world. The more prepared you are, the less stressful it will be when the time comes.

PDF Printable of Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom & Baby at https://www.stayathomemomco.com/ – A community where every mom is welcome!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Jaquetta T Ragland is the owner of www.stayathomemomco.com. She is a stay at home mother of 3 children; 15, 3 and 2 years old. Her goal is to help moms adjust and succeed at being stay at home moms while building a community they can feel a part of!

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not (necessarily) reflect the views of PregnancyJournal.com. PregnancyJournal.com can in no way whatsoever be held responsible for the content of such views nor can it be held liable for any direct or indirect damage that may arise from such views.