If you’re wondering what to pack in your hospital bag for the big day, you’re in the right place! In this post, we’re diving into the essential items to bring to the hospital or birth center to ensure you’re fully prepared when baby arrives. As experienced moms ourselves, we’ve figured out what’s truly necessary versus what you might never even use. While everyone’s packing list might differ slightly, these are the must-have items we recommend every mama should have ready to go for a smooth and stress-free delivery.
When to pack a hospital bag?
Knowing **when to pack your hospital bag** is key to avoiding unnecessary stress as your due date approaches. Ideally, you should pack your **hospital or birth center bag** by the time you’re around 36 weeks pregnant. This gives you plenty of time to prepare without the pressure of last-minute packing. It’s smart to have everything ready to go a few weeks in advance, as babies don’t always follow the schedule! Having your **hospital bag** packed and waiting by the door ensures you’re prepared for labor at any moment, allowing you to focus on what matters most when it’s time to head to the hospital or birth center.
Having your hospital bag packed ahead of time also means you won’t have to scramble through your home in the middle of contractions. You’ll want to make sure your bag includes everything from personal comfort items to baby essentials, so you’re fully prepared for labor and the first few days with your newborn. Packing early gives you the chance to double-check that you haven’t forgotten anything important, like your favorite pillow or the baby’s going-home outfit.
What to pack in your hospital bag for you?
When it comes to **what to pack in your hospital bag**, the key is balancing comfort, practicality, and preparedness. You’ll need items that cater to your needs during labor, as well as essentials for your stay at the **hospital or birth center** and for your newborn’s first few days. Think of things that will help you feel at ease during what can be an intense and emotional experience. Having the right items on hand can make all the difference in how comfortable you feel during labor and recovery. Whether it’s cozy clothes, toiletries, or baby essentials, packing thoughtfully ensures that you’re ready for any situation. Now, let’s dive into the 20 items to pack in your hospital bag, ensuring you have everything you need for a smooth and comfortable birth experience. From soothing items to practical necessities, we’ve got you covered!
Your Own Pillow
When packing your hospital bag for labor and delivery, one often-overlooked item to consider is bringing a pillow from home. While hospitals provide basic bedding, having your own pillow can offer significant comfort during your stay. Having your own pillow isn’t just about comfort physically, it’s about having something that makes you feel more at home. See our next item for another “homey” suggestion to help you remain at ease. Make sure to pack a pillowcase that’s easy to spot, like one with a bright color or pattern, so you can quickly identify it amidst hospital bedding.
Toothbrush & Toiletries
When packing your hospital bag, don’t forget to include your toothbrush and toiletries. While hospitals often provide some basic essentials, having your own personal items can make a huge difference in how comfortable and refreshed you feel during your stay. Make sure to pack travel-sized versions of your toiletries to save space and comply with hospital bag guidelines, but don’t skimp on the essentials that make you feel like you’re taking care of yourself. A toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, hairbrush, and face wipes are all important items to help keep you feeling clean and comfortable during your hospital stay.
Comfortable Postpartum Outfit
When packing your hospital bag, don’t overlook the importance of comfortable clothing for after baby arrives. Stretchy, breathable fabrics are essential for maximum comfort during your hospital stay. It’s a good idea to pack darker bottoms—trust us, postpartum bleeding is real, and darker colors help hide any leaks as your body adjusts. A cozy robe is also a must-have! It’s perfect for wearing over nursing tanks or nightgowns, giving you a sense of comfort and modesty without needing to fully get dressed. When choosing your clothing sizes, it’s generally safe to pack items that fit you well around 5-6 months pregnant.
Snacks
Labor and delivery aren’t exactly a walk in the park. In fact, it’s more like running a marathon! Your body is working hard to bring a new little human into the world, and it needs all the fuel it can get. While eating and drinking during labor can be a hot topic, keeping your energy up with the right snacks can make a huge difference in your comfort and stamina. Proper nutrition helps keep you fueled, replaces lost nutrients, and prevents you from feeling completely wiped out during the long hours of labor. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our favorite snacks to bring along in your hospital bag, so you can stay energized and prepared for the big day.
Waterbottle
Though many hospitals/birthing centers will provide you with a large water bottle upon your admission, it is always smart to bring your own just in case. Also, bringing along your own will help you stay hydrated en route to the birthing facility of your choosing. Remember to stick with BPA free! If the center provides you with your own – your partner will have something ready to help keep them hydrated along the way. Supporting someone in labor is a big job too! For convenience, we have linked some options for you. Access the link by clicking the title or picture.
Phone & Phone Charger
Of COURSE you are going to be needing your cellphone! Grandmas & Grandpas, Aunts & Uncles, best friends, you name it, they are all going to be wanting updates on how your labor is progressing. Even if you should choose to keep the fact that you are laboring private between you and your partner, you’ll need to have a quick and easy way to send out a picture of your new pride & joy to family and friends once he/she has arrived! Snap a billion pictures!!! You won’t regret it.<br>Reminder: make sure your phone has PLENTY of memory space. You don’t want a notification that your “device is full”. And don’t forget your charger too!
Camera
This is an additional item than many parents like to bring along. Now-a-days, most smartphones have a fairly capable camera. However, sometimes a notification pop up, call, ect. can come in during the most inoportune moment! You don’t want to miss anything special because Facebook is reminding you that it’s your friend’s birthday! Haha. As with your phone, be sure you have plenty of memory space and a full battery too! Bring along the charger just in case.
Bluetooth Speaker
Get ready to jam! No, but seriously. Music has the power to not only motivate you during labor, but to comfort you as well. Find a song that means something special to you. Perhaps it is something that you have been singing to your little one while they grow in your belly. Or maybe it is a special song for you and your partner! Whether you choose to listen to a specific tune, or just soothing sounds from nature, packing along a speaker is something you won’t regret.
Diffuser
Packing a diffuser for essential oils in your hospital bag is a smart way to create a soothing, calming atmosphere during labor and delivery. A portable diffuser is easy to pack and use, and having it on hand allows you to control your environment, helping you stay calm and focused. Whether you’re using it to enhance relaxation during labor or to create a refreshing scent post-delivery, a diffuser can make a big difference in your comfort and overall experience. Just be sure to check with your hospital beforehand to ensure they’re okay with essential oils in the room.
Essential Oils
Oils have so many uses for labor and postpartum care. Topical, aromatherapy, comforting bath soaks, you name it! When using for aromatherapy, try gently placing a small amount under your nose or in a diffuser (be sure to use safe grade for babies that is diluted in fractionated coconut oil). A little goes a long ways! One of our favorite brands for oils is Pure. The purity of these products is something we have learned to count on again, and again. Essential oils, like lavender or peppermint, are known for their relaxing and stress-relieving properties, which can help reduce anxiety and make your hospital room feel more like a peaceful sanctuary.
Chapstick & Eye Drops
During labor, you can start to experience dryness. Having chapped lips or dry eyes isn’t something any mom needs to deal with! Bring along some artificial tears and your favorite chapstick and you’ll be set. For convenience, we have linked some options for you.
Paperwork
This one is pretty straight forward; Double check your purse/wallet/bag to make sure you have all the paperwork that you may need. Insurance cards and ID are important. Also, if your written birth plan. If you need help putting this together, contact us today so we can help!
Nursing Attire
These a are few things that may not come to mind! During labor, you can start to experience dryness. Having chapped lips or dry eyes isn’t something any mom needs to deal with! Bring along some artificial tears (a fave brand linked by clicking the photo to the left) and your favorite chapstick and you’ll be set. For convenience, we have linked some options for you. Access the link by clicking the title or picture.
Cooler
If you are planning on Placenta Encapsulation (which we highly suggest!), you’ll need to make sure to have a small cooler packed and ready to go.
Nothing too large is necessary so don’t feel the need to bring anything huge! A simple cooler such as the one pictured here will suffice. Click the photo to find out more about How2Mom’s Placenta Encapsulation services. And don’t be afraid to reach out if you have any questions in regards to how it all works! The benefits are endless
Want to go into birth and postpartum confident?
Research finds that moms who receive childbirth education have less fear and more confidence about the birth process and decrease their risk of unplanned C-sections, inductions, tearing! So what are you waiting for? Let us give you POWER in your birth.
What to pack in your hospital bag for your partner?
When packing your hospital bag, don’t forget that your spouse or birthing partner should pack their own essentials too. Encourage them to bring snacks, a change of clothes, toiletries, and a phone charger to stay comfortable during long hours at the hospital. These small items will help them stay energized and prepared to support you through labor and delivery.
Prescriptions
Don’t forget to have your spouse pack any necessary prescriptions or medications they’ll need during your hospital stay. Whether it’s for managing pain, antibiotics, or a routine medication they take daily, having their prescribed medications on hand ensures that they’ll stay on track with their health needs. Be sure to bring a copy of your prescriptions or a list of your current medications in case the hospital needs it for your medical records. This helps prevent any confusion and ensures you get the right care during your recovery.
What to pack in your hospital bag for your baby?
When packing your hospital bag for baby, it’s essential to bring a few key items to ensure their first few hours are as comfortable as yours. Having these baby essentials packed and ready will help you feel prepared for those first precious moments together.
Going Home Outfit for Baby
Have fun with this one! Imagining what your little one is going to wear home can be such a fun way of preparing for their arrival.
Think about something comfortable for the season and strapping into a car seat. At How2Mom, we’re HUGE fans of zip up jammies. Another awesome perk of these is quick and easy diaper changing! Trust us, you’ll prefer zippers to buttons! Some of our favorites are linked by clicking the title or picture.
Swaddle Blankets
It’s baby snuggling time!
There is nothing more awesome as a new parent than holding your little on and giving them love. At How2Mom, we cannot live without our favorite Swaddle Blankets. Click the photo to snag your own!
Soft material is sensitive enough for your newborns skin. And they are also easily washable (which is necessary for those newborn incidents that can occur – spit up, blow outs, ect!). Some of our favorites are linked by clicking the title or picture.
Carseat
This may seem like an obvious one, but in the rush to get to the hospital/birthing center, you don’t want to forget it!!
Be sure to read the instructions for your specific Car Seat carefully and install it into your vehicle PRIOR to your due date. We recommend about 1 month early to be safe and assured that it is properly set for a newborn.
Stay tuned! How2Mom’s team will be hosting a Car Seat Clinic over the summer to discuss with mom’s how to properly install and strap baby in safetly! You won’t wanna miss it!
Frequently Asked Questions: What to Pack in my Hospital Bag?
When should I start packing my hospital bag?
It’s a good idea to pack your hospital bag around 34-36 weeks of pregnancy. This gives you plenty of time to gather everything you need without the stress of waiting until the last minute. Aim to have it packed and ready to go by week 37, just in case baby decides to arrive early.
Can I pack too much for the Hospital?
While it’s tempting to overpack, it’s best to stick to the essentials. Hospitals often provide basic supplies like blankets, diapers, and towels, so you don’t need to bring extras. Focus on personal comfort items like your favorite toiletries, snacks, and clothing. Keep in mind, space in the hospital room can be limited.
Do I need to bring a lot of baby clothes to the Hospital?
No, you don’t need to overpack baby clothes. Just bring a couple of onesies, a going-home outfit, and a swaddle blanket. The hospital will provide a basic outfit for baby during their stay. You’ll want to pack a car seat for the ride home, though!
What should I pack to stay comfortable during labor?
For comfort during labor, pack loose clothing such as a nightgown, robe, and socks, along with personal items like lip balm and hair ties. Bring snacks and drinks to stay energized, and consider a pillow from home for extra support. A diffuser with calming essential oils can also help create a soothing environment.
Should I pack any documents for my Hospital Stay?
Yes, it’s a good idea to pack important documents like your ID, insurance information, and your birth plan (if you have one). You may also want to bring a list of emergency contacts, any necessary medical records, and your prenatal records to ensure smooth communication with your healthcare team.
In conclusion, packing your hospital bag is an essential step in preparing for labor and delivery. By including the right items for yourself, your partner, and your baby, you can ensure a more comfortable experience. From comfortable clothing and personal toiletries to snacks, a diffuser, and baby essentials, each item plays a role in keeping you energized, relaxed, and ready for the big day. Don’t forget important items like prescriptions and a car seat for baby’s safe trip home! By planning ahead and packing thoughtfully, you’ll feel more prepared and confident as you head into this exciting new chapter. Happy packing, and best wishes on your upcoming arrival!
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