2024 HOSPITAL BAG CHECKLIST + PRINTABLE PDF (2024)

While timing your "pack-the-bag" moment is crucial, it depends on individual circ*mstances.
Imagine you are an expectant parent of twins or you are otherwise considered high-risk - your OB might nudge you to have your go-bag ready at around the 35-week mark. In other situations, consider the 37 to 38-week window as your sweet spot. This way, you're prepared with all the essentials should your tiny plus-one decide for an early entrance, and you can always tweak and twist things if the need arises.

However, our advice to you is: don't let the 38-week mark pass you by without a loaded bag. You'd rather have your bag all set and waiting by the door, because, when the baby decides to turn up the glam, you want to be primed for the action.

Birthing Plan: It'll guide the doctors and nurses, ensuring your preferences for everything, from pain management to after-birth procedures, are considered.

Birthing Gown: Don't settle for standard-issue hospital gowns. Slip into your own chic birthing gown that marries comfort and style in one easy piece. Choose one that's soft, stretchable, and oh-so-elegant for those first baby photos.

2-3 Nursing Tanks & Bras: These are the LBDs of maternity fashion - solid, practical, and always flattering. You'll want a couple of each, designed for easy feeding and superb support.

2-3 Yoga Pants: Hello, maternity wardrobe workhorse! Opt for lounge-worthy yoga pants that are breathable, stretchy, and dressed-up enough for those surprise visitors. Trust us – a couple of these and you’re pretty much sorted.

Slip-On Shoes & Slipper Socks: Allow your feet the loving comfort of stylish slip-ons or cushiony slipper socks. Perfect for padding around the maternity ward.

Shower Flip Flops: Think of these as the unsung heroes of your hospital bag. Ideal for maintaining hygiene during your hospital showers.

Headband/Hair ties: Keep those locks stylishly in place during labor with headbands or hair ties.

Robe & 2-3 Pajamas: Chic meets comfort in your choice of robe and cute pajamas.

Going Home Outfit: This is your grand exit look. Think cozy, stretchy, and photo-ready.

Big Undies: Don't underestimate the comfort of spacious undies post-delivery. They'll accommodate maternity pads, they’re light, and they help keep you comfortable during recovery.

Nipple Cream & Lip Balm: Soothe your skin with good quality nipple cream and keep those lips hydrated with a lip balm you love. After all, a little self-care goes a long way!

Toiletries: Your favorite toiletries can transport a sterile hospital room into a personal spa. The familiar scent of your preferred products will make you feel right at home.

Glasses & Contacts: For all our vision-impaired beauties, don't forget these essentials.

Change of Clothes: Bring a change of clothes that speaks to their personality while exuding comfort and ease. So go on, pick that checkered shirt, chambray button-up, or comfy linen tee and hit the right balance between cozy and chic.

Sweatshirt: A sweatshirt is just what you need to layer up in those often chilly hospital rooms.

Toiletries: Their favorite products create a sense of home away from home, transforming a functional bathroom into your very own en-suite sanctuary.

Pajamas: Opt for sleepwear that's snug yet breathable and suites the new dad aura they effortlessly display.

Camera & Phone: Being the shutterbug on duty, make sure to have a camera or phone at the ready to capture life’s most glorious moments.

Batteries: Make sure you have enough juice to keep your devices powered up.

Laptop or iPad: Staying connected to your loved ones has never been more essential. Bring your must-have tech gadget to keep everyone in the loop or pass the time creatively.

Glasses & Contacts: Keep the fashionable frames and contacts handy.

Car Seat: Opt for a car seat that's plush, chic, and professionally installed – safety done stylishly for your little one's first cruise.

Going Home Outfit: Ah, the spotlight-stealing ensemble for your baby's debut in the world. This calls for something adorable, yet practical. Think soft textures, soothing colors, and oodles of snugness wrapped up in one little outfit. And why not toss in some charming details for those "going home" photo ops?

2-3 Gowns: Bring along a few cute-as-a-button gowns that boast both heart-melting style and easy diaper access.

Newborn Cap, Mittens, and Booties: Baby's first accessories! Consider these the ‘finishing touches’ to your tiny treasure's outfits. Soft hues, gentle fabrics, and designs that scream cuteness overload.

2-3 Swaddles: They offer a snug embrace that recreates the coziness of the womb for your newborn, easing them into their new world. And their secure snugness is not just about comfort - it doubles up as a safety feature, limiting a baby's startle reflex and reducing the risk of them scratching their cherubic face.

Burp Cloths: Consider these your chic mini clean-up crew. Opt for absorbent, soft, and durable ones that clean efficiently without compromising on style.

Baby Blanket: Your newborn’s first blanket!

Sleep Sack: It bundles up warmth, comfort, and safety in an adorable package.

Bottles: Opt for easy-to-clean and ergonomically-designed babies' bottles. Look for ones that prevent air bubbles to keep your tiny one happy and colic-free. (optional)

Pediatrician Contact Info: Last but not least, have your pediatrician's contact info on hand. You will need to be able to reach out to your trusty pediatrician at this momentous time.