Packing your hospital bag is one of the most surreal milestones of pregnancy. It’s the moment when it starts to feel real—you’re going to have a baby, and soon! But as you stare at your half-packed bag (or bags), you may find yourself wondering: What do I actually need? What if I forget something? How do I pack for the biggest unknown of my life?

You’re not alone in these questions. Preparing for labour and delivery is unlike planning a weekend getaway or even a longer trip—because let’s face it, you have no idea how long you’ll be there, what you’ll feel like, or exactly what you’ll need.

So how do you balance packing the essentials without looking like you’re moving in for a month? Here’s a guide to help.

When to Have Your Bag Ready

Most experts recommend having your hospital bag packed by 36 weeks, just in case your little one decides to make an early appearance. If you’re a planner, you might want to start earlier and gradually add to it. If you’re a procrastinator, aim to have the essentials packed at least a few weeks before your due date.

A good rule of thumb: keep the bag somewhere easily accessible, like near the front door or in your car, so you’re ready to grab it and go when the time comes.

The Essentials: What to Pack for You, Baby, and Your Partner

For You:

• Comfortable Clothes for Labor: A loose nightgown or oversized t-shirt you don’t mind getting messy, though hospitals often provide gowns.
• After-Birth Clothes: Loose, comfy outfits like maternity leggings, joggers, or nursing-friendly tops. Think “cozy lounge mode.”
• Underwear: Big, comfy, preferably high-waisted ones you don’t mind parting with. (Hint: mesh hospital undies are your friend!)
• Maternity Pads or Adult Diapers: Yes, they’re bulky, but postpartum bleeding is real.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wipes, lip balm (hospitals can be dry), hair ties, and a basic skincare routine to help you feel human.
• Flip-Flops or Slippers: For pacing the halls or bathroom trips.
• Snacks: Labor can be long, and hospital food may not hit the spot. Granola bars, dried fruit, or crackers are great options.
• Entertainment: A book, Kindle, playlist, or headphones for distraction during early labor or downtime.

For Baby:

• Going-Home Outfit: Keep it simple—a soft onesie and a hat. Consider the weather.
• Blanket: For the car ride home.
• Nappies and Wipes: Some hospitals provide these, but it’s always good to have a stash.
• Baby’s Car Seat: Install it in advance—you won’t be allowed to leave without it.

For Your Partner/Support Person:

• Comfortable Clothes and Toiletries: They might be there for the long haul too.
• Phone Charger (with a Long Cable): Those outlets are never conveniently placed.
• Snacks and Drinks: For energy during labor and long waits.
• Pillow and Blanket: If they’re planning to stay overnight, the hospital chairs aren’t exactly luxurious.

The “Nice-to-Haves” That Make a Difference

If space allows, these extras can make your hospital stay more comfortable:

• Nursing Pillow: To support you while feeding or holding baby.
• Birth Plan or Notes: If you’ve made a birth plan, bring a copy for your care team.
• Essential Oils or Comfort Items: If you think aromatherapy or a familiar blanket will help you relax.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: Hospitals are noisy, and sleep is precious.
• Your Own Towel: Hospital towels are small and scratchy.

What You Don’t Need to Pack

It’s easy to overpack, but remember: hospitals are often equipped with a lot of what you’ll need. Most provide:

• Maternity pads
• Mesh underwear
• Nappies and wipes
• Baby blankets
• Basic toiletries

Leave bulky extras like breast pumps or dozens of baby outfits at home—you can always grab them later if needed.

Packing for the Unknown

The tricky part about packing your hospital bag is that every birth experience is different. Some people stay for just a day; others are there for several nights. You might go into labor naturally, or you might need an induction or a planned cesarean.

The key is to focus on comfort and practicality. You’re packing to make yourself feel as calm and prepared as possible—not to anticipate every single scenario.

Final Tips for Packing Like a Pro

• Pack in Categories: Use packing cubes or separate bags for you, baby, and your partner to make finding things easier.
• Label Important Items: Like your birth plan, ID, and insurance information.
• Keep It Minimal: Stick to one medium-sized bag for you and baby, and let your partner bring a small backpack.
• Be Flexible: If you forget something, don’t stress. Most hospitals have the basics, and someone can always bring extra items later.

You’ve Got This

Packing your hospital bag is one of the first steps toward welcoming your baby into the world. It’s a strange mix of anticipation and uncertainty—but it’s also incredibly exciting.

Whether you overpack, underpack, or somehow manage to forget your toothbrush, it won’t matter in the end. What matters is that you’ll walk into that hospital pregnant and leave with your baby in your arms. No bag can prepare you for that moment, and that’s okay—because you’ll figure it out, suitcase or not.