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.