The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Really Need for Birth

Packing your hospital bag can feel overwhelming, whether you're a first-time mama or already have a few babies under your belt. It’s tricky to know what’s essential and what you can leave behind—often leading to either overpacking or underpacking. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

As an RN, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS), Certified Birth Doula, and a mom of three myself (having experienced both vaginal and cesarean births), I’ve seen it all in the hospital! From patients wheeling in full-sized suitcases they never touch, to moms who forget the essentials and rely on the hospital’s postpartum goodies.

There’s no "perfect" way to pack, but with a little planning, you can focus on what truly matters: snuggling your newborn instead of managing piles of laundry when you get home!

First Things First: Call Your Hospital

Each hospital has its own set of protocols for what they provide postpartum, so it's always a good idea to call ahead. Some hospitals will have everything you need, while others might have a more basic setup.

Knowing what’s available will help you avoid overpacking and bring only what’s truly necessary.

The items I’ll cover are based on what has worked best for me and my patients over the years. Tailor this list to fit your needs, and don’t feel pressured to bring everything!

Clothes for Mama

When it comes to postpartum clothes, comfort is key. You might also want to add an extra set of clothes in case you end up staying longer than expected (for example, after a c-section). A hospital gown works just fine in a pinch, but you’ll likely want a few of your own items to feel cozy and at ease.

• Comfy breastfeeding-access pajamas or a robe: Choose something that makes skin-to-skin easy with your baby.

• Nursing bras: I like to pack two types—a soft one for sensitive, dry nipples and a pumping bra for better support if I need to start pumping during hospital stay.

• Going-home outfit: High-waisted leggings and a breastfeeding-friendly shirt, like smallshow, are perfect.

• Maternity leggings: Especially useful for c-section moms, so the waistband doesn’t rub against your incision.

• Slides: Easily washable sandals so you're not walking barefoot around the hospital.

Baby Essentials

Newborns don’t need much in the hospital! Most hospitals will provide the basics, such as diapers, wipes, swaddles, and even bottles. Here’s what I recommend packing for your little one:

• Going-home outfit: A simple footed sleeper is a good option. If it doesn’t have footies, pack socks.

• Swaddle blankets: I personally love bringing two of my own. They're softer and work great for swaddling or as a backdrop for announcement photos.

• Pacifier: If you plan on using one, you might want to bring it along.

Toiletries for Mama

This section is all about feeling refreshed and human again! Pack what you know will make you feel your best during your stay:

• Headband, hair ties, and bobby pins: Keep your hair out of your face.

• Face wash and moisturizer: A little skincare can make a big difference.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Fresh breath is essential!

• Makeup: If you like, pack something light like under-eye brightener and lip balm.

• Shower toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

Optional but Helpful Items

Some products are great to have on hand, depending on your hospital’s offerings. Here are a few extras you may want to consider:

• Upside-down peri bottle: Most hospitals will give you a standard one, but an upside-down version is so much easier to use, especially after a vaginal delivery.

• Perineal spray: Dermoplast is often provided for pain relief, but I found additional sprays like Motherlove's can be soothing.

• Tucks pads: Helpful for hemorrhoids or perineal tears. Check if your hospital provides them, but it's never a bad idea to have extra!

  

• Ice packs: Frida Mom ice packs were a game changer for me after delivery. And for home use I love the Lansinoh ones that I always keep in the freezer (I use them for the kids later on for every new bump).

• Adult diaper underwear: The hospital will provide mesh undies, but a more secure option like Rael can feel more comfortable, especially overnight and they're disposable.

• Nipple balm: Lanolin is usually provided, but I prefer to bring my own (like Motherlove, which is lanolin-free and gentler on sensitive skin).

  

• Abdominal binder: For c-section mamas, this can make a huge difference in comfort, especially when getting out of bed.

• Nursing pillow (Boppy): Extra pillows can work just fine, but if you prefer, bringing your own nursing pillow can help with positioning baby.

• Boon Throve: You likely won’t need this right away since your milk may not come in until after you’re home, but it's nice to have if you feel engorged and want to take just a little milk out. It is small and comfortable to use, the silicone is thick makes it easy to use and much more comfortable on the breast than the Haakaa in my opinion.

  

• Water bottle: You can use the hospital's giant cup, but if you prefer your own, bring it along.

• Blanket: Some moms prefer their own blanket from home for extra comfort.

Brands I Love for Postpartum Products:

• Frida Mom

• Motherlove

• Legendairy Milk

Pack What Works for You!

What you pack should cater to your own needs and situation. For example, if you’re scheduled for a c-section, you can skip perineal sprays. If you're someone who doesn't mind using the hospital's postpartum supplies, you may not need to pack as much. This list is meant to give you a starting point so you can feel more prepared and focus on what truly matters.

Grab My Full Hospital and Postpartum Checklist!

Want to take the guesswork out of hospital bag packing? I’ve created a free checklist that includes everything you need for yourself, your partner, and your baby.

You’ve got this, Mama! Let this packing guide lighten your load—literally—and help ease some of the unknowns surrounding birth and postpartum.

You’re going to do great! ❤️