New mom’s guide to packing a hospital bag
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Welcoming your baby into the world is one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life. Whether you're a first-time mama or seasoned pro, there’s one thing every mom-to-be needs to check off the list: packing a hospital bag.
But what should actually go inside? What’s overkill—and what’s a lifesaver when contractions hit at 2 a.m.? As an OB-GYN nurse practitioner and mom myself, I’ve helped hundreds of women prepare for this moment.
This guide includes must-haves for moms, partners, and babies to make your hospital stay feel a little more like home.
Pro tip
Pack your hospital bag around week 36. Babies like to surprise us!
In this article
For the mom-to-be: Birth warrior essentials
1. Must-have documents
Photo ID + Insurance Card – Keep these easily accessible, along with any hospital paperwork.
Birth Plan (if you have one) – A printed copy makes it easier for staff to honor your preferences.
2. Comfy, practical clothing
Labor & delivery gown
Frida Mom Labor and Delivery Gown
Hospital gowns are…well, not flattering. This gown is a Good Housekeeping award winner, is comfy, open in all the right places, and made for skin-to-skin and epidurals.
Nursing bra & tank tops
Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Bra
Soft, very comfortable, wire-free and easy-access. Moms swear by this nursing bra for comfort during those first feeds.
Maternity robe
Ekouaer Maternity Gown and Robe Set
Soft, breathable, and made for those first sweet moments with your baby. With easy nursing access and a cozy robe for extra comfort, it helps you feel like you again—whether you're in labor, recovering, or heading home.
Grip socks
GripJoy Anti-Slip Hospital Socks
Hospitals can be chilly, and you’ll want traction if you’re walking or changing positions. These are warm, cute, and won’t slip.
Disposable postpartum underwear
Frida Mom Disposable Postpartum Underwear
Soft, stretchy, and made for real postpartum bodies. They’re way more comfortable than hospital mesh undies—and designed to hold everything from ice packs to pads while you heal.
Loose going-home outfit
Think: stretchy leggings or joggers, nursing-friendly top, and cardigan. You’ll still look six months pregnant — and that’s completely normal.
LILLUSORY Women Oversized Cardigan Sweater
Soft, cozy, and perfectly roomy for postpartum comfort. It’s easy to throw on over leggings or a nursing tank—ideal for your relaxed, feel-good trip home with baby.
CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Pregnancy Leggings Over Belly
Trust us, you’ll want these leggings when packing your hospital bag. They're stretchy, crazy soft, and make those postpartum days (and endless newborn cuddles) way more comfortable.
3. Toiletries & postpartum recovery
Travel-size toiletries (toothbrush, face wash, dry shampoo, etc.)
Lip balm
Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Lip Balm
Your lips can get seriously parched during labor and hospital air is very dry. This one’s nourishing, non-greasy, and safe to use as often as needed. The cooling eucalyptus gives soothing relief for dry lips.
Heavy-duty maternity pads
This pads are extra-absorbent, soft, and made for the heavy first days after birth. They’re long, comfy, and stay put—giving you one less thing to worry about while you heal.
Nipple cream
Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter
Soothing, lanolin-free, and safe for breastfeeding. It’s rich, healing, and gives cracked, sore nipples the gentle care they deserve—no need to wipe off before nursing.
Nursing pads
Lansinoh Stay Dry Nursing Pads
Ultra-absorbent, soft, and breathable—keeping you dry, comfortable, and confident through those first leaky days of breastfeeding.
Perineal healing foam
Frida Mom Witch Hazel Perineal Healing Foam
This will bring instant cooling relief to sore, tender areas after birth. It’s a mess-free, gentle way to soothe stitches, swelling, and all the postpartum feels.
All-in-one recovery kit
Frida Mom Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit
This kit has everything you need for those first tough days—ice packs, healing foam, disposable undies, and more—packed in one ready-to-go caddy for instant relief.
Prenatal or postpartum multivitamin
One A Day Women’s Prenatal Advanced Multivitamin
Keep taking a trusted vitamin to support healing and lactation. Packed with essential nutrients for you and your baby’s development, these prenatal vitamins are a must.
4. Comfort & distractions
Pillow from home (label it so it doesn't disappear with the laundry)
Pregnancy pillow
Hiccapop Pregnancy Wedge Pillow
Small enough to pack and a total game-changer for hospital beds. It gives your belly, back, or hips the extra support you’ll want during labor and those first nights of recovery.
Earbuds, charger, playlist, and a tablet or Kindle (labor is long, and recovery can be boring)
For the partner: The calm in the storm
Labor may be intense, but partners play a crucial role in providing support—and packing a hospital bag for them is just as important. Here’s what they’ll need to stay comfortable, energized, and ready to be your rock during delivery.
Change of Clothes (Pack enough for 2–3 days)
Sweats & sleepwear (Be ready for overnight stays)
Toiletries (Toothbrush, deodorant, and dry shampoo can go a long way)
Snacks (Protein bars, trail mix, jerky)
Refillable water bottle (Hydration = staying sharp)
Phone charger with long cable (Those outlets are never where you need them)
Notebook or notes app (For capturing sweet moments or medical info)
For the baby: Snuggles & safety
1. First outfit & accessories
Newborn hat & socks
Mommy & me set
Mommy & Newborn Outfit 4 Piece Set
If you’re packing a hospital bag for those first sweet photos, this set is a must. With a cozy robe for you and a matching swaddle and hat for baby, it’s perfect for snuggling up in style right from the start. 3 styles/colors available.
2. Baby basics
Newborn diapers and wipes (The hospital will provide some, but it’s safe to bring extra)
Swaddle blankets
Comfy Cubs Easy Swaddle Blanket
When packing a hospital bag, don’t forget soft swaddles. These cozy, easy-wrap blankets help your newborn feel snug, secure, and ready for their first sweet snuggles.
3. Car seat
Infant car seat (make sure it’s safely installed before your due date)
Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat and Base
Highly rated, easy to install, and hospital-approved for bringing your newborn home safely. It’s a trusted choice for first rides—and peace of mind.
Thoughtful extras
Small gift for hospital staff
They’re working hard to support you—why not return the love? A box of Lindt Gourmet Truffles makes a sweet and thoughtful thank-you for your hospital team. Beautifully packaged and easy to share, it’s a small gesture that can brighten a long shift. A handwritten thank-you card alongside it can mean the world.
Final tips before you zip it up
Pack early: Don’t wait till labor starts! Week 36 is ideal.
Separate bags: One for you, one for your partner, one for baby.
Keep it in the car or by the door: When it’s go-time, you’ll want it handy.
Know your hospital's policies: Some provide essentials like diapers or nipple cream—others don’t.
Closing thoughts: Your bag, your birth story
Packing a hospital bag is more than just gathering essentials—it’s about surrounding yourself with comfort, peace, and a little bit of joy. You’ve spent months preparing for this baby, so let your bag reflect what matters most to you, whether it’s your favorite robe, a lucky scrunchie, or anything that helps you feel at home.
And remember—you don’t have to pack it perfectly. Hospitals have your back (literally). You’ve got this.
FAQ: Hospital bag packing questions answered
When should I pack my hospital bag?
It’s a good idea to pack your hospital bag by week 36 of pregnancy . Babies can arrive earlier than expected, and having your bag ready helps you feel prepared and less stressed when labor begins.
What are the must-have items in a hospital bag for mom?
Essential hospital bag items for moms include:
Photo ID and insurance card
A comfortable labor and delivery gown
Maternity robe, non-slip socks, and slippers
Nursing bras and nursing pads
Toiletries and heavy-duty postpartum pads
Perineal care items like witch hazel foam
A loose, cozy outfit for going homeThese must-haves make labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery more comfortable.
What should I pack for my baby in the hospital bag?
For your newborn, pack:
A cozy going-home outfit
Baby hat, socks, and mittens
Swaddle blankets
Newborn diapers and wipes
An infant car seat (properly installed)Many hospitals provide basic baby supplies, but it’s smart to have your own essentials ready.
Do hospitals provide postpartum care products?
Most hospitals provide basic postpartum items like mesh underwear, ice packs, and peri bottles. However, many moms prefer bringing their own high-quality postpartum recovery kits, like the Frida Mom Postpartum Recovery Kit , for better comfort and care.
What should a partner pack for the hospital stay?
Partners should pack:
2–3 changes of clothes
Pajamas and slippers
Toiletries and snacks
Phone charger with a long cable
A refillable water bottle
Camera or smartphone for capturing memoriesA comfortable and prepared partner is better able to support the mom through labor and postpartum recovery.
How many outfits should I pack for the hospital?
Plan to pack 2–3 comfortable outfits for yourself, including a going-home outfit. Labor and postpartum recovery can get messy, so having a backup set of clothes is a smart idea. Stick to loose, stretchy clothing that’s easy to put on.
Should I bring my own pillow to the hospital?
Yes! Hospital pillows are often thin and not very comfortable. Bringing your own pillow (in a colored pillowcase so it doesn’t get mistaken for hospital laundry) can make your stay much more restful.
What snacks are good to pack for the hospital?
Good snacks to bring to the hospital include:
Protein bars (like RXBARs )
Trail mix and nuts
Dried fruits
Electrolyte drink mixes like Liquid I.V. Easy, shelf-stable snacks keep your energy up during long hours of labor and recovery.
Is a hospital bag necessary for a planned C-section?
Absolutely! Whether you’re planning a vaginal delivery or a C-section, packing a hospital bag is crucial. In fact, C-section moms often stay in the hospital longer (typically 2–4 days), so having comfort items, postpartum recovery products, and easy-access clothing is even more important.
What not to pack in your hospital bag?
Skip packing:
Valuables (jewelry, large amounts of cash)
Too many clothes (stick to comfy basics)
Diapers and wipes in bulk (the hospital provides some)Focus on essentials that bring comfort and make postpartum recovery easier.
The content on Awaiting the Stork™ is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified physician or healthcare professional to address your unique health needs and circumstances.
Content contribution & expert reviewed by
Mindy Motta, FNP-C
Mindy is a seasoned OB-GYN Nurse Practitioner and co-founder of Awaiting the Stork™. After overcoming her own years-long fertility journey, she now blends clinical expertise with heartfelt empathy to offer new mom advice and evidence-based support for every stage of motherhood. Mindy’s mission is to nurture confidence, connection, and clarity for women stepping into motherhood’s many joys and challenges.
