The countdown is on, and your due date is fast approaching – cue the nesting, the last-minute baby shopping, and the very important task of packing your hospital bag. If you’re delivering in or around Boston, having your bag ready to go by 36 weeks is a smart move. But what exactly do you bring?

Don’t worry, mama, I’ve got you. As a Boston newborn photographer who’s worked with hundreds of new parents, I’ve heard all the post-delivery reflections about what was useful, what wasn’t, and what they wish they’d brought. Here’s your ultimate, stress-free hospital bag checklist, tailored just for Boston moms.

For You: Comfort is Queen

Let’s start with what you’ll need during labor and recovery:

1. Paperwork & ID

• Driver’s license or ID
• Insurance card
• Hospital registration documents (if pre-registered)

2. Comfy Clothing

• Loose-fitting nightgown or delivery gown (if you prefer your own over the hospital’s)
• Robe and cozy socks
• Slippers or easy-to-slip-on shoes
• Nursing bras or bralettes
• Comfy going-home outfit (think stretchy leggings or maternity dress)

3. Toiletries

• Lip balm (hospitals are dry!)
• Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, face wash
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush, hair ties, and dry shampoo
• Deodorant
• Your favorite lotion or face mist

4. Extra Comfort Items

• Your own pillow with a bright pillowcase (so it doesn’t get mixed up with hospital ones)
• Bluetooth speaker for your labor playlist
• Snacks and electrolyte drinks (check with your provider about what’s allowed during labor)
• Reusable water bottle

For Baby: Keep It Simple

The hospital provides most newborn essentials, but a few personal items go a long way:

1. Going-Home Outfit

• Choose something soft and season-appropriate (Boston winters? Think layers.)

2. Swaddle or Blanket

• One or two soft ones for extra coziness (and for cute first photos!)

3. Car Seat

• Make sure it’s properly installed ahead of time. Most hospitals won’t let you leave without one.

4. Newborn Hat & Mittens

• Hospitals usually provide a basic hat, but it’s fun to bring one of your own.

For Your Partner

Yes, they need a mini-bag too:

• Snacks and drinks
• Phone charger
• Pillow and blanket
• Change of clothes
• Toiletries

For Capturing the Moment

You might feel puffy, tired, and far from glam, but trust me, these first hours are precious. Bring a camera or charge your phone for those first family selfies. Better yet, once you’re home and rested, schedule an in-home session with a Boston newborn photographer so you don’t have to worry about capturing everything in the hospital.

Boston-Specific Tips

Parking: Check with your hospital about parking passes or validation.

Weather Prep: If it’s winter, pack a warm coat and hat, even for the baby. Boston weather is no joke!

Hospital Policies: Each hospital has slightly different rules about visitors, food, and discharge times. Check those in advance to avoid surprises.

One Last Thing…

There’s no “perfect” way to pack your hospital bag, and every mom’s needs are different. The goal is to bring items that help you feel calm, comfortable, and prepared.

And when the baby arrives? Soak up every moment. The days may be long, but they go by in a blink. When you’re ready to capture those first sweet snuggles at home, I’ll be here for you. I offer cozy, in-home sessions as a Boston newborn photographer, so you can focus on bonding while I take care of the rest.

 Book your newborn session to commemorate the beginning of your lovely new journey.