If you went into labor and arrived at the hospital or birth center with absolutely nothing packed, it would not be the end of the world. Sure, your partner might need to make a quick trip to buy a car seat so you can bring your baby home, but you would survive. That said, having a well-packed birth bag can make your labor, birth, and postpartum experience much more comfortable. This episode guides you through exactly what to pack for yourself, your baby, and your partner, ensuring everyone is prepared. No need to take notes; you can download a free checklist to make the process easier.

Listen Now

This episode is made possible with support from our sponsors. I appreciate your support for the brands that help power this podcast.

Article and Resources

Before You Start Packing 

Before you start filling your birth bag, consider how much time you expect to spend at the hospital or birth center. Some birth centers may send you home the same day your baby is born, while hospitals typically require you to stay for at least 24 hours. If you plan a cesarean birth, you can expect to stay several days. Ask your care provider about the anticipated length of your stay so you can pack accordingly and avoid over- or under-packing.

It is easy to get caught up in all the tasks of preparing for your baby. Parkinson’s Law suggests that work tends to expand to fill the time available, and birth bag packing is no exception. If you start packing at 20 weeks, you may spend the second half of your pregnancy constantly adding and rethinking what you need. A better plan? Listen to this episode, Download Your Birth Bag Checklist, and add any extras that feel right for you. Wait until after your baby shower to buy anything you might receive as a gift. Ideally, your bag should be packed and ready by week 37, or by week 36 if you prefer to be extra prepared. You can always toss in a few last-minute items as your due date approaches.

The Bag 

You do not need to purchase a special bag just for the hospital or birth center. Use whatever you already have that is practical and easy to carry. A duffle bag, overnight bag, or small suitcase will work perfectly. Even large canvas totes or reusable shopping bags can get the job done. The goal is functionality. You want something easy to organize, access, and carry in and out of the hospital. If you plan to stay for an extended period or are packing items for yourself, your partner, and your baby, consider bringing more than one bag and organizing the items by category or person. Avoid overpacking bulky items you might not use. If in doubt, leave it out or keep it in the car just in case. There is no right or wrong choice here; go with what makes packing and unpacking as stress-free and straightforward as possible.

How to Stay Organized

During your stay at the hospital or birth center, your partner or support person will likely be the one digging through your bag to find what you need. To make things easier for everyone, aim to keep everything organized and easily accessible. Consider using separate bags for you, your partner, and your baby. A diaper bag or backpack works well for baby items. You can also use packing cubes, clear pouches, or gallon-size Ziplock bags to group similar items together, such as toiletries, nursing supplies, or snacks. This makes it easy to grab what you need without having to rummage through everything.

Once your bag is packed, ensure your partner knows where it is stored and that it needs to accompany you when you head to the hospital or birth center. Go over what you packed and where it is in the bag. Since they will likely be the ones retrieving things, a quick walkthrough now can save a lot of stress later.

Documents

Even in the digital age, having a physical folder of important documents can be incredibly helpful. Additionally, this provides a designated space for storing papers you will receive, such as documents for your baby or discharge instructions.

Pack a few printed copies of your birth plan, a copy of your health insurance card, and your ID. Even if your provider already has digital copies, having a backup printed version is helpful if systems are down or you encounter staff who have not reviewed your file. If your hospital or birth center allows you to complete registration or admitting forms ahead of time, take advantage of that. The last thing you want to do while in labor is fill out paperwork or have your partner scrambling to do it for you.

Include a printed list of important contact numbers. This should cover your doctor or midwife, doula, pediatrician, and the hospital or birth center. You may also want to add numbers for anyone else you might need to coordinate with, such as someone picking up your placenta to encapsulate it, a birth photographer, or key friends and family.

Making the Most of Your Phone

With a bit of preparation, your phone can check off several items on your birth bag list. Here are a few ways to make the most of it, along with what you and your partner should have downloaded or saved before heading to the hospital or birth center.

Track Contractions: Download a contraction timing app and test it out in advance. Make sure both you and your partner are familiar with how it works so there is no confusion when it is go time.

Save Contact Info: Input all the key phone numbers from your printed contact list into both your phone and your partner’s. This includes your care provider, birth location, doula, pediatrician, and anyone else you may need to reach quickly.

Set the Mood with Sound: Sound can have a powerful effect on your environment. Consider downloading an app with soundscapes, white noise, or calming music. My favorite app for this is Endel. It uses science-backed sounds to help you relax, sleep, or focus. (Try it FREE for 14 days.) Hospitals can be noisy, and a soundscape may help you and your baby rest more peacefully.

Music Playlists: If you plan to listen to music during labor, download your playlists ahead of time so you can access them even without an internet connection. Do not forget to pack headphones and consider bringing a wired backup pair if you use wireless earbuds like AirPods.

Take Notes: You will be surrounded by knowledgeable professionals; take advantage of this opportunity. Use a notes app on your phone to jot down questions as they come up and to record any helpful tips or answers from your care team before you head home.

Charging Essentials: Phones are only helpful when they are charged. Bring at least one charger, a power bank if you have one, and ideally an extra-long charging cable. Longer cords are especially useful in hospital rooms where outlets may be far from the bed.

Labor Tools

Think of labor as a big event, and the more tools you have in your toolbox, the better equipped you will be to manage contractions and support your labor’s progress. If you plan to use any specific items during labor, check with your hospital or birth center ahead of time to determine if they are provided or if you need to bring your own. Every labor is different, so even if you do not end up using everything, having options can make you feel more prepared and empowered. Some common tools to consider packing include:

• A birth ball or peanut ball (if not provided by your birth location)
• Massage oil
• Guided meditations or audio tracks
• A rebozo (a shawl that can be used in many ways to offer support and comfort during labor)
• Visualization pictures or calming images (bring printed versions or save them to your phone)
• Oil for your perineum if you plan to use it as part of your strategy to help prevent tearing.
• If you plan to use any comfort techniques you learned in a birth class, pack props or prompts to remind you.

Food and Drinks 

For a long time, hospitals followed a strict policy of not allowing women in labor to eat or drink. This was a precaution based on the risk of aspiration during general anesthesia. Today, general anesthesia during labor is rare, and the risk of aspiration is extremely low. Current guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports the oral intake of moderate amounts of clear liquids during labor for mothers without complications. However, they advise against solid foods and particulate-containing fluids.

If you are giving birth at a birth center or home, you are more likely to be encouraged to eat and drink as needed. It is essential to inquire with your care provider or the birth facility about their specific policies regarding food and fluids during labor. If you want a deep dive into this topic, there is an episode that explores your body’s energy and hydration needs during labor, the evidence behind eating and drinking, and how to navigate restrictive policies. That episode also covers the ideal foods and drinks to bring when you want to eat during labor.

Mints or gum: These can help freshen your breath and may be especially appreciated if you feel nauseous or vomit. They may also be helpful for your partner or anyone else supporting you.

Snacks: If you do pack food, avoid options that are high in sugar or fat with little nutritional value. Instead, opt for healthy, easy-to-digest options that provide quick energy. Many providers recommend carbohydrates during labor. Try eating small amounts at a time rather than a full meal. Here are some simple ideas for snacks:

• Fresh fruit (like a banana or apple)
• Applesauce
• Honey sticks
• Rice cakes (you can add jam or nut butter)
• Oatmeal or cereal
• Crackers or graham crackers
• Granola or protein bars
• Trail mix

Drinks: Hydration is crucial. The ACOG recommendation is clear fluids, which can include water, juice, tea, or broth. Because labor can be physically intense, you may benefit from isotonic drinks that contain electrolytes, which help maintain hydration and energy.

Your birth partner will also need to eat and stay hydrated during labor. They may not be doing the hard physical work, but they will be expending energy and need fuel to support you effectively. If you plan a home birth, you will naturally have more access to food and drink. You may also want to plan for the people who will be supporting you, such as your doula or midwife.

Clothing for Labor and Recovery

Labor can be messy, so be prepared for any clothing you wear to get stained. Most hospitals will provide, and often require, a hospital gown. These gowns are designed for function, with an open back for easy access if you receive an epidural. However, they are not always the most comfortable. If you prefer, you can purchase and bring your own gown if you do not want to wear one provided by the hospital.

If you plan to use hydrotherapy (such as laboring in a shower or tub), pack a sports bra or a bathing suit top. If you are comfortable going topless, that is perfectly fine, too.

After you give birth, you will experience lochia, which is postpartum bleeding that can be heavy in the first few days. Expect to wear thick pads and possibly stain your clothing. Your birth venue should provide maxi pads, and you can bring your own if there is a specific brand or style you prefer. Hospitals and birth centers usually offer disposable underwear. If you prefer your own, consider buying high-waisted, soft underwear or specialty postpartum products. The All-In Panty from Bodily is an excellent option.

Comfort and functionality are key when choosing what to wear after birth. Your belly will be smaller after birth, but you will still look around five months pregnant. Pack soft, stretchy clothing that allows for skin-to-skin contact and provides easy access for breastfeeding. A nursing bra or top can make breastfeeding more convenient. Button-up shirts work well and allow for skin-to-skin without needing a bra. A bathrobe can be cozy for cuddling your baby or covering up when walking around. Hospital rooms tend to be chilly, so bring a sweatshirt or sweater and a warm pair of socks.

Keep your footwear simple. Pack sandals or flip-flops that you can wear in the shower. You might also experience swelling in your feet and ankles, so flexible, easy-on shoes are helpful. Some parents bring slippers, but keep in mind that they will likely get dirty walking around the hospital. If the weather is cool when you are discharged, bring sneakers and socks for the trip home.

Toiletries and Personal Care

Hospitals and birth centers typically provide basic toiletries, but if you have a favorite product or prefer your own, feel free to bring it. Since you will be spending a lot of time skin-to-skin and breastfeeding, it is a good idea to avoid heavily fragranced products. When packing toiletries, think of it like packing for a night or two away from home. You want to brush your teeth, wash your face, and feel clean and refreshed in the morning. You do not need a complete two-week vacation kit or your best products for a night out. Do not forget that your partner may also need toiletries. Sharing the basics or packing a small Dopp kit for them can be helpful. Here are some essentials to consider:

• Maxi pads (your birth location will likely provide these, but you can bring your own if you prefer a specific brand)
• Any medications or prescriptions you take regularly
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion
• Skincare products like face wash or moisturizer
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush, along with any ties, clips, or headbands you use
• Lip balm (hospitals can be very dry)
• Minimal makeup, if desired. You may want to touch up for a photo or two, but your focus will be on bonding with your baby, not glamming up.  

Essentials for Your Baby

Your baby will not require many items during your hospital or birth center stay, but a few thoughtful additions can make the experience more comfortable for both of you.

Clothing: Pack a couple of soft, comfortable outfits, such as bodysuits or onesies. Skin-to-skin contact is essential in those early hours and days, so you may prefer to keep your baby in just a diaper with a blanket over them while they are on your chest. If your outfits do not cover your baby’s feet, bring a few pairs of socks to keep them warm.

Going Home Outfit: Some parents choose a special going-home outfit for their baby, especially if they plan to take photos or expect visitors. However, if you are going straight home and not seeing anyone, don’t feel pressured to dress your baby up. Comfort is key. This will be their first experience wearing clothes, and something soft and simple is best. Consider the season and local weather when choosing what to pack for the ride home.

Blankets and Swaddles: The hospital or birth center will likely provide swaddle blankets, but if you have a favorite soft swaddle or receiving blanket, feel free to bring it. A blanket can also be helpful in the car seat if it is chilly when you leave. You may also consider some burp cloths. Remember that whatever you bring, you will need to pack up and take home, and wash. Keep it simple to avoid extra laundry.

Accessories: Many parents chose to put a knit hat on their baby after birth. It is common for a baby born vaginally to have a slightly cone-shaped head, which is the result of squeezing through the birth canal. If that happens, do not worry, it is temporary, and your baby’s head will round out soon. Another common accessory is mittens. Some babies scratch themselves with their fingernails, and mittens can help prevent that. However, not all parents use them. Babies often find comfort in having access to their hands, and any scratches will heal quickly. If you plan to use mittens, pack a pair.

Diapers and Wipes: Most hospitals and birth centers provide diapers and wipes. If you have a preferred brand, you are welcome to bring your own. If you plan to use cloth diapers, consider waiting until you get home. Your baby’s first few bowel movements will be meconium, which is thick, sticky, and likely to stain. Expect to use about 10 diapers in the first few days.

Breastfeeding

We already covered nursing-friendly clothing, but there are a few other items you may want to include in your birth bag to support breastfeeding. In the first few days after birth, your body produces colostrum, which is the nutrient-rich early milk. It usually takes a few days for your full milk supply to come in, and frequent nursing is one of the best ways to support this transition. Feeding your baby often helps stimulate milk production and encourages a strong breastfeeding relationship.

Breast Pump: You probably do not need to bring a breast pump. Hospitals typically have pumps available if you need one, although a birth center may not have them. Some expecting mothers use a pump or manual nipple stimulation during labor to help encourage contractions, but unless that is part of your birth plan, you can likely leave it at home.

Nursing Pads and Nipple Cream: If you have reusable pads or disposable nursing pads, toss a few into your bag. You may not leak much in the early days, but having them on hand can help you feel more comfortable. If you have a favorite nipple balm or cream, bring that as well; it can offer relief as you and your baby learn to latch.

Nursing Pillow: A nursing pillow is one of the most helpful tools for new parents. While it can be bulky and take up space in your hospital bag, it may be worth bringing. A nursing pillow supports your baby’s weight, helps you find a comfortable position for feeding, and can make a big difference in those early days. It also helps reduce strain on your arms and back and can support a better latch as you and your baby learn to breastfeed.

Partner Essentials

Your partner should have a bag of their own, or at least a few essential items packed in yours. If you plan to labor in water or have a water birth, they may want to bring swimwear in case they join you in the tub or shower to offer support.

Labor can be long and physically demanding for partners, too. They should wear comfortable clothes and pack at least one change of clothes (more if you expect to stay for more than a day). If an overnight stay is likely, a small pillow or a few items from home may help them rest more comfortably if they have the chance to sleep.

If your partner is planning to give you a push present, this is the time to bring it. A push present is a small gift to mark the occasion. Not everyone does this, and it is entirely optional. If you look forward to receiving a push present, ensure your partner is in the loop.

If You Have Other Children  

If your other children will be visiting or staying with you at the hospital or birth center, be sure to pack a few items to keep them comfortable and entertained. Snacks, books, small toys, or a tablet loaded with games or movies can help pass the time and make the transition easier. Some families like to bring a small gift from the new baby to the older sibling, or vice versa, as a way to foster connection and make the experience feel special.

Miscellaneous Items

There are a few miscellaneous items you may want to toss into your birth bag.

Glasses or Contacts: If you or your partner wears glasses or contacts, pack them and do not forget your contact lens case and saline solution.

Wallet and Cash: Have your ID, insurance card, and some cash on hand in case you need to purchase something from a hospital vending machine that may not accept cards. Your partner should also have identification in case the hospital requests it.

Camera: If you plan to bring a camera, remember extra memory cards, batteries, or a charger. That said, your phone may be all you need since modern smartphones take excellent photos.

Comfort Items: Consider bringing anything that makes you feel more at home. A favorite pillow, blanket, or even a towel can make a hospital or birth center feel more personal. If you do bring a pillow, use a colored pillowcase so it doesn’t get confused with the hospital bedding. Some parents go a step further and bring framed photos or small decorations. Do whatever helps you feel relaxed and supported in your space. There is an entire episode on how to create a more comfortable birth environment with ideas to help transform even a clinical setting into a calming place.

Gratitude for Staff: Some parents like to bring treats or small thank-you gifts for hospital or birth center staff, like baked goods or packaged snacks. It is never expected, but it is always appreciated and a kind way to thank those who support you during your birth.

Making a Checklist

We could easily compile an endless list of things to pack in your birth bag, but you do not need to bring everything. Focus on the essentials and what will make you feel comfortable and prepared. You can Download Your Birth Bag Checklist Now, which includes all the necessities and space to add any personal items that matter to you.

If you are unsure whether to bring something or have questions about what is provided at your birth location, ask your doctor or midwife. They can give you a better idea of what to expect and help you pack with confidence. The goal is not to have the perfect bag; it is to feel prepared so you can focus on welcoming your baby.

Thank you to the brands that help power this podcast.