Checklist: Preparing for Your Hospital Stay

After months of pregnancy, your baby’s arrival can seem sudden and hectic. Start gathering these items a few weeks before your due date so you’ll be ready when it’s time to go to the hospital.

For your arrival at the hospital:

• Your photo identification (such as driver’s license or ID card)
• Your insurance card
• Your prenatal record(s)

For your labor:

• A focal point, such as a favorite photo or a stuffed animal
• Favorite music with portable player
• Lotion or oil for massage
• Chapstick/lip balm
• Deck of cards, magazine, book, tablet device
• Phone charger
• Nutritious drinks and snacks for partner (vending machine is also available)
• Vibrating pillow or massager
• Pillows
• Paper and pen
• Camera/video (Note: Videos during birth are not allowed)

For postpartum (your hospital stay after delivery)

• Comfortable clothes for after delivery (comfy and baggy)
• Nursing gown
• Nursing bras
• Boppy pillow
• Eyeglasses, contact lenses
• Hair ties, hair care, cosmetics, mouthwash, toothpaste/toothbrush
• Baby book
• Birth announcements

For going home:

• Loose-fitting, comfortable going-home outfit for mom (such as leggings)
• Going-home outfit and blanket for baby
• Car seat
• Car seat cover (optional)

Download a PDFof this checklist so you can print it.