Pack it early, so the only thing you’re hunting for when labor starts is the car keys.
When to pack
Pack by about 36 weeks, or sooner if your care team suggests it. Kaiser Permanente says to pack a few weeks before your due date. Babies don’t always wait: a birth from 37 weeks counts as early term, and full term starts at 39 weeks. If you’re expecting twins or more, pack earlier: more than half of twins are born before 37 weeks.
The three things that matter most
- An installed rear-facing car seat. You’ll need it to drive your baby home. Install it in the back seat a few weeks before your due date. Certified technicians at car seat inspection stations will check it, free in most cases.
- Your ID, insurance card and birth plan. Ask your hospital what it supplies, so you know what else to bring.
- Phone charger with a long cable. Outlets may not be near the bed.
What hospitals usually provide
Some hospitals provide diapers, wipes, pads and basic baby care items during your stay. NYU Langone, for example, supplies baby clothing, blankets, diapers and feminine products. It varies, so ask your hospital what it supplies before you buy bulk packs to bring.
Safe sleep starts in the hospital
Your baby sleeps on their back in the hospital bassinet, on a firm, flat surface with no blankets, pillows or soft toys. For warmth, use layers or a wearable blanket, not a loose blanket. Don’t use weighted swaddles or sleep sacks.
Sources
- Kaiser Permanente, “Packing for the hospital.” kaiserpermanente.org
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Definition of Term Pregnancy.” acog.org
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Multiple Pregnancy.” acog.org
- NHTSA, “Car Seats and Booster Seats.” nhtsa.gov
- American Academy of Pediatrics, “A Parent’s Guide to Safe Sleep.” healthychildren.org
- NYU Langone Health, “What to bring for your hospital stay.” nyulangone.org