Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Actually Need (And What You Don’t!)

Packing your hospital bag is one of those things that feels so real — like, wow, this baby is actually coming. But if you’ve ever Googled “hospital bag checklist,” you’ve probably seen lists that could fill an entire suitcase (ask me how I know). 

Spoiler alert: You don’t need half of what’s included in those lists.

So, let’s break it down mom group chat style — what you actually need, what’s nice to have, and what you can 100% leave at home.

Essentials for Mom: These are the must-haves — the things you’ll actually need and use.

Important Documents:

• Insurance card & Identification
• 2 copies of your birth plan – one for your nurses and one for inside the room.

Comfy Clothes:

• Something to wear in labor if you don’t want to wear a hospital gown
• Going home outfit – loose fitting and dark colors are the best. Think, leggings, joggers, or a comfy dress.
• Nursing friendly pajamas

Toiletries: the hospital did give me a small bag with the basics but after 27 hours of labor, I wanted to refresh and having my own stuff definitely helped. 

• Shampoo and conditioner 
• Hair ties (labor is sweaty)
• Deodorant, body wash, and lotion
• Face wash and moisturizer
• Chapstick (hospital air = desert dryness)

Breastfeeding Essentials: If you are planning to breastfeed here is what you’ll want/need

• Nursing bras
• Nipple cream and shields
• Breast pads

Postpartum Essentials: The hospital provided pretty much everything I needed. The two things they didn’t provide that I am SO glad I had were:

• Disposable postpartum/period underwear

• Frida foam! That stuff was a lifesaver!

Extra long phone cord or portable charger: the hospital has limited outlets and you’re going to want a fully charged phone for all the pictures and videos you’ll be taking!

Extras: These are things that our AMAZING doula brought with her that I am SO glad we had. They helped set the mood inside the delivery room that made my labor absolutely dreamy!

• A heating pad for back labor
• Battery powered candles (especially the twinkle ones)
• A bluetooth speaker and your labor playlist
• Essential oil and a diffuser
• Snacks/Drinks

Essentials for your partner: Chances are you’re going to be staying for at least one night, maybe even two so it’s best to be prepared, just in case.

• A change of clothes (or two)
• Snacks/Drinks
• Toiletries 
• Pillow and blanket

Essentials for Baby: The hospital provides a lot for your baby — diapers, wipes, formula if needed — so you don’t need to overpack. Here’s what I would bring:

Going-Home Outfit: Bring two sizes (newborn & 0-3 months) just in case.

Swaddle/Blanket: The hospital provides blankets, but I would pack a nice one that matches your going home outfit for photos.

Car Seat: The must-have for leaving the hospital! Make sure it’s properly installed ahead of time. 

Stroller: If your car seat has a stroller attachment, I would bring it for the walk back to the car. You’ll be leaving with a lot of stuff so not having to carry the car seat out was very helpful. 

What You Don’t Need:

• Lots of Diapers & Wipes: The hospital will provide these! They even send you home with a couple.
• Books & Magazines: You’ll be busy, exhausted, or staring at your baby in a love-struck haze.
• A Million Outfits for Baby (One or two is plenty)

Final Thoughts:

Packing your hospital bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Stick to the essentials, and remember—the hospital will have a lot of what you need. Focus on comfort, convenience, and making the experience as smooth as possible.

Now go pack that bag, mama! You got this!

What was the one thing you couldn’t live without in your hospital bag? Let me know in the comments!