As your due date approaches, preparing a hospital bag ensures that you have everything you need for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. Having your bag packed by week 36 or 37 helps reduce last-minute stress and allows you to focus on welcoming your baby.
Packing efficiently means including essentials for mom, baby, and partner while avoiding unnecessary items that take up space. This guide covers everything you need for a comfortable and smooth hospital stay.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
It’s best to pack your hospital bag by week 36 of pregnancy to be prepared in case your baby arrives earlier than expected. Keep it in an easy-to-access spot, like by the front door or in your car.
What to Pack for Mom
1. Important Documents and Medical Essentials
- Photo ID and insurance card (if applicable).
- Hospital registration forms (some hospitals allow pre-registration).
- Birth plan (if you have one).
- List of emergency contacts (family, pediatrician, OB-GYN).
2. Comfortable Clothing for Labor and Postpartum
Hospitals provide gowns, but many women prefer their own clothing. Pack:
- Loose, comfortable nightgowns or a labor dress (front-opening styles are ideal for breastfeeding).
- Soft, non-slip socks or slippers (hospitals can be cold).
- Robe (useful for walking around the hospital).
- Maternity underwear or disposable underwear (hospitals may provide mesh underwear, but bringing extras is helpful).
- Nursing bras or comfortable sports bras (for support during and after delivery).
- Comfy going-home outfit (loose maternity clothes—your body will still be adjusting post-birth).
3. Toiletries and Personal Care Items
Pack travel-sized essentials for comfort and hygiene:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush and hair ties
- Lip balm (hospitals can be dry)
- Face wipes and moisturizer
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and body wash (optional but helpful for freshening up)
- Pads or adult diapers (hospitals provide some, but extra heavy-duty pads can be useful)
4. Snacks and Hydration
Labor can be exhausting, and hospital food may not always be appealing. Bring:
- Granola bars, trail mix, or crackers for quick energy.
- Electrolyte drinks (like coconut water or sports drinks) for hydration.
- Mints or hard candy to keep your mouth fresh.
5. Comfort and Entertainment
Labor can take time, and recovery periods can be long. Bring:
- Phone and charger (preferably a long charging cable).
- Headphones or earbuds (for relaxation music or podcasts).
- Book or magazine (for downtime).
- Eye mask and earplugs (if you’re sensitive to hospital noise).
- Pillow from home (hospital pillows may not be as comfortable).
What to Pack for Baby
Hospitals provide basic newborn essentials, but packing a few personal items ensures your baby’s comfort.
1. Clothing
- Two or three newborn-sized onesies or sleepers
- Going-home outfit (weather-appropriate)
- Soft hat and mittens (to prevent scratching)
- Swaddle blanket or receiving blanket
2. Diapering Essentials
- Diapers (newborn size, just a few—hospitals usually provide them).
- Sensitive baby wipes.
- Diaper cream (if preferred over hospital supplies).
3. Feeding Supplies
If you plan to breastfeed, hospitals usually provide lactation support, but bringing your own supplies can help:
- Nursing pillow (optional, but useful for positioning).
- Nursing pads (to absorb leaks).
- Lanolin cream (helps prevent nipple soreness).
If you plan to formula-feed:
- Your preferred baby formula (hospitals provide some, but bringing your own ensures consistency).
- Bottles with slow-flow nipples.
4. Car Seat
- A rear-facing infant car seat is required to take your baby home. Make sure it’s properly installed in your car before heading to the hospital.
What to Pack for Your Partner or Support Person
If your partner or support person will be staying with you, they should bring:
- Change of clothes and toiletries
- Phone and charger
- Snacks and drinks
- List of people to update
- Cash or card for vending machines or cafeteria meals
Optional Items to Consider
These extras may enhance your experience but aren’t required:
- Birth ball (some hospitals provide them for labor support).
- Essential oils or a diffuser (if allowed).
- Soft music or meditation apps.
- Small gifts for hospital staff (optional but thoughtful).
What NOT to Pack
- Jewelry or valuables (leave them at home to avoid loss).
- Too many baby clothes (newborns mostly wear hospital-provided onesies).
- Large amounts of cash (small bills are fine for vending machines).
- Pre-pregnancy clothes (your body will still need loose, comfortable clothing).
Final Thoughts
Packing a well-thought-out hospital bag can make your birth experience smoother and more comfortable. By focusing on essentials for mom, baby, and support person, you’ll feel prepared and ready for the big day.