Packing a Hospital Bag for Labor

Getting ready for labor and birth can feel exciting and overwhelming. Packing your hospital bag ahead of time can help you feel prepared and confident when it’s time to meet your baby. Most people aim to have their bag ready around 36 weeks or earlier if they have a high-risk pregnancy. 

Below, you’ll find helpful guidance for what to pack for yourself, your baby and your support person. For a detailed checklist, visit our blog. 

When to pack your hospital bag 

It’s a good idea to pack your hospital bag during the last month of pregnancy. If your pregnancy is higher risk or your doctor has mentioned the possibility of early labor, you may want to pack earlier. Store the bag somewhere easy to grab, and keep important items such as your ID and insurance card where you can access them quickly. 

What to pack for yourself 

You won’t need to bring much, since hospitals provide many essentials like gowns, socks, disposable underwear, basic toiletries and postpartum supplies. Still, a few comfort items can make your stay more relaxed. 

Consider packing: 

• Comfortable clothes to wear during your stay, such as loose pajamas or a robe 
• A going-home outfit 
• Slippers or nonskid socks 
• A phone charger with a long cord 
• Basic toiletries like lip balm, a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and lotion 
• Hair ties, clips or a headband 
• Glasses or contact supplies 
• A water bottle 
• Snacks in case the cafeteria is closed 
• Any medications you take routinely 
• Items that help you relax such as a playlist, eye mask or handheld fan 

Hospitals provide mesh underwear, maternity pads, sitz bath supplies and other postpartum care products, so you do not need to bring them unless you prefer your own brands. 

What to pack for your baby 

Your baby won’t need much during the hospital stay. Pack: 

• A going-home outfit 
• A blanket or swaddle 
• Bottles or formula only if your care team has advised it 
• An approved car seat already installed in your vehicle 

Most babies wear hospital-provided onesies during their stay, so you do not need to pack extra clothes unless you want a special outfit for photos. 

What to pack for your support person 

Your partner or support person may also want to bring: 

• Comfortable clothes 
• A sweatshirt or jacket (rooms can be cool) 
• Snacks and drinks 
• Their own toiletries 
• A phone charger 
• Entertainment like a book, tablet or headphones 

Some families choose to pack a small overnight bag for partners because they may not want to leave the room once labor begins. 

What the hospital provides 

Banner Health birthing centers provide many of the essentials you’ll need: 

• Hospital gowns 
• Socks 
• Toiletries 
• Mesh underwear and perineal care supplies 
• Pads and postpartum products 
• Diapers and wipes for the baby 
• Newborn hats and swaddles 
• Breastfeeding support 
• Formula if medically needed 

You can always ask your care team if you forget something. Our goal is to help you feel supported and comfortable during your stay. 

Extra items you may want to bring 

These items aren’t required but may help make your stay smoother: 

• A birth plan 
• Your favorite pillow 
• An extra blanket 
• A small folder for paperwork 
• A sound machine for rest 
• A camera or tripod if you plan to take delivery photos 

When to call your doctor 

Contact your doctor or go to the hospital if you experience: 

• Regular contractions 
• Your water breaking 
• Vaginal bleeding 
• Decreased fetal movement 
• Severe headache or vision changes 

Preparing for your delivery experience 

Packing your hospital bag is an important step in preparing for labor and birth. Whether you want a natural childbirth experience, plan to use pain medication or are still exploring your options, Banner Health is here to support you every step of the way. Talk with your OB-GYN or maternity team if you have questions about what to bring, what to expect or how to personalize your birth experience.