Not sure what – or how much – to pack for your hospital birth? You’re not alone. And it’s easier than you think! So put your feet up for a minute, sis. Let’s tackle this and get you closer to meeting your baby, stress-free.
You might be stressed about packing your hospital bag because you think you need a lot of stuff. But one of the beautiful things about newborns is that they really just need you. And if you’re giving birth at a hospital, they’re going to provide a lot of the other necessities like diapers, wipes, and disposable undies and pads for you.
But before you throw your phone charger and toiletry case in there and call it good, let’s go over the things that you will want to have with you! While the hospital will have the essentials covered, there are things you can bring to help you feel more comfortable, relaxed, and at home. So let’s dive in!
What to pack for labor
Exactly what to pack for your labor will depend on what matters most to you. Talk about your birth choices with your doula or partner to make a plan for what you want to bring. But regardless of how you want to labor, it’s important to feel comfortable, safe, and relaxed during labor (hello, oxytocin!) Here are some helpful items to pack for labor:
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- Copies of your birth plan for your provider and support people
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- Your ID and insurance cards, and hospital paperwork if it’s not already submitted
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- High energy snacks (honey sticks, applesauce pouches, fruit snacks, granola bars)
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- Electrolyte packs (these are my favorite), coconut water or Gatorade
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- Portable fan you can attach to the hospital bed
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- Heating pad (I love this one with lavender!)
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- Birthing comb (I have this one for my clients)
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- Bluetooth speaker for music, affirmations, or white noise
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- Diffuser and essential oils
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- String lights or battery operated candles for relaxing low lighting
What to pack for yourself
After the baby is born (and before labor, if you’re going in for an induction), you’ll want items that make you feel comfortable in the hospital room.
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- Slippers and socks
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- Comfy nursing friendly pajamas and a soft robe
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- Nursing bra
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- Pillow and blanket
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- Sound machine
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- A relaxing book, especially if you are being induced
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- Ear buds
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- Phone and charger with extra long cord
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- Hair ties
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- Lip balm
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- Toiletries
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- Medications and vitamins
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- Going home clothes – remember you’ll likely still need maternity clothes!
What to pack for your postpartum body
The hospital will probably provide several items for you, like mesh undies, giant maxi pads, a peri bottle, Dermoplast, and maybe even Tucks pads. You may still want a few of your own items to feel comfortable. If this is your first baby, bring a few options since you don’t know yet what you might like best.
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- Depends underwear (the Silhouette line is great for postpartum!)
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- Comfy high-waisted brief underwear
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- Silver nipple covers and nipple cream
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- High protein snacks (your body going into milk production mode!)
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- Heating pad for cramps as your uterus contracts down after the birth
What your partner can pack
Your partner should bring his own bag as well! Often there is so much focus on the birth itself that your partner may not think to bring things for himself. But we don’t want him stealing your snacks or fuzzy blanket, so have him grab his own duffel!
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- Snacks
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- Toiletries
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- Comfy clothes
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- Hoodie or jacket
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- Phone and long charger
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- Ear buds
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- Pillow and blanket
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- Cash for vending machines
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- Books or magazines for down time
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- List of people to call after the baby is born
What to pack for the baby
This is the simplest part! Don’t overdo it on clothes, blankets, and gear. Your baby doesn’t need much at all while you’re at the hospital. Mostly just snuggles with you!
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- Car seat
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- Going home clothes
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- Blanket
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- Props for an announcement if you’re doing photos at the hospital
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- Nursing pillow
All right, friend – I’ve put all this info on a free printable hospital bag checklist for you! Click the button below to print the checklist.
Download the Hospital Bag Checklist
Looking for more support for your birth? I’m a birth doula located in the beautiful Mountain State, West Virginia. It’s my mission to help you go into your birth feeling confident and empowered! Let’s talk about how I can help.