For Mom — Hospital Essentials
10 items
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ID + insurance card Essential
Keep in a small pouch — you'll need these at check-in
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Birth plan (if any) Essential
Print 2–3 copies — one for your bag, one for the nurses
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Comfortable going-home outfit
Pack something loose — maternity size, not pre-pregnancy
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Robe or zip-up cardigan
Zip-front is easier for skin-to-skin and breastfeeding
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Nursing bra or bralette Essential
Pack 2 — things get wet fast
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Non-slip socks or slippers
Hospital floors are cold — fuzzy socks are a game changer
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Toiletries & skincare basics
Travel sizes: shampoo, face wash, lip balm, dry shampoo
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Hair ties & headband
You'll want hair off your face during labor
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Postpartum pads or adult diapers
Hospital provides some but bringing your own = comfort
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Snacks & water bottle
Granola bars, dates, electrolytes — labor is a marathon
For Baby
8 items
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Going-home outfit Essential
Pack 2 sizes — you won't know exactly how big baby will be
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Receiving blanket or swaddle
Hospital provides one but yours will smell like home
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Newborn diapers (small pack)
Hospital usually provides, but good to have your brand
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Baby wipes (unscented)
Sensitive skin only — no fragrances for newborns
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Car seat (installed & inspected) Essential
You cannot leave the hospital without one — get it checked by a certified tech
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Hat & mittens
Newborns lose heat fast — even in summer
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Pacifier (if using)
Check with your care team on timing if breastfeeding
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Baby's first photo outfit (optional)
The hospital photographer usually comes day 1 or 2
For Your Partner / Support Person
6 items
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Change of clothes (2 days)
Labor can take longer than expected — pack for 2 nights
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Pillow & blanket
Hospital chairs are not comfortable for sleeping
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Snacks & drinks
They'll need energy too — pack easy, quiet snacks
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Phone charger + portable battery
Outlets are always in awkward spots — portable battery = lifesaver
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Entertainment (tablet, book, headphones)
Early labor can be slow — bring something to do
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Camera or know phone camera settings
Turn off shutter sound, turn on portrait mode, charge battery fully
Tech & Comfort
8 items
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Phone charger + cable Essential
One for each person ideally
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Portable Bluetooth speaker
Birth playlist, white noise, or ambient sounds
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My Umka Baby Care Manual downloaded
Works offline — open it the moment baby arrives
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Eye mask & earplugs
Hospitals are noisy at night — sleep whenever you can
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Heating pad or rice sock
Helps with back labor and cramps
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Essential oils or scent roller (if using)
Lavender and peppermint can help with nausea and anxiety
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Massage ball or TENS machine
For labor pain — worth every penny
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Lip balm & face mist
Hospitals are dry — you'll use these constantly
Create Your Own
🔒 Free
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Add your own items — birth plan, feeding, personal extras.
💡 Packing tips from moms who've been there
When to pack
Have your bag ready by 36 weeks. Don't wait for labor to start.
Two bags trick
One bag for labor, one for recovery. Easier to find things mid-contraction.
Hospital provides
Mesh undies, pads, diapers, wipes, blankets. Take all you can.
Leave a copy
Leave your birth plan and emergency contacts at home too.