Can a well-stocked bag of supplies make your labor and delivery experience pain-free? It’s unlikely. However, having everything you might want or need at your fingertips will help you feel more in control and make your stay—and yes, maybe even your labor—a little more comfortable.
Here’s a rundown of what you need in your hospital bag.
Must-haves for every mom:
- Insurance card and paperwork
- Photo ID
- Several copies of your birth plan
- MP3 player loaded with your favorite tunes
- Socks
- Hair ties and a hairbrush
- Lip balm
- Hard candies
- Toiletries
- A few pairs of large, comfy underwear
- Nursing gown and bathrobe
- Slippers
- Nursing bras and pads
- Lanolin nipple cream
- Makeup, if you think you’ll want it
- Comfortable, loose clothing for the trip home
- Contacts and/or glasses, if needed
Basics for bringing home baby:
- Going-home outfit
- Socks or booties
- Blanket and hat, if it will be cold outside
- Infant car seat
The hospital will supply most of what your baby needs during his stay, but if you’d prefer to use your own receiving blankets, diapers or pacifiers, feel free to bring them along.
Supplies for the proud papa:
- Digital camera and/or camcorder and spare batteries
- Cellphone (loaded with numbers to call or text when baby arrives) and charger
- A watch with a second hand to time contractions
- Snacks and/or cash for vending machines
- Change of clothes
- Toiletries
