As your due date approaches, one of the most practical (and oddly emotional) things you’ll do is pack your hospital bag. It’s a small suitcase with big purpose — it holds the first clothes your baby will ever wear, the items that will comfort you in labor, and the essentials you’ll need to feel human again after delivery.
Packing your maternity hospital bag might seem simple, but when you’re navigating pregnancy brain, uncertainty about labor, and excitement for your baby’s arrival, it’s easy to overpack or forget something important.
This complete checklist is designed to help you pack smart — not just for you, but also for your baby and your birth partner — so that when the big moment arrives, you can focus on what truly matters.
When to Pack Your Hospital Bag
Most experts recommend having your bag packed and ready by week 36 or 37 of pregnancy. Babies have their own schedules, and being prepared a little early brings peace of mind.
Keep your packed bag near the front door or in the car, especially once you reach the final weeks. It’s also helpful to share with your partner or support person where it is and what’s inside.
Essentials for Labor and Delivery
Labor is unpredictable — it can be fast, long, intense, calm, or somewhere in between. Being prepared for different possibilities makes the experience smoother.
Important documents
- Photo ID (driver’s license or ID card)
- Insurance card
- Hospital registration paperwork (if not pre-registered)
- Birth plan (optional, but helpful if you have specific preferences)
Have these at the top of your bag or in an easily accessible pouch.
Comfort items for labor
- A loose, comfortable gown or labor dress (optional — hospitals provide one)
- Socks or slippers (your feet may get cold during labor)
- Lip balm (hospital air is dry)
- Hair ties or headbands
- A personal pillow or blanket from home (with a distinct pillowcase)
- Essential oils or a calming scent roll-on (if permitted)
- Bluetooth speaker or headphones for calming music
- Refillable water bottle with a straw
- Snacks for your partner or support person (many hospitals limit food during labor for the birthing person, but check ahead)
Technology and extras
- Phone and charger (preferably with a long cord)
- Power bank or extra battery
- Camera (if you’re not using your phone)
- A playlist for labor — whether it’s relaxing, empowering, or both
Items for Postpartum Recovery
After delivery, comfort is key. Your body will be healing, and the more you have within reach, the easier it will be to focus on bonding with your baby.
Clothing
- 2–3 loose, nursing-friendly tops or nightgowns
- Maternity underwear (the hospital provides mesh ones, but you may want your own)
- Nursing bras or bralettes
- Robe or lightweight sweater
- Comfortable pants or leggings with a soft waistband
- Going-home outfit (something you wore around 6 months pregnant usually fits best)
- Flip-flops or slip-on shoes (for the shower and walking around)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush and dry shampoo
- Shower gel, shampoo, conditioner
- Deodorant
- Face wipes or gentle cleanser
- Moisturizer and body lotion
- Nipple cream (if breastfeeding)
- Pads (hospitals provide some, but you may prefer your own brand)
- Peri bottle (often provided, but some prefer to bring a specific type)
- Adult diapers or postpartum underwear (optional, but many find them more comfortable than pads)
You don’t need your full makeup bag, but if a little mascara or lip balm makes you feel more like yourself, bring it!
What to Pack for the Baby
One of the most exciting parts is packing for your baby — those teeny tiny clothes make everything feel so real.
Baby essentials
- 2–3 newborn outfits (consider one or two in 0–3 months in case your baby is bigger)
- One going-home outfit
- A soft hat and baby socks
- Scratch mittens (or use onesies with built-in cuffs)
- Swaddle or receiving blankets
- A warm blanket (for colder climates or car seat cover)
- Baby nail file or emery board (newborn nails can be sharp)
- Newborn diapers and wipes (most hospitals provide these, but check)
You don’t need bottles, breast pumps, or formula unless you have specific plans or feeding needs — hospitals usually provide what’s necessary.
For feeding
- Nursing pillow (optional, but helpful if you plan to breastfeed)
- Burp cloths or small muslin squares
For the ride home
- Infant car seat — This is non-negotiable. You won’t be allowed to leave the hospital without one properly installed. Consider a practice run before your due date.
What to Pack for Your Partner or Support Person
While the focus is on you and baby, your birth partner or support person will likely spend hours — or days — at the hospital too. A little preparation helps them support you better.
Clothing and comfort
- Change of clothes
- Hoodie or sweater (hospitals can be cold)
- Toiletries and medications
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks or easy meals
- Phone, charger, and entertainment (book, tablet, headphones)
- Small pillow and blanket (optional, for overnight stays)
Encourage your partner to bring anything that helps them stay calm and present — it makes a difference in how they support you.
Optional but Nice-to-Have Items
These aren’t must-haves, but many parents are glad they packed them.
- Folder or envelope for baby’s documents, footprints, and hospital paperwork
- Extra bag for gifts, samples, or hospital supplies you’re allowed to take home
- Eye mask and earplugs for better rest
- Light makeup or skincare products
- Your favorite snacks for after labor (many moms feel ravenous)
- Small fan or cooling spray
- Affirmation cards or inspirational quotes
- Notebook or birth journal
Just remember: hospitals often provide more than you expect, including pads, mesh underwear, baby diapers, wipes, and even baby onesies or blankets. Ask what’s provided before you overpack.
What You Can Leave at Home
To keep things simple and manageable, here’s what you can skip:
- Too many clothes (hospital stays are usually short)
- Jewelry or valuables
- Diaper bag — it’s better to pack just what’s needed
- Pre-pregnancy clothes (your body will still be in recovery mode)
- Breast pump (unless your doctor recommends bringing one)
Less really is more when you’re recovering and bonding with your newborn.
Final Thoughts
Packing your hospital bag is a powerful step in preparing for birth. It’s not just about logistics — it’s about readiness, calm, and the excitement of knowing your baby is almost here. Having what you need on hand helps you feel more in control, especially in an unpredictable experience like labor.
Stick to the essentials, add a few personal touches for comfort, and don’t stress if you forget something — hospitals have plenty of supplies, and your focus will be exactly where it needs to be: on meeting your baby.
You’re ready. You’ve got this — and your bag will be too.
