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This is no way to start labor: frantically scrambling for what you need at the hospital while your contractions get stronger and closer. To spare yourself that pressure, you should pack your hospital bag a few weeks before your due date.

That wiggle room will come in handy if your baby makes a surprise appearance. If you've been struggling with pregnancy brain, it might help to make a checklist of the essentials you'll need. We made one to get you started:

For you:

• Your health insurance card, photo ID and hospital registration forms.
• A few nightgowns, pairs of pajamas, or T-shirts and sweatpants.
• A bathrobe, slippers and socks.
• Loose-fitting T-shirts and nursing bras, if you plan to breastfeed.
• Several pairs of underwear.
• Your glasses or contact lens case and solution.
• Your cell phone and charger.
• A music playlist for labor or later.
• Toiletries, such as soap, shampoo, a toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Hairbrush/hairstyling equipment, lip balm and makeup, if you want them.
• Books or magazines.
• Loose-fitting or maternity clothes to wear home.

For your baby:

• Clothes to wear home, including an undershirt, cap and socks.
• A warm blanket if it's cold outside.
• A rear-facing car seat that's already installed correctly.

A few more reminders

Keep your bag handy in a hall closet, by the door or in the trunk of your car. Realistically, you can't pack everything ahead of time—like your glasses and certain toiletries.

There's a workaround, though. Just make a list of last-minute things that need packing. Put that list somewhere that's easy to find, like on the fridge or your nightstand. You don't want to waste precious time looking for it either.

More pregnancy news

Get prepped for pregnancy and delivery. Learn about the three stages of labor and what you can expect.

Sources: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; March of Dimes

Reviewed 1/26/2024