Hospital Bag Checklist Guide
The complete guide to packing your hospital bag for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. Know exactly what to bring for mom, baby, and your support partner — so you can focus on what matters most.
Pack by Week 36
Labor can start at any time after 37 weeks. Having your bag ready early means one less thing to worry about when contractions begin. Keep it by the door or in your car.
For Mom — Labor Comfort
Comfortable robe or nightgown
Shop💡 Something you don't mind getting messy
Non-slip socks or slippers
Shop💡 Essential for walking the halls during labor
Hair ties and headband
💡 Keep hair out of your face during labor
Lip balm
💡 Lips get very dry during labor and pushing
Massage tools or tennis ball
💡 For back labor relief
Pillow from home
💡 Use a colored pillowcase so it doesn't get mixed up
Snacks for labor
💡 Light, easy-to-digest foods — check hospital policy first
Phone charger (long cable)
💡 A 10-foot cable is ideal for hospital beds
Birth plan (3 copies)
💡 One for you, one for nurse, one for doctor
For Mom — Postpartum Recovery
Nursing bras (2)
Shop💡 Soft, wireless styles are most comfortable
Nursing pads
Shop💡 Milk comes in 2–5 days after birth
Nipple cream (lanolin)
Shop💡 Essential if breastfeeding
Comfortable going-home outfit
💡 Maternity size — you'll still look 6 months pregnant
Toiletries (shampoo, face wash, toothbrush)
💡 Travel sizes save space
Witch hazel pads / Tucks
Shop💡 Soothing for postpartum recovery
High-waisted underwear
Shop💡 Comfortable over C-section incision if applicable
For Baby
Going-home outfit (newborn AND 0–3 month)
💡 Pack both sizes — you don't know baby's weight yet
Infant car seat (installed in car)
Shop💡 Hospital will not discharge without it
Swaddle blankets (2–3)
Shop💡 Hospital provides some, but extras are helpful
Newborn hat and mittens
💡 Mittens prevent baby from scratching face
Pacifier (optional)
Shop💡 AAP recommends offering at sleep time
For Partner / Support Person
Change of clothes (2 days)
💡 Labor can last 24+ hours
Toiletries
💡 Toothbrush, deodorant, face wash
Snacks and drinks
💡 Hospital cafeteria may have limited hours
Phone charger
💡 For photos and keeping family updated
Cash for parking and vending machines
💡 Many hospital parking garages are cash-only
Entertainment (book, tablet)
💡 Early labor can be slow — bring something to do
Documents & Insurance
Health insurance card
💡 Required for admission
Photo ID
💡 Required for admission
Hospital pre-registration confirmation
💡 Pre-register online to speed up admission
OB-GYN and pediatrician contact info
💡 Save in your phone AND write it down
Birth plan copies
💡 Keep extras in case staff changes