Don't wait until the last minute to pack what you, your partner, and your little one will need at the hospital. Start packing your suitcase at least a few weeks before you're due so you're ready whenever your baby is. Be sure to leave your credit cards, jewelry, and other valuables at home.
- Health insurance card
- A few copies of your birth plan
- Glasses or contact lenses
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Skin lotion
- Lip balm
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Hairbrush
- Hair band or clip
- A few pairs of socks
- Slippers
- T-shirts and sweatpants, or nightgowns that open in front
- A robe
- A few pairs of underwear
- A couple of nursing bras
- Nursing pads (about a dozen)
- Sanitary pads (in case you don't like the hospital's pads)
- Clothes to wear home (think loose and comfy)
- Toiletries for your partner
- Extra clothes for your partner
- Slippers for your partner
- Snacks for you and your partner
- Handheld massager or tennis ball for back massage
- Music
- Magazines, crossword puzzles, or a book
- Phone numbers of people you want to call
- Laptop computer
- Camera
- Money for vending machines and food for your partner
- Clothes for your baby to wear home
- A hat for your baby
- Booties or socks for your baby
- Receiving blankets
- Snowsuit or heavy blanket for baby (if it's winter)
- Diapers (the hospital may provide these)
- Car seat (Install this about a month before you're due)