Hospital Bag Checklist for Labor & Postpartum
When you make a purchase through retailer links on my site, I may earn commission through affiliate programs.
Because it’s not just lip balm and a going-home outfit—you’re about to bring a human into the world.
If you're staring at your open hospital bag thinking, "Do I really need adult diapers AND my favorite throw blanket?"—you’re not alone. The hospital bag checklist can feel overwhelming, especially when Pinterest tells you to pack like you’re moving in for a weeklong retreat (spoiler alert: you're not).
As a Newborn Care Specialist who’s supported dozens of families after birth, I’ve seen what’s actually useful when the big day comes—and what just takes up space. So here’s your no-BS, just-the-good-stuff hospital bag guide, broken down into three simple categories: you, your baby, and your support person.
👜 Let’s Start With YOU (aka the star of the show)
These are the essentials to keep you as comfortable and functional as possible before, during, and after delivery.
✅ Labor & Delivery Essentials:
Photo ID + Insurance Card
Birth plan (optional, but helpful to have printed)
Phone charger (extra-long cord = lifesaver)
Hair ties or headband
Lip balm (hospitals are dry)
Socks with grip or slippers
Comfortable labor gown (optional—the hospital will provide one, but you do you)
Snacks for after delivery (think protein bars, trail mix—nothing too messy)
✅ Postpartum Comfort Musts:
Robe or button-down pajamas (easy for breastfeeding and lounging)
Nursing bras or tanks
Adult diapers or high-waisted postpartum underwear (the hospital provides some, but many moms prefer FridaMom or Always Discreet)
Optional but Nice-to-Haves:
Blanket or pillow from home (with a non-white pillowcase so it doesn’t get mixed up)
Essential oils (if you’re into calming vibes)
Bluetooth speaker or playlist
Makeup/toiletries for photos (if you want to freshen up)
👶 Now Let’s Talk Baby
Truthfully, the hospital provides almost everything your baby needs—but here’s what’s good to bring anyway:
Going-home outfit (bring 1 newborn size and one 0–3 month, just in case)
Swaddle or blanket (for the car seat ride home or cute photo ops)
Hat and socks (again, mostly for going home)
Car seat (install this in your car ahead of time!)
Leave the diapers, wipes, bottles, and formula at home—the hospital provides those.
🧍♂️ For Your Partner or Support Person
If someone’s staying with you, they need a mini bag too.
Change of clothes
Pillow/blanket
Snacks + drinks
Toiletries
Phone charger
Something to do during downtime (book, headphones, tablet)
✨ Things You Don’t Need to Pack
Diapers and wipes (unless you’re particular about the brand you use)
Baby nail clippers (don’t worry about those yet!)
A whole wardrobe for baby
Fancy postpartum girdles (if you want one, try it later at home)
Your entire skincare routine
💬 Final Thought from Your Friendly Baby Pro
You don’t need to pack like you’re prepping for The Amazing Race. Stick to the essentials, focus on comfort, and remember: the goal is to bring home a baby, not win an Instagram aesthetic award.
And if you forget something? Don’t stress. Hospitals have more extras than you think—and someone can always do a Target run.