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I watched about 5,000 friends go off to have a baby before I did it myself (OK, it just felt that way from all the baby gifts I bought). And while these friends often kept the medical details to themselves (I wish they hadn’t!), they all shared tips about what to pack in a hospital bag.
One friend overprepared for their baby by bringing two duffel bags filled with onesies, blankies, stuffies, and even a supply of baby booties. Another friend’s husband packed enough food in a cooler to start a sandwich shop. One friend forgot all her own stuff but made sure her baby and husband were taken care of (#mombrain). It’s the parents who’ve done it before (i.e., those welcoming their second or third baby) who really know what to pack in a hospital bag.
With help from those expert parents, I’ve created the ultimate packing list just for you.
Share or print the ultimate hospital bag checklist + the FAQ’s that all new parents need to know!
- Printable Hospital Bag Checklist and FAQ’s
- Top 11 Items for Your Hospital or Birth Center Bag
- Packing a Hospital Bag FAQs
- What should I not pack in my hospital bag?
- When should I pack my hospital bag?
- Should I pack two bags for the hospital?
- How many outfits should I bring to the hospital for the baby?
- What should I clean before the baby arrives?
- Should I pack diapers for my hospital bag?
- Should I bring formula to the hospital?
- What do hospitals and birth centers provide after birth?
- Get Ready To Meet Your Baby
Top 11 Items for Your Hospital or Birth Center Bag
1. A Nursing Bra: Soma ENBLISS Luxe Nursing Convertible Bralette
You’re definitely going to need a nursing bra (or two or three) for the next few months, so make it a good one! The ENBLISS Nursing Bra is a win because you can easily unclip it to breastfeed and continue wearing it comfortably beyond nursing. Stretchy and comfy, this bra will go with you through the postpartum journey and accommodate your changing body in the days and weeks to come.
2. Postpartum Underwear: Bodily The All-In Panty 3-Pack
Can you say high-waisted? Well, you will. Especially if you’ve had a C-section. Either way, the higher the waist, the more comfortable you’ll likely be. You’ll also want super-soft micromodal fabric and a full-cut shape to help hold those pads or padsicles in place. These All-In undies work from pregnancy through postpartum, and they come in a three-pack, since you’re not doing laundry anytime soon.
3. Postpartum Pajamas: In My Jammers Women’s Pajama Set
You may have visitors and need to breastfeed, so you’ll want comfortable pajamas that are presentable, too. Bottom line: People will be taking pics! This two-piece pajama set has drawstring bottoms and a feeding-friendly, button-up top. It’s made of 95% bamboo, so it’s designed to feel cool and comfortable, which can be especially nice when your body temperature is all over the place during postpartum recovery.
4. A Toiletry Kit for the Hospital: Public Goods Full Body Essentials Set
The hospital may provide the basics, but you can do better. Come prepared with your own toiletry kit. This one from Public Goods includes shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. Add your toothbrush and hairbrush, and you’ve got your toiletry essentials covered!
5. An Electrolyte Drink Mix: Hydrant Electrolyte Packets for Hydration
A doula friend always says, “Dehydration is labor’s worst enemy.” She loves these electrolyte packets for herself and her clients. This pack comes with 30 packets in three flavors, so the next time your partner or mother-in-law asks what they can get you, hand them a packet and send them off to mix up a drink.
6. A Portable Fan: JISULIFE Handheld Portable Mini Fan
Trust us, you’ll be THRILLED to have this between contractions. This mini fan can help you stay cool and comfortable, with a little background noise to tune out some of the activity around you. It’s rechargeable and small enough to fit in your purse or toiletry bag.
7. A Comfortable Going-Home Outfit for Mom: Ingrid + Isabel Ultimate Maternity and Nursing Pullover and Fold Down Maternity Jogger
A matching set always looks “put together,” even when it’s sweats. That’s why we love this cozy nursing pullover and matching joggers from Ingrid + Isabel. Both pieces are designed for comfort and can be worn during pregnancy and postpartum, making them a cozy option for the trip home from the hospital, too.
8. A Cozy Going-Home Outfit for Baby: Burt’s Bees Baby Take Me Home 3-Piece Set
You’ll want a warm, cozy outfit that’s ready for a photo op, too! This unisex set from Burt’s Bees Baby checks all the boxes. Plus, we love a cross-front top that doesn’t have to go over your baby’s head. It’s made from 100% organic cotton that’s GOTS-certified and breathable, making it a cozy option for your newborn’s trip home.
9. A Nursing Pillow: Boppy Nursing Pillow for Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding Support
The Boppy pillow is something you’ll use a lot, starting practically from day one! It can help position your baby during breastfeeding or bottle feeding, and both you and your feeding partners can make good use of it. The cover comes off for easy laundering, and you can buy extra covers, too. This one deserves a spot on your baby registry and your hospital bag list!
10. Postpartum Cooling Pads: Lansinoh Postpartum Cooling Pads
These babies are going to be your new best friends (not kidding). These postpartum cooling pads offer convenient, ready-to-use relief for perineal discomfort after delivery. Infused with organic aloe vera and witch hazel, they’re individually wrapped and designed to cool and soothe when you need it most. They’re a thoughtful addition to your postpartum essentials from Lansinoh.
11. Organic Baby Formula: Bobbie Organic Baby Formula
Packing a can of formula is a smart way to prepare if you plan to bottle-feed or want formula available as a feeding option after delivery. Check with your hospital ahead of time to see what they provide and whether you can bring your own. If you’re packing powdered formula, ask your care team about safe preparation and whether you’ll need to bring water and feeding supplies.
Shop Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
Bobbie Organic Infant Formula is a USDA Organic, EU-style infant formula that meets all FDA requirements. It is a complete nutrition milk-based powder modeled after breast milk and is easy on tummies. It is non-GMO and doesn't have corn syrup, palm oil, or maltodextrin. Learn more about Bobbie.
What To Pack in Your Hospital Bag
For the Birthing Person
Basics
- Toiletries
- Hair dryer (if needed)
- Towel (check whether your hospital provides one)
- 2–3 printed copies of your birth plan
- Photo ID, insurance card, and credit card
- Cell phone and charger, ideally a long charging cable
Clothing
- 2 comfortable outfits
- Pajamas, preferably with easy access for feeding
- Cozy sweater or robe
- Comfortable slippers, slip-ons, or socks with non-slip grips
- Shower shoes
- 2 nursing bras, if planning to breastfeed
- 4 pairs of comfortable underwear (high-waisted styles may feel better after a C-section)
Optional Comfort Measures
- Personal comfort items (e.g., a photo of your pet, favorite pillow, or blanket)
- Birth playlist and speaker, plus a charger
- Small portable fan, plus a charger if needed
- Aromatherapy items, if permitted by your hospital
- Drinks and hydration essentials (e.g., a water bottle, electrolyte drinks, or coconut water)
- Nursing or feeding pillow, if desired
- Maternity or maxi pads, if you prefer to bring your own
For the Partner
- Water bottle
- Snacks or light meals for both of you (choose options with minimal odors and packaging noise, since smells and sounds can be distracting during labor)
- Photo ID, credit card, cash, and change for vending machines
- Insurance card, if needed
- Pajamas
- 2 changes of clothes
- Toiletries for an overnight stay
- Cell phone and charger
For the Newborn
- Properly installed car seat appropriate for your baby’s size and weight
- Going-home outfit
- Hat, if needed for the weather
- Socks or booties
- Blanket for the trip home (remove it from between your baby and the car seat harness)
- Formula, if desired (check with your hospital ahead of time to confirm its feeding policies and whether you can bring your preferred organic infant formula)
Packing a Hospital Bag FAQs
What should I not pack in my hospital bag?
Don’t pack anything you aren’t willing to sacrifice to the cause. Birth can be messy, and items sometimes get lost. Leave your favorite white sweater and engagement ring at home.
If you plan to pump, check with your hospital or birth center to see if a breast pump will be available. Many hospitals have hospital-grade pumps, but availability and access vary.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
I recommend packing well before your due date, ideally by 37 weeks, even if your bags sit in the closet for a few weeks.
Should I pack two bags for the hospital?
Try packing one bag for the birthing person and a second shared bag for the partner and baby, since they may need less. Some people also bring a cooler with food and drinks, but check your hospital’s policies first.
How many outfits should I bring to the hospital for the baby?
One going-home outfit, plus a hat and socks or booties, should be enough. Long-sleeved footed pajamas or a long-sleeved shirt and pants set can be cozy options for the trip home. Choose an outfit that fits your baby, and make sure bulky clothing doesn’t interfere with the car seat harness.
What should I clean before the baby arrives?
Clean and sterilize bottle-feeding equipment and breast pump parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wash baby clothes, burp cloths, crib sheets, changing table covers, blankets, and nursing pillow covers — basically, anything that will come into contact with your baby’s skin. Doing this in advance can save you time later.
Should I pack diapers for my hospital bag?
Not usually, unless you prefer a specific brand. Hospitals and birth centers typically provide diapers and wipes during your stay, and some let you take home any remaining supplies from opened packages. Check with your facility ahead of time.
Should I bring formula to the hospital?
Hospitals and birth centers typically have formula and bottles available for bottle-feeding. If you prefer a specific type or an organic formula brand, like Bobbie, call ahead to ask whether you can bring your own.
What do hospitals and birth centers provide after birth?
Many hospitals and birth centers provide some of the following items, but supplies vary, so call ahead to confirm:
- Mesh underwear
- Nipple cream
- Breast pumps
- Basic toiletries (e.g., soap and shampoo)
- Hospital gowns and non-slip socks
- Postpartum care items (e.g., peri bottles, witch hazel pads, and maxi pads)
- Standard pillows and blankets
- Water, ice, juice, and cups
- Vending machines or cafeteria food
- Diapers, wipes, and diaper cream
- Onesies, baby blankets, and hats
- Pacifiers, bottles, and formula
Pack any of these items if you’d prefer to use your own or want a specific brand, such as your favorite diapers, toiletries, breast pump, or formula.
Get Ready To Meet Your Baby
Packing your hospital or birth center bag is a big milestone! With these lists, you can feel more prepared to welcome your little one and focus on what matters most: meeting your baby.
As you finish packing your hospital bag, you can also start thinking about what you’ll need for feeding your baby. Every family’s feeding journey looks different, and having options ready can help you feel more confident in those first few days. Explore Bobbie Organic Infant Formula to learn more about your formula-feeding options.
