Packing your hospital bag ahead of time is something most women do to be prepared for birth at the hospital. Having the right items on hand will not only keep you comfortable but also help make your hospital stay smoother.
Some items might even help you have an easier birth, believe it or not! Keep reading to find out which ones.
As a labour and delivery nurse, I’ve seen what moms actually use (and what they wish they had).
Here’s your ultimate hospital bag checklist for a stress-free labour and delivery experience! It’s good to pack your things in a suitcase so everything is all in one place. I’ve seen some moms pack into compartments so it’s easy to separate what you need for each part of your stay!
Essentials for Mom
1. Important Documents & ID
Bring your photo ID, health card, and any necessary hospital paperwork. If you’ve pre-registered at the hospital, having a few copies of your birth plan can also be helpful.
💡 Nurse Tip: Keep all these documents in a small, easy-to-access folder so you’re not digging through your bag while checking in.
2. Comfortable Gown or Robe
While hospitals provide gowns, bringing a soft, loose-fitting gown or robe can make you feel more comfortable and provide easy access for breastfeeding and skin-to-skin bonding. Just be aware that the gown might get pretty grimy and dirty during labour and birth, so if you really like the gown, get two!
💡 Nurse Tip: Choose a front-opening gown or robe for easy breastfeeding and examinations. Some robes have easy access at the back as well for when/if you get an epidural. 
3. Non-skid Socks or Slippers
Walking around during labour can help with progress and pain, and hospitals can be cold (and dirty)! Non-slip socks or slippers will keep you warm and steady on your feet.
Don’t forget to take those socks off before the birth because they can get kinda yucky.
4. Nursing Bra & Breast Pads
Even if you’re unsure about breastfeeding, a soft nursing bra and breast pads can help with leaks as your milk comes in. You might not need the breast pads until later, especially if you’re discharged after 24 hours, but it doesn’t hurt to take them just in case!
I love this breastfeeding & pumping bra from Love & fit!
💡 Nurse Tip: Opt for a seamless, wireless nursing bra that provides support without added pressure.
5. Loose, Comfortable Clothes for Going Home
Your belly won’t shrink overnight, so pack maternity leggings, a loose top, or a maxi dress for your trip home.
Don’t worry about your belly though! It took 9 months to grow a NEW HUMAN! Give yourself grace and lots of time to heal and get used to your new body.
💡 Nurse Tip: Choose an outfit that won’t press on a potential C-section incision if you end up needing one.
Wondering what happens right after birth? Learn about all things postpartum right here on Babytalk!
6. Toiletries & Skincare Essentials
Hospital stays can leave you feeling a little gross, so bring travel-sized essentials:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Hairbrush & hair ties
- Deodorant
- Face wipes or gentle cleanser
- Lip balm (hospital air is dry!)
- Moisturizer
- Dry shampoo (if you won’t feel up to a full wash)
💡 Nurse Tip: A warm shower after delivery can feel amazing! Bring your favourite body wash and shampoo for a refreshing experience. Ohhh, and for that first postpartum pee, I always recommend you try to pee in the shower to minimize the burning sensation. You can aim the showerhead on your perineum
7. Nipple Cream
If you plan to breastfeed, lanolin or coconut oil can help prevent soreness in the first few days. You can also express some colostrum on your nipples and rub it around to heal the soreness.
💡 Nurse Tip: If you have really sore or cracked nipples it can be a sign of a poor latch so get help from your nurses to latch your baby. If your hospital offers it, ask to see the lactation consultant. You shouldn’t need to use nipple cream for long because your nipples do get used to the sensation after a while.
Pregnant and feel lost about breastfeeding? Want to diver deeper and learn more about what to do and how to prepare?
Check out this super informative eBook written by a L&D and postpartum nurse (moi!)
8. Perineal Care Essentials
Hospitals provide mesh underwear and pads, but adult diapers or high-waisted cotton underwear can be more comfortable.
💡 Nurse Tip: Bring a peri bottle (like the Frida Mom one) for easier and more comfortable postpartum cleansing. If you don’t want to buy a peri bottle, most hospitals will give you one!Â
9. Snacks & Hydration
Labour can be long, and hospital food isn’t always available when you need it. Bring:
- Granola bars
- Nuts or trail mix
- Electrolyte drinks (like coconut water or sports drinks)
- Hard candies (to keep your mouth moist)
💡 Nurse Tip: Ask about eating during labour. Some doctors advise against it, but in the end, it’s up to you! Ask about the risks and benefits and make an informed decision. You might not be too hungry during labour, but it’s hard to know in advance so come prepared!
10. Pillow & Blanket from Home
Hospital pillows can be flat and uncomfortable, and having a familiar pillow and soft blanket can make a big difference in your rest and rest is soooo important during labour and after.
💡 Nurse Tip: Bring a bright pillowcase so it doesn’t get lost in hospital linens!
Essentials for Baby
11. Car Seat (Installed!)
It’s recommended that you have a properly installed car seat before you leave the hospital. Install it a few weeks before your due date so that you know exactly how it works. If it seems overwhelming, ask your partner to be on car seat duty.
💡 Nurse Tip: Have a certified car seat technician check your installation for safety.
12. Going-Home Outfit
Pack a newborn-size outfit and a 0-3 month outfit, just in case your baby is bigger than expected! If you want to have extra outfits while you’re in the hospital you can bring them, but it’s best to make the most of skin-to-skin time in the beginning. Your baby just needs a diaper and a swaddle blanket for the first couple of days if that’s your plan!
Read more about the proven benefits og skin-to-skin right here on Babytalk!
13. Swaddle Blanket & Hat
Hospitals provide basic blankets, but a soft muslin swaddle and a cozy hat will keep baby snug and warm.
I loved my blankets from Solly Baby, they are so big, soft and cozy! Also, your baby doesn’t actually need a hat, specially if you’re doing lots of skin-to-skin, but bring one just in case your hospital room is cold!
14. Pacifier (If You Plan to Use One)
Not all hospitals provide pacifiers, so bring your own if you want to use one. There’s mixed evidence that pacifiers can cause “nipple confusion”, but it’s very important to make sure your baby breastfeeds well and that the soother is only used in between feeds to help you be successful. Bottle-fed babies might need to suck more and a pacifier can work great for them.
💡 Nurse Tip: If breastfeeding, wait until feeding is well-established before introducing a pacifier to avoid nipple confusion.
15. Baby Wipes & Diapers
Most hospitals provide these, but it never hurts to have extras on hand. Some hospitals only have the dry wipes that you have to wet for each diaper change so some people prefer to just bring their own wet wipes.
Extras for Partner or Support Person
16. Change of Clothes & Toiletries
Your partner will likely be with you for hours (or even days). Pack:
- Clean shirt & pants
- Deodorant
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Travel pillow
- Blanket
💡 Nurse Tip: A phone charger with an extra-long cord is a must for you and your partner!
17. Comfort & Entertainment
Labour can take a while, and distractions can help pass the time:
- Downloaded movies, podcasts, or music. Most hospitals have WiFi so don’t stress too much if you forget this one.
- Book or magazine
- Cards or board games that you love.
- Notebook for documenting baby’s first moments
- Essential oils (lavender for relaxation)
💡 Nurse Tip: Consider bringing a small Bluetooth speaker to play calming music or white noise for a soothing atmosphere. You can use the white noise machine for your baby once they’re born!Â
Final Thoughts
Packing your hospital bag early (around 35-36 weeks) ensures you’re ready whenever labour starts. A well-packed bag can make all the difference in reducing stress and keeping you comfortable during your hospital stay.
Don’t over-pack your bag though, if you live near the hospital, your partner can always duck home to grab things you might have forgotten. Your partner will love to have some tasks to do as well!
Did I miss anything? Share your must-have hospital bag items in the comments! 💕
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