If your due date is just around the corner, it might be time to start prepping your hospital bag. From snacks and drinks to blankets and pillows for your hospital stay, you never know what might come in handy when the big day comes! Luckily, we have a handy-dandy packing checklist so you’ll have everything you need when your little one arrives.
At Pumps for Mom, we know how important it is to be prepared for your baby’s arrival. That’s why we offer valuable pregnancy and postpartum tips and an extensive catalog of top-rated breast pumps and maternity recovery garments! With help from our maternity experts, you can rest assured that everything is in order before your baby arrives. Below, our team has compiled a comprehensive guide on hospital bag packing for new and expecting moms.
In this blog, our experts share their ultimate guide to hospital bag packing by answering the following questions:
- When should I pack my hospital bag?
- What should I pack in my hospital bag for me?
- What should I pack in my hospital bag for my baby?
When Should I Pack My Hospital Bag?
Due date aside, you never 100% know when your baby will arrive. So, you want to ensure your hospital bag is packed and prepared in case your little one decides to come earlier than expected. We recommend having a hospital bag ready to go by 36 or 37 weeks pregnant, just in case you go into premature labor. Once your bags are packed, keep them handy either in your car or near your door so you’ll be ready to grab and go when the big day comes!
What Should I Pack in my Hospital Bag for Me?
Your hospital bag will contain a mix of personal items like toiletries and clothes, administrative items like paperwork and IDs, and, of course, baby items for your little one! Below, we’ve compiled a checklist to ensure you cover all your bases when packing your hospital bag.
- Comfortable clothes (for your hospital stay)
- Comfortable clothes (for your departure)
- Undergarments and socks
- Personal toiletries (i.e., toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, hair ties, etc.)
- Bathrobe
- Hospital paperwork, ID, and insurance card
- Birth plan (if applicable)
- Chargers and electronic accessories
- Snacks and beverages
- Pillows, blankets, and towels
- Nightgown or pajamas
- Slippers and flip-flops
- Eye mask and earplugs
- Glasses and contact lenses (if applicable)
- Postpartum care products (i.e., adult diapers, perineal sprays, etc.)
- Personal entertainment (i.e., books, magazines, tablets, etc.)
What Should I Pack in My Hospital Bag for My Baby?
Now that we’ve got your hospital bag essentials squared away, let’s move on to your baby. A portion of your hospital bag should include items for your baby’s arrival and departure. Some of these items may include:
- Car seat
- Going-home outfit (including an appropriate-sized bodysuit with accompanying hat and socks)
- Contact information for your doctor
- Blanket
- Bottles or formula
Along with your baby, you should also consider packing a few items for your birth partner. Whether that be a spouse, family member, or a friend, consider bringing essentials for your accompanying loved one, such as snacks and water, electronics, clothes, toiletries, pillows and blankets, and personal entertainment. Once that’s all packed, you’re good to go, mama!
Want to Get a Free Breast Pump Through Insurance?
In addition to your hospital bag, you might also want to think about getting a breast pump as your due date approaches. At Pumps for Mom, we’ll connect with your policy provider to supply you with a free breast pump through insurance. That way, you’ll be 100% prepared to start your next chapter as a new mom! Shop our comprehensive catalog of top-rated breast pumps, and head to our form or contact us today to get one through insurance.