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Hospital Bag Checklist: Simple, Practical, and Actually Useful

Hospital Bag Checklist: Simple, Practical, and Actually Useful

When you’re heading to the hospital or birth center, less is more—as long as the “less” is exactly what you’ll use. Here’s a clean, practical checklist for a smooth stay, focused on the items new parents tell us they’re most grateful to have.

For feeding & leaks

Clothes & comfort

  • 2 soft nursing bras, 2 nursing tanks

  • Loose pajama set or robe

  • Comfy socks + slippers

  • Going‑home outfit for you (think soft leggings + long tee or a loose dress)

  • Going‑home onesie + hat for baby

Toiletries & tech

  • Travel‑size basics: face wash, moisturizer, lip balm, hair ties

  • Toothbrush/toothpaste, mini dry shampoo

  • Phone + long charging cable

  • Lightweight water bottle (easy to sip one‑handed)

Paperwork & essentials

  • ID, insurance card

  • Pediatrician information (if chosen)

  • Birth plan preferences (optional)

Nice‑to‑haves (but not musts)

  • Nipple balm (test after nursing so it doesn’t coat pads)

  • Roll of soft tissue or wipes

  • Eye mask/earplugs

What the hospital usually provides

  • Mesh underwear, maxi pads, basic diapers, swaddles, and receiving blankets. Ask your nurse what’s included so you don’t overpack.

How many nursing pads to pack

  • Plan for one fresh pair every 3–4 hours while awake. For a 1–2 night stay, bring 4–6 pairs of washable day pads and 1–2 night pads, plus a small handful of disposables for easy swaps if you’re very leaky.

Quick nursing‑pad routine in the hospital

  • Start with day pads while you’re up and about; switch to night pads before you try to sleep.

  • If your milk comes in strongly, keep disposables handy for fast changes.

After discharge

Restock or round out your home kit:

Pack light. Pack smart. Then let the rest go—you’ve got a baby to meet.

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