Hospital Bag Checklist—What to Pack for Mom, Baby, and Partner
Getting ready to meet your baby can be both exciting and overwhelming, but a thoughtfully packed hospital bag takes a big weight off your shoulders when delivery day finally comes. With the right hospital bag checklist, you can relax, knowing you, your support person, and your new arrival have everything you’ll need for labour, birth, and those first precious hours together. From comfort items and must-have toiletries to all the newborn basics, let’s get you organised for the big day!
Here’s a quick look at what should make it into your hospital bag:
If you organise and pack by week 36, sorting items by who needs what, you’re setting yourself up for a more relaxed hospital experience. Below, we’ll break down each hospital bag category to help you build a checklist that covers it all.
When to Pack Your Hospital Bag
Your baby may decide to make their appearance sooner than expected, so it’s a smart move to have your hospital bag (or even two—one for labour/delivery and one for recovery) as well as your baby’s own bag packed and ready by your eighth month of pregnancy. That’s week 36, give or take—just to be on the safe side.
Packing your bag with your partner or whoever’s coming to support you means one less thing to worry about, and two sets of eyes can help make sure nothing gets left behind. Once you’ve zipped those bags up, keep them somewhere handy, like by the door or even in the car, so you’re ready to go whenever your baby is!
Keep reading for your detailed packing list, and be sure to grab your printable hospital bag checklist below!
What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Mom (Labour and Delivery)
Having your hospital bag ready means more than just packing clothes—it’s about being comfortable and prepared while you wait for your little one to arrive. Here are essentials for mom:
Hospital paperwork, ID, and insurance card:
Bring copies of medical records and your ID/insurance info so the hospital team can access your health history and check you in quickly.
Birth plan (if you have one):
Even if you’ve already shared your birth plan, a few printed copies for your care team might be helpful, in case there’s a last-minute question.
Bathrobe:
Perfect for walking the halls during labour or for extra warmth after your baby is born.
Socks:
Hospital rooms can be chilly, especially during labour.
Slippers and flip-flops:
Comfy slippers are a must for pacing around the ward, and flip-flops are a good call for showers.
Lip balm:
Hospital air can really dry out your lips.
Body lotion or massage oil:
Many parents-to-be find a massage relaxing during early labour, so pop in your favourite cream or oil.
Water spray and a sponge:
A quick mist or a cool sponge on your forehead and neck can be refreshing when things heat up.
Your own pillow(s):
Hospital pillows might not be as comfy as you’d like, so bring your favourite from home if you have the space.
Entertainment:
A good book, magazines, or a tablet loaded with shows, movies, or music can help pass the time.
Eye mask and earplugs:
Helpful for catching rest in a busy, bright unit—both before and after your baby arrives.
Comfort is key during labour and delivery. There’s no shame in wanting your fuzzy socks or playlist, but managing pain can take extra planning. Try our quiz to discover your pain management style for labour!
If you're interested in preparing further, you can access free online birthing classes led by clinical childbirth experts to get more comfortable with the labour and delivery experience.
C-Section Hospital Bag
If you know you’ll be having a c-section (or want to be ready, just in case), here are a few extras that might make your stay more comfortable:
Loose nightgown or robe: Something gentle on your incision, easy to slip on and off.
High-waisted underwear: The higher cut sits above your incision and won’t irritate healing skin. They also feel more supportive after birth.
Abdominal support band: Optional—ask your health provider if it’s recommended for you.
Compression socks: Helpful for circulation and reducing swelling after surgery.
Your medications: Plus a list of what you’re currently taking, just in case.
Simple snacks and drinks: Easy-to-digest food is best right after a c-section.
Extra-long charging cable: Hospital outlets are often just out of reach—don’t get stuck with a dying phone!
These simple additions can make recovery more comfortable. Double-check with your care provider to see if you need to bring anything specific for your personal situation.
What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Mom (After Delivery)
Once your baby is here, make yourself as cosy as possible during your hospital stay by packing these essentials:
Nightgowns: Soft, loose, and front-opening styles, if you want to breastfeed, make for the perfect sleepwear.
Heavy-duty maternity pads: You’ll need lots at first! Most hospitals stock them, but bring a few just in case. Maternity pads are gentler on sensitive skin and more absorbent than regular ones. You may need to change them frequently at first.
Underwear: You might get hospital-issue mesh underwear, but it’s handy to pack your own comfy pairs—big enough to fit over a big pad.
Bras: Pack nursing bras or any comfy, supportive bra you love.
Toiletries: Bring your essentials—tissues, hairbrush/comb, toothbrush/paste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, hair dryer, hair clips, and hair ties. Toss in a plastic bag for dirty laundry.
Cosmetics and skin care: If makeup is part of your routine, pop some in. Bring moisturiser for dry skin.
Glasses and contacts (if needed): Remember solution and a case if you wear contacts!
Phone and charger: Unless you want a tech break, you’ll want your phone handy for pictures, updates to family, and capturing those early moments.
Comfy clothes: Besides PJs, something loose for going home is great—think yoga pants or maternity leggings with a soft top.
Handouts and books: Info from prenatal classes or baby care books can be reassuring. Nurses will give lots of guidance, but sometimes it helps to have notes, too.
Snacks and drinks: Labour is hard work and post-birth hunger is real. Ask if you can eat during labour, and have your favourite snacks waiting for you after.
What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Your Birth Partner
If you’re the birthing partner, you’ll want a few things to stay comfortable and support your loved one through it all. Here’s a practical list for dads, partners, friends, or family members keeping you company:
Snacks and water: Labour is a marathon, even for the support crew. Bring snacks and plenty to drink—small bills/coins for the vending machine are also smart.
Phone, camera, and/or video camera—plus chargers and batteries: Keep everyone in the loop, and don’t miss a chance to capture special moments! Make sure you have room on your camera card.
Extra clothes: Since labour is unpredictable, a fresh set of clothes is always wise.
Toiletries: You never know how long you’ll be there, so bring a toothbrush, deodorant, face wipes, etc.
Backup glasses or contacts: Handy for a long day (or night).
Small pillow: Rest where and when you can—it’ll keep you fresh for when you’re needed most.
Entertainment: A book, tablet, or music player can help pass time during quiet spells.
What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Your Baby
Here’s what to bring for your little one’s arrival:
Bodysuits:
Hospitals usually have specific policies, so check in advance what is provided. Bodysuits that fasten at the front make for easy diaper changes.
Socks and booties:
Tiny toes get cold easily—bring a few pairs for layering.
Receiving blanket:
Hospitals provide some, but your own (especially for skin-to-skin cuddles) is nice to have.
Going-home outfit:
Dress your baby for the season—a bodysuit, hat, and blanket for warmer months, with mittens and a snowsuit or jacket if it’s cold out.
Car seat:
Not a hospital bag item, but install the right infant seat in your vehicle before the big day. You can’t take your baby home without it!
Diapers and wipes.
Although some hospitals or birthing centres might provide some of these essentials, it's still best to bring a few for your little one. You can check our Pampers diapers and wipes to help decide which are best for your baby. You might want to bring some newborn sizes and perhaps the next size up just to be sure you have the right fit.
Printable Hospital Bag Checklist
Download and print our handy hospital bag checklist below to keep track while you pack. That way, you’ll have all the essentials covered (and one less thing to stress about!).
Download Hospital Bag Checklist
What Not to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
It’s tempting to pack everything “just in case,” but you really don’t need much. Plus, hospitals have rules about what’s allowed, so it’s worth checking in advance. Here’s what you can leave at home:
Too many clothes: You’ll spend most of your time in a hospital gown or PJs. One going-home outfit (something loose and comfy) is usually enough.
Valuables: Leave jewellery and anything precious safe at home—you won’t want to worry about losing things while focusing on your new baby.
Extra electronics: Your phone and camera will be more than enough. Big gadgets like portable TVs or large speakers can stay behind. Bring headphones if you want music or a show—others will appreciate your courtesy.
Lots of food: A couple of snacks and some water are great, but don’t overload your bag with food. If you’re there longer than expected, hospitals can provide extra, or your partner can top up your snack stash.
Diapers and wipes: Some Canadian hospitals supply baby diapers and wipes—but check first. If you prefer a certain brand (like Pampers!), you can always bring your own.
Sibling Hospital Bag
If a big brother or sister is staying with family or a sitter while you’re at the hospital, pack a small bag so they feel special and cared for, too:
A couple of changes of clothes and pyjamas
Favourite comfort item (stuffie, blanket, etc.)
Any medication and toiletries
Snacks and a water bottle
Toys, books, or colouring supplies
A note or photo from you for reassurance
Caregiver schedule or routine to help the transition go smoothly.
Having their own bag helps keep things familiar, comforting, and fun for your soon-to-be big sibling.
FAQs at a Glance
Opt for something loose and comfy for labour. You’ll likely be given a hospital gown for delivery, but feel free to bring your own nightie, slippers, cosy socks, and a nursing bra for after your baby arrives.
The Bottom Line
With this hospital bag checklist, you, your birth partner, and your new baby will be ready and at ease for your hospital stay. Want to be extra prepared? Get familiar with the signs of labour—from your water breaking to noticing mucus plug changes.
As you approach your due date, it’s handy to know how to time contractions and recognise other signs that it’s go time. When in doubt, reach out to your healthcare provider—they’ll tell you when to grab your bag and head to the hospital. You’ve got this!
And while you’re prepping for baby, don’t forget to download the Pampers Club app. It’s a simple way to earn rewards on all those diapers you’ll be picking up soon!
Join Pampers Club and get:
