You've been preparing for your baby's birth for nine months, but the first contractions may still come as a surprise. To reduce your list of things to worry about once labor begins, pack for the hospital ahead of time. 
The <a href="http://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=acog" target="_blank">American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists</a> and other experts recommend the following items you may want to consider packing. 
Items for you 
<ul>
 <li>Several copies of your birthing plan (if you made one). </li>
 <li>A comfortable nightgown or nightshirt. </li>
 <li>Warm socks or slippers with nonskid bottoms, in case your feet get cold or you want to walk around. </li>
 <li>Loose, comfortable clothes to wear while nursing and on the trip home. </li>
 <li>Toiletries such as soap, shampoo, a hairbrush, toothpaste and a toothbrush. </li>
 <li>Cellphone with the phone numbers of people you want to call. </li>
 <li>A hair clip (if you have long hair). </li>
 <li>A watch or clock with a second hand, for timing contractions. </li>
 <li>Snacks for your coach or partner, so he or she won't have to leave you. </li>
 <li>Hard candies to help keep your mouth moist. </li>
 <li>A camera (if you want someone to preserve baby's first moments). </li>
 <li>Music to help you relax. </li>
 <li>A comfortable pillow. </li>
 <li>Your favorite brand of sanitary pads (not tampons). The hospital will provide pads as well. </li>
</ul>
Items for your baby's trip home 
Remember to pack items for your baby as well. You may want to bring: 
<ul>
 <li>A receiving blanket. You may also want to bring a heavy blanket or bunting along in case it's cold outside. </li>
 <li>A going-home outfit. </li>
 <li>Diapers. The hospital will probably provide these, but it doesn't hurt to have some extra ones. </li>
 <li>A baby book (in case you want to write down any thoughts about your baby's birth). </li>
 <li>A car seat. Make sure to use it every time your baby travels in the car. </li>
</ul>
Reviewed 8/15/2023

Pregnancy: Packing for the hospital

Labor isn't the time to think about packing your bags. It's better to have them ready to go well ahead of time.