From a Mom Who’s Been There
Alright, mama, it’s go-time! Whether you’re days away from meeting your baby or just love being ultra-prepared, packing your hospital bag is a big milestone in your pregnancy journey. And while we’d all love to stroll into the maternity ward with a perfectly curated bag of essentials, the reality is that most of us either overpack (Do I really need a full-size pillow and three outfit changes per day?) or forget something major (Like snacks. Big mistake. Huge.).
So, let’s break it down—what you actually need to bring to the hospital for labour, delivery, and those first newborn snuggles. Plus, stick around till the end for a FREE Hospital Bag Checklist PDF you can download to make sure you don’t forget a thing!
1. The Essentials (a.k.a. Don’t Leave Home Without These)
- Your ID, Insurance Card & Any Hospital Paperwork – You don’t want to be fumbling for these between contractions.
- Birth Plan (If You Have One) – Just in case you want the medical team to know your preferences in writing.
- Phone & Charger (Preferably a Long One) – Because you’ll be taking a million baby pictures and texting updates.
2. Comfort Items for Labour
- Loose, Comfy Clothes – A robe, oversized T-shirt, or anything you won’t mind possibly getting messy.
- Socks & Slippers – Because hospital floors are cold, and those flimsy hospital socks don’t always cut it.
- Lip Balm & Hair Ties – Labour is basically a marathon, and dry lips & sweaty hair are not your friends.
- Pillow from Home – If you’re picky about your pillow, bring yours for extra comfort.
- Snacks & Drinks for You and Your Partner – Labour is unpredictable. No one wants a hangry support person.
3. Postpartum Must-Haves
- Super Comfy Pajamas & Robe – The softer and looser, the better.
- Maternity or High-Waisted Underwear – Because you’ll need room for those massive postpartum pads.
- Pads or Adult Diapers – The hospital provides some, but it doesn’t hurt to have extra.
- Nursing Bra & Breast Pads – Your milk may come in suddenly, and leaks happen.
- Toiletries (Trust Me, You’ll Want a Shower) – Toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes, dry shampoo, body wash, deodorant—bring the basics to feel human again.
4. For Baby
- Going Home Outfit (Weather-Appropriate) – Don’t overthink it—simple and comfy is best.
- Hat & Mittens – Some babies have sharp little nails right out of the womb.
- Swaddle Blanket – The hospital has some, but it’s nice to have your own soft one.
- Infant Car Seat (Already Installed!) – You can’t leave without it!
5. Bonus Items That Might Make Life Easier
- Nursing Pillow – If you’re planning to breastfeed, it can help with positioning.
- Eye Mask & Earplugs – Because hospitals are noisy, and sleep is sacred.
- Thank You Treats for Nurses – Totally optional, but a sweet gesture if you want to show appreciation.
What Not to Pack
- Tons of baby clothes – The hospital provides little shirts and blankets, and you’ll mostly be doing skin-to-skin.
- Pre-pregnancy jeans – Not happening. Stick to stretchy, comfy clothes.
- Perfume-heavy products – Your newborn is adjusting to the world, and strong scents can be overwhelming.
- Books or Magazines – You think you’ll have time to read. You won’t.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple & Practical
Packing your hospital bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Stick to the essentials, add in a few comfort items, and remember—the hospital provides a lot more than you think. Most importantly, don’t stress! You’re about to meet your baby, and that’s the real focus here.
To make things even easier, I’ve put together a FREE downloadable Hospital Bag Checklist PDF so you can check things off as you go. Grab it below and pack with confidence!