Labor & Delivery Prep

Hospital Bag Checklist

Complete packing list for labor, delivery, and hospital stay.

Best to start: 36 weeks pregnant

Overview

Pack your hospital bag by 36 weeks in case baby arrives early. Having everything ready reduces stress when labor begins.

Pack two bags: one for labor/delivery and one for postpartum recovery. You can leave the recovery bag in the car until after baby is born.

For Labor & Delivery

  • Birth plan copies (several copies)
  • Insurance card and hospital registration forms
  • Photo ID
  • Comfortable labor outfit (sports bra, loose gown, or old t-shirt)
  • Socks with grips
  • Slippers or flip-flops
  • Hair ties
  • Lip balm
  • Glasses if you wear contacts (you can't wear contacts during C-section)
  • Phone charger
  • Portable speaker for music
  • Snacks for partner (you likely won't eat during active labor)
  • Camera for photos/videos
  • Focal point item for labor
  • Massage oil or lotion
  • Pillow from home in colored pillowcase (so you don't leave it)

For Mom - Postpartum Stay

  • Comfortable going-home outfit (loose-fitting, think 6 months pregnant size)
  • Nursing bras (2-3)
  • Comfortable underwear you don't mind ruining
  • Maternity pads (though hospital provides these)
  • Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, shampoo/conditioner
  • Nipple cream if breastfeeding
  • Breast pads
  • Robe or cardigan
  • Extra pajamas/nightgown
  • Slippers
  • Towel from home if preferred
  • Flip-flops for shower
  • Basic makeup if desired
  • Hairbrush
  • Contact lens case and solution
  • Prescription medications
  • Copies of insurance cards

For Baby

  • Going-home outfit (newborn size and 0-3 month size)
  • Weather-appropriate outerwear (coat, bunting, or blanket)
  • Hat and mittens
  • Socks or booties
  • Swaddle blankets (2)
  • Receiving blankets
  • Infant car seat (properly installed before labor)
  • Burp cloths
  • Pacifiers if you plan to use them
  • Note: Hospital provides diapers, wipes, and basic baby care items

For Partner/Support Person

  • Change of clothes
  • Toiletries
  • Pillow and blanket (hospital chairs are uncomfortable)
  • Phone charger
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Entertainment (books, tablet)
  • Cash for vending machines/cafeteria
  • List of people to contact after birth
  • Camera

Important Documents

  • Insurance cards (keep in wallet)
  • Photo IDs for both parents
  • Hospital pre-registration paperwork
  • Birth plan
  • Pediatrician contact info
  • List of emergency contacts

Optional Items

  • Birth ball if hospital doesn't provide
  • Essential oils
  • Battery-operated candles
  • Favorite pillow
  • Bluetooth speaker
  • Shower shoes
  • Eye mask for sleep
  • Earplugs
  • Snacks for after delivery (you'll be hungry!)
  • Nipple shield if you've used before
  • Stool softener (though hospital usually provides)

💡 Helpful Tips

  • ✓Pack by 36 weeks - some babies come early!
  • ✓Bring items in a bag, not a suitcase (easier to manage)
  • ✓Don't overpack - you're typically there 24-48 hours for vaginal birth, 3-4 days for C-section
  • ✓Hospital provides: diapers, wipes, formula, mesh underwear, peri bottle, pads, baby clothes
  • ✓Bring your own pads if you prefer a specific brand
  • ✓Leave valuables at home
  • ✓Bring phone charger - you'll take lots of photos!
  • ✓Pack snacks - hospital food isn't always great
  • ✓Bring comfortable shoes - you'll be walking postpartum

Related Checklists

Third Trimester Checklist →Postpartum Recovery Checklist →

💾 Tip: Use your browser's print function (Ctrl/Cmd + P) to save or print this checklist for easy reference.

This checklist is a general guide. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

← View All Checklists