Pregnancy and Childbirth: What to Bring to the Hospital
You’re likely feeling anxious as your child’s birth approaches. This is normal. To give yourself some peace of mind, pack a bag ahead of time. Do this about 1 month ahead of your estimated delivery date. Here is a list of things to bring:
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Personal care items (toothbrush, hair brush, lip balm, lotion, mints or breath strips, and shampoo)
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Eyeglasses (if you wear them)
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Nightgown (if you plan to breastfeed, pack one that allows for nursing)
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Nursing bra if you plan to breastfeed
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Nursing pillow and sleeping pillow
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Bathrobe and slippers
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Many hospitals provide maternity underwear, but you may want to bring underwear (or adult diapers) that can be soiled because you will have bleeding after delivery
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Comfortable clothes for you to wear home (sweatpants, yoga pants, or other stretchable clothes). Your pre-pregnancy clothes may not fit after delivery.
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Clothes for your baby to wear home
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Smart phone, camera, or video recorder
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Personal music player and headphones
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Coins for vending machines
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List of names of people to call after the birth
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Cell phone and charger
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Insurance information and any other paperwork needed for your hospital stay
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A list of baby names you are thinking of
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An infant, rear-facing car seat for bringing home your baby (this is required by law)
Add anything else that you don’t want to forget:
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Online Medical Reviewer:
Janet Campbell RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
L Renee Watson MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Robyn Zercher FNP
Date Last Reviewed:
9/1/2025
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