Getting ready for your baby’s arrival is an exciting time, and having a well-packed hospital bag can help you feel calm and prepared for the big day. Have your bag packed well before your due date—aim for around 36 weeks. This way, you’ll be ready to go whenever your baby decides to arrive. By preparing your maternity bag ahead of time, you can focus on the joy of welcoming your new baby into the world.

The following Hospital Bag Checklist will help you gather everything you need for yourself, your baby, and your support person.

Choosing the Right Bag

When it comes to your maternity bag, choose one that’s roomy, lightweight, and easy to carry. A medium to large duffel bag, soft-sided suitcase, or a wheeled suitcase all work well. Wheeled options can be especially helpful if you have a long walk from the car to the hospital or are carrying heavier items. Look for separate compartments or pouches to keep your belongings organized, and consider keeping your baby’s items—like clothes, blankets, and diapers—separate from your own for easy access when you need them.

Essential Items for Mom

During your hospital stay, having your personal items organized and easy to access can help you feel comfortable and reduce stress. Here are the practical essentials you’ll want to pack:

  • Comfortable Clothes: Loose clothing for your hospital stay—robe, nightgown, postpartum underwear, and cozy socks or slippers. Don’t forget a comfortable outfit to wear home.

  • Breastfeeding Bras: Nursing bras or tanks for support and comfort. Soft and stretchy sleep bras can be especially comfortable in the early days.

  • Glasses/Contacts: Even if you don't usually wear your glasses, they may be more practical in the hospital.

  • Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, hair ties, deodorant, lip balm, and moisturizer. Hospital air can be dry.

  • Important Documents: ID, insurance cards, hospital paperwork, and contact info for your baby’s healthcare provider.

  • Cell Phone and Charger: An extra-long cable is helpful—don't forget to include headphones or earbuds.

Check with your hospital ahead of time to see what items they provide, such as diapers, wipes, or toiletries—this can help you pack efficiently and avoid overpacking.

Labor & Comfort Essentials

During labor and the first days in the hospital, having items that support relaxation, coping, and comfort can make your experience more manageable for both you and your birth partner. Here are some key items to consider:

  • Birth Plan: Bring a few copies of your birth plan to share with hospital staff. Having it on hand can give you confidence and help your care team support your wishes.

  • Music or Playlist: A special birth playlist of your favorite songs might be nice to have—bring headphones or earbuds as well!

  • Snacks and Drinks: Labor can be long, and hospital food might not always be what you want. Plan to bring a cooler and some of your favorite snacks and drinks to keep your energy up.

  • Personal Comfort Items: Items like a favorite pillow, blanket, water bottle, or even a small fan can make your stay more comfortable.

  • Notepad or Journal: To jot down thoughts, questions, or memories of the big day!

  • Birth Partner Essentials: Snacks, change of clothes, toiletries, phone charger, or camera—anything to help them stay comfortable and supportive.

Baby Essentials to Pack

Having your baby’s essentials organized and ready can make those first hours and days much easier. Here are the key items to pack in your maternity bag:

  • Clothes: Pack a few outfits for your baby, including a going-home outfit. Make sure they are soft and easy to put on.

  • Blankets: Bring a couple of baby blankets to keep your newborn warm and cozy.

  • Diapers and Wipes: The hospital will provide some, but it’s always good to have a few extra in your backpack or diaper bag.

  • Car Seat: Don’t forget your baby’s car seat! Make sure it’s properly installed in your car before you go to the hospital.

Some hospitals offer professional newborn photography in the first days after birth. You may want to keep this in mind when choosing your baby’s going-home outfit so they’re dressed and ready if you’d like to participate.

What Else Should I Bring?

Labor can be long, and a couple days—or sometimes more—spent in the hospital can pass slowly. Beyond the essentials, consider a few additional items to make your stay more comfortable:

  • Entertainment / Downtime for Mom or Partner: Bring a book, magazine, tablet, or e-reader to help pass the time.

  • Post-Delivery Snacks: Having something on hand after delivery can be helpful, especially if it's after hours and the cafeteria is closed. You might also encourage loved ones to bring a favorite meal when they come to meet your little one.

  • Layers for Comfort: Hospitals can be chilly, so pack a sweater, sweatshirt, or extra layers to stay comfortable during your stay.

  • Eye Mask for Sleeping: These can be especially helpful for daytime naps!

These extras aren’t required, but they can make your hospital experience smoother and more enjoyable. Having your maternity bag organized ahead of time will leave you free to focus on welcoming your new baby, spending time with your loved ones, and enjoying these first special moments together. Happy Packing!

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare and/or