👜 What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag: The Ultimate Guide for Moms & Babies

Let’s talk hospital bags. As your due date approaches, packing your bag is one of those “oh wow, this is getting real” moments. Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, there’s nothing like feeling a little more prepared before the big day.

I’ve compiled my go-to essentials based on personal experience and tips from other moms, plus my absolute must-have item from Amazon.

💕 My Must-Have: Soft, Comfy Nightgowns

These Amazon nightgowns were a lifesaver postpartum—way better than the hospital gowns. They’re soft, lightweight, perfect for nursing, and make you feel more like yourself.

Get them here

What to Pack for You

✅ Clothing

• Comfy PJs or nightgowns (trust me—skip the hospital gowns!)

• Nursing bras or tanks (even if you're undecided about breastfeeding)

• Maternity leggings or loose joggers

• A going-home outfit (something stretchy and soft)

• Grippy socks for walking around

• Flip-flops or slip-on shoes (helpful for swollen feet)

• Sports bra or swim top if you're planning to labor in water

✅ Toiletries

• Toothbrush + toothpaste

• Deodorant

• Shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo

• Lip balm (a lifesaver during labor)

• Hairbrush, extra hair ties

• Face wipes

• Body lotion

• Glasses or contact lenses + solution

• Towel from home (hospital ones are... not great)

Comfort & Extras

• Pillow or blanket from home

• Travel pillow

• Diffuser and essential oils

• Portable fan

• Bluetooth speaker + labor playlist

• Long phone charger

• Reusable water bottle with a straw

• Snacks for during and after labor

• Extra tote bag for hospital freebies

Postpartum Recovery Items

• Adult diapers or reusable postpartum underwear

• Perineal spray/Dermoplast

• Tucks pads

• Nipple cream + silver nursing cups

• Breast pads (for leakage when milk comes in)

• Nursing pillow (even helpful for bottle-feeding)

• Manual pump or milk catcher

• Continue taking your prenatal vitamins

Baby Essentials

✅ Clothing & Care

• Onesies, sleepers, hats, socks

• Soft blanket or swaddle

• Cute going-home outfit

• Nursing-friendly bottle (if bottle feeding)

• Pediatrician’s contact info (you’ll be asked multiple times)

❌ Skip packing diapers & wipes – the hospital provides them!

✅ Feeding (if needed)

• Preferred formula or bottles

• Milk catcher or manual pump if nursing

✅ Car Seat

• A properly installed infant car seat is non-negotiable. You can’t leave without one!

👥 For Your Partner or Support Person

• Change of clothes

• Toiletries

• Snacks

• Blanket/sleeping bag

• Book/iPad/headphones for downtime

🗂️ Don’t Forget These!

• ID and insurance card

• Printed birth plan (bring a few copies)

• Any necessary medications

• Copies of medical records , if needed

🕒 When Should You Pack?

Start packing around 35–36 weeks. Keep your bag by the door or in your car, just in case baby decides to make an early debut.

Your printable hospital bag checklist with a packing timeline is ready! You can download it here:

Hospital_Bag_Checklist_with_Timeline.pdf