Once you enter the third trimester, you are ready to start planning ahead. Outside of prepping meals for the freezer, getting baby clothes ready, and pulling together any essentials for postpartum aftercare, you can start filling up your hospital bag.

Why focus on the hospital bag? Because if you have learned anything from the movies, you want to be ready to run out the door once your water breaks; otherwise, chaos will break loose. Just kidding, real life is different. But either way, it’s better to be prepared than stressed and rush to get everything you need. 

So, let’s pack your bag!

1. Paperwork & IDs

Make sure you include your insurance card, birthing plan, and photo ID. These items are harder to pack ahead of time, so be sure to store them where you can quickly grab them as you head out.

2. Toiletries

Bring everything that makes you feel like your freshest self, that includes shampoo, conditioner, hairbrush, body lotion, deodorant, and lip balm. You should also plan on bringing a version of your skincare routine. For added self-care, use our eye and mouth patches to freshen up after you have given birth and are trying to recalibrate. All of our patches are pregnancy and breastfeeding-safe, so you can confidently indulge in a bit of self-care as you continue learning what it feels like to be a new mother.

3. Home Comforts

Just because you are in a hospital doesn’t mean it needs to feel like a hospital! Bring your favorite pillow and blanket. If you struggle to fall asleep, add earplugs and a night mask.

4. Nipple Cream

This is a small but mighty item. Cracked nipples aren’t just from breastfeeding! Pack a nipple cream like Lansinoh Lanolin to help soothe and relieve any pain.

5. Clothes

Pack some comfortable clothes you can lounge in and wouldn’t mind being photographed in (people will be taking pictures). Think loose-fitting shirts, leggings, or stretchy pants. Additionally, you should bring a soft robe, an open front nightgown for easy nursing, and slippers. You should consider a nursing bra to help support your breasts as they will be swollen and leakproof underwear to help as you heal.

Bonus: 4 Hospital Bag Essentials For Your Partner

1. Sustenance

Bring yourself a range of snacks to keep your energy up and your belly full. Add a water bottle to stay hydrated, and bring change for the vending machine in case you end up needing more. Often there is a cafeteria you can visit, but if it’s closed for the night, having these snacks and water close by eases any hunger pangs or potential dehydration.

2. Entertainment

It’s not that we don’t think you will be fully “entertained,” but it may be nice for you and your partner to listen to music or watch a show to relax or pass the time. 

3. Chargers

Keep a couple of chargers in your bag to help you stay at 100% battery and be able to update family members, take photos, and share the news.

4. Home Comforts

This essential also applies to the partner! The only way you can be the best, most supportive version of yourself is if you, too, are comfortable. Bring a pillow and blanket if the chance to rest pops up.

There you have it! You have just packed your bag for the future. Good luck, and welcome to the other side.

For mamas, check out our Postpartum Recovery Timeline: Your Week-by-Week Guide or C-Section Recovery Timeline: Week By Week Guide to help you through the next few weeks.