What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag – A South Florida Maternity Guide

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag – A South Florida Maternity Guide

As your due date nears, one question starts popping up more and more: What do I need in my hospital bag? Whether you're planning to deliver in Coral Springs, Boca Raton, or Fort Lauderdale, this guide is here to help expecting mothers feel prepared, confident, and stress-free when it's time to meet their baby.

As a maternity photographer serving South Florida and a mama myself, I’ve worked with countless moms in Coconut Creek, Parkland, Weston, and beyond who have shared their must-haves—and their “wish-I-hads.” So, I’ve gathered the ultimate list of essentials to pack for labor and delivery.

Essentials for Mom

✅ Hospital paperwork & IDHave your insurance card, ID, and any hospital forms ready in a folder or zip pouch.

✅ Birth plan (if you have one)Even if it’s flexible, having it printed and accessible can guide your care team.

✅ Comfortable clothingThink nursing bras, loose nightgowns, and a robe. Boca Raton moms love stretchy, breathable fabrics for post-birth comfort.

✅ Toiletries & postpartum careBring travel-sized versions of your favorites. Don’t forget chapstick, a hair tie, and nipple cream!

✅ Slippers or grippy socksHospitals are cold—this keeps your feet cozy and slip-free.

Must-Haves for Baby

👶 Onesies, mittens & hatsThe hospital provides basics, but having a few of your own helps with size and comfort, especially for newborn photography sessions later.

👶 Car seat (installed)Hospitals won’t let you leave without one. Practice buckling it before baby arrives.

👶 Swaddles & pacifiersFor comfort—and adorable first photos!

For Your Partner

📷 Snacks & drinksLabor can be long. Partners need fuel too.

📷 Change of clothes & phone chargerComfort is key for everyone.

📷 Camera or phoneFor those first magical moments—bonus if you’ve hired a professional birth photographer in South Florida to document everything beautifully.

Bonus Tip: Prep for Pictures 📸

Whether you’re interested in booking a maternity photographer in Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, or Sunrise, or you're planning a full newborn session once baby arrives, it’s never too early to think about capturing these once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Click here to view my maternity portfolio and see what’s possible.