⏱ Reading time: 10 minutes
In this article:
- When to prepare your hospital bag
- What to put in your hospital bag
- For mom
- For the baby
- What you DON'T need in your hospital bag
- Practical tips for organizing
- CHECKLIST TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT
- Frequently asked questions
Preparing your hospital bag is one of the moments that truly marks the approach of birth. But what do you really need to bring to the hospital?
In this guide you will find an essential list for your hospital bag, with the essentials for mom and the baby.
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Preparing your hospital bag is one of those moments that makes you feel that the big day is really approaching. After three pregnancies, I can say that I have learned what you really need and what you can easily leave at home.
With my first pregnancy, I really brought everything, thinking that everything was essential. With the second, I eliminated everything superfluous, since space is limited and the stay in the hospital is short. But it was with the third pregnancy that I understood what you really need and what you can easily leave at home.
Obviously, every hospital has its own rules, so first check the official list they provide you. Then, if you want advice from mom to mom, here is what worked for me! 😉
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When to prepare your hospital bag for the hospital?
My advice? Don't wait until the last minute (I did for my second pregnancy when I was overwhelmed with things and I assure you that it contributed to raising the level of anxiety)! Midwives generally recommend having your birth bag ready at least one month before, so, from the 34th week, start setting aside the most important things. You don't need to do everything in one day: add a little at a time, print a list (at the bottom of the article you can download mine) and as you add things, check them off so you don't forget anything.
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What to put in your hospital bag?
FOR MOM (that is, for you, who will be the main character! ❤️)
✔ Documents: ID card, health card, ultrasounds and all the tests done during pregnancy.
✔ Lightweight button-up nightgown with short sleeves or anyway a comfortable garment for birth (it is important that it opens at the front to facilitate skin-to-skin contact and the first breastfeeding).
✔ Pajamas or nightgown for the hospital stay (you can also opt for comfortable onesies if they make you feel comfortable, just make sure they open at the front so you will be more comfortable for breastfeeding), pack two / three. Then, if you need an extra change, there will be plenty of time to have it brought from home.
✔ A dressing gown might be useful if the birth is expected in the colder months, but also in summer if the air conditioning in the hallways is too high. I preferred to bring a long open cardigan at the front but a sweatshirt with a zipper is also fine.
✔ Comfortable and simple underwear, cotton is best, and nursing bras. I actually didn't use them, opting for simple unlined cotton triangle bras with which I got along very well throughout the entire breastfeeding period (you can also decide to wear a simple stretchy tank top and leave your breasts free), and don't forget 2/3 pairs of socks.
✔ Room slippers and rubber slippers/flip-flops (for the delivery room and for the shower).
✔ Bathrobe (get one in microfiber as it takes up less space), face towel (white, easier to wash and remove stains) and intimate hygiene wipes (I got the disposable ones).
✔ Beauty with everything needed for hygiene and personal care: intimate cleanser, shower gel, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, moisturizer or massage oil (they could also be useful to relax a little during labor), hair tie and hair clip (especially if you have long hair, trust me they will be essential!), brush and if makeup is part of your routine don't forget mascara, maybe a tinted lip balm and a tinted face cream.
✔ Postpartum pads. You can opt for larger, more absorbent and more delicate postpartum pads than traditional ones to use with mesh panties or you can choose the "Pants" style diapers.
✔ Sugar packets or cubes, candies, cookies, bars and water, I brought many small snacks, I didn't even go on a school trip, but I assure you that I didn't bring anything home!
✔ Coins for the vending machines, in case the supplies brought from home are not sufficient.
✔ Paper towels, cutlery and a breakfast cup.
✔ Toilet paper and tissues.
✔ Clothes to go home in. Remember to also plan the outfit for the return home, choose something comfortable but that makes you feel beautiful... Because yes, we have become moms, but we are still us! And taking care of yourself is not a luxury, it is our right. So, yes to mascara, lipstick and a beautiful dress that makes you feel good... After all, the first official photo with your little one is also waiting for you!
✔ Glasses and contact lenses (if you need them).
✔ Cell phone with plenty of memory space to take a thousand photos and videos and obviously the charger.
✔ Bag to put dirty clothes in, bring at least a couple.
FOR YOUR LITTLE ONE
Also for your little one, the keyword is essentiality. You don't need to bring a whole wardrobe, but only the essentials for the first few days. Choose preferably clothes in natural fibers, more delicate on the baby's sensitive skin, breathable and capable of maintaining body temperature without causing irritation. It is better to opt for light colors, because dark or very bright ones can contain more chemicals in the fabrics. Adapt always the weight of the clothes to the season: in spring/summer prefer light cotton bodysuits and onesies, a cotton muslin blanket and a cardigan to protect from the cold of the air conditioning (especially in the hallways). In fall/winter, instead, choose warm cotton or silk-wool bodysuits, heavier onesies, wool socks and a warmer cardigan, also useful for the return home.
Prepare 5 numbered bags for the hospital bag 🎒
A very useful trick? Organize the changes in 5 numbered bags to quickly find the right one, from the 1st change to take to the delivery room to the last one for the return home.
Each bag should contain:
✔ Bodysuit (size 50 cm) with short sleeves for spring, fall and winter, sleeveless for summer. Always in natural fibers!
✔ Onesie (size 50 cm) with feet if they are born in spring, fall or winter, or romper for summer.
✔ Beanie (circumference 36 cm) in cotton or other natural fibers, easy to put on.
✔ Socks or booties even if the onesie has feet, they can be useful in case of cool temperatures.
✔ Bib preferably in cotton, easy to wash.
In addition to the bags, remember to bring:
✔ Soft blanket for the first hours of life.
✔ A couple of versatile and essential muslins as a light blanket and not only!
✔ Two soft towels to use as a base for the hospital changing table.
✔ Newborn size diapers, the hospital might provide them, but it is better to have some as backup.
✔ Delicate wipes and cream for changing.
✔ Birth announcement pin, a special detail to hang outside your room to welcome your little one.
Don't forget the car seat! 🚗
For the first trip home, safety comes first! Make sure you have the egg/car seat correctly installed before the big day.
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What you DON'T need in your hospital bag
(That is, what I brought the first time and never used 🤦♀️)
❌ Hair dryer. The hospital often has one, but the time to wash your hair... not so much! Better bring a dry shampoo, it works wonders.
❌ Books, magazines and various entertainment. On paper it seems like a good idea, but in reality time flies between breastfeeding, visits and attempts (often unsuccessful) to sleep!
❌ Spare t-shirt for dad or for whoever will accompany you, generally the hospital provides a gown for the delivery room.
❌ Nursing pillow. Usually hospitals have at least one available per room. Bringing your own can be more of a hindrance than a help.
❌ CD/USB stick for music. If you think you want to listen to something to relax, the cell phone (yours or whoever accompanies you) is more than enough.
❌ Breast pump, milk collection cups, breast creams, nipple covers. They might only be useful in specific cases, so it is better not to make unnecessary purchases in advance. If you need them, you can get them later.
❌ Fan. They suggest it everywhere, but after three births I still haven't understood how it can really be useful! That said, it is small… so if you want, put it in your bag and, if you use it, let me know: I am very curious to discover its true potential! 😆
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Practical tips for organizing your hospital bag
✅ Choose a practical bag and organize the space well
Opt for a soft and lightweight bag with compartments, so you can separate the items and find them easily. Consider that hospital rooms are often shared and space is limited: it is better to avoid bulky suitcases. To keep everything in order, you can use travel organizers of different sizes.
✅ Prepare a pouch for the delivery room
Keep your nightgown, rubber slippers, water, snacks and any items that can help you relax close at hand. Also include the baby's first change and a blanket, so everything will be immediately available without having to rummage through the suitcase.
✅ Divide mom's and baby's items into two bags
Separating your clothes and accessories from your baby's will help you quickly find what you need.
✅ Involve your partner or whoever will accompany you
Sharing in advance what you have packed will help whoever is with you in the hospital to support you better, finding what is needed immediately in the most intense moments of birth.
✅ Keep the suitcase ready
Leave the suitcase already in the car or near the door to avoid last-minute runs.
✅ Leave valuables and uncomfortable clothes at home
Avoid bringing jewelry or valuables that could be lost or forgotten. As for clothing, choose simple and practical items that are easy to put on and wash.
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Download and print the list 📋
To help you remember everything, I have prepared a practical list that you can download and print. You will just need to check off the boxes as you pack your hospital bag! 👜✨
👉 [Explore the guide to the essentials for your hospital bag]
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Frequently asked questions about hospital bags
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Midwives generally recommend packing your hospital bag around the 34th week of pregnancy. Having everything ready a little early helps you approach the final weeks with greater peace of mind and avoid last-minute rushes.
How many changes of clothes should I bring for the baby to the hospital?
Usually, 4 or 5 complete changes are enough for the first few days in the hospital. Many mothers find it useful to prepare them in numbered bags, so they can immediately have the right change at hand.
What is not needed in the hospital bag?
Many items suggested in online lists are not actually essential. Among the things that often go unused are hair dryers, books, or nursing pillows. It is better to stick to the essentials.
Do I need to bring diapers and wipes to the hospital?
It depends on the hospital. Some provide them directly, while others ask you to bring them from home. To be safe, it is always useful to have a few spare diapers and wipes in your hospital bag.
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Conclusion
Packing your hospital bag is an exciting time, but it does not have to be stressful. After three pregnancies, I have learned that less is more: the important thing is to have the essentials to stay comfortable and feel at ease during your first few days with your baby.
Have you already packed your hospital bag? Do you have any tips to share? Write them in the comments, I would love to hear about your experience! 💬💕
With all my love, 💖
Lucia
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