Exactly What To Pack in a Hospital Bag, According to Experts (and Parents)

When it comes to giving birth, there's so much that's out of our hands. So it makes sense that we might pay extra-close attention to what is in our power — like having a thorough hospital-bag checklist. Knowing what to pack in a hospital bag, plus having a hospital bag packed and ready to go ahead of time, can go a long way toward making us feel marginally less stressed as the due date approaches.

That said, while it can make us feel better to know we have some key pieces of comfortable clothing and useful equipment in a hospital bag, the most important thing you can bring with you to the hospital is something you can't stow away in a suitcase or backpack, and that's patience, says Emily Montaigne, a nurse practitioner, certified lactation consultant with SimpliFed, and mom: "Nothing is controllable, and no amount of showering, grippy socks, or nipple cream will allow you to be in control, so be patient with yourself, your partner, your baby, your visitors, the staff."

While you're working on a patient mindset, review this hospital-bag checklist. It outlines the items soon-to-be parents can pack in their hospital bag for the parents and new baby, all recommended by experts to ease stress, maximize comfort, and ensure you and baby have everything you need. Let's get packing.