Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist | Atlanta, Ga

Congratulation expecting parents! You are about to embark on the most beautiful, but sometimes overwhelming journey of your lives…parenthood. Let’s start off this adventure on the right foot.

As Atlanta’s most sought after newborn and baby photographer, I’ve not only been down this road twice, but have met many families who have shared their stories as well. Together we have put together some must have items of what to include in your hospital bag…and what many thought were unnecesary.

As your due date draws near, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and a little nervousness. Let’s put some of those nerves at ease!

When To Pack Your Hospital Bag

You should have your hospital bag ready to go by 36 weeks or 37 weeks pregnant, just in case you go into labor before your due date!

It’s okay to toss in a few last-minute items, like your toothbrush, but by this point in your pregnancy, you’ll want your hospital bag mostly packed and ready to go. Some things are non-negotiable (like a car seat), while others are all about comfort and bringing a little piece of home with you.

Here’s an extensive list of everything you may want or need with you in the hospital.

What To Pack In Your Hospital Bag

• Comfy clothes. Stick with loose, non-restrictive clothing (except for a supportive bra), and have a few options on hand, especially if you might have a C-section. If you plan to breastfeed, pack a few nursing bras or tank tops. Pair your top with soft, loose-fitting pants like joggers or lightweight sleep pants. You might also consider a nursing-friendly pajama set or nightgown, and postpartum leggings can be a comfortable option as well.
  
  **If you are having fresh 48 photos done with a professional photographer (HOPEFULLY ME!). Be sure to pack a cute set of lounge wear or simple cotton dress for the session.
  
  If you’re considering laboring in water, pack a dark-colored sports bra or swimsuit top. For footwear, cozy grippy socks are perfect for staying warm and navigating slippery hospital floors. Be sure to bring slip-on shoes like Birkenstocks or slides for heading home—your feet may be swollen from IV fluids, and you’ll appreciate having something easy to slip into.

• A robe. A comfortable robe is one of the best postpartum clothing items out there. It’s useful if you have a vaginal delivery or a C-section.
  
  
• Toiletries. Don’t forget these! You’ll want your hairbrush, regular or dry shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, body lotion, extra hair ties and face wipes. Remember extra contact lenses (plus contact lens solution) and/or glasses, if you wear them.
  
  
• An extra-long cell phone charger cord. This is a must-have! Hospital beds are often far from outlets, and you’ll want to keep your phone fully charged for capturing all those precious moments with your new baby and video chatting with eager friends and family.
  
  
• Your birth plan. If you have a birth plan, make sure to print out a few copies: one for your medical chart, some for your labor nurse(s), and perhaps an extra to post in your hospital room. Highlighting key points can be helpful for quick reference, ensuring your preferences are easily accessible during your labor and delivery. **While it’s great to have a plan, going into the process with an open-mind and adaptability will benefit you if events may cause the plan to change.
  
  
• Snacks and drinks. Be sure to pack a reusable water bottle—ones with straws are especially handy for easy sipping. If you want something beyond water, consider bringing an electrolyte drink like Gatorade or coconut water. You’ll also appreciate having some easy-to-eat snacks on hand, such as granola bars, pretzels, or dried fruit, to keep your energy up during and after labor.
  
  
• Pillows and a bath towel. As it turns out, hospital towels are the exact opposite of luxurious hotel towels—thin, scratchy and entirely too small. You may find yourself happy that you brought a towel from home for your first post-delivery shower. Same with hospital pillows. **Avoid white as hospital linens are white and staff may confuse personal ones.
  
  
• Postpartum care products. The hospital will hook you up with pads and mesh undies (or you can bring your own). Another option to consider is reusable postpartum absorbent underwear, like from Thinx. A perineal spray is also a priceless addition to your arsenal. (Your bum will thank you.)
  
  
• Nipple cream. If you’re planning to breastfeed, your nipples will appreciate you being so proactive. I loved Honest Calm Your Nip Balm. It wasn’t greasy, didn’t stain clothes/bras, and USDA organic.
  
  
• Nice-to-haves: One of my clients loved having a portable fan since you can’t open windows. Some parents also recommend bringing a nursing pillow for comfort if you’re planning to breastfeed. New moms raved about a postpartum belly band for support.

What To Pack For Baby

Once you’ve packed all the comfort items for yourself, it’s time to focus on the essentials for your baby. These are the must-haves to ensure your little one is comfortable and well-prepared for the trip home.

• A car seat. If you’re driving home, a car seat is non-negotiable—they won’t let you leave the hospital without one. Be sure it’s already installed and ready to safely transport your baby home. They will do a safety check before you are discharged.
  
  
• A coming-home outfit. Pack two different outfits in different sizes because you don’t know how big or small your baby will be! Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don’t forget hats and/or socks, if weather-appropriate, to keep baby warm.
  
  
• Bottles. If you’re bottlefeeding from the get go, pack at least two bottles for the hospital if you’re set on using a certain brand. If you plan to formula feed, pack some of your preferred brand, as well, though the hospital will most likely have samples for you to use while there.
  
  
• Do not bring diapers or wipes! The hospital has all the diapers and wipes you’ll need. TIP! Bring an extra bag to bring home all the freebies from your room.

What Your Partner Should Pack

• Book/iPad/laptop/headphones.
  
  
• A lightweight blanket and pillow. Hospital blankets, sheets and pillows can be scratchy and thin. The little “couch/bed” isn’t the most comfy, but atleast you’ll have a good pillow.
  
  
• Extra Shirt. Once baby arrives, if baby spits up/poops/pees on you, you’ll have a quick change ready to go.

FREE Printable What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag Printable Checklist

Download or print this hospitable bag printable checklist as a reminder of what you’ll want to bring in your hospital bag.

I’d love to chat about booking your photo sessions and see if we are good fit! Many clients reserve sessions during their second trimester to ensure availability. Don’t forget to add on a maternity session and milestone sessions. Let’s create a collective of sessions to capture all the important milestones!

Megan Wilson Photography is a full service studio in Canton, Georgia service many areas in Metro Atlanta. From wardrobe & styling, to designing custom albums and fine art with your favorite images, I have you covered! I want you to have a great experience and love your images. Contact us to book your newborn photo session!