New Baby Hospital Bag Checklist
Pack confidently for labor, delivery, and those first hours with your newborn. Start with this hospital bag checklist template, then tweak it based on your hospital, birth plan, and personal comfort.
Use this template
Create a checklist from this hospital bag template, then add, remove, or reorder items to match what your provider and hospital recommend.
Ideal for packing around 34–36 weeks. Upgrade to Pro to save, reuse, and export your hospital bag checklist as a PDF.
New baby hospital bag checklist preview
Here’s an example of what your hospital bag checklist might look like. Use this as a starting point for mom, baby, and partner, then adjust based on your hospital’s policies and what makes you comfortable.
Important documents & basics
- • Photo ID, insurance card, and hospital registration paperwork
- • Birth plan (if you have one)
- • List of important phone numbers
- • Wallet with small amount of cash or card for parking and vending machines
For mom
- • Comfortable robe or cardigan
- • Nursing bras or comfortable wireless bras
- • Loose, comfortable going-home outfit
- • Non-slip socks or slippers
- • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, deodorant, shampoo, hair ties)
- • Lip balm and moisturizer (hospital air can be dry)
- • Glasses or contacts supplies if needed
For baby
- • 2–3 newborn-size outfits or sleepers
- • Going-home outfit (weather-appropriate)
- • Soft hat and mittens (if needed for climate)
- • Swaddle blankets or receiving blankets
- • Infant car seat already installed in the car
For partner or support person
- • Change of clothes and comfortable layers
- • Toiletries and any medications they take regularly
- • Pillow and light blanket (if hospital allows)
- • Snacks and drinks for in-between hospital meals
- • List of people to update once baby arrives
Comfort & extras
- • Long phone charger or extension cord
- • Headphones or earbuds
- • Soothing items (music playlist, focal point, small fan)
- • Light entertainment (tablet, book, or download shows ahead of time)
- • Snacks you prefer, especially if you have dietary restrictions
Going home
- • Weather-appropriate clothing for mom and baby
- • Extra bag for hospital freebies and paperwork
- • Printed discharge instructions and follow-up appointments
Why a hospital bag checklist matters
When labor starts or your induction date arrives, you don’t want to be hunting for chargers, documents, or baby clothes at the last minute. A hospital bag checklist helps you pack calmly ahead of time and feel prepared for the unknowns of delivery day.
Having essentials packed in one place means you can focus more on your baby and less on worrying about what you might have forgotten.
Pro tips for using this checklist
- • Aim to have your bag packed by around 34–36 weeks.
- • Keep your bag in an easy-to-grab spot near the door or in the car.
- • Ask your hospital what they provide (diapers, wipes, formula, etc.) so you don’t overpack.
- • Pack a small separate bag for labor vs. postpartum if that feels more organized.
- • Add any personal comfort or cultural items that matter to you and your family.
New baby hospital bag checklist FAQ
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Many parents aim to have bags packed by 34–36 weeks, just in case baby arrives earlier than expected. You can always add last-minute items the week of your scheduled due date or induction.
Does the hospital provide baby supplies?
Most hospitals provide basic items like diapers, wipes, and a swaddle blanket, but what’s included can vary. Use this template and then adjust it based on the list your hospital gives you.
How many outfits do I really need for baby?
Usually 2–3 simple outfits and a going-home outfit are enough, since hospital stays for uncomplicated births are often just a couple of days. You can always add more if you prefer options for photos.
Can I reuse this checklist for future pregnancies?
Yes. With NeedChecklist Pro, you can save this as your “Hospital Bag” checklist and reuse it for future births, updating it as your preferences or hospital policies change.
Getting ready to pack your hospital bag?
Start with this template, then tailor the items to your hospital’s guidance, your birth plan, and what will help you feel calm and prepared.
About this template
This new baby hospital bag checklist template covers practical items for mom, baby, and a support person during labor, delivery, and the first days in the hospital.
Use it as a quick starting point, then customize your list inside NeedChecklist based on your hospital’s recommendations and your personal preferences.
Save, edit & export with Pro
- Save this checklist and reuse it for future pregnancies
- Edit and refine items as you learn what you actually used
- Export as a clean PDF to print and check off while packing
- Share with your partner or support person so they can help pack