A calm, simple list for the bag by the door: what you’ll likely reach for, what the hospital may already provide, and a few comfy, multi-use picks.
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When to pack
Many parents pack a few weeks before their due date so the bag is ready if plans change. Your care team or hospital can tell you what they provide and what to bring.
For you
- Photo ID, insurance card and any paperwork your hospital asked for
- Phone, long charging cable and earbuds
- Loose, comfy outfit for going home
- Nursing-friendly bra or soft bralette
- Slippers or socks with grip
- Toiletries, lip balm, hair ties
- Your own pillow (in a bright pillowcase so it doesn’t get mixed up)
- Snacks and a refillable water bottle
For baby
- Installed rear-facing car seat (you’ll need it to drive home)
- Two going-home outfits in different sizes
- A swaddle or wearable blanket
- A hat and socks, depending on the season
For your partner or support person
- Change of clothes
- Snacks and a phone charger
- Any medications they take
Our multi-use picks
Frida Mom Upside Down Peri Bottle
An angled, upside-down squeeze bottle many parents bring from home for postpartum rinsing. Ask your care team what they recommend for your recovery.
Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Nursing Bra
A soft, wire-free bra with one-hand clip-down cups. It works for pregnancy, nursing and lounging, so it keeps earning its spot after the hospital.
Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter
A lanolin-free balm that also works on dry lips and hands, which is handy in dry hospital air.
Brand or listing states: Non-GMO Project Verified; certified organic by Oregon Tilth (brand site).
Burt’s Bees Baby Sleep & Play Zip-Up Footie
A soft zip-front footie for going home. A zipper is much easier than snaps at 3 a.m.
Brand or listing states: 100% organic cotton, GOTS certified.
HALO SleepSack Swaddle, Cotton
A 100% cotton wearable swaddle with a bottom zipper for diaper changes. Check the size and weight range on the listing, and stop swaddling when baby starts trying to roll, per the brand’s instructions.
What you can probably skip
Lots of baby outfits, a full-size baby bath, and a big stash of diapers and wipes for the stay. Many hospitals provide diapers during your stay, but check with yours.
This guide is for general information only and isn’t medical or safety advice. Always follow product instructions and check with your pediatrician or care team.
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