Hospital Bag Essentials and Packing Guide

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As you approach your due date, one of the exciting tasks on your to-do list is packing your hospital bag. It’s a small but mighty step that can make a big difference in how prepared you feel when labor begins. Packing your bag with the right essentials ensures you’re ready for the big day without the last-minute scramble. I probably took way too much stuff the first time then after that I was able to narrow it down to what I really needed. So, let’s dive into what to pack and why each item is important.

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1. Your Birth Plan and Medical Records

Having a copy of your birth plan and any important medical records is crucial. Of course most hospitals and doctors have all of your medical information on the computer but I always make sure to have my ID and insurance information with me. If you have any allergies and/or serious medical issues make sure to have those at hand just in case. This helps ensure your healthcare team understands your preferences and any special considerations. Keep these documents easily accessible in a folder or envelope.

I always had a print out of my birth plan to give to the staff so they can have it on hand.

Download my birth plan here and edit it to make it personal to you.

2. Comfortable Clothing

You’ll want to have a few comfortable clothing options for labor (some hospitals prefer the hospital gown), your stay, and your drive home. Consider packing:

• A loose, comfortable nightgown or robe. I loved my nursing gown/robe combo and I also used this button up gown during my stay at the hospital.

• A pair of slippers or flip-flops for walking around. I like to take a cheap pair of bedroom slippers with me and when leaving I would throw them away. We don’t wear shoes in the house and I didn’t want hospital floor shoes in my house.

• Nursing bra or sports bras. Check out these nursing bras.

• For the drive home I had a comfy outfit that included an oversized t-shirt and comfy yoga pants, sweatpants or even maternity pants. Your belly will still be big and sore so you definitely don’t want anything tight on your belly, especially if you had a C-section.

• You’re probably thinking…”what about underwear?” I mention that in the "after birth" section below. You’ll thank me later.

3. Toiletries and Personal Care Items

A small toiletry bag with your personal care items will help you feel refreshed.

• If you wear glasses or contacts make sure you pack them. I prefer my glasses so I don’t have to worry about taking contacts in and out.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Deodorant

• Hairbrush and hair ties (definitely want a hair tie during labor)

• Chapstick

4. Entertainment and Comfort

Labor can be a lengthy process so having a few comfort and entertainment items can be a lifesaver.

• A favorite book or magazine

• Your phone and charger (consider a long charging cord, as outlets may be limited)

• Headphones for music or guided relaxation

• Favorite pillow or blanket

5. Snacks and Drinks

Hospital food might not be to everyone’s taste, and you might find yourself craving a snack between meals or even during labor.

• Healthy snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit. You don’t want to eat anything heavy during labor, but if you feel like snacking small snacks are a must. The hospital I was at always had yummy snacks like grapes and cheese and the food was pretty good also (mainly the breakfast). I usually had a hankering for something outside the hospital after labor and my husband would bring in food.

• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. I always used the water cup they provided in the hospital but it doesn’t stay cold like this one. It will come in handy for labor and during breastfeeding.

6. Important Items for Baby

Your little one will need a few things right from the start. The hospital always provided diapers and wipes so no need to pack those unless you want to just in case or if you have a brand preference. My hospital always had pampers. You also get to take home any that are left.

• A going-home outfit (consider weather and season)

• Some hospitals offer photo sessions so if you know they do, bring an outfit for baby for pictures.

• You can take an outfit for baby to wear while in the hospital. With my first two I left them undressed but swaddled. With my last baby I took an open end gown like these so the doctors can check baby when needed without removing clothes and you can easily change their diapers.

• Baby blanket or swaddle (if you have a specific preference). The hospital provides blankets.

• Infant car seat (make sure it’s properly installed in your car ahead of time) I used Graco SnugFit car seats for all of my babies. They have strollers that the car seat clicks into like this one! Very handy!

• If you want to give baby a pacifier make sure to pack it.

• Baby mittens will come in handy. Babies are born with "claws" and can’t control their hands and will scratch themselves. You can also use baby socks on their hands. If you use the baby gowns they usually have built in hand covers. Maybe even bring baby nail clippers to go ahead and trim them down. These nail clippers are so neat! They have a built in magnifier and light so you can see those tiny claws. It's amazing how long their nails can be when they are born.

7. Essentials for After Birth

Once baby arrives, you’ll appreciate having a few postpartum essentials:

• MY NUMBER ONE ITEM FOR POSTPARTUM ARE DISPOSABLE UNDERWEAR! I strongly recommend these to all my friends and family when they are having a baby and usually give as a baby shower gift! They are all unsure at first but then after they use them they are very grateful.

• Nursing pads for any unexpected leaks. If you prefer reusable ones try these out!

8. Miscellaneous Items

• Cash or change for vending machines or parking

• A camera if you’re not using your phone for pictures

9. Partner’s Bag

Don’t forget about your partner! They might want to pack a small bag also.

• Comfortable clothing, I recommend they bring a jacket or a hoodie in case they get cold. It was cold in my room during labor.

• Snacks and drinks

• Phone charger

• Some kind of entertainment like book or tablet for any down time.

Packing Tips:

• Pack light: You’ll likely accumulate items at the hospital, so a compact, well-organized bag is ideal. This is a great option.

• Keep it accessible: Choose a bag that’s easy to grab and contains everything you might need during labor and your hospital stay.

• Double-check: Make sure to review your hospital’s list of recommended items, as some hospitals may have specific guidelines or recommendations.

As you pack, take a moment to enjoy the anticipation of the journey ahead. Having a well-prepared hospital bag can help you feel more in control and ready to welcome your baby into the world. Here’s to a smooth and memorable labor and delivery experience!

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