The big day is approaching, and it helps to have a thoughtfully packed hospital bag. You won’t always know how long you’ll be at the hospital or which items you’ll end up using, so prepare ahead and pack a few extras without overdoing it. Aim to have your bag ready around 35–37 weeks.

Hospital Bag Checklist

For you:

Birth Plan:

Bring several printed copies to share with your care team and nurses so everyone knows your preferences.

ID & documents:

Photo ID, insurance card, and any required hospital paperwork.

Clothing:

• Comfortable bottoms such as yoga pants or loose leggings. Loose clothing is helpful after delivery.
• A simple birthing gown or a loose dress for labor and delivery.
• Bathing suit if you plan to use a tub or shower for labor support.
• Supportive sports bra and at least one nursing bra if you plan to breastfeed.
• One clean outfit to wear home.
• Socks and slippers for walking the halls or staying warm.
• A sweatshirt or warm layer.
• Hair ties and basic hair accessories.

Breastfeeding:

• Nursing tank and loose shirts for easy access.
• Nursing bra and nursing pads.
• Nipple cream or lanolin to soothe soreness; travel-size options are convenient.

Personal care items

• Toiletries: soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm.
• Comb or brush, minimal makeup if you want it, and any preferred hair products.
• Glasses and/or contact lenses with solution.

Personal items from home

• Phone charger and portable charger if you have one.
• Camera if you prefer more control than your phone camera provides.
• Snacks for you and your partner — hospitals may limit eating in active labor, so pack light, nutritious options for after or during early labor.
• A small bag for your partner with essentials: snacks, water, and a change of clothes.

Relaxation techniques

• Soothing music and a way to play it (phone, speaker, or playlist).
• Essential oils or a small inhaler or cloth with a drop of oil for calming scents (check hospital policy first).
• Massage tools like tennis balls or a pool noodle to relieve back tension.
• Your own pillow and a favorite blanket for comfort.
• A birthing ball if you prefer one and the hospital doesn’t provide it.
• Heating pad or microwaveable heat pack for pain relief if allowed by the facility.
• Photos or encouraging notes to help you focus.

Essential oils

If you plan to use essential oils, bring a small diffuser, an inhaler stick, or a cloth with a few drops of oil to inhale. Choose calming scents like lavender or chamomile and energizing scents like citrus for later. Confirm with your care team or hospital about any scent policies before bringing oils.

Postpartum care items:

Hospitals usually provide basic postpartum supplies, but you might prefer your own items, especially for home births.

• Large postpartum pads or disposable padded underwear.
• Witch hazel pads or pre-made pads for soothing relief.
• A natural numbing spray or soothing topical treatment if desired.
• A peri bottle for gentle cleansing.

What To Pack For Baby

• Install the baby car seat ahead of time and verify it’s secure before you leave the hospital.
• A few onesies and pants — newborns don’t need many outfits if you plan on skin-to-skin time.
• Socks and a hat if the hospital room is cool.
• A swaddling blanket or two for comfort and ease of handling.
• A small supply of diapers and wipes if you prefer specific brands; the hospital will provide standard supplies.
• A breastfeeding pillow for comfortable nursing support when you return home or during your hospital stay.

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What items made your hospital stay easier? Share your suggestions — other parents appreciate practical tips.

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