Are you one of those people who likes to be extra extra prepared? If you answered ‘yes’, then this is the best, most comprehensive hospital bag list for you!

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of the links, I will receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. For more information, read my disclaimer & disclosure policy.

Even though my children are now 3 and 2, I remember both days of their birth like it was yesterday. And, looking back, I definitely remember wishing I had brought certain items with me to the hospital (as well as leaving some things at home!).

The following is the best hospital bag list I can think of, based on my own personal experience. The minimalist in me would die if I actually brought all of these things; the ultra prepared part of me would rejoice in the fact that I left no stone unturned and wanted for nothing. LOLOLOLOL!!

For Mama

  • Photo ID, credit card
  • Labor/delivery gown
  • Robe
  • Slippers
  • Shower slippers (this was something I wish I had brought the first time!)
  • Your own pillow, with a non-white pillow case (so it doesn’t mistakenly get left behind with the hospital’s pillows)
  • Outfit for professional photos
  • Outfit for going home
    • THINGS TO CONSIDER
      • If you are having a c-section, avoid things that are tight around your belly. Think loose, flowy dress or loose pants
      • Comfortable footwear —> my feet were so swollen, they looked like 2 loaves of bread and would not fit in any enclosed shoe! Even though they are horrible as far as support, flip flops ended up being my shoe of choice.
  • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, tooth brush, deodorant, pads, etc.).
  • Nursing pillow (if planning on breastfeeding)
  • Nipple butter 
  • Belly band
  • CHAPSTICK!! Because it gets so darn dry in the hospital!
  • Makeup/Hair items
  • Glasses/contacts/case/solution
  • Extra long phone charger and your phone
  • Entertainment items —> books? Firestick? iPad?

For Baby

  • Outfit for wearing in the hospital (hat, onesie, socks?)
  • Outfit for going home
  • Outfit for professional photos
  • Receiving blanket
  • Plain white blanket (for photos)
  • Car seat — not a “hospital bag” item, true, but you WILL need one to get little one home!

For Partner/Support Person/Other

  • Change for vending machine
  • Change of clothing

*Not sure what the rules are post March 2020. Check with your hospital ahead of time!*

Have I left anything out? Is this or isn’t this the best hospital bag list ever?! Honestly, I don’t think you’d want to bring much more with you. (More to keep track of and more to lug home!)

Want a more pared down version of this list? Check out my Must Have Hospital Bag Items – Minimalist Version.

Here’s wishing you the most amazing birth experience,

 

The Best Hospital Bag List Ever