What’s in My Hospital Bag: A 5th Time Mom’s Guide

Wondering what to pack in your hospital bag? As a 5th-time mom, I’m sharing what’s in my hospital bag; my tried-and-true essentials for mom, baby, and dad to make delivery day stress-free and comfortable.

For years, I’ve been asked to create a hospital bag checklist for new moms, but I’ve always struggled to make one when I’m not “in the moment.”

It’s not intentional, but I tend to forget things unless I’m actively going through the process myself.

Now that I’ve hit the third trimester of my 5th pregnancy, I figured it’s the perfect time to finally tackle this. As I prep mine this time around, I want to share what I’m including to help you prepare yours.

I’ll cover the essentials you definitely want to pack, as well as a few things you can probably leave at home. Trust me, there are so many items you really don’t need at the hospital.

If this is your first birth, keep in mind that most hospitals require a 24-36 hour stay for a vaginal birth and a 48-60 hour stay for cesarean births. This is important to keep in mind if you already know (or are planning) a specific birth so you can pack accordingly.

Let’s get ready for baby together!

I’ve included a free downloadable hospital bag checklist to help you pack with ease!

When to Pack Your Hospital Bag

It’s funny how much has changed over the years, when I was pregnant with my first, my hospital bag was packed and sitting by the door by 24 weeks.

These days, I’m a little more relaxed, but the need for a well-prepared bag hasn’t gone away.

I’m 32 weeks and have finally decided it’s time to get a hospital bag put together.

When it comes to actually preparing a hospital bag, I feel like there is no perfect time because babies can come at any time whether we’re ready or not.

In my opinion, the sooner you pack your hospital bag, the better. It’s one less thing to worry about, especially as you approach the end of your third trimester when energy levels dip and you may not feel like tackling last-minute tasks.

Plus, having it ready ensures you’re prepared in case of an emergency.

I’d say the sweet spot is the end of the second trimester or the beginning of the third trimester because you still have some energy and if you forget items or need to order them you’ll still have time.

What to Bring for Baby?

First, let’s talk about what to pack for your baby.

Whether it’s your first time heading to the hospital to welcome a little one or your fifth, congratulations! This is such an exciting chapter, and your world is about to be filled with even more joy.

But when it comes to what to bring for your baby, the answer might surprise you… you really don’t need much.

In my experience, the hospital will provide so much of what you need for the baby, that you really don’t have to pack all that much for them.

You’ll want to double-check with the hospital where you’re delivering, I’m assuming you’ll probably do a Labor & Deliver tour and you can ask there but our hospital provided diapers, wipes, white onesies, a hat, socks, and even a blanket and swaddle.

I do pack everything for baby in their diaper own diaper bag just so I have their stuff separate from mine and it’s easy to find.

Here’s what I did bring before and plan to bring again for baby.

Scratch Mittens

When babies are born, their nails can be surprisingly sharp! With my last baby, I forgot to pack mittens, and he started scratching his face.

We tried using elastic mittens my mom picked up ant the store and even socks on his hands, but he managed to pull them off easily. In the end, I had to Amazon Prime a set of Velcro mittens.

I love these because you can adjust them to fit snugly without hurting the baby, and they stay on much better than traditional mittens. This time, I’ll definitely be packing them in my hospital bag!

Going Home Outfit

You’ll also probably want a “going home outfit” for baby. This can be something as simple as a zipper sleeper or that one special outfit you’ve had your eye on for baby just for pictures leaving the hospital.

I love Burt’s Bees zipper pajamas, they’re great quality and last forever compared to others we’ve used.

Now this next brand, LouLou and Company, is a little bit of a splurge but I just adore how soft their swaddle blankets are. For my last two babies, I’ve purchased a newborn bundle, which includes either a gown or 2 piece-set, hat or bow, mittens, and a swaddle blanket. I guess when you take into account how many pieces you’re getting the price isn’t that far off from what you’d pay for them separately in stores for something similar.

The swaddles are buttery soft and have become some of my kids’ favorites, plus they have some really adorable prints!

I purchased a newborn bundle for this little one as well. Mainly because I love the quality and texture for newborns but also because as a photographer I know I’ll be taking a ton of photographs of baby.

Baby Hat

In addition to your going-home outfit, you might want to pack a hat, or two, for your baby, especially if they’re born during the colder months.

We like to keep a hat on our newborn for the first couple of weeks to help them regulate their body temperature. This one is kind of optional because the hospital provides a hat but I wanted something a little well.. special and prettier.

Swaddle

Again, the hospital will probably provide you with a swaddle but I always like to bring one that is special. There’s nothing wrong with the hospital swaddle and I do use it the first few hours but then I like to pull out our swaddle that I have planned specifically for baby this way they can adjust to it as soon as they are born making for the transition to sleeping at home easier.

If your baby is going to be born in the cooler months and you want something a little heavier for sleeping, my favorite for those months is the Halo Fleece Swaddle.

Pacifier

This one is again, optional, and will be based on your personal preference. There are different guidelines and some insist not to introduce a pacifier until a certain age but with our last 2 I brought the pacifier to the hospital with me.

If your baby is anything like mine have been, it’s a game of trial and error though. The first pacifier you introduce may not work and they may prefer something else.

I’ll never forget when my second baby refused to take a pacifier until she was about 4 months old. She was a healthy baby but a terrible sleeper who cried non-stop. One day, out of desperation, I spent a ridiculous amount of money on every pacifier I could find at the store and kept trying until I finally found one she liked.

My first loved the Tommee Tippee Ultra-light silicone pacifiers.

As for my picky second, she ended up liking a Ryan and Rose Newborn Flat that I found and ironically, it’s what I ended up using with babies 3 and 4 since I already had them and they took them without a problem.

And don’t forget to pick up a pacifier clip if you’re planning to use pacifiers! It’ll help you keep track of them and avoid losing them like I did in the beginning, trust me, the clips make all the difference!

Car Seat

And last but definitely probably the most important, a car seat!

You can’t forget the car seat. Our hospital requires a newborn car seat check before you’re allowed to leave the unit. I suspect this is the case with most hospitals.

We have used the Graco Snug Ride for all four kids and probably will again for this baby. I actually just placed my order while working on this blog post.

I’ve had friends who used the Doona, which transitions into a stroller, and it’s such a convenient option for a first-time mom.

With my last three babies, I always had at least one other child in a stroller, so we stuck with our double stroller. Now that my kids are older, I’ve been debating looking into the Doona for this baby, it seems so convenient! However, I’ve heard some mixed reviews that although it’s convenient, there’s no storage so on outings to the store you can’t really use it unless you tote around a basket too for your items.

Diaper Bag

I like to pack everything for the baby in the diaper bag I’ll be using for them.

For the last two kids, I actually just used a backpack I found at Target. However, it recently broke and I was left searching for a new diaper bag for this little one.

I finally decided on the Petunia Pickle Bottom Temp Backpack for a variety of reasons.

I love that this is a backpack-style bag rather than an over-the-shoulder. These bags can be heavy with everything you need to carry around and I have problems with my right shoulder so having the weight equally distributed is perfect.

Also, I tend to only carry a diaper bag and not my purse, so aesthetically, I wanted the diaper bag to look more like a purse than a diaper bag and I think this one was perfect for my taste.

The inside has so much space that I can easily also toss in my Nikon camera to carry around with me.

Lovey

I’m going to start with this is not necessary but I love including a special lovely for each kid in their hospital bag.

I try to get a picture of them when they’re first born with it because over the years I love documenting their love for their little security “lovey.”

My first have a little monkey blanket, my second had a fox, my third loved her unicorn, and my fourth still carries around his bear.

This baby I’ve picked out the Yak from Slumberkins. Normally I just order the snuggles because it’s flat but this time around Slumberkins had a seconds sale on their stuffed animals I did snag a fluffy one as well.

What to bring for yourself?

Now onto what will you need to bring for yourself…

When it comes to my hospital bag for labor and delivery, I end up packing more for myself in the bag than I do for the baby because let’s face it, a comfortable and prepared mom is important!

I like to pack items that help me feel as comfortable as possible. I find it’s the little comforts for myself that make a huge difference during the stay.

Comfortable Clothing

Pajamas

I’ve had four c-sections so comfortable clothing at the hospital has always been important to me. The first time I packed a cute hospital gown that I thought I would use and guess what, I never did.

You’re recovering and probably going to want to stay in the hospital gown for easy access for the nurses. Plus, regardless of what type of delivery you have, there will be a lot of blood.

A little too much info but my hospital gown had blood stains all over it. I’m glad I stuck with the hospital gown rather than ruining my clothes.

Since a c-section has a longer stay at the hospital, I like to pack cozy pajamas that I usually feel comfortable wearing by the second day.

I do like to make sure that they’re buttoned up because I’ve breastfed all four children and plan to with our fifth. The button-up pajamas just make for quick and easy access for the baby to latch.

All three of these styles are button-up tops, making them perfect for easy nursing. I’ve used both the gown and the pants set during my hospital stays with my babies, and they’ve been so comfortable.

I personally stick to black clothing options because those first few days in the hospital involve a lot of pad changes, and black helps conceal any stains, making me feel more confident and at ease.

Light Cardigan or Robe

After delivery, your hormones will be all over the place. I remember I’d be freezing one moment and then hot and sweaty the next.

I suggest packing a cardigan or robe to wear over the hospital gown for when you’re cold.

Nursing Bra/Tank

If you’re planning on breastfeeding you’ll want to have a nursing bra or tank packed in your bag. I have at least two nursing bras in my bag. One style is a racerback sports bra type and the other has the clasp like a normal bra.

I also have packed one nursing tank in my bag as a “just in case” item. I prefer my button-down lounge wear but I like to have options in case I get too hot.

This has been my favorite nursing bra while at the hospital and I have it packed again. It’s a lace material and comfortable to sleep in.

Nipple Cream

This one is again for if you plan to breastfeed, grab a bottle of nipple cream before you go to the hospital.

No one tells you how painful your nipples will hurt those first few weeks while you adjust to nursing.

I had dry and cracked nipples at the hospital with my last and had to send my mom out again to grab some to bring to me at the hospital.

This time I already have it packed and ready.

Long Phone Charging Cord

If your family & friends are anything like mine, there will be a lot of phone calls, text messages, and pictures sent while you’re at the hospital.

You’ll want to make sure you have an extra long phone charging cord. I have a 10-foot cable because I never know how far the outlet will be from my hospital bed and I can tell you after a c-section, the last thing I want to do is get up and try to plug in my phone cord because I have a dead battery.

You may want to grab the two-pack, one for yourself and one for your significant other.

Chapstick

After labor your hormones can cause chapped lips, I suggest grabbing your favorite chapstick and packing it in your bag with you.

Toiletries

Some of the basic toiletries the hospital may provide but it’s always nice to have your own.

If you plan to shower at the hospital, you probably want to pack your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and face wash.

I also have a “travel bag” that I keep packed it has…

• toothbrush
• toothpaste
• floss
• moisturiser
• makeup remover
• deodorant
• q-tips
• hair ties
• hair brush
• contact solution & case
• make-up (mascara & foundation)

Eye Mask

I highly recommend packing an eye mask. I tend to sleep with one anyway because I’m sensitive to light.

At the hospital, you’ll have nurses and doctors in and out of your room to check on both you and your baby. Your sleep schedule will be all over the place, so bring an eye mask to help yourself sleep just in case lights need to be on or you want to grab a quick nap in the middle of the day.

Favorite Snacks

After birth, you’re going to be starving. Depending upon the time you give birth the cafeteria may or may not be open. I highly recommend packing yourself some of your favorite snacks!

The snacks are especially helpful when you’re up at 2 am feeding and trying to stay awake.

What to bring for your partner?

Although my husband is fully capable of packing himself, I always do it just to make sure it’s done. The last thing I need is him scrambling to grab things as we’re headed out the door. Plus, I’m the planner in the family, even when we go on vacation, he’s literally packing 5 minutes before we leave, so I save my sanity by just having his things ready for him before it’s time.

Change of Clothes

If you don’t live near the hospital and your husband (or significant other) is staying at the hospital with you, they’ll probably want a change of clothes for at least one day. If you’re having a planned c-section, you may want 2-3 days of clothes for him.

This time around we live further out from the hospital but my husband will still be driving home in the evenings to help with bedtime for the kids. I’ll probably pack him one outfit but not more than that since he’ll be back and forth to our house.

Toiletries

The hospital tends to have the main toiletries for you as a patient and would probably give extras for your husband but it’s always nice to have your own things.

I have a travel bag that I keep both of our toiletries in for when we travel.

Inside my travel bag is a toothbrush for him, his regular toothpaste, and floss. I also buy the little travel-sized deodorant for him to use as well.

Phone Charger

Yes, I’ve already included this as an item to pack for yourself but you’ll also want to have a phone charger for him. You’ll both probably be receiving a lot of calls and text messages if you’ve shared your big news and you’ll want to be able to charge your phone when the need arises.

Headphones

I wouldn’t really say this is a need but in our case it is. My husband frequently watches videos on his phone and the last thing I want when our new baby is sleeping is to be woken up by videos he may be watching. For this reason, I highly recommend bringing headphones to wear.

Snacks

Although the hospital has a cafeteria and vending machine, they may not have your significant other’s preferred snacks, and the price may be a bit well, expensive. I always pack a few of his favorites in my bag because when you’re up all night with the baby, sometimes you just need some comfort food.

Energy Drinks/Coffee

My husband and I are avid coffee drinkers and I know on those first sleep-deprived nights we’ll want coffee to help keep us awake and sometimes the cafeteria is closed.

I pack the instant Starbucks coffee for him so all he has to do is add water.

He also really likes the 5-hour energy drinks so I have put a few of those in my bag as well.

Things You Might Not Need, But May Want

There are some things I consider a “must-have” when it comes to your hospital bag and then there are things I think just make life a little easier and you may want, so I’ve included them in this section.

Portable Sound Machine

This time around I’ve packed the Hatch Portable Sound Machine. This may sound like something silly to pack but in addition to being light-sensitive when I sleep, I’m also hyper-aware of sounds.

I had to go into the hospital around 32 weeks pregnant with a kidney stone and I could hear the nurses opening and closing doors to other rooms and walking the hallway.

This made me decide to purchase the portable sound machine because I’ll be able to use it as white noise at the hospital and also while traveling with the baby.

Baby Nail Clippers

When babies are born, their nails are incredibly sharp. The hospital typically doesn’t keep clippers so I usually try to bring a pair with me to trim them so they don’t scratch their little face.

The Frida Baby nail clippers are my favorite because it has a little window where you can see where you’re cutting.

I love this feature because as an anxious mom, I was so worried about clipping their skin instead of their nail.

Boppy Pillow

This one is for both you and baby, a boppy pillow. If you’re planning to breastfeed, the boppy pillow helps bring the baby up to your chest for easy nursing. I was introduced to a boppy pillow (or similar pillow) after my first c-section delivery. It was so helpful for holding the baby while I nursed without having to worry about using my stomach muscles.

Compression Socks

This one is another that isn’t necessary but some people prefer to bring their own. I know our hospital has compression socks and yellow grip socks that we’re given during our stay.

However, if you are picky about what you’re wearing or specific colors, you may want to bring your own.

Slippers/Slip On Shoes

Slippers or slip-on shoes are another thing that I pack but isn’t really necessary.

Since I have a c-section, they encourage us to get up and walk laps around the unit as soon as possible. Trust me, I don’t want to bend over to try and put on shoes right after having my stomach cut open.

I try to bring a comfortable pair of either slippers or slip-on shoes that have a grip so that I can slip them on if I want to go walk laps around the hallway.

Shower Shoes

I’ve heard a lot of moms bring shower shoes, just a pair of sandals that you can get wet.

This isn’t something I have packed before, nor do I plan to pack them this time but it’s something to think about if you plan to shower and are picky about shower floors.

Ipad/Tablet

I love taking my iPad with me to the hospital because more times than not, I don’t like what’s on the hospital TV, that is if it even works.

I usually take my iPad, along with my headphones, so that I can watch my shows when I need a little entertainment while the baby is sleeping.

I’ve also debated taking my Kindle this time around but usually, I’m so exhausted that I don’t do much reading.

I’m more of the “turn on a TV show so that my brain doesn’t have to really focus” person when I’m tired.

What NOT to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

Diapers

Save your diapers for baby once you get home, the hospital will have plenty of diapers for your use while you’re at the hospital.

Wipes

Along the same lines as diapers, the hospital will also have wipes ready for you to use during your stay.

Mesh Underwear & Pads

If you’ve read up on postpartum care you will need these but these are things you can keep at home because the hospital will have some ready for you when you arrive.

Baby Outfits

I mentioned above you can bring a going-home outfit but beyond that baby will probably be swaddled most of the time in the blanket provided by the hospital,

Water Bottle

If you want to pack your own water bottle you can but they’re not necessary. Since I had a c-section I actually had to track my fluid intake and output so I could only use the hospital-provided water bottle to accurately track the amount of fluid intake.

Bringing Baby Home: A Well-Packed Bag Makes All the Difference

The last thing you want to worry about when heading to the hospital is realizing you forgot something important.

A well-packed bag isn’t just about the essentials, it’s about making your labor, delivery, and recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible. From cozy pajamas to snacks that actually taste good at 2 AM, having the right items on hand can make all the difference.

And let’s be honest, there’s something exciting about packing that tiny coming-home outfit and knowing that soon, your baby will be wearing it.

So, take a deep breath, double-check your list, and get ready for the incredible moment when you finally bring your little one home! ❤️

If you’re a planner like me, once your hospital bag is packed you may want to get all those essentials ready for the first month with baby at home. Check out My Most Used Newborn Essentials to help you plan for success.

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Wishing you a safe & smooth delivery, Mama. Xoxo-Tandra