The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What Every Mom Needs for Delivery Day
Preparing for your baby’s arrival is one of the most exciting milestones of your pregnancy journey. And as your due date approaches, packing your hospital bag is a must! Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned parent, having a well-packed hospital bag makes labor and delivery smoother and more comfortable for everyone involved.
To help you get ready like a pro, we’ve created the ultimate hospital bag checklist—divided by essentials for mom, baby, and your support partner. We’ve also added when to pack and extra tips to make sure you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
👩🍼 For Mom: Must-Haves for Comfort and Confidence
The hospital will likely provide some basics like hospital gowns, mesh underwear, and pads—but having your own items can make a huge difference in your comfort. Here’s what to include in your bag:
Mom’s Essentials Checklist
| Item | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Photo ID + Insurance Card | Required at hospital check-in. |
| Phone + Charger | For communication, updates, and capturing memories. A long cable is ideal! |
| Lip Balm + Toiletries | Hospitals can be very dry. Don’t forget face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and hair ties. |
| Nursing Bras + Pads | If you plan to breastfeed, these are crucial for comfort and convenience. |
| Comfy Robe + Socks | Great for staying cozy during labor and postpartum recovery. Non-slip socks are a plus. |
| Maternity Pajamas + Going-Home Outfit | Bring soft, loose-fitting clothes. Think comfort over style! |
| Snacks + Water Bottle | Labor can be long. Stay energized and hydrated. Choose high-energy, easy-to-eat snacks. |
👶 For Baby: Tiny Essentials You’ll Be Glad You Packed
Your hospital will usually provide diapers, wipes, and some basics, but bringing your own baby items helps personalize your experience and ensures you have everything just right for your newborn.
Baby’s Bag Checklist
🍼 Approved Infant Car Seat – You won’t be discharged without one. Install it in advance.
👕 Newborn and 0–3 Month Outfits – Bring at least two of each size, including footed onesies.
🧢 Hat and Swaddle Blanket – Hospitals provide basic swaddles, but your own will be softer and photo-ready!
🛏️ Soft Blanket for the Ride Home – Keep your baby warm, especially in colder weather.
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Car Seat | Make sure it’s properly installed and tested before the big day. |
| Outfits | Babies vary in size. Having both sizes ensures a proper fit. |
| Blanket + Hat | Helps regulate baby’s temperature and keeps them cozy. |
🧍♂️ For Your Partner: Don't Forget Their Bag Too!
Labor isn’t just a waiting game—it’s a support marathon. Make sure your birth partner (whether it's your spouse, family member, or best friend) is just as prepared as you are.
Partner’s Packing List
📱 Phone + Charger
👕 Change of Clothes
🍿 Snacks & Drinks
📖 Something to Read or Watch (headphones are a plus)
💊 Daily Medications
🪥 Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant)
| Essentials for Partner | Why It’s Helpful |
|---|---|
| Change of Clothes | Labor can be long, and they’ll want to freshen up. |
| Entertainment | There may be downtime, especially during early labor. |
| Snacks | Keeps them energized—so they don’t steal yours! |
| Medications | Easy to forget but very important. |
✨ Partner Tip:
Pack together so you’re both on the same page and nothing is forgotten.
⏰ When to Pack & Final Tips
Timing your hospital bag prep can relieve a lot of last-minute stress. Ideally, you’ll want to have your bag packed and ready to go by week 35 if you’re high-risk, or by week 38 for a full-term pregnancy.
Packing Timeline
| Week | Action |
|---|---|
| Week 32–34 | Start gathering items gradually. |
| Week 35 | Finalize your bag if you’re high-risk or expecting twins. |
| Week 38 | Your bag should be ready to go by the door or packed in your car. |
✅ Final Tips Before You Go
Ask Your Hospital what they already provide (diapers, wipes, formula, etc.) so you can avoid overpacking.
Label Baby’s Bag if you’re bringing separate bags for you and baby—it makes things easier during admission.
Keep a Checklist taped to the inside of your bag in case you need to double-check before heading out.
Consider Packing Two Bags: One for labor and delivery, and one for your postpartum stay.
📌 Summary: Your Hospital Bag Checklist At a Glance
Here’s a quick recap for easy reference:
👩🍼 Mom
ID & insurance
Phone + charger
Toiletries + lip balm
Nursing bras + pads
Robe, socks, PJs, going-home outfit
Snacks + water bottle
👶 Baby
Car seat
2 outfits (NB & 0–3M)
Hat, swaddle, blanket
Mittens, burp cloths (optional)
🧍♂️ Partner
Phone + charger
Change of clothes
Snacks
Reading material
Toiletries
Medications
Ready to Pack?
Packing your hospital bag is one of the last major milestones before meeting your baby—and it can be surprisingly fun! With this guide, you’re one step closer to a smoother, more confident delivery day.
Need help finding soft PJs, newborn outfits, or hospital-friendly baby gear? Check out our Hospital Bag Essentials Collection at The Maternity Closet—we’ve got you covered with both new and preloved premium picks! 💕
