All right, you’re pregnant, and the big day is approaching—yay! 🎉 It’s time to prepare for one of the most important parts of your journey: packing your hospital bag. But what exactly do you need to bring? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with everything you’ll need for labor, delivery, and postpartum.
What goes into your hospital bag
A hospital bag, also known as a labor bag, contains all the essentials for you, your baby, and your partner. Whether you’re planning a home birth or a hospital birth, it’s a good idea to have your bag ready ahead of time. Here’s a handy checklist to get you started:
For you:
- Essentials: Phone and charger, wallet with ID and insurance card, keys.
- Personal care: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, hair ties, shower gel, makeup, wipes, lip balm, glasses or contact lenses (with case and solution), medications, maternity pads, nursing pads.
- Clothing: Loose T-shirt or nightgown for labor, extra T-shirts, nightgown for after delivery, cozy jogging pants, comfortable outfit for going home, thick socks, regular socks, warm sweater, underwear for maternity pads, comfy nursing bra, slippers or warm slippers.
- Snacks and drinks: Water bottle, glucose tablets, snacks like crackers, nuts, or granola bars, and a straw or water bottle with a spout.
- Entertainment: Phone, laptop or tablet with chargers, books, magazines, music player or headphones, puzzle books.
For your baby:
- Clothing: Two onesies, two tops, two pants, two pairs of socks, a jacket or cardigan, a wrap blanket, two hats, first outfit, diapers for newborns.
- Other essentials: Car seat (keep this in your car), a baby blanket.
For your partner:
- Essentials: Small change for parking or a wheelchair, both of your IDs, important documents like insurance papers and hospital registration forms.
- Personal care: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, glasses or contact lenses (with case and solution), medications.
- Clothing: One or two T-shirts or sweaters, an extra pair of pants, clean underwear.
- Snacks and drinks: Water bottle, quick snacks.
- Entertainment: Book, magazine, tablet.
Home vs. hospital birth: what’s different
Whether you’re planning a home birth or a hospital delivery, preparation is key. For a home birth, you’ll need items like a maternity kit, ice packs, trash bags, a small waste bin, bed risers, and clean bedding.
If you’re planning a hospital birth, pack extra clothes since you may stay longer. Even if you’re planning a home birth, it’s smart to have a hospital bag ready, just in case plans change.
When should you pack your hospital bag
It’s a good idea to have your hospital bag ready by week 36–37 of your pregnancy. This gives you enough time to gather everything without feeling rushed. If you prefer to pack earlier, go for it—being prepared means less stress when labor starts.
What should you wear during labor
What you wear during labor is entirely up to you. Many women prefer a loose T-shirt or nightgown. If you’re planning a water birth, consider a bikini top, tank top, or a comfortable maternity bra. A robe or kimono is also a great option, especially if you plan to shower during labor. Don’t forget warm socks to keep cozy, and pack comfortable clothes like joggers or an oversized shirt for after delivery.
No stress—just do your best
Packing your hospital bag is practical, but don’t stress if you forget a few items. The most important thing is to feel prepared so you can focus on yourself and your baby. Remember, being ready is great, but staying relaxed is even better. You’ve got this!