Packing for the hospital can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. There’s so much advice out there, and it’s easy to either overpack or forget something important. So here’s a simple, practical list of exactly what to bring for you and your baby during delivery.
When you are packing for delivery, you need two bags: one for your baby and one for yourself. The baby’s bag should have clothes, diapers, and things to keep them warm and clean. Your bag should have your documents, comfort items, and things to help you recover after birth. Pack both by your 36th week, so you are not rushing when labor starts.
Here’s exactly what to put in each one.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Most people pack around 36 weeks, since babies can be due earlier than anticipated. Once your bag is packed, keep it somewhere easy to grab, like by the door or in the car. If you are not sure when labor will start, having your bag ready removes one less thing to worry about.
What should I pack for the baby?
Here is what to have ready for your little one:
- Diapers. Newborn size, and pack a few extra since babies go through them fast.
- Unscented baby wipes. Scented ones can irritate a newborn’s skin.
- 2 liners. These go inside the diaper for extra protection, especially in the first few days.
- Baby oil. For gentle massage and moisturizing.
- A receiving set. This is what your baby is wrapped in right after birth, so keep it easy to reach.
- Body suits. A few, since babies mess up clothes often.
- Vests. Light, soft layers to go under other clothes.
- Socks. Newborns lose heat through their feet fast, so pack more than one pair.
- Hats. Keeps your baby's head warm, which matters a lot in the first days.
- Mittens. Stops your baby from scratching their own face with their nails.
- Rompers. A few outfits for once your baby is dressed properly.
- A shawl. For wrapping your baby when you leave the hospital.
- A baby blanket. For extra warmth, especially at night.
What should I pack for myself?
Your bag is just as important as your baby's. Here is what to bring:
- Cotton wool, 400gm. Useful for cleaning up after delivery.
- A Lesso. A simple, useful wrap that many moms find more comfortable than regular clothes right after birth.
- A nursing pillow (optional). Helps support your baby while breastfeeding, though it isn’t a must-have.
- Lotion. For your skin, since hospital rooms can be drying.
- Phone charger. Easy to forget, but you’ll want it, especially for calling family or taking photos.
- Breast pads. For leaking, which is common once your milk comes in.
- A nursing bra. Makes breastfeeding easier and more comfortable.
- Medicott. For general cleaning and hygiene after delivery.
- A dera. A loose, comfortable dress to wear during your hospital stay.
- Your ID card. You'll need this for hospital records.
- Your ANC booklet. This has your pregnancy history and is important for your doctor or midwife to see.
Does the hospital provide anything?
Some hospitals give you a few basics, like a packet of pads, but it's usually not enough for your full stay. It's safest to bring your own extra pads, cotton wool, and cleaning supplies, so you're not caught without them.
What should I wear home from the hospital?
Pack a comfortable outfit for discharge, something loose that fits your post-birth body, since you won’t look or feel exactly like you did before pregnancy. Many moms also like to have a nice outfit ready for their baby's first trip home too.
Do I need separate bags for labor and after birth?
Some people like to split their bag into two: one small bag for labor itself (with things like a phone charger, lip balm, and something to keep you comfortable during contractions), and a second one for after the baby arrives (fresh clothes, baby items, documents). This is not necessary, but it can make things easier to find when you need them most.
Final tips
Keep your bag light enough to carry easily, but complete enough that you are not sending someone out to buy things while you are recovering. Pack a day or two extra of each item, since hospital stays sometimes run longer than planned. And keep your ID card and ANC booklet in an easy-to-find pocket, since you will need to hand these over as soon as you arrive.
Getting your bag ready ahead of time means one less thing to think about when labor starts, so you can focus on you and your baby.