The Hospital Bag

Kaiser Permanente's maternity checklist puts it simply: pack a few weeks early 'so you'll be ready for any surprises.' Babies do not always wait for the due date.

That works out to roughly weeks 35 to 36 — a comfortable target for having the bag done.

Kaiser Permanente's checklist is direct about this: it is not something you want to be doing the day the baby arrives.

Hospital checklists put this at the very top of the labor kit.

You will need it at check-in.

Kaiser Permanente's checklist includes a printed copy in the labor kit.

March of Dimes recommends sharing it with your provider and with the nurses at the hospital or birthing center where you plan to give birth.

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that most hospitals ask for the name of your pediatrician when you are admitted to deliver your baby — so choose one during the final months of pregnancy.

The AAP includes this in its packing list — even in the phone era, a written backup is handy.

Many hospitals let you register before the big day — ask at a prenatal visit.

The AAP's list covers the basics: toiletries, clothing, and something to read.

These are the labor kit items on Kaiser Permanente's checklist. A yoga or exercise ball is optional if you plan to use one.

Nice for when you have visitors — though the hospital's gowns are always there if you would rather not use your own things.

Kaiser Permanente's checklist says it kindly: pack loose-fitting clothes, because you will be around the size you were when you were six months pregnant. That is completely normal.

Small comforts that are easy to forget.

Chargers and a camera with a charged battery are on Kaiser Permanente's support-person list.

Labor can be long, and leaving to find food is the last thing they will want to do.

Kaiser Permanente suggests multiple layers so you can adjust for the weather.

A receiving blanket and clothes for the baby to wear home are on the AAP's packing list.

The AAP recommends that all infants ride rear facing starting with their very first ride home from the hospital, and advises having the installation checked by a trained professional. Kaiser Permanente calls an installed rear-facing seat 'a necessity for taking your baby home.'

The AAP notes that hospital staff will ask whether you have a rear-facing car safety seat installed in the back seat before discharge.

The AAP warns that bulky clothing, including winter coats and snowsuits, should not be worn underneath the harness: in a crash the padding flattens, leaving the straps loose. Buckle the baby first, then lay a blanket over the top of the harness straps.

Kaiser Permanente notes its hospitals have appropriate gowns for your birth and for postpartum.

Kaiser Permanente's list says the hospital has newborn diapers, baby blankets for swaddling, and hats for newborns on hand.

Kaiser Permanente notes hospitals keep travel toothpaste and shampoo in case you forget your own.

Kaiser Permanente notes its hospitals have birth and peanut balls available for labor — check whether yours does before hauling your own.