A practical and calming Hospital Bag Checklist for moms-to-be in the U.S.
As your due date approaches, one of the most empowering things you can do is pack your hospital bag. While hospitals provide the essentials, having your own carefully chosen items will help you feel more comfortable, confident, and in control of your birthing experience.
Whether you’re a first-time mom or packing your second bag, this guide will help you prepare like a pro — without overpacking.
📅 When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
Start gathering items by week 34 and have your bag fully ready by week 36, just in case baby decides to come early.
🧖♀️ What to Pack for Mom
During Labor:
- Hospital paperwork & ID (insurance card, birth plan, ID)
- Phone + charger (consider an extra-long cord)
- Lip balm (labor can dry your lips quickly)
- Hair ties/headband
- Water bottle with straw
- Snacks (check hospital policy — good for your partner, too!)
- Comfort items: essential oils, heating pad, playlist + earbuds
- Robe or loose gown (optional, if you prefer your own)
After Birth:
- Comfy pajamas/nursing nightgown
- Nursing bra + pads
- Granny panties (or accept the mesh ones from the hospital!)
- Postpartum pads/adult diapers (most hospitals provide, but you can bring your preferred brand)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, face wash, dry shampoo, deodorant, hairbrush)
- Slippers or non-slip socks
- Going-home outfit (loose, soft — think maternity leggings + tee)
- Glasses or contacts (if you need them!)
💡 Hospitals in the U.S. usually provide peri bottles, mesh underwear, and basic toiletries — but bringing your own favorites can help you feel more like yourself.
👶 What to Pack for Baby
- Going-home outfit (choose weather-appropriate)
- Extra onesies + swaddles (optional — the hospital provides them)
- Baby blanket (for the car seat or photos)
- Hat + mittens (newborns lose heat fast and can scratch themselves)
- Newborn pacifier (optional)
- Car seat (MUST be properly installed in advance — you can’t leave the hospital without one!)
🤝 What to Pack for Your Birth Partner
- Change of clothes
- Snacks + drinks
- Toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant)
- Pillow + blanket (if allowed)
- Phone + charger
- List of people to update (and maybe someone to do it for you!)
📷 Optional But Nice to Have
- Camera or phone tripod
- Your own pillow with a colored pillowcase
- Small speaker for music
- Favorite blanket or comfort item
- Notebook + pen (for writing down firsts or feeding logs)
🚘 Pro Tip: Keep the Bag by the Door
Put the hospital bag, your car seat, and the baby’s bag all by the front door or in your car around week 36 — no last-minute scrambling!
💬 Final Thought
Birth is unpredictable, but being prepared gives you peace of mind. Pack what brings you comfort, ease, and familiarity, and let go of the rest. Hospitals are ready for you — your job is to bring your courage, your breath, and your beautiful self.
You’ve got this, mama. 💛
