Pregnancy Hospital Bag Checklist: Essential Items to Pack

Key Things Every Future Mom Needs for Labor, Plus Important Items for Baby

When you’re expecting a baby, peace of mind matters greatly, and getting things organized in advance can help you remain calm before such an exciting, life-changing event. One of the things you need to settle ahead of time is what essentials to pack in a hospital bag for yourself, baby, and dad or support partner. 

 

If your due date is approaching and you need to organize your bag but are unsure where to start or what to bring, there’s no need to panic. We have not one but four checklists to help you prepare for the big day. We aim to help you feel cozy, calm, and comfortable throughout the process.

 

This article includes details on when to have everything ready and a list of optional items that may not necessarily be needed but may make your stay at maternity and postpartum units more comfortable. Our lists are very detailed and include everything from birth plans and favorite pillows to swaddle blankets and gifts for siblings. Use our guidelines for the most fantastic delivery experience a woman can have. Continue reading for a complete list of things to bring to the birthing center to ensure you have a stress-free and pleasant labor and postpartum stay.  

Table of Contents: 

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When Is the Best Time to Pack a Hospital Bag for Labor?  

Although timing is critical when having a baby, you still have some flexibility in deciding when to organize things for the delivery. It's a good idea to have everything ready between 36 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. Your basics are there whenever the baby shows up, and you can always make adjustments later. 

 

Adding some articles at the last minute, such as a hairbrush or toothbrush, is perfectly fine. Still, you should have most stuff prepared and easily reachable in the final weeks of the third trimester. 

 

Remember that this is just a guideline, and the timeframe will vary from person to person. Birthing moms that have high-risk pregnancies and may go into labor early should be packed at around 35 weeks, or as per their OB-GYN's instructions. 

 

After you have gone through the checklist and packed what everyone will need at maternity and postnatal wards, put your bag in the car or by the front door and get ready to welcome your baby!

Hospital Bag for Mom (Labor & Delivery Unit)

You may already know that medical centers provide birthing moms with labor gowns, mesh underwear, sanitary pads, socks, and basic toiletries. Before gathering your things, you should check with your hospital to see what items they provide so you can cross them off your list. Of course, you may still prefer to use your versions of the products mentioned. 

Before going over the checklist, it's essential to consider the length of stay. An average hospital stay for natural birth is one to two days, while delivery via c-section requires a three or 4-day stay. 

Here are some items to bring to make your stay at the delivery room as cozy and serene as possible. 

 

  • Bathrobe – For moms in labor, wearing a feathery, soft bamboo bathrobe made of the highest quality natural materials will provide incredible comfort and softness and help them feel relaxed. It’s also much easier to breastfeed the baby wearing a robe because it opens up quickly and keeps you warm for skin-to-skin contact with the newborn.
  • Birth plan - If you have a birth plan, it’s good to print a few copies so that doctors and nurses can easily refer to them. 
  • Comfort items – Check with the staff to see which items you can bring. Comfort articles may include diffusers, portable fans, sleep masks, earplugs, photographs, crystals, or prayer beads.   
  • Comfortable footwear – Bring comfy slippers to easily put on and off as you walk around the maternity ward. They also need to be able to fit swollen feet. You should also bring flip-flops for the shower.
  • Entertainment – Bring items to help you relax and keep you occupied, such as books, magazines, music player, movies, or a series downloaded on a tablet.
  • Massage lotion or oil – Little massages during labor can be pretty relaxing for moms-to-be, so don’t forget to pop some lotion in your bag.
  • Notes & reference books – If you have attended prenatal classes and have helpful notes or books, take them with you. You will also get loads of advice and guidance from the staff, but you may still want to refer to your resources.  
  • Paperwork – Preparing for the labor includes having the necessary paperwork with you, such as a picture ID, insurance card, medical records copies, and any medical cards. Ensure you have these handy because the staff will require them upfront. This way, they can quickly and easily check your medical history. 
  • Phone and extra-long charger - Don’t forget to take your phone and charger with you unless you want to rest from the digital world. Not only will it allow you to stay in touch with your dearest ones, but you will also be able to take those remarkable first baby pics. Take an extra-long cord, as you will want to use your phone while lying in bed, and also bring a multi-plug outlet if you plan on charging several devices simultaneously. Alternatively, you may want to bring an extension cord instead of an extra-long cord. 
  • Pillow – To ease discomfort and pain, you may want to bring your favorite pillow if you have one. The hospital will provide pillows, but they might not be right for you, so bring your own, just in case. 
  • Pregnancy-safe skincare products - Expect your lips (and skin) to get drier than usual during labor, especially if you’re having C-sections, so make sure you have lip balm, lotion, and moisturizers. Ensure all products are dermatologically recommended for use during pregnancy. 
  • Snacks & drinks – Childbirth can sometimes be very long and requires a lot of energy, so it’s a good idea to have light snacks and beverages in your tote. To stay well-nourished and hydrated, choose food for energy and hydration, such as crackers, fruit bars, coconut water, or fruit juice. But remember also to have some comfort food that feels right for you, like pasta or a peanut butter sandwich. However, talk to medical staff first to see whether you can eat and drink during delivery. 
  • Socks – Another must-have item is socks because, during labor, feet may get cold. 
  • Sanitary pads – These are also provided at the maternity unit; however, if you prefer a specific kind, you are free to bring them. Keep in mind that you should also have heavy-flow pads at home when you return home. 
  • Toiletries – Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, hair ties, tissues, hairdryer, and hanging toiletry bag, in case there’s not enough space on the bathroom counter. Hospitals may supply basic toiletries such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. Still, you may want to bring your preferred brands. 
  • Water spray bottle and sponge – These will come in handy if you need to cool yourself off by spraying water on your neck or face or applying a cool water sponge on your forehead. 

Checklist for Mom for Postpartum Hospital Stay 

After you have delivered your precious baby into the world, you will want to make yourself feel as comfortable as possible despite being in the hospital. Your stay at the postpartum unit can last anywhere from 1 to 3 days, so here’s what you need to prepare for the duration: 

  • Nightgown & PJs -  Your best option for silky-soft nightwear is to have a soft, loose nightgown with a front opening if you plan to breastfeed. Choose breathable, soft fabrics, such as bamboo or cotton. These materials are gentle on the skin and lightweight, allowing the air to circulate. 
  • Bathrobe - keep your maternity robe handy to keep yourself warm after delivery or have it handy when you have visitors or you’re walking around the hospital. 
  • Underwear – You will receive stretchy underwear but may also want to bring your own. Just make sure they are large enough to fit over maternity pads. 
  • Bras – Have a few nursing bras or other standard well-fitting bras. 
  • Glasses & contact lenses - Don’t forget to bring glasses, eyeglasses case, and other eyewear accessories, or if you’re wearing lenses, make sure you get contact lens case and contact lenses solution. If you have a C-section, you must remove lenses before the procedure. 
  • Nursing pillow – It’s an excellent aid that helps you place the baby into the correct position while breastfeeding, 
  • Clothes – Apart from the nightgown or pajamas, you may want to bring 1 or 2 extra comfortable lounge outfits for your hospital stay. It’s best to have something loose-fitting with an elastic waist. Add an outfit to wear when going home. 

Hospital Bag for Baby 

The hospital will have everything for the baby, including wipes and diapers, and you will only need to think of the outfits and the car seat. 

Here’s what you need to bring for the baby: 

  • Footies or baby suits - Before you pack outfits for the baby, check with hospital staff on policies regarding newborn dressing and the type of babywear they provide. They may have recommendations on accessories and layering. Keep in mind that front fastening is the easiest option. Consider bringing 2 -3 different outfits to allow for changes in case of accidental spills. 
  • Socks and booties – It takes some time for the baby’s thermoregulation system to develop, and they can get cold quickly, so make sure you bring socks and booties just in case. 
  • Hat – Babies tend to lose a substantial amount of heat from their heads, which is why a hat is essential. Many hospitals insist babies wear a hat as soon as they are delivered because it helps regulate their body temperature. Oftentimes, a hat is provided by the hospital, but if you decide to bring your own, choose a hat made of gentle and soft natural fibers. 
  • Receiving blanket - This is another item that most likely the hospital will provide. However, you may want a spare one to keep your baby warm on the way home.
  • Going-home outfit - The most important thing to consider is weather conditions. A simple footie, booties, and a hat may be enough for warmer weather. However, in winter, you must add extra layers and include jackets, snowsuits, and mittens, depending on the climate zone. 
  • Car seat – Although it’s not an item you will pack in your bag, you should ensure it’s installed when organizing the bag for the hospital. 

Packing List for Fathers or Support Persons 

Your partner, whether it’s the dad, a friend, or a family member, should also pack a bag with the essentials they’ll need during their stay at the hospital.   

  • Items to help support partner – As labor can be exhausting and long, bring supplies to help your partner better manage pain (and boredom). Bring a Bluetooth speaker, create a relaxation playlist, or have a stopwatch to time contractions. 
  • Lounge clothes – Changing clothes is always a good idea because you never know how long the labor will take. Include fresh underwear, a clean shirt, a pair of socks, and comfortable bottoms.
  • Push present – A push present is a gift given to new moms immediately after delivering the baby. Examples include baby keepsakes, nursing pajamas, jewelry, or edible arrangements. 
  • Small bills & change – Prepare small bills for vending machines or parking meters that don’t accept cash. 
  • Smartphone, camera, and chargers – Bring these with you to remain in contact with loved ones and take beautiful shots of the little one. Don’t forget to check whether you have enough free space on your memory cards. Bring a power bank, just in case. 
  • Snacks and water - Labor can last a long time, and even your support person will get thirsty, so they should consider bringing snacks and water. 
  • Toiletries – Expect to stay at the hospital for several hours or overnight. You may need to freshen up, so bring your toiletries, especially those you use when you can’t shower (mints, gum, mouthwash, toothbrush, etc.)
  • Travel pillow & extra blanket – A lot of support partners said that having a neck pillow or support pillow helped them feel more comfortable when dozing in a rocker or sleeping on a cot. Some hospitals provide these, too, so check with them first.

Optional Items 

While the above-listed items are basics that should be packed, in this section, we will mention several things that may be good to have, depending on the circumstances. Let's take a look.  

  • Cord blood collection kit – If you want to collect and store your baby's cord blood, ensure you bring the collection kit. Even if you decide at the last minute, you can ask the company to send it by overnight service or check with your hospital to see whether they have kits you can use.  
  • Items for siblings – Bring things that will help siblings remain occupied and entertained during the visit, including crayons, coloring books, toys, a special camera, and snacks. A nice touch would be to buy gifts for older siblings, as they tend to get jealous around the baby's arrival. A special gift from the baby (and Mom) can help them feel included and optimistic about their new sibling's coming.
  • Treats for the staff –You can show appreciation by giving them Coffee shop gift cards, cookies, donuts, hand lotions, lip balms, or thank you cards. 

Note: Always check with your hospital about dietary restrictions and rules regarding the food being brought to the nurse's break room.

What not to Bring

Even though it's good to come prepared, you should avoid overpacking and bringing articles that aren't allowed. Don't forget to double-check with the hospital to determine the restricted items. 

Here are a few guidelines to help you avoid overpacking. 

  • Don't pack too many clothes – As you will spend most of the time in your nightgown, you won't need many clothes. One or two changes and a going-home outfit will suffice for a 2-day stay. Your partner can always bring more clothes if required. 
  • Don't bring valuables - Leave any valuables (jewelry, watch) at home so you don't have to worry about losing them.  
  • Don't bring too much food - Your partner can always get extra snacks, and the hospital will provide some food, too. 

Final Notes on Pregnancy Hospital Bag

If you're getting close to your due date, knowing what to pack and when to have your stuff ready is helpful. When you are in labor, the key is to be comfortable and try to relax as much as possible. Many of the above items help you relax and feel at home. Fuzzy socks, soothing music, silky soft fabrics, and comfort food can all help you manage pain better during labor. Our hospital bag checklists for mom, baby, and dad/support partner will help you better prepare for time spent in the maternity ward and postpartum care unit. The goal is to make your hospital stay much more pleasant and calming so that you can concentrate on welcoming your precious little angel. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear when giving birth?

You will be given a hospital gown to wear during delivery, but you can also bring your nightgown. Just make sure it’s loose, soft, and comfortable. 

What snacks should I bring? 

Bring healthy snacks like dried fruit or granola bars to keep your energy up, but don’t forget to bring comfort snacks, too. They will help you feel better after giving birth. 

What to pack if I’m having a c-section?

You can still use our checklists for reference; however, you should also check with your healthcare provider to see whether there are any specific items you need to pack. 

Which items are provided by the hospital? 

Talk to medical staff in the hospital to see exactly what they provide. Typically, you’ll be provided with a gown, slippers, basic toiletries, disposable underwear, maternity pads, baby diapers, and baby wipes.