Congratulations on your pregnancy journey! As you get ready to meet your precious bundle of joy, it's a good idea to prepare for the labor and delivery experience by packing a well-thought-out pregnancy hospital bag. In this article, we'll guide you through the maternity hospital bag essentials to ensure you're fully equipped without packing unnecessary items. Let's dive into the 15 must-have items for your maternity hospital bag.

Stay organized by packing essential documents such as your insurance card, driver's license, birth plan, and any hospital paperwork from your prenatal visits in your pregnancy hospital bag.
Keeping these documents all together in a folder will make packing your maternity bag easy when it’s time to head to the hospital.

A car seat is non-negotiable. Ensure it's correctly installed and practice securing a doll or stuffed animal before the big day to ease any concerns.

It is important to pack snacks and beverages for yourself and your partner when heading to the hospital for delivery. Bring snacks such as granola bars, nuts, crackers, dried fruit, trail mix or energy bars that will give you energy during labor. Also be sure to bring plenty of water bottles or juice boxes so that you can stay hydrated throughout your stay.

Labor can be a lengthy process, so keep boredom at bay with entertainment options. Bring along a book, magazine or tablet loaded with your favorite content. Consider creating a soothing birthing playlist to help you stay calm during labor.

Having a phone charger is essential since phones tend to die pretty quickly. Be sure yours is packed before leaving home so that it doesn't run out of battery during those precious first moments after giving birth!

After childbirth, comfort is key. Include loose-fitting maternity pajamas, comfortable underwear and a cozy robe in your hospital bag for birth. It’s a good idea to pack nursing bras and tops if you plan to breastfeed in the hospital.

Absorbent underwear or pads are essential for your maternity hospital bag to absorb bleeding, discharge and incontinence after birth. With a wide range of styles and absorbencies, our absorbent underwear has you covered.

Be sure to pack any nursing supplies that you may need for breastfeeding once the baby arrives, such as nursing bras, nursing pads for leakage, nipple balm, burp cloths to catch spit up, and a nursing pillow to support baby. These items will prove invaluable during the initial breastfeeding challenges.

With high-performance leakproof technology, our nursing pads can help protect you and your clothes from leaks as you start breastfeeding.

Be prepared for your baby's needs by packing both cloth and disposable diapers, as well as wipes for those quick clean-ups in your hospital bag.

Bring some onesies, sleepers and adorable baby socks for those first precious photos.

Post-labor, your feet and legs might experience swelling. We recommend packing comfy shoes like flip-flops or slippers that are easy to put on and take off.

Don't forget your toiletries! A toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner and body wash are essentials for your hospital bag. Additionally, consider packing lip balm, lotion and a hairbrush to freshen up and pamper yourself during your stay.

A pen and notepad are great items to have handy when filling out paperwork at the hospital. They can also be used for jotting down helpful notes from your doctor and nurses.

It’s a great idea to add a wet bag to your pregnancy hospital bag so you can easily transport soiled or wet clothing home.

At some point your snacks will run out, so make sure you have some spare change for the vending machines at the hospital. That way your partner can restock your snack supply during your hospital stay.

By packing these 15 essential items in your maternity hospital bag, you'll be well-prepared for the labor, delivery and hospital stay. Remember, simplicity is key – avoid overpacking to reduce stress during this significant life event. Cherish this magical time, and best of luck on your journey to parenthood!

For more new-mom advice see our blog Ten Tips for Breastfeeding Moms