Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Labor, Birth & Postpartum

Kirsten Metcalf
2026-03-24T15:07:55-04:00

Preparing your hospital bag is one of the most exciting milestones of pregnancy, but it can also feel overwhelming. What do you actually need? What can you skip? And when should you pack your hospital bag so you’re prepared for the big moment?

Whether you’re a first time parent figuring out what to take to the hospital for birth or are putting together a pregnancy hospital bag for baby number two (or three), this complete guide walks you through everything to bring for labor, delivery, and those unforgettable first hours with your newborn.

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

If you’ve been wondering, “When should I pack my hospital bag?”, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most searched pregnancy questions.

Dr Alexa Sassin Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine recommends packing your hospital bag at the start of your third trimester. If you’re high risk or expecting multiples, aim for 34-35 weeks.

Some families pack slowly over time. Others wait until nesting mode fully kicks in. Either way, babies tend to arrive anytime between 37–42 weeks, so prepping early can help you feel calmer and more in control.

A helpful tip: keep daily essentials like your toothbrush, glasses, and charger out until labor starts. Place a sticky note on top of your hospital bag with those last minute additions, so nothing gets forgotten.

Why You Need a Hospital Bag

Think of your pregnancy hospital bag as a comfort kit for birth. Yes, some hospitals provide basics like diapers, wipes, mesh underwear, and baby blankets. But they don’t provide the cozy, familiar items that help you feel calm, supported, and cared for during one of the biggest moments of your life.

Packing your own essentials helps you:

Stay physically comfortable during labor

Support easier postpartum recovery

Keep your favorite snacks and calming tools nearby

Capture photos and videos for moments you will reflect on forever

Bring a touch of home into your hospital room

Reduce last minute stress so you can focus on meeting your baby

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag (Complete Checklist)

Below is a complete childbirth hospital bag guide with essentials for mom, baby, and your support person.

Many families bring two bags: one for mom, one for baby and support person.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

Must Haves

ID card and Insurance card

Birth plan (optional)

Comfortable labor outfit

Warm socks or slippers

Lip balm

Cell phone and extra long charging cable

Refillable water bottle

Snacks and lots of them

Entertainment (music playlist, book, puzzle apps)

Toiletries

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Shampoo and conditioner

Body wash

Face wash and moisturizer

Hairbrush and hair ties

Deodorant

Optional: makeup

Clothing for Recovery

Nursing friendly pajamas or nightgown

Loose, stretchy going home outfit

Slip on shoes

Nursing bras

Nursing pads

Postpartum & Breastfeeding Essentials

Nipple cream

Nursing pillow

Postpartum recovery kit

Peri bottle

Comfort Items

Your own pillow

Soft towel

Lightweight blanket or wrap

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

Going home outfit (pack newborn + 0-3m just in case)

Swaddle or sleep sack

Receiving blanket

Bottles and formula (if bottle-feeding)

Pediatrician’s contact info

Folder for hospital paperwork and keepsakes

Infant car seat (installed before 37 weeks)

Hospital Bag Checklist for Your Support Person

Your partner or support person also needs a mini comfort kit. Labor can be long, and they’ll be helping you every step.

Toiletries

Change of clothes

Pajamas/loungewear

Cell phone and charger

Snacks and reusable water bottle

Entertainment (books, tablet, headphones)

Pillow and blanket

Coins/cash for vending

Sleep mask and ear plugs

Optional (But Really Nice) Add Ons

These aren’t essential, but many parents say they made a big difference:

Portable fan

Essential oil roller

Speaker for a labor playlist

Extra extension cord

Small massage tool

Cozy socks

Camera (if not using your phone)

A newborn friendly baby carrier or stretchy wrap

What NOT to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

Skip these to avoid overpacking:

Pre-pregnancy clothes

Excess baby outfits

Diapers and wipes (hospital provides them unless you want your own brand)

Valuables or jewelry

Large suitcase worth of toiletries

Hard to wash blankets or fabrics

Types of Hospital Bags

If you're deciding what to pack into, here are the best options:

Duffel bag: flexible and roomy

Carry on suitcase: easy to roll, easy to organize

Backpack: great for partners and minimalists

Baby’s diaper bag: perfect for tiny essentials

The Only Item All Three of You Will Use: A Baby Carrier

A newborn friendly baby carrier is one of the most underrated hospital bag essentials. It supports skin to skin, helps with soothing during postpartum recovery, and gives your partner a way to connect while you rest.

You can use an Ergobaby carrier from birth as long as baby is over 7lbs. Many parents bring:

A stretchy wrap like the Aura Wrap

A soft structured carrier like the Embrace

Not sure which one to bring? Try the Ergobaby which carrier is right for you quiz.

Final Tips Before You Head to the Hospital

Keep your hospital bag near the door after 36 weeks

Install the car seat early ideally no later than 37 weeks

Place a sticky note on your bag for last minute items

Wash baby’s outfits ahead of time

Download your playlist for offline listening

Make sure your support person knows what’s packed where

Deep breath...you’re ready

Packing your hospital bag isn’t just about preparing for labor, it’s about creating a small, comforting space for one of the most powerful and transformative moments of your life. Whether you’re a planner who started months ago or someone packing the night before, having your essentials organized lets you focus on what truly matters: meeting your baby. With this complete hospital bag checklist and a few meaningful personal touches, you’ll walk into birth feeling calm, supported, and ready for the incredible journey ahead.