Documents and essentials
- Photo ID and insurance card
- Hospital paperwork and birth plan
- Phone and long charging cable
- Headphones or speaker
- Cash for parking or vending
For mom — labor
- Loose, comfortable robe
- Non-slip socks or slippers
- Hair ties and headband
- Lip balm
- Massage oil or roller
- Snacks and electrolyte drinks (if allowed)
- Water bottle with straw
- Sports bra or labor gown
For mom — postpartum
- Nursing bras and tanks
- High-waisted underwear (5 to 7 pairs)
- Postpartum pads (heavy flow)
- Nursing pads
- Nipple cream
- Loose pajamas or nightgown
- Going-home outfit (loose and comfortable)
- Toiletries: toothbrush, face wash, dry shampoo, deodorant
- Glasses or contacts
For baby
- Going-home outfit in 2 sizes (newborn and 0 to 3 months)
- Swaddle blanket
- Hat and socks or mittens
- Weather-appropriate layer or coat
- Installed infant car seat
- Pacifier (optional)
- Baby book or memory keepsake
For partner
- Change of clothes for 2 days
- Comfortable shoes
- Pillow and blanket
- Toiletries
- Snacks and drinks
- Phone charger and camera
- Reading material or tablet
Pack early (by week 37)
Have your hospital bag packed and by the door no later than 37 weeks. Keep car seat installed and inspected, and a list of phone numbers ready for family and your care team.
Conclusion
A well-packed hospital bag means you can focus on labor, recovery, and bonding with your baby. Pack early, keep it simple, and trust that the hospital will provide many of the basics during your stay.