Start with the Essentials
Let’s be honest: hospital bag checklists can feel a little… much. Do you really need four different nursing bras and a Bluetooth speaker for your “power birth” playlist? Maybe. Maybe not. This guide — What to Pack (and Skip) in Your Hospital Bag — is here to help you cut through the noise.
Whether you’re a minimalist or an over-preparer (we see you with your color-coded packing cubes), this list will help you focus on what actually matters — and what you can leave at home without guilt.
Here’s what you actually need for you:
- ID and insurance card (boring but important)
- Your birth preferences or birth plan if you’ve made one
- Comfy labor clothes (a loose robe, a tank top, or nothing at all — wear what feels right)
- Nursing-friendly bra or tank if you plan to breastfeed
- Socks or slippers with grip — hospital floors are not warm or cozy
- Lip balm — labor can make your lips dry (who knew?)
- Hair ties or clips — you’ll want your hair out of your face
- Toiletries — toothbrush, deodorant, dry shampoo, moisturizer
- Phone charger (long cord = lifesaver)
For after birth:
- High-waisted underwear (the mesh ones from the hospital are great, but bring your own if you prefer)
- Going-home outfit (think soft, stretchy, and not your pre-pregnancy jeans)
- Snacks — protein bars, trail mix, dried fruit. Hospital food isn’t always… energizing
For Baby:
- Going-home outfit
- A swaddle or blanket
- Car seat (installed ahead of time!)
- Optional extras: A hat, a pacifier, a name sign for that first photo if you’re into that kind of thing
What you don’t need:
- Diapers and wipes — the hospital has them
- A dozen baby outfits — they’ll mostly be snuggled on you
- Bottles or formula unless you’re bringing your own for specific reasons
For Your Partner or Support Person
- Change of clothes
- Snacks and drinks
- Toiletries and charger
- Pillow and blanket (hospital ones are… functional but not cozy)
- A reminder that you’re the patient, not them (kidding… sort of)
Optional but Nice-to-Haves
- Bluetooth speaker or headphones if music helps you relax
- Massage oil or tennis ball for back pressure
- Birth affirmation cards or photos that make you feel powerful
- Your own pillow with a non-white pillowcase
- Eye mask or cozy blanket
What You Can Definitely Skip
- Anything uncomfortable or fancy
- Your pre-pregnancy jeans (we repeat: do not pack these)
- A whole library of birth books — at this point, you’ve done the reading
- High heels (don’t laugh — it’s happened)
Final Thoughts
Your hospital bag doesn’t have to be Pinterest-perfect. It just needs to hold the items that help you feel comfortable, safe, and supported. You’re not moving in — you’re showing up, birthing a human, and going home with a new family member. The rest is optional. Let What to Pack (and Skip) in Your Hospital Bag be your guide, and know that however you pack it, you’ve got this.
Need help creating a birth plan to pack along with your bag? Or want a doula who will remember what you forgot? Nature and Nourish Birthing Co. is here for it.
