Not sure what to pack for hospital birth? These are the absolute essentials to add to your hospital bag checklist!
We’re just sharing the absolute musts that moms say they are glad they added to their hospital bag checklist before the baby came.
Trying to think of what to pack for hospital birth can be overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time mom. So let’s ease that stress so you can relax while you wait for your little one’s arrival instead of getting hung up on the hospital bag checklist.
Over 20 moms gave us the inside scoop on what they thought were the most important things they packed in their hospital bag, and what they wish they would have added to their hospital bag checklist and missed. And of course, I add my own 2cents.
Use your own judgment too. This list is full of suggestions, but if you know you have worn a robe and absolutely hate them, then maybe skip it and get a comfy cardigan instead (that’s what I did).
Also consider packing your bag with plenty of time left in your pregnancy so you’re not struggling to get it together while you’re big belly is getting in the way. Plus, birth plans change you never know if things could happen a little early.
Plus, I’ve included some affiliate links, so if you purchase anything from this list I get a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Essential Hospital Bag Checklist:
- Insurance info
- Birth Plan (extra copies)
- Essential Oils (there are awesome PMS blends that helped me with lower back discomfort during birth)
- Comfy Outfits (Pregnancy yoga pants, soft t’s, and warm socks were my go-to)
- Robe or Sweater (I loved having a big comfy cardigan.)
- FridaMom Peri Bottle (So much nicer than the peri bottles they give you at the hospital)
- Pads and/or Mom Diapers (The hospital will usually have some for you, but if you have a preferred brand or style, then bring them)
- Breastpump (If you don’t have one, check out Aeroflow where they help you get one for free from your insurance.)
- Haakaa (Catch all the liquid gold leaking out while you nurse on the other side)
- Lanolin
- Facewash, Body wash, Shampoo, Conditioner (and one mom also recommended a detangling spray because you’ll probably be too tired to get all the knots out. The hospital usually has this stuff there, but you might prefer your own.)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Lip gloss or chapstick
- Water Bottle (The hospital will have cups, but I liked having my own water bottle that could hold much more water.)
- Nursing bra/tank
- Slippers
- Hairbands, Headbands, and Bobby Pins
- Hairbrush
- Phone
- Charger for Phone (One mama made the awesome tip to get on that is extralong so it can reach where you need it to!)
- Favorite playlist (My hubby played a specific birth playlist for me and it definitely helped me out a ton!)
- Noise-canceling headphones (So you can tune out all that’s going on and focus.)
- Skincare and Makeup (I didn’t bring a lot, but I did like going through the routine of some basic skincare to feel more like a human again after that first postbirth shower)
- Your own towels, pillow, and blanket (Some mamas just can’t get comfy with the ones at the hospital)
- Snacks (Pro-mom tip so you have fuel for late-night nursing sessions)
- Going home outfit for you (I usually pack my favorite pregnancy outfit that is comfy. You’ll still need to wear your pregnancy clothes for a while.)
- Going home outfit for the baby/ies (I always chose a comfy sleeper.)
- Extra newborn clothes for at hospital (Sleepers with zippers are my fav)
And you’re all set! Follow this list curated by REAL moms and you’ll be ready to go for your hospital birth. And once you’ve got your bag packed and ready, head over here to read my twin hospital birth story for some inspo.
