What to Pack for Your Hospital Stay

Checklist items for labor, delivery and postpartum hospital stays

A pregnant woman sitting with a notepad.

Checklist items for labor, delivery and postpartum hospital stays

We recommend having your bag packed with your items at least one month before your due date. This can help relieve last-minute anxiety and ensure you have everything you need during your stay at the hospital.

Checklist for labor and delivery

Paperwork

  • Photo ID, health insurance card and any other necessary forms
  • Birth preferences (birth plan)


Personal comfort items

  • Lip balm
  • Hand-held massager
  • Knowing your focal point while giving birth
  • Music for relaxation and wireless speaker (see the video below for song suggestions)


Common personal items

  • Glasses (if you normally wear contact lens)
  • Reading glasses if needed
  • Nightgown (if you plan to breastfeed, bring one that allows for nursing)
  • Bathrobe, slippers and/or anti-slip socks
  • Toiletries: toothbrush, hair brush, lip balm, lotion and shampoo


Support person items

  • Fresh clothes, including sleepwear and slippers/socks
  • Snacks and beverages
  • Coins, cash, credit card for cafeteria and/or vending machines
  • Camera with extra battery and/or charger
  • Chargers for electronics
  • Phone numbers of friends and family, if not already stored in your phone
  • Entertainment: books, audio books, writing material and electronics

Checklist for postpartum stay and going home

Common personal items

  • Bathrobe, slippers and/or socks
  • Several pairs of underwear (to plan for bleeding after delivery)
  • Comfortable clothes (sweatpants, yoga pants or other relaxed fit clothes)


Baby items

  • Properly installed rear-facing, California approved car seat (required by law)
  • Name of pediatrician (If you have not preselected a pediatrician, one will be assigned)
  • Outfit including soft cap to keep head warm
  • Receiving blanket
  • Diaper bag stocked with key essentials for trip home, especially if not going directly home

Items we don’t recommend you bring

  • Jewelry or other valuables
  • Medications and/or vitamins (please be sure all prescription medication is noted with your caregiver)
  • Diapers (initially provided by hospital)
  • Breastpump (if it is necessary during your stay, one will be provided to you)