Labor and Delivery

Hospital Bag Checklist

Prepare for your stay with us

We want you to be as prepared as possible for your stay at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women. That’s why we created this handy checklist for what to pack in your hospital bag. A few weeks before your due date, pack an overnight bag for you and your support person. We recommend you leave jewelry and other valuables at home for safekeeping, as you may have to remove them during your hospital stay.

Keep this checklist handy as you pack your bags.

What to pack for you

• Your birth plan 
• Comfortable nightgown or pajamas that open in the front so you can breastfeed easily and a robe and slippers
• Nursing bra to make breastfeeding easier
• Toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and whatever else will make you feel comfortable
• Eyeglasses — it’s best to leave contact lenses at home
• Music playlist of your choice
• Lip balm to use during labor
• Your insurance card and any hospital paperwork you need
• A notebook and pencil to write down any questions you may have for your doctor
• Massage essentials, such as oils, lotions and tennis balls or a plastic rolling pin to roll across your lower back
• Anything else you want to put in your room to make yourself more comfortable (like photos or your favorite pillow)
• Something to wear home — after birth, most women are the same shape they were at about 5 months of pregnancy.
• A list of prescription medications you’re currently taking, along with their dosage, to share with your doctor upon check-in

What to pack for your support person

• Change of clothes
• Comfortable shoes — anticipate a lot of standing during labor and delivery.
• Snacks and beverages
• Toiletries, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
• Pillow and blanket
• Chargers for your personal electronic devices

What to pack for your newborn baby

• Set of clothes and a blanket
• Something special for your baby to wear for newborn photos, if you choose to take them
• An infant car seat