When it comes down to being ready for labor and delivery, you really can only be so ready. You never know at what point your water may break, where you’ll be, nor do you know what each appointment might hold. Therefore, it’s never a bad idea to have a pre-packed hospital bag for labor and delivery on standby. If you’re like me as a first time mom, I had no idea what to pack in a hospital bag! After several unprepared trips to the hospital, I realized that preparing a hospital bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it just needs to be thoughtful. I’m sharing a simple, practical guide to what you actually need, and the little extras that can make your stay more comfortable when the big day finally arrives.

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

Things to do ahead of time

The one thing you need to do prior to going to the hospital is install the car seat! You will want to be prepared for when you’re discharged, and you may be required to do a car seat test.

When to Start Packing

I recommend, based of experience, packing your bag around week 32 incase you go into labor earlier than anticipated. Like I said, sometimes the last few weeks can be a little unpredictable!

I’m in no way a planner, but we were unbelievably unprepared for delivery during Covid. In order to make things baseline comfortable, you’ll want to ensure you have a few items with you!

Since there are several bags you’re going to want to have, lets break down items you’ll need bag by bag.

*I highly advise you to pack a personal blanket and pillow. The linens at the hospital are very thin and cam be scratchy. Sometimes even doubled up they don’t keep you warm enough.

*I recommend packing a few sets of cozy clothes for wearing in your room. Not only to be more comfortable, as hospital gowns are thin, but you will want to be covered up. During your labor and delivery stay, it’s common that no one knocks and you’re frequently left exposed!

*If you have to have an emergency c-section and don’t like taking heavy pain killers, pack your own Tylenol. The main hospital will provide it for you while you’re there, but it will be less accessible if you go to the NICU.

*The hospital will provide most postpartum items you need, but it’s nice to have some other things. For example, Frida Disposable Underwear cannot be beat. The underwear the hospital provides don’t stretch well and are thin. I always keep them close by for every delivery!

Items the hospital typically provides:

1. Breast pump and supply kits
2. Breast pump bottles
3. Nipple cream packets
4. Postpartum pads
5. Postpartum underwear
6. Peri bottle
7. Numbing spray (if you ask)
8. Pain medication
9. Sitz bath supplies
10. “Puppy Pads” for your bed

*Diapers, wipes, cream, burp cloths are all things the hospital should have on hand, but it’s always good to have your own. If you want to (or need to) stop somewhere after leaving the hospital, you’ll be prepared for all contingencies!

*I also recommend packing extra outfits, just in case you need to stay a few extra days. This is one thing you tend to do as a mom over time, as you live and learn, and it never hurts to be prepared.

Items the hospital typically provides:

1. Diapers
2. Wipes
3. Formula (if it’s needed)
4. Hat and swaddle blanket
5. Bulb syringe
6. Vaseline
7. Free samples

These items may vary based on your hospital and situation.

When it comes to diaper bags, I like having something no-fuss that I can throw on.

That’s everything you need to have a comfortable stay at the hospital! What would you pack in your hospital bag?