What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labor & Delivery: A Guide for Moms-to-Be

Your due date is getting closer! Have you packed your hospital bag yet? Getting your bag packed and ready ensures you’re not scrambling when contractions begin—and trust me, you’ll thank yourself later! I didn't have one ready when my second child was born and it was a bit of a scramble when my water broke! 

If you're not sure where to start, we have you covered. Whether you're a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, these essentials will help make your hospital stay more comfortable and stress-free.

Essentials for Mom

1. Important Documents

• ID/driver’s license

• Insurance card

• Birth plan (if you have one). You can also put together your birth plan on several apps. 

• Hospital forms or preregistration paperwork. You can fill out some paperwork ahead of time. Check with your doctor. 

• Bring a binder or folder to keep track of all your paperwork (including any new paperwork the hospital gives you). 
  

2. Comfortable Clothing

Hospitals will provide you with a gown, but many moms prefer bringing their own clothing for comfort and modesty—especially after delivery.

Here’s what to pack:

• A loose, comfy robe (with pockets)

• Maternity-friendly pajamas or loungewear

• Non-slip socks or slippers (we like the socks with grips on the bottom). You may also want to bring house shoes to walk around the hospital. 

• A going-home outfit (think stretchy and soft). 

3. Nursing Clothes

If you plan on breastfeeding, shop around for clothing designed for nursing and pumping (with discreet hidden openings make feeding easy). These styles are game changers whether you're in a hospital bed or out and about after your little one is born. We suggest a breastfeeding sweatshirt to start. That way you're not cold in the hospital room (who wants to undress in that chilly hospital room). 

This mom is wearing a nursing sweatshirt with a hidden zipper for easy breastfeeding access. There is one long zipper with pulls on both sides for easy nursing and pumping access. 

4. Toiletries & Personal Care Items

Hospitals usually supply the basics, but bringing your own will help you feel more at home.

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Hairbrush & hair ties

• Lip balm (hospital air is dry!)

• Face wipes or cleanser

• Travel-sized shampoo & conditioner

• Nipple cream (a breastfeeding essential)
  

• Flip flops for the shower. 
  
• Bath towel (some moms say the hospital towels are too small or not soft enough)
  
  
• Water bottle (you'll be drinking lots of water)!
  

5. Tech 

• Phone + charger (extra-long cords are ideal!) 

• A playlist or meditation app to help during labor

• Stroller fan for labor. So many moms suggested to bring a fan to stay cool during labor. 
  
  

Essentials for Baby

• Going-home outfit. We love these onesies that are super easy to unbutton for diaper changes. 

• Swaddle blanket. You will likely be given a blanket for your child in the hospital, but just in case you can pack one in your bag. 
  

• Car seat (installed ahead of time - you can check to make sure you have installed it correctly in the weeks before your delivery). Here's a guide to help you with the install. 

• Pediatrician contact info

Most hospitals provide diapers, wipes, and formula if needed—but it doesn’t hurt to double-check.

Pro Tips

• Pack two bags: One for labor/delivery, another for postpartum recovery. You may also want to bring an extra, empty bag to take home other things you get while in the hospital. 

• Use packing cubes to keep things organized (especially if you’re bringing clothing for you, baby, and partner). We found these on Amazon for $16. 

• Don’t overpack—you’ll likely receive a few freebies from the hospital (diapers, mesh underwear, pads).

Packing your hospital bag might feel overwhelming, but think of it as preparing your launch kit for one of life’s biggest adventures. You've got this, Mama. 💪✨

NEED A BREAST PUMP? >>> If you're also planning ahead and want to get your pump before your little one arrives, here's how to get a pump covered by insurance.