As your baby’s arrival approaches, it’s natural to focus on the big milestones: the delivery, meeting your child for the first time, and finally bringing your baby home. One detail that often catches intended parents by surprise is preparing for the hospital stay itself.
Unlike traditional hospital packing lists, intended parents through surrogacy typically don’t need labor and delivery items, but they do need to prepare for caring for a newborn, completing hospital paperwork, and potentially spending several days away from home.
To help you feel prepared, we’ve created a practical hospital packing checklist specifically for intended parents through surrogacy.
Important Documents
Before heading to the hospital, make sure you have easy access to:
- Photo ID
- Health insurance information for your baby (if available)
- Your own health insurance card
- Copies of your pre-birth order or other legal parentage documents
- Hospital registration paperwork
- Pediatrician contact information
- Emergency contact list
- Contact information for your attorney, agency, and coordinator
For Your Baby
Most hospitals provide basic newborn supplies during your stay, but you’ll still want to bring:
- An approved rear-facing infant car seat (that you know how to install).
- A going-home outfit (newborn size)
- A backup outfit (0–3 months)
- Hat and socks
- Swaddle or receiving blanket
- Burp cloths
- Pacifier (if desired)
- Diaper bag
Feeding Supplies
If your Surrogate plans to provide breast milk:
- Cooler bag
- Ice packs for transport
- Milk storage bags or containers
- Labels and marker
If you plan to formula feed:
- Preferred formula (if different from what the hospital provides) unopened
- Bottles for travel home
Discuss feeding plans with your coordinator and hospital team ahead of time so everyone understands your preferences.
For Intended Parents
Hospital stays can range from one to several days, so don’t forget your own essentials:
- Comfortable clothing
- Pajamas or lounge clothes
- Light sweater or jacket
- Comfortable shoes
- Toiletries
- Prescription medications
- Glasses or contact lens supplies
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks and protein bars
Remember, caring for yourself helps you care for your newborn.
Electronics and Communication
You’ll likely be taking plenty of photos and keeping loved ones updated.
Pack:
- Cell phone
- Extra-long charging cord
- Portable battery pack
- Camera (if desired)
- Laptop or tablet
- Headphones
A Helpful Packing Tip
Many intended parents find it useful to pack two separate bags. One bag contains immediate essentials you’ll need when you arrive at the hospital. The second contains clothing, comfort items, and additional baby supplies that can remain in the car until after delivery.
This simple strategy keeps you organized and makes navigating the excitement of delivery day much easier.
