What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Moms
- Jenna Speir
- May 19
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 2
Disclaimer:
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of these links (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting my content!
Please note, this list contains my most recommended items for your hospital bag. For a full, downloadable checklist with everything you'll need (and some extra tips), be sure to grab it at the end of the post!
Okay, mama, it’s almost time! Packing your hospital bag can feel like a huge task—what do you even need for this big event? Well, don’t worry. I’m here to guide you through packing your hospital bag without overpacking or stressing out.
This post covers my most recommended items that I’ve found to be super helpful when preparing for the hospital. And if you want the full checklist, including a few extra tips and reminders, I’ve got a downloadable version at the end of this post.
Let’s get to it!
Personal Hospital Gown
Let’s be real—the hospital gowns they give you aren’t winning any fashion awards. If you want something comfortableand easy to move in, pack your own personal hospital gown. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference in how you feel. And when you’re trying to get through a long day of labour, comfort is key.
This hospital gown is super soft and has breastfeeding and back access in the case of an epidural!
Slides or Slippers
The hospital floors are cold, and they definitely don’t have the best foot-feels. So, pack some slides or slippers. Trust me, you’ll be walking around more than you expect, and you’ll want something easy to slip on. Bonus points if they have non-slip soles—you don’t want to be doing a slip ‘n slide routine between contractions.
These slides are like walking on a cloud. These slippers are UGG without the price - you
can't go wrong!
Button-Down Pyjamas
You’re going to need something comfortable when you’re resting or recovering. A good set of button-down PJs is perfect for breastfeeding. These are also good for skin-to-skin time after birth—easy access when you need it. Plus, they help you feel a little more human after everything settles down.
Cozy Socks
Here’s the thing—hospital floors are cold. Even with blankets and the warmest gown, your feet will likely feel chilly at some point. Not to mention, if you wind up with a c-section, the OR is absolutely freezing (I know because I lived it - having numb AND cold feet will be burned into my memory)!
That’s where cozy socks come in. Bring a couple of pairs for extra comfort. You’ll appreciate it when you’re trying to relax.
Handheld Fan
Hospitals can get hot, especially if you’re in labour. A handheld fan is a lifesaver. It’ll help you cool down when the hot flashes hit, or just when you want a little breeze during a long waiting period. Definitely worth the space in your bag.
This super cute fan is rechargeable!
Headphones
Whether you want to listen to a relaxing playlist or tune out the background noise, a good pair of headphones is essential. They’ll help you focus during labour and give you some peace and quiet when you need a moment to recharge.
Lip Balm
Nothing is worse than dry, chapped lips - in my opinion! Hospital air is dry, and your lips will thank you for having lip balm on hand. You’ll probably be doing a lot of talking (and breathing), so keep your lips hydrated and comfortable.
Extra-Long Phone Charger
You’ll be using your phone for pictures, videos, and important calls, so make sure to bring an extra-long charger. Trust me, you don’t want your phone dying when you need it most. Hospital outlets are often far from your bed, and this charger will make sure your phone stays powered through the whole experience.
White Noise Machine with Light
Hospitals are noisy—beeps, voices, and all sorts of other sounds. A white noise machine will help drown out some of the chaos. A soft night light will make the room feel a bit more peaceful when it’s time to rest and during those midnight wakings with a baby.
This is the white noise machine I swear by - I have it in both my kids rooms and use it every night (my son is almost 4 and it still works!).
Pillow and Case
Hospital pillows aren’t exactly luxurious. Bring a comfy pillow from home to make your recovery more comfortable. Plus, a pillow will help with postpartum recovery if you need extra support while resting.
Partner's Hospital Bag
Let’s not forget about your partner. They’ll be with you throughout the whole process, so they deserve to be comfortable too!
Something to Read or Occupy Time: Your partner will likely have some down time while you’re resting or when the baby arrives. Make sure they have something to read or do—whether that’s a book, a puzzle, or even something to keep them distracted when things are slow.
Deodorant & Extra Undies: Everyone needs to feel fresh, especially during a long hospital stay. Pack some deodorant and extra underwearfor your partner. They’ll appreciate it.
Additional Items for C-Section Recovery:
If you’re having a C-section, you may want to include a few extra items:
Belly Binder or Support Band: Helps provide relief and stability while recovering.
High-Waisted Underwear: Comfortable and won’t rub against your incision.
Extra Comfy Pads: The hospital will provide some, but bring your preferred brand if you have one.
What NOT to Pack:
The hospital has a lot of the essentials you’ll need—like diapers, pads, peri bottles, and baby clothes. Don’t worry about packing extra towels or baby clothes unless you have a personal preference. Focus on what you’ll need to feel comfortable and supported.
Packing Tip: Pre-Pack What You Can!
To save yourself some stress, pre-pack your bag as much as possible. Keep a checklist on top of the bag so you can quickly toss in any last-minute items, like your phone charger or toothbrush. Having everything ready to go will make things smoother when it’s time to head to the hospital.
Final Thoughts:
Packing your hospital bag doesn’t have to be complicated. The most important things you’ll need are your breath, your support system, and your mind. The hospital will take care of the rest.
Need a printable version of this checklist to stay organized? Download my free hospital bag checklist now and be fully prepared for your big day!
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is based on personal experience and general advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for specific medical advice or recommendations.
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