What Should be in the Hospital Bag for Delivery? (2023 Updated)


When it’s time to go to the hospital for delivery, it’s important to be prepared with everything you’ll need during your stay. Here’s a list of items: What Should be in the Hospital Bag for Delivery?:
- Personal documents: Bring your insurance card, driver’s license, and any other necessary medical documents.
- Comfortable clothes: Pack a few comfortable outfits for yourself, including a nursing bra and loose-fitting clothes for postpartum.
- Toiletries: Bring your own shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and any other personal care items you’ll need.
- Snacks and drinks: Pack some healthy snacks and drinks, such as fruit, granola bars, and water, to keep your energy up during labor and delivery.
- Entertainment: Consider bringing a book, magazine, or other form of entertainment to pass the time during labor.
- Phone charger: Don’t forget to pack a phone charger so you can stay connected with loved ones during your stay.
By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for your time at the hospital during delivery.”
Isn’t preparing a birth bag one way of saying “I’m ready for birth now”? Preparing those little clothes, the things she might need, planning the hospital… It’s like getting ready for the beginning of a new and wonderful life.
Preparing for Delivery: What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
The day of delivery can be a busy and stressful time, and it is important to be prepared. Having a well-stocked hospital bag can help ensure that you have everything you need during your stay at the hospital. Here is a list of items to consider packing in your hospital bag for delivery.
Essential Items for Baby
- Clothing: Pack a few outfits for your newborn, including onesies, socks, and a hat.
- Diapers and wipes: You will need diapers and wipes for your newborn, so be sure to pack enough to last a few days.
- Blankets: Pack a few blankets to keep your newborn warm and cozy.
- Car seat: It is important to have a properly installed car seat to take your newborn home from the hospital.
Please see the below table for quanties of essential items for your baby.
Hospital Outlet Set | It can be a set of tops, bottoms, or overalls, gloves, and a hat. |
Diaper | 1 pack will suffice. |
Baby Socks | 1-2 pieces will be enough. |
Blanket | 1-2 pieces will be enough. |
Baby Cleaning Cotton or Wet Cotton Wipes | 1 pack will suffice. |
Car Seat (Car Seat) | Mandatory by law to ensure safe discharge from hospital for infants. |

Essential Items for Mom
- Comfortable clothing: Bring a few comfortable outfits to wear during your stay at the hospital. This may include loose-fitting tops and bottoms, as well as a nursing bra.
- Personal hygiene items: Pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any other personal hygiene items you may need.
- Snacks and drinks: It can be helpful to have some snacks and drinks on hand during your stay at the hospital. This may include energy bars, water bottles, and any special dietary needs.
- Entertainment: Consider packing a book, magazine, or other forms of entertainment to help pass the time during your stay.
- Phone and chargers: Don’t forget to pack your phone and chargers, as you may want to stay in touch with friends and family during your stay.
Please see the below table for quanties of essential items for your yourself.
Postpartum Pad | 10 packs will suffice. |
Nightgown / Morning Gown | You can also choose a cardigan to prevent cold after birth. |
Pyjamas | In order to facilitate your breastfeeding moments, we recommend that the front be opened. |
Slipper | You do not need to buy new, you can choose a comfortable slipper that you use at home. |
Underwear | A few pairs of cotton will suffice. |
Milking Pump | If your hospital does not provide this service, it will be required. |
Chest Pad | It is important to use it in order to prevent nipple sores. |
Clothes | We recommend that you choose comfortable clothes as you will be wearing them when you leave the hospital. |
Toothbrush – Toothpaste | The most important thing is to feel better |
Dressing gown | A shower that you want to take in the hospital before or after birth can be very relaxing. |
Shampoo, Conditioner and Comb | If you are going to take a shower, it will feel better to use your own shampoo and comb. |
Makeup supplies | Of course you are beautiful, but these products can make you feel better. |
Humidifiers | Another product category that will make you feel comfortable… |
Recent urine and blood tests of the expectant mother | Your doctor may need this information. |
Small snacks for loved ones | You can share this responsibility directly with your spouse. |
Camera | A must for capturing special moments. |
Charger | You may need to distract yourself while waiting for the birth. |
Door Decorations | We are sure you have not forgotten this! |
Hospital Room Decorations | According to your taste, you can choose as many ornaments as you want. |
Things to Comfort the Mother During Childbirth
Pilates Ball
One of the most frequently asked questions by expectant mothers lately is to use a pilates ball in preparation for childbirth. The expansion of the uterine muscles is a preferred supporting force, especially in normal birth, to facilitate the exit of the baby. However, it should not be thought that it is a factor in itself. Of course, it will be easier for people who do sports with a pilates ball during their pregnancy to use it during childbirth. For this reason, we recommend that you use it close to the birth, not in the last moments.
Aromatherapy Oils Relaxing
Mentally during childbirth is one of the biggest factors that will facilitate childbirth. Especially rose, sage and lavender oil can be preferred very easily as they give calmness to the soul. In addition, with its feature of regulating the uterine waves, it can provide an easier birth, although it is not a factor on its own.
Your Favorite Friend!
Here is one of the best suggestions we can give you. You can reduce your stress level by taking your best friend with you to calm you down. This could be your mother, spouse or friend. The important thing is to have a great team of people who will not stress you out and make you relax.
These are not indispensable products, but they are products that will help you a lot to ensure your comfort in the hospital. Remember, the most important thing is that you are comfortable.
The items you will bring with you may differ depending on whether you have a cesarean section or a normal birth. The reason for this is that if you give birth by cesarean section, you may have to stay in the hospital for 2–3 days. Mothers who have just given birth usually leave the hospital after one day. For this reason, we recommend that they buy fewer clothes.
Optional Items
- Birth plan: If you have created a birth plan, be sure to pack a copy in your hospital bag.
- Camera: Consider packing a camera or phone with a good camera to document the birth and the first days with your newborn.
- Pillow and blanket: Some women find it helpful to bring their own pillow and blanket for added comfort during their stay at the hospital.
- Birthing ball: A birthing ball can be a helpful tool during labor, and some hospitals may allow you to bring your own.
- Slippers or flip flops: Pack a pair of slippers or flip flops to wear during your stay at the hospital, as hospital floors can be cold and hard.
- Lip balm: Pack some lip balm to help keep your lips moisturized during your stay at the hospital.
- Contact information: Make sure to pack a list of contact information for your healthcare provider, family members, and any other important individuals.
When to Prepare a Hospital Bag?
While we don’t want to think about the worst-case scenario, the birth may occur sooner than expected. In your doctor’s check-ups, you will usually receive instructions about the date of birth, but if you still want to have a more comfortable preparation period, we recommend that you prepare 5 weeks before your birth. For example, if you are expecting a normal delivery at 40 weeks, your bag should be ready at 35 weeks.
If you have a vehicle, you can even put it directly in your trunk! so you can go quickly and easily. If you do not have a vehicle, you can keep it in an easily accessible part of your home. Thus, you can go to reunite with your baby without forgetting anything in a momentary rush.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to be prepared for your hospital stay during the delivery of your baby. A well-stocked hospital bag can help make your stay more comfortable and stress-free. Some essential items to include in your hospital bag include comfortable clothing and underwear, toiletries, snacks, entertainment, and any necessary documents or paperwork. It’s also a good idea to pack items for your baby, such as diapers, wipes, and a going-home outfit. By being prepared and packing the right items, you can help make your hospital stay as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Now it’s your turn – Write a Comment or Share on Social Media
Thanks for reading our article on What Should be in the Hospital Bag for Delivery? We hope that this article provided some helpful tips and ideas for preparing for your hospital stay. If you have any personal experiences or insights to share on packing for the hospital, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Your comments and ideas can provide valuable support and encouragement to others who may be preparing for the arrival of their new baby. So don’t be shy, leave a comment and let’s start a conversation!
References
- “What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag” American Pregnancy Association, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/what-to-pack-in-your-hospital-bag/
- “Hospital Bag Checklist for Labor and Delivery” Mayo Clinic, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/hospital-bag-checklist/art-20394759
- “The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for Labor and Delivery” Parents, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/preparing-for-birth/hospital-bag-checklist-for-labor-and-delivery/
- “What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labor and Delivery” Healthline, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/what-to-pack-in-hospital-bag
- “Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby” The Bump, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.thebump.com/a/hospital-bag-checklist-mom-and-baby
- “Labor and Delivery Hospital Bag Checklist” Baby Center, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.babycenter.com/0_labor-and-delivery-hospital-bag-checklist_10320234.bc
- “Hospital Bag Essentials for Labor and Delivery” Everyday Health, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.everydayhealth.com/pregnancy/labor-and-delivery/hospital-bag-essentials/
- “What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Delivery” WebMD, accessed January 19, 2023, https://www.webmd.com/baby/features/what-to-pack-in-your-hospital-bag-for-delivery
It is important to note that what to pack in the hospital bag can vary depending on personal preference and the type of delivery you are planning. It’s always best to check with your healthcare provider or the hospital for specific recommendations and guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for What Should be in the Hospital Bag for Delivery?
What should I pack in my hospital bag for delivery?
It’s important to be prepared for your hospital stay during the delivery of your baby. Some essential items to include in your hospital bag include:
Comfortable clothing and underwear: Pack loose, comfortable clothing and underwear that you don’t mind getting stained or ruined. A couple of pairs of sweatpants or yoga pants and a few tank tops or t-shirts are good options.
Toiletries: Pack your usual toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and shampoo. It’s also a good idea to pack some extra hair ties and chapstick.
Snacks: Pack some snacks that you can easily eat with one hand, such as granola bars, nuts, or fruit. It’s also a good idea to pack some hard candy or lollipops to help keep your mouth moist during labor.
Entertainment: Pack some items to help pass the time during your hospital stay, such as a book, magazine, or tablet.
Necessary documents or paperwork: Don’t forget to pack any necessary documents or paperwork, such as your insurance information, birth plan, and identification.
Items for your baby: Don’t forget to pack items for your baby, such as diapers, wipes, and a going-home outfit.
What should I pack in my hospital bag for my partner?
It’s important to pack a few essentials for your partner as well. Some items that your partner might find helpful include:
Comfortable clothing and underwear: Pack a couple of outfits that your partner can easily change in and out of.
Toiletries: Pack your partner’s usual toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any medications they may be taking.
Snacks: Pack some snacks that your partner can easily eat with one hand, such as granola bars, nuts, or fruit.
Entertainment: Pack some items to help pass the time during your hospital stay, such as a book, magazine, or tablet.
Necessary documents or paperwork: Don’t forget to pack any necessary documents or paperwork, such as your insurance information and identification.
What should I pack in my hospital bag for the baby?
It’s important to pack a few essential items for your baby in your hospital bag. These may include:
Diapers: Pack at least a few diapers in case your baby needs a change.
Wipes: Pack some wipes to help keep your baby clean and fresh.
Going-home outfit: Pack a going-home outfit for your baby, such as a onesie and a pair of socks.
Hat: Pack a hat to help keep your baby warm during the trip home.
Blanket: Pack a blanket to help keep your baby warm and cozy during the trip home.
Is it a good idea to pack my own pillow?
It can be a good idea to pack your own pillow in your hospital bag, as it can help make your hospital stay more comfortable. A small, travel-sized pillow or a body pillow can be particularly helpful.
Should I pack my own towels and washcloths?
It’s generally not necessary to pack your own towels and washcloths, as the hospital will provide these for you. However, if you have a particularly large or small towel that you prefer, you may want to pack it in your hospital bag.
Is it a good idea to pack a nursing bra?
If you plan on breastfeeding, it can be a good idea to pack a nursing bra in your hospital bag. A nursing bra is a bra that is designed for easy access to the breasts for nursing. It can be more comfortable and convenient to wear a nursing bra during the postpartum period.
Is it a good idea to pack a breast pump in my hospital bag?
If you plan on breastfeeding and will be returning to work or will be separated from your baby for any length of time, it can be a good idea to pack a breast pump in your hospital bag. This will allow you to continue to provide breast milk for your baby when you are not able to be with them.
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