Getting ready for a new baby is both exciting and a bit overwhelming. As your due date gets closer, one of the most important things to do is to pack your hospital bag. Instead of hurrying at the last minute, take time to gather the items that will help make labor, birth, and recovery easier and more comfortable for you. Packing early will help you feel ready and less anxious, making your time in the hospital smoother for yourself, your baby, and your support person. Here is a simple guide on what to put in your hospital bag for this special event.
When should you pack your hospital bag?
Best time to get your bag ready
Most doctors recommend that your hospital bag should be packed by the time you are 35 to 38 weeks pregnant. This way, you are ready if your baby comes earlier than planned. If you wait until after 38 weeks, you might find yourself scrambling when it’s time to head to the hospital. Having your bag by the door or in your car means you can leave quickly and focus on meeting your new baby, not on what you might have forgotten.
Packing ahead of time helps you stay calm and organized, so you don’t have to search for things while in labor. It also lets you relax and enjoy the excitement as you wait for your baby’s arrival.
Reasons to pack sooner or later
While “35 to 38 weeks” is a good general rule, you may want to pack earlier if you have a high-risk pregnancy, are expecting twins or more, or your doctor specifically advises it. These situations can mean that labor might start early, so it’s better to be ready by 35 weeks.
On the other hand, if your pregnancy has been going smoothly and you live right by the hospital, you might wait until just before 38 weeks-but don’t leave it until the very last minute. Babies sometimes come without warning, so it’s safer to have your bag ready and avoid being caught with nothing packed.
Hospital bag checklist for moms
The most important hospital bag is yours-your comfort and needs matter a lot during and after giving birth. Here’s what you should include:
Important documents
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- Hospital pre-registration forms
- Your birth plan (if you have one, bring a few copies)
- List of medications you take, including dosages
Keep these items together in an easy-to-find pouch or folder.
Comfort items from home
- Your own pillow with a colorful pillowcase
- Light blanket
- Diffuser or essential oils (check with hospital first)
- Lip balm
- Hair ties or headbands
- Sugar-free candies or throat lozenges
Clothes to bring
- Robe or loose pajamas, especially if planning to nurse
- Easy-access tops for breastfeeding or skin-to-skin
- Non-slip socks (several pairs)
- Comfortable going-home outfit (what fit you at 6 months pregnant works best)
- Slip-on shoes or sandals
Toiletries
- Travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Face wash, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion
- Glasses or contact lenses with case and solution
- Hairbrush or comb
Electronics and entertainment
- Fully charged phone
- Extra-long phone charger
- Portable power bank
- Earbuds or headphones
- Book, magazines, or notebook and pen
- Camera with batteries and memory card (optional)
Snacks and drinks
- Granola bars, dried fruit, pretzels, crackers
- Reusable water bottle
Hospital meals may not be enough, so snacks are helpful for both you and your support person.
Post-birth needs
- A few pairs of comfortable maternity underwear
- Postpartum pads if you have a preferred brand
- Nursing bra (without underwire)
- Nursing pads
- Breastfeeding pillow (optional, but many moms love having it)
Hospital bag checklist for baby
Your baby won’t need much at the hospital, but there are a few essentials:
| Item | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Infant car seat | Required for discharge; make sure it’s set up before your due date |
| Going-home outfit (in 2 sizes, NB and 0-3m) | Your baby might be bigger or smaller than you expect |
| Socks or booties | To keep baby’s feet warm |
| Hat (for the season) | Helps your baby stay warm on the way home |
| Special blanket | For the car ride or photos; hospital provides basics, but you may want one from home |
| Nail file | To gently shorten sharp newborn nails |
| Photo outfit (optional) | Some parents want a special outfit for first pictures |
Hospital bag checklist for partners or support person
Your support person should also pack a small bag so they can help you and stay comfortable:
- Change of comfortable clothes and pajamas
- Comfortable shoes
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash)
- Phone and charger (or power bank)
- Snacks and drinks (small cooler optional)
- Entertainment: book, magazines, or tablet
- Bathing suit (if helping you in the shower)
- Clothing layers to adjust to temperature changes in the hospital
Optional items for your hospital bag
Items for relaxation and comfort
- Massage oil or lotion
- Small fan or spray bottle
- Tennis ball (for back massage)
- Playlists or music for labor
Matching or special outfits for photos
- Matching baby-and-parent outfits
- Special pajamas or robes for those newborn pictures
What not to pack in your hospital bag
Some things are better left at home. Keep your bag simple and don’t pack things you won’t use.
What the hospital will provide
- Disposable underwear and pads
- Basic toiletries
- Baby diapers and wipes
- Formula and swaddling blankets (if needed)
- Hospital breast pump (if you need one)
Things to leave at home
- Expensive jewelry or large sums of cash
- Multiple baby outfits and accessories (one or two is enough)
- Personal breast pump (unless asked by your doctor)
- Extra pillows or blankets if you are tight on space
It’s best to keep your hospital bag simple and focus on the basics you’ll use.
Common questions about packing a hospital bag
What should I avoid bringing to the hospital?
Do not bring anything of high value, like jewelry or lots of cash. Most hospitals supply everything your baby will need, including diapers, wipes, blankets, and even formula if you ask. Only bring what makes you feel calm and comfortable, and leave anything that adds stress or worry at home.
What do parents often forget to bring?
- An extra-long phone charger
- Lip balm
- Grippy or non-slip socks
- Snacks for both mom and support person
- A favorite pillow or nursing pillow
Double-check your list for these small but helpful items. They can really improve your hospital stay.