Hospital Bag Packing List

Packing your hospital bag is one of those pregnancy milestones that makes everything feel real. It can also bring up a lot of questions: What do I actually need? What will the hospital provide? Am I overpacking—or underpacking?

As a birth doula, I have supported families through hospital births, and I can confidently say this: you don’t need everything—just the right things. A thoughtfully packed bag can help you feel more comfortable, grounded, and prepared during labor, birth, and the first hours with your baby. I recommend having your bag mostly packed by 32–34 weeks of pregnancy. You can always add last-minute items later, but knowing your essentials are ready brings peace of mind.

Here’s a practical, realistic hospital bag packing list to guide you.

Mother: 

Comfort and Clothing

• Comfortable labor gown or oversized T-shirt

• Non-slip socks or slippers

• Nursing bra or soft bralette

• Comfortable underwear or disposable postpartum underwear

• Lounge outfits for afterbirth (if you do not want to wear the standard gown)

• Going-home outfit (loose, soft, and stretchy)

Personal Care Items

• Chapstick (Very Needed)

• Hair ties or headband

• Face wipes or gentle cleanser

• Deodorant

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mints

• Skincare basics

• Glasses or contact lenses + case

• Medications

Labor Support Items

• Birth plan (printed or on your phone)

• Phone charger with a long cord or portable battery

• Music playlist or speaker (if allowed)

• Birth ball (yours fits you best)

• Pillow and throw blanket

• Massage items (tennis balls, roller, lotion/oil) 

• Snacks and drinks

Postpartum & Recovery Items

Most hospitals provide postpartum basics, but you may want to bring:

• Your preferred peri bottle

• Nursing pillow (optional but helpful)

• Nipple cream

• Snacks (especially for after birth)

• Refillable water bottle

• Electrolytes (these are a must!)

Father: 

A supported partner supports you better :)

• Change of comfortable clothes

• Comfortable shoes

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mints

• Toiletries - Deodorant, Shampoo, Conditioner, etc.

• Snacks and a refillable water bottle

• Phone charger

• Small pillow or blanket

• Medications

Baby: 

Hospitals provide most newborn essentials, but these items are usually needed:

• Going-home outfit

• Swaddle or special blanket

• Infant car seat (installed ahead of time)

• Hat or socks (optional)

• Baby nail clippers/file

• Baby blanket

Documents: 

These are very much needed.

• Copy of Mom’s ID

• Copy of Dad’s ID 

• Copy of Insurance (both)

• Birth Goal (a couple of copies)

What You Can Usually Skip:

Families often overpack. Hospitals typically provide these items. In most cases, you don’t need:

• Diapers or wipes for baby

• Pads or mesh underwear

• Large amounts of baby clothing

• Breast pumps (unless advised by your provider)

Your hospital bag does not need to be perfect—it just needs to support you. The goal is not to be prepared for everything, but to feel comfortable, cared for, and confident as you head into birth.