A hospital bag should support your likely needs without trying to prepare for every possibility. Pack around thirty six or thirty seven weeks if your clinician has not advised an earlier plan, and check what your hospital or birth center already provides.
Documents and practical details
- Photo identification and insurance information if applicable
- Hospital notes or maternity records
- A brief birth preference sheet
- Phone, charger, and important contact numbers
- Medicines in their original packaging, following hospital guidance
Comfort during labor
- Loose clothing or a robe
- Non slip socks or slippers
- Hair ties and lip balm
- Glasses and contact lens supplies
- A water bottle and permitted snacks
- Music, headphones, or another familiar comfort item
If your plan includes movement, water, massage, or specific positioning, ask what the facility supplies before bringing equipment.
After birth
- Comfortable clothes and underwear
- Personal toiletries
- Nursing bras or feeding supplies recommended by your care team
- Clothes for the trip home
The hospital may provide pads, newborn diapers, and basic care items. Confirm locally so you do not overpack.
For the baby and support person
- Two simple baby outfits in different sizes
- A weather appropriate blanket and hat
- An installed car seat for the trip home
- Clothes, toiletries, food, and a charger for the support person
Keep the birth plan flexible
Your preferences matter, but labor and medical needs can change. Put the highest priority requests at the top of a one page plan and discuss them with your clinician before labor.
This checklist is general information. Follow instructions from your maternity team and facility.
Related reading
See the pregnancy hub, third trimester guide, and our birth plan resource.