Getting ready for your baby’s arrival is exciting, but packing your hospital bag can feel overwhelming. You want to be sure you have everything you’ll need for both you and your little one without overpacking.
As a mom of 3, including twins, I know how hard it is to decide what you need to pack and what you don’t. That’s why I put together this hospital bag checklist for mom, dad, and baby.
It takes away the guesswork and covers all the must have items for labor, delivery, and your hospital stay. From comfy clothes to birth plans and phone chargers, this guide helps you feel prepared, calm, and confident when it’s time to head to the hospital.
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Free Printable Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom, Dad, and Baby
You can see the full hospital bag checklist in detail if you scroll down. There are sections dedicated to mom, dad/partner, baby, and miscellaneous items. But before we review it, I thought you might want to grab the list in printable form.
Just click the button below for a FREE printable hospital bag checklist. Plus, as a bonus, you also get a printable baby registry and trimester checklist too.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom
Let’s dive into my hospital bag list recommendations. First up are the items mom will need.
For the optional items, you might decide to bring those items for your own comfort. The free options at the hospital are fine and do their job, but they are not necessarily as comfortable as what you would pick for yourself.
- Pajamas and/or robe
- (2) pairs maternity leggings or yoga pants
- Comfortable shirt for going home
- Flat, comfortable shoes for going home
- Bra with no underwire / nursing bra
- Nursing pads (optional – will get some at hospital)
- Slippers or flip flops
- Socks (optional – will get some at hospital)
- Heavy flow pads (optional – will get some at hospital)
- Brush / comb
- Hair ties
- Toiletries – shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
- Cell phone
- Wallet / money / credit card
- Purse
Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby
Next, is my list for the items to pack in your hospital bag that your baby will need. The car seat doesn’t actually go in your hospital bag, but it’s a necessary item for leaving the hospital with your newborn!
- Going home outfit
- Car seat – properly installed in the car
- Extra onesies
- Swaddle blankets (optional – will set some at hospital)
- Burp cloths (optional)
- Socks (optional)
- No-scratch mittens (optional)
- Hat (optional)
Hospital Packing List for Dad / Partner
We can’t forget about dad (or the person who will be there for support, that’s not giving birth). Here’s what they will need.
- Change of clothes
- Pajamas
- Toiletries – shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
- Cell phone
- Wallet / money / credit card
Other Miscellaneous Must Have Hospital Bag Items
Finally, here is a list of other items (that don’t fit in the categories above) that you will want to take to the hospital with you.
- Snacks – granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.
- Phone charger
- Entertainment – tablet, books, etc.
- Driver’s license / photo ID
- Insurance card
- Pediatrician information
- Camera (optional)
- Birth plan – 3 copies (optional)
- Glasses / contacts (if needed)
- Keys
Related: Check out this printable Birth Plan Checklist for a super simple way to make a birth plan.
Packing your hospital bag ahead of time helps you feel calm and ready when labor begins.
With everything prepared for both you and your baby, you can focus on welcoming your little one instead of worrying about what you forgot. Use this checklist as a guide to keep things simple, organized, and stress-free.
Whether it’s your first baby or your third, being prepared makes all the difference for a smooth, memorable hospital stay. Good luck!
