Hospital Bag Checklist

Packing your hospital bag is an exciting milestone in your pregnancy journey—it means you’re getting closer to meeting your baby! As a first-time mom, you may be wondering, “What do I actually need to bring to the hospital?”

To help you feel prepared and stress-free, we’ve put together the ultimate hospital bag checklist with everything you need for yourself, your baby, and your partner/support person.

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

It’s a good idea to have your hospital bag ready by 36-37 weeks, just in case your baby arrives earlier than expected. Keep it in an easy-to-grab spot or even in the car so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.

Hospital Bag Essentials for Mom

You’ll want to bring items that make labor, delivery, and recovery more comfortable. Here’s what to pack:

👜 Essentials & Important Documents

✔️ Photo ID & Insurance Card – Required for hospital check-in.
✔️ Birth Plan (if you have one) – While labor is unpredictable, this can help communicate your preferences.
✔️ Hospital Registration Forms – If you pre-registered, bring a copy.
✔️ Phone & Charger (Extra Long Cord Recommended) – Hospitals may have limited outlets, so an extra-long cable is useful.

👚 Clothing & Comfort Items

✔️ Comfortable Labor Gown (Optional) – Hospitals provide gowns, but some moms prefer their own.
✔️ Cozy Socks & Slippers – Your feet can get cold, and hospital floors aren’t the comfiest.
✔️ Robe or Cardigan – Great for easy layering and staying warm.
✔️ Nursing Bra & Breast Pads – Supportive bras help with early breastfeeding comfort.
✔️ Maternity Underwear (or Disposable Underwear) – The hospital provides mesh undies, but you may prefer high-waisted postpartum underwear.
✔️ Loose, Comfortable Going-Home Outfit – Choose soft, stretchy clothes like a maxi dress or sweatpants and a nursing-friendly top.

🧴 Toiletries & Personal Care

✔️ Toothbrush & Toothpaste
✔️ Face Wash & Moisturizer – Hospital air can be very dry.
✔️ Lip Balm – A must-have! Hospitals can make your lips extra dry.
✔️ Deodorant
✔️ Hair Ties & Brush – Keep your hair out of the way during labor.
✔️ Body Lotion & Nipple Cream – Helpful if you're planning to breastfeed.
✔️ Glasses or Contact Lenses & Solution (if needed)
✔️ Perineal Spray or Cooling Pads – While hospitals provide postpartum recovery items, bringing your own favorites (like Frida Mom or Earth Mama Perineal Spray) can be soothing.

💆‍♀️ Labor & Recovery Comfort Items

✔️ Pillow from Home – Hospital pillows can be flat, so bringing your own may help with comfort.
✔️ Blanket or Warm Throw – Soft, comforting blankets can make a difference.
✔️ Essential Oils or Aromatherapy – If you use essential oils for relaxation, bring a roller or diffuser.
✔️ Snacks & Drinks – Labor can be long, and hospital food may not always be available when you want it.
✔️ Music, Podcasts, or Audiobooks – A playlist can help you relax.
✔️ TENS Machine (if using for labor pain relief)

Hospital Bag Essentials for Baby

Hospitals provide many newborn essentials, but here are a few key items you’ll need for your baby:

🍼 Clothing & Accessories

✔️ Going-Home Outfit – Choose a soft, weather-appropriate outfit (including a hat if it’s cold).
✔️ Newborn Onesies & Sleepers (2-3) – Hospital onesies are basic, so you may want your own.
✔️ Swaddle Blanket or Sleep Sack – Some babies prefer swaddles over hospital blankets.
✔️ Mittens & Socks – Newborns often scratch themselves, and hospitals may not provide mittens.
✔️ Pacifier (if using) – Hospitals may provide one, but preferences vary.

🧴 Baby Care Essentials

✔️ Diapers & Wipes (Optional) – Hospitals provide these, but you can bring your own if you prefer a certain brand.
✔️ Baby Lotion – Newborn skin can be dry, and hospitals don’t always provide lotion.

🚗 Going Home Safely

✔️ Infant Car Seat (Installed & Ready to Use!) – Hospitals require a properly installed car seat before discharge.

Hospital Bag Essentials for Your Partner/Support Person

If your partner, doula, or support person is staying with you, they’ll need some essentials too:

✔️ Comfortable Clothes & Extra Layers – Hospital temperatures can be unpredictable.
✔️ Toiletries & Personal Items – Toothbrush, deodorant, etc.
✔️ Phone & Charger – So they can capture those first special moments!
✔️ Snacks & Reusable Water Bottle – Hospital food may not always be available for them.
✔️ Pillow & Blanket – Sleeping on hospital chairs can be uncomfortable.
✔️ Cash for Vending Machines or Parking Fees

Bonus Tips for Packing Your Hospital Bag

✅ Pack light – You don’t need to bring everything; hospitals provide many essentials.
✅ Use separate bags – Pack one for labor, one for postpartum, and one for baby.
✅ Have a backup plan – If you forget something, a friend or family member can bring it.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, But Stay Flexible

Every birth experience is unique, so while this list covers the essentials, you may find you need more or less depending on your situation. The most important thing? Be prepared but stay flexible!

Now that you know what to pack in your hospital bag, you're one step closer to meeting your little one. 💕

Did you find this checklist helpful? Let us know in the comments what items were must-haves for your hospital stay!

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Disclaimer: This blog's content is provided for informational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute financial advice, legal advice, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in the area for your particular needs and circumstances prior to making any professional, legal, medical and financial or tax-related decisions.