Hospital Bag for Mom (39 Weeks, Just In Case)
Packed with eight months of advice from three midwives and one night of panicked internet. You will not use everything. You'll be glad you had it anyway.
Documents (don't skip)
Photo ID + insurance card
Birth plan copies × 3
Your care provider's after-hours number
For labor
Phone + long charging cable
Lip balm
Breathing exercises dry you out fast.
Hair ties + headband
Your own pillow in a bright pillowcase
So it doesn't go home with the hospital linens.
Loose, comfortable robe
Playlist or audiobook downloaded offline
After baby arrives
Going-home outfit for you (maternity sized)
Going-home outfit for baby (preemie + newborn sizes)
Two swaddles
Nursing pads
Snacks for partner
The cafeteria will close. They will be hungry. Trust me.
Keep by the door. Tell your partner where it is. Triple-check the documents.