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Packing for Labor? Here’s Everything You Need to create your Hospital Bag Checklist!

Wondering what to pack in your hospital bag? As a new mom, I remember the stress of making sure I had everything I needed for labor and postpartum recovery. But after going through it, I realized some things were lifesavers—while others stayed completely untouched in my bag!

In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what to pack (and what to skip) so you can feel fully prepared for delivery day. Plus, I’ve created a FREE printable Hospital Bag Checklist to make packing easy!

💡 Don’t forget to grab your printable checklist at the end of this post!

👜 When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

Most moms-to-be start packing around 32-35 weeks, just in case your little one decides to arrive early! By the time you reach 36 weeks, your bag should be ready to go and placed near the door or in your car.

✨ Essentials Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

These are the must-have items to keep you comfortable before, during, and after labor.

✔ Comfy Maternity Robe & Nursing Outfit – A cozy, loose-fitting robe is great for walking around the hospital and easy nursing access. Recommendation: Maternity Robe & Nursing Outfit

✔ Your comfort items – A couple of the items I brought which I can’t live without are my own pillow and a small fan. I sleep with white noise so I needed either a fan or a white noise machine. If you’re like me, definitely pack your comfort items because you want your stay in the hospital to be as comfortable as possible.

✔ Non-Slip Socks or Slippers – Hospital floors can be cold! Choose warm, non-slip socks or soft slippers. Recommendation: Non-slip Grip Socks

✔ Nursing Bra & Breast Pads – Even if you’re not breastfeeding, your milk may come in, and a comfortable bra helps. Recommendation: Nursing Bra & Breast Pads

✔ Going Home Outfit – Pack something loose and comfy (like a flowy dress or joggers) since your belly won’t shrink overnight. Recommendation: My favorite comfy set

✔ Toiletries & Skincare Essentials – Pack travel-size versions of:

  • 🔹 Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • 🔹 Hairbrush & hair ties
  • 🔹 Chapstick (hospital air can be drying!)
  • 🔹 Facial wipes & moisturizer

✔ Adult Diapers or Postpartum Underwear – The hospital provides pads, but adult diapers are way more comfortable for postpartum bleeding. Recommendation: Always Discreet or Post Partum Underwear

✔ Peri Bottle & Healing Items – Healing down there? A peri bottle and witch hazel pads can soothe and reduce swelling. Recommendation: Peri Bottle, Witch Hazel Pads (Tucks), and Itch/Burn relief

✔ Snacks & Drinks – Labor can be long! Pack granola bars, nuts, and electrolyte drinks for energy. I’ve heard many stories about woman not being able to eat solid food after getting an epidural. If that’s your situation, pack honey sticks, those were my go-to! Recommendation: Honey Sticks

✔ Phone Charger (Extra Long Cord!) – Hospital outlets are often far from the bed, so a 10ft charging cable is a lifesaver! Recommendation: Phone Charger

✔ ID, Insurance Card & Birth Plan – Have these ready in a folder or an easy-to-reach pocket.

👶 Essentials Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

Your newborn doesn’t need much, but these are the must-haves:

✔ Going Home Outfit (Newborn & 0-3 Months) – Babies come in all sizes, so bring two outfit options just in case! Recommendation: Baby Knotted Gown

✔ Swaddle Blanket & Hat – The hospital provides some, but it’s nice to have a soft swaddle of your own. Recommendation: My FAVORITE Swaddle another great option which is slightly more affordable: SwaddleMe

✔ Car Seat (Installed in Advance!) – You can’t leave the hospital without an approved infant car seat. Recommendation: Infant Car seat

✔ Mittens or Socks – Newborn nails are sharp, so mittens help prevent scratches. Not all babies love to wear these, but it’s worth a try to see if yours will keep them on. Recommendation: Cute Mittens

✔ Pacifier (Optional) – Some babies love them, some don’t. Recommendation: Tommee Tippee – These have been repurchased multiple times in our household!

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Essentials for Your Partner

If your partner or support person is staying with you, they’ll need a few essentials too!

  • ✔ Change of Clothes & Toiletries – Basic items for a comfortable overnight stay.
  • ✔ Pillow & Blanket – Hospital chairs aren’t always comfy for sleeping!
  • ✔ Snacks & Reusable Water Bottle – Vending machines can be pricey, so pack snacks.
  • ✔ Entertainment (Book, Tablet, Headphones) – Labor can take hours, so bring something to pass the time.

❌ What Not to Pack

Here’s what you don’t need to bring (because the hospital provides it!):

  • 🚫 Diapers & Wipes – The hospital gives you a pack for free!
  • 🚫 Formula & Bottles – If you need formula, the hospital will provide it.
  • 🚫 Tons of Outfits for Baby – One going-home outfit is enough!
  • 🚫 Too Many Toiletries – The hospital provides shampoo, soap, and pads.

🎁 Bonus: Free Printable Hospital Bag Checklist!

To make things easier, I’ve created a FREE Hospital Bag Checklist so you won’t forget anything!

📥 Download it here →

📌 Final Thoughts

Packing your hospital bag doesn’t have to be stressful! By focusing on what you actually need, you’ll be fully prepared for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery.

💬 Mamas, what was the most useful thing in YOUR hospital bag? Share in the comments below! 👇

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🚀 Next Steps:
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✅ Check out my postpartum must-haves