Hospital Bag Checklist for Expectant Moms
Packing your hospital bag is an exciting step in preparing for your baby’s arrival. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of essentials, with a special focus on breastfeeding supplies to ensure you’re prepared for the early days with your little one. Here are the items we suggest for your hospital bag checklist for expectant moms.
Items for Mom:
Clothing & Comfort
- Maternity Bras & Nursing Bras – soft, supportive, and easy to undo for breastfeeding.
- Nursing Pads- disposable or washable to absorb leaks
- Comfortable Pajamas or Gown – choose something you can easily nurse in, ideally front-opening
- Robes & Slippers – for comfort during hospital walks and lounging
- Underwear- high-waisted, stretchy, and preferably cotton. Hospitals often provide mesh underwear, but you may want your own.
- Socks – Bring a couple of pairs, especially if you plan to walk around
- Soft, Comfortable Clothes for Going Home – loose-fitting pants or leggings and a soft top that can double as a breastfeeding top
Personal Care Items:
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, facial wipes, and a comb/brush
- Lip Balm & Lotion – hospitals can be dry; hydrate your skin and lips.
- Hand sanitizer- check hospital policy (hospitals typically have plenty of this all over the place)
Breastfeeding Essentials:
- Nipple cream– some moms like a nipple cream or organic options for soothing sore nipples. Also, breastmilk works typically just as well as lubrication for sore nipples
- Nursing Pillow – this helps with comfort and support when breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding-friendly clothes- tops that easily pull up or down for nursing access
- Water Bottle – staying hydrated is key for milk production
Items for Labor and Recovery
- Birth plan – if you have one, bring a copy to share with your healthcare team.]
- Birth doula – having a doula is so beneficial prenatally and during your birth to help you advocate for what you want and to provide comfort and emotional support during labor
- Healthy Snacks & Drinks – for your partner or yourself during early labor (hospitals may have restrictions during labor)
- Phone & Charger – consider a portable charger
- Music Playlist or Books- for relaxation during labor
- Pillow- hospitals provide pillows, but your own pillow can offer more comfort
- Towels- hospital towels can be rough, so bringing your own can make a difference
Items for Baby
Clothing & Comfort:
- Newborn outfit- a soft onesie, a hat and socks
- Swaddle blanket- soft, breathable, and easy to use
- Going Home Outfit – consider something easy to put on and take off
- Baby Blanket – for warmth, and comfort on the ride home
Feeding Supplies:
- Nipple shields – if you’re worries about latching problems, bring them as a precaution. These are not typically needed and the hospital should have them if needed. If you are using one when you leave the hospital that is a red flag that you need an appointment with an IBCLC.
Items for Partner or Support Person:
Comfortable Clothes
- Something to change into while staying at the hospital
- Snack & Drinks – for both labor and after delivery
- Camera/Phone – for capturing those first moments after delivery
- Cash or change – for parking and vending machines
- Entertainment – books, games, anything to keep you entertained during those longer wait times
Optional Items:
- Essential oils or diffuser- if you’re into aromatherapy for relaxation during labor
- TENS machine – for pain relief during labor (check with your hospital if they allow it)
- Postpartum care kit – include items like witch hazel pads, perineal spray or ice packs. (Most hospitals provide these items)
- Journal or Note Pad – to jot down notes, thoughts, experiences during your stay
Important Documents:
- ID and insurance card- for checking in
- Birth plan (if you have one) and any other relevant medical documents
- Emergency Contact Info- for easy access during labor and delivery
Final Thoughts:
Pack your bag a few weeks before your due date to ensure you’re ready to go at a moment’s notice. Focus on comfort, practicality, and items that will support your breastfeeding journey. It’s all about making sure you have what you need for yourself and your baby in those first few precious days together. By providing you with this Hospital Bag Checklist for Expectant Moms we hope to make your preparations less stressful and more enjoyable!
P.S. I’ve created something extra special for new and expectant moms who could use a little relaxation. Book a prenatal consultation with me or a postnatal consultation and receive my free Guide: Breathe Easy, Mama: Your Essential Guide to Relaxation and Self-Care.
