25 Items You'll Be Happy You Packed In Your Hospital Bag

checked mark Fact-Checked by Erin Cavoto  | January 5, 2024
Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag
Hospital Bag Essentials

Having a hospital bag packed and ready to go is just one ritual many pregnant moms take part in during the weeks leading up to their due date. Giving birth at a hospital means you’ll be spending a few days there, and considering the circumstances, you’ll want to do what you can to be as comfortable as possible.

While there is no universal packing list that works for every single parent-to-be, there are some items that moms overall agree should be in your hospital bag. To find these items, I relied on my own experience giving birth to two children. I also combed through the What to Expect community to see what most moms, specifically those who’ve given birth multiple times, suggest packing for labor and delivery. After all, the only way you know what is actually helpful in a hospital is to go through the experience. 

Before getting your items together, however, you should call your hospital to ask what will be provided on the big day. Many hospitals provide diapers and wipes for babies and pads, mesh underwear, and ice packs for moms. That way, you’ll know what items you don’t need to spend money and waste storage space on. 

Below is a list of some of the best items that What to Expect moms were glad they packed in their hospital bag before labor and delivery. 

Why Trust Us?

What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.

Water Bottle

Owala FreeSip Water Bottle

Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag - Owala Water Bottle
Pros
  • Available in a variety of colors
  • Innovative design allows you to sip from a straw or tip back to swig
  • Straw can be covered when not in use
Cons
  • Hand-wash only

Size: 24, 32 or 40 oz

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

Hospital staff will supply you with water, of course, but only in flimsy plastic cups — and you’ll definitely want to be drinking a lot, especially if you plan on breastfeeding. Bringing a large insulated water bottle or thermos will allow for plenty of cold water on hand at all times. Although any water bottle will do, I highly recommend the Owala FreeSip bottle. Not only does it hold plenty of water and keep it cold for up to 24 hours, but the straw made it easy to sip water when holding my newborn, especially if I was nursing.

Community Reviews
  • We love our Owala bottles. You have a choice of drinking from the straw or lifting it up to drink and the mouth piece is covered.”

  • “I love my owala water bottle. super easy to drink out of. and it has a good lid that can lock and the lock can function as a handle (but then it's not locking the lid closed, just FYI). I love all the features actually. if you get a 24 oz, it is most likely small enough to fit in a typical cup holder tho I don't know that for sure.”

  • “Owala all the way. Keeps cold, has covered mouth piece, a locking lid, carrying handle, can sip OR take big gulps, and perfectly easy to use 1-handed” 

     

Extra-Long Phone Charger

Amazon Basics 2.0 Fast Charger 10-Foot Cable

Hospital Bag Checklist - AmazonBasics Lightning USB Cable
Buying Options
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Fast charger
Cons
  • Some reviews note it doesn’t last very long
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

Your phone will come in handy for a ton of major delivery day moments: texting your family important updates, snapping photos, playing music and more. While you can certainly just pack your standard charger from home, several moms said that having an extra-long charger or an extension cord meant not having to get up from the hospital bed to use their phone. This 10-foot long charger fits the bill perfectly.

“I labored for a while, and having easy access to a fully charged phone helped pass the time,” says Leah Rocketto, What to Expect’s Associate Commerce Direct and mother of a 2-year-old. “Because it charged quickly, my husband and I were able to alternate using it and didn’t have to worry about packing a second charger.” Leah adds that the long charger came in handy when she was nursing. 

Community Reviews
  • “[Pack] a longer charger cord! I bought a cheap 10-foot cord to bring, because the outlets are so far from the hospital bed. It was such a pain with my first.”

  • [Bring] a small extension cord for charging your phone. With my first it was great because I would move from the bed to the chair during labor and could still have my phone nearby.”

Lip Balm

Burt’s Bees Lip Balm, 4-Pack

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Burt’s Bees Lip Balm, 4-Pack
Buying Options
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Available in multiple different scents
Cons
  • Not scent-free

Size: Pack of four 0.15-ounce balms

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

When is packing lip balm not a good idea? Although it’s one of the most popular recommendations from experienced moms, lip balm is a must-pack that's easy to forget about. This four-pack of Burt’s Bees Lip Balm will keep your lips moist in the dry hospital air, especially for moms who had a C-section and had their lips dried out by the oxygen mask.

Community Reviews
  • “[Don’t forget] chapstick! It is so dry in the hospital!”

  • I LOVE Burts Bees too. I have them everywhere and stock up at Costco lol. The regular one works great for every day but if your lips are super chapped I recommend the ultra conditioning one they make, it has a silver cap. That one provides more deep hydration in my opinion, best when you're super chapped.”

     

  • “Def worth it even if you find you don’t use or need it. My lips were super chapped every time. Labor is hard and they really don’t allow you to have anything…or at least they don’t in my hospital”

     

Electrolyte drink

Liquid IV

Best Products for Hospital Bag - Liquid IV
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$23 for 16 packs
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$15 for 10 packs
See Now Opens a new window
$9 for 6 packs
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Comes in travel size packs
  • Wide variety of flavors
Cons
  • Pricey

Count: 16 .56-ounce packs

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

Hydration is crucial before, during and after delivery. Although the hospital will provide you with plenty of liquids, one way to get an almost instant hydration boost is with an electrolyte. Liquid IV is a popular choice because of its easily portable design, coming in packs that you can throw in your bag and add to a water bottle when you need it at the hospital. 

“I had to go over 12 hours without any actual food, and the Liquid IV saved me from getting hangry,” says Leah. “It’s obviously no substitute for food, but it added some flavor to the water which made it a little more satisfying.” 

What makes Liquid IV even better is that it’s available in tons of delicious flavors, including classics like Lemon Lime and Strawberry Lemonade, plus more interesting options like Pina Colada and Acai Berry.

Community Reviews
  • “Yes! Liquid IV has been a lifesaver for me. I’m finding it hard to drink 10 glasses of water a day and this has been a game changer. If you research it online so many moms swear by it for their pregnancies. Stock up!!”

  • “I love liquid iv and I am bringing some to stay hydrated in hospital.”

  • “I haven’t delivered yet but something I do to stay hydrated is put ice in my water bottle (Stanley or any other insulated one works best for me), then fill it about half full with water, the other half with Raspberry Lemonade Pedialyte, & then one packet of Tangerine Liquid IV. It’s so delicious & I feel great after! I plan to take a bottle of Pedialyte & a few packs of liquid IV to the hospital with me so I can make it there.”

     

Postpartum disposable underwear

Always Discreet Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear for Women

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Always Discreet Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear for Women
Buying Options
Pros
  • Fits like regular underwear
  • Disposable
Cons
  • May run small

Count: Packs of up to 84 pairs

Size range: S/M to XL

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

There’s a good chance your hospital will provide you with adult diapers to help with postpartum bleeding (called lochia), but they may not be the most comfortable. Always Discreet disposable underwear is a popular postpartum underwear and postpartum pad option among What to Expect community members and staff. Providing all-over protection, this underwear is made of a stretchy, thin fabric like material that conforms to your body. 

“They clung to my body while still providing enough room to add a disposable ice pack or witch hazel pads for extra relief,” says Leah, who wore these her first few weeks postpartum. 

Another bonus: Always Discreet is designed to neutralize odors so you don’t have to worry about the stench. 

Community Reviews
  • “I brought comfy adult diapers. My cousin had her baby before me and she used them, too. The ones for women come in black or tan and can't be noticed under clothes.”

Plenty of Snacks

Kind Bars

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - KIND Dark Chocolate, Nuts & Sea Salt Bars
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$14 for 12 bars
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$16 for 12 bars
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Available in a variety of flavors
  • Inexpensive
Cons
  • Contains nuts

Size: Box of 12 40-gram bars

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

To make sure you have plenty of fuel on a day when you’ll surely need it, make sure you pack some protein- or fiber-rich snacks. These Kind Bars are an easy, healthy option to stock up on. I found them to be satisfying and super tasty, thanks to the rich dark chocolate. They also store well and won’t get crushed easily in your bag. 

Community Reviews
  • “Bring your favorite snack. You're going to have just gone through the most glorious but draining experience, and a good snack after is such a relief.”

  • Snacks, snacks and more snacks! Especially if there is any chance you’ll have a C-section.”

Pacifier

Philips Avent Soothie

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Philips Avent Soothie
Buying Options
Pros
  • Designed specifically for newborns
  • Encourages bonding with the fingertip hole
Cons
  • May feel a little big

Material: Silicone 

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

If you plan on introducing a pacifier to your baby, you might as well start at the hospital. And no pacifier is more recommended than the Philips Avent Soothie, a winner in both our Mom Must-Have Awards and Sleep Awards

Made from durable, hospital-grade silicone, the Philips Avent Soothie is designed to ensure baby’s teeth and gums develop naturally. It’s also designed to promote bonding: Yousimply place your finger in the nipple to help your baby suckle. The pacifiers are sold as a four-pack, so you’ll always have a replacement when you inevitably misplace one. 

I used this one with both of my daughters and found that they both took to it immediately. And, as a bonus, it’s dishwasher safe, making it super easy to clean. 

Community Reviews
  • “I wish I had brought a pacifier! Most hospitals won’t give you one, but OH MAN that second night babies go through some serious cluster feeding. My husband had to sit holding our son with a pinky in his mouth for over an hour just so I could get some rest.”

  • My daughter was exclusively breastfed and it’s the only pacifier she’d take. She would drop them out of her mouth once she fell asleep. But once I was done nursing and saw she was only sucking for comfort I’d sneak in the pacifier and she’d use that until shed totally passed out.”

  • “For both pacifiers and bottles we use Philips Avent”

Extra Underwear

Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Kindred Bravely Postpartum Underwear
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$26 for 5 pairs
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$36 for 5 pairs
See Now Opens a new window Kindred_Bravely
Kindred Bravely
$36 for 5 pairs
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Comes in multiple colors
  • Aesthetically pleasing
Cons
  • Some reviews note they rip or tear easily

Material: Rayon, spandex

Size: S to 1X

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

Although most moms stock up on the mesh underwear that the hospital usually provides, many also recommend bringing postpartum underwear to wear over the mesh undies to keep everything in place. Deemed the Best Postpartum Underwear by community members, Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear comes in a pack of five and has a full coverage band for added comfort. They’re super soft, stretchy, and supportive. They’re also recommended for people who had a C-section as they won’t irritate their incision. Not to mention the lace waistband is a pretty detail to make you feel a little more like you. 

Community Reviews
  • I lived in my kindred bravely underwear. It was very soft and comfortable.”

  • “I just bought a pack of kindred bravely high waisted briefs and they’re very comfy! And c-section friendly bc of the high waist.”

  • “I love the kindred bravely postpartum underwear. The benefit is they are comfortable and accommodating of large pads. I also don’t worry about ruining them. They are also high waisted in case you need a c-section, which is nice.”

Comfortable Pillow from Home

Casper Sleep Pillow

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Casper Sleep Pillow
Pros
  • Breathable for a cool feel
  • Removable outer layer for easy cleaning
Cons
  • Pricey

Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 5 inches

Weight: 3.5 pounds

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

Obviously the hospital bed will come with a pillow or two, but they have a reputation for being flimsy. If your current pillow isn’t cutting it, this Casper Sleep Pillowwill give you both support and comfort when you need it most, thanks to its microfiber fill and cooling cotton exterior. Or, you might want to bring your pregnancy pillow for optimal comfort.

Community Reviews
  • “I brought my pillow and I’m so glad I did, as [the hospital’s] sucked!”

  • “I wish I had brought my own pillow! The hospital’s suck and it’s so nice to have something comforting and familiar to you at the hospital. I bet this seems like a no brainer to some but when I had my first it was the last thing on my mind to bring as I was rushing to get out the door to the hospital!”

Pain reliever

Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels

Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag - Tylenol Rapid Release
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$31 for 225 capsules
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$22 for 225 capsules
See Now Opens a new window Walmart
Walmart
$23 for 225 capsules
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Works quickly
Cons
  • Might need to transfer pills to a smaller case to save space

Count: 225 500mg capsules

Why We Love It

Although the hospital will have pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen on hand, they won’t be able to give any to your spouse, partner or whoever you have in the delivery room with you. Keeping pain reliever on hand is smart just in case anyone with you gets a headache. Tylenol Extra Strength Rapid Release Gels are ideal for headaches because they work quickly and can target other issues like muscles aches or back pain.

Cozy Slippers

Dearfoams Claire Marbled Cable Knit Chenille Clog Slipper

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Dearfoams Slippers
Pros
  • Great for indoor or outdoor use
  • Machine washable
Cons
  • Some reviewers wish the soles were longer lasting

Sizes: S to XL

Colors: Sleet, pale mauve, black, stonewash, aubergine, muslin

Materials: 100% chenille with faux fur trim

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

A pair of super warm and soft socks are great to have on hand in the hospital, but you may also want to have a pair of slippers to get around more easily. These Dearfoams Claire Clog Slippers are one of my personal favorites. They have a hard outsole, so they can be worn outside without getting ruined, but they’re still super comfy. They’re made of a soft chenille fabric with stylish faux fur trim, which I think makes them feel and look a bit more polished. I wore my slippers throughout my whole hospital stay and would never do it again without them. 

Community Reviews

Loose Clothes to Wear Home

Hatch The Softest Rib Over/Under Lounge Pants

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Hatch Lounge Pants
Buying Options
Hatch_Collection
Hatch Collection
$128
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Waistband can go over or under the belly and is C-section friendly
  • Versatile
Cons
  • Expensive

Material: Rayon and elastane

Sizes: 0 to 3 

Colors: Black or rose quartz  

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

You may stay in your labor and delivery robe for the entirety of your hospital stay, but you’ll need to change into actual clothes to go home. While a bit of a splurge, these Hatch Over/Under Lounge Pants are a great pick: They’re meant to be worn during pregnancy and afterwards, thanks to the super soft and stretchy rayon blend fabric. There is no drawstring or tight waistband, making it C-section friendly, too. If you choose to pull the band over your belly, it leaves you feeling more supported. 

Community Reviews
  • “My sister brought me clothes to change into, and even though she brought ‘comfy’ sweats, they felt way too tight! I had to wear my hubby’s 2XL gym shorts because any pressure on my abdomen was hell. So make sure you pack super loose/baggy clothing.”

  • Bring loose, comfy clothes that aren’t pre-pregnancy clothes.  I took loose clothes but not loose enough.”

Wash cloth

American Soft Linen Luxury Washcloths

Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag - American Soft Linen Washcloths
Buying Options
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Soft
  • Available in many colors
Cons
  • Some wish these were fluffier

Material: Cotton

Count: 4 per pack

Why We Love It

Some people recommend bringing their own towels to the hospital, but it’s going to take up a lot of room in your bag. Instead, you can bring a couple soft washcloths which can be used to wipe off your face or while bathing to provide some comfort. If you need new washcloths, this set is a great value option at about $4 each. They’re made of 100% cotton, so you can be assured that they’ll feel soft against your skin.

Toothbrush

Quip Electric Toothbrush

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Quip Electric Toothbrush
Pros
  • Makes it easy to brush your teeth for a full two minutes
  • Can be purchased with a subscription to make replacements convenient
  • Soft bristles
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Requires batteries

Requires: 1 AAA battery

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

Don’t forget your toothbrush so you can shower your baby with minty fresh kisses! The Quip Electric Toothbrush is an excellent travel-friendly brush: The cover not only protects it in your bag, but can also be mounted to surfaces, so you can attach it to the hospital bathroom mirror for convenience.

I love using this brush because of its soft bristles that never feel too intense. Plus, it makes it so easy to start a consistent brushing routine: Once you turn it on, it lasts for two minutes, vibrating slightly every 30 seconds so that you can adequately brush each section of your teeth. 

Community Reviews
  • “Don't forget your toothbrush! I forgot mine with my first and had to send family to get me one.”

  • "Any bathroom things that you use on a daily basis [are a must-have]."

Facial Wipes

Clinique Take The Day Off Micellar Cleansing Towelettes for Face & Eyes

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Clinique Facial Wipes
Buying Options
Target
Target
$19 for 50 wipes
See Now Opens a new window Sephora
Sephora
$19 for 50 wipes
See Now Opens a new window Macy's
Macy's
$19 for 50 wipes
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Resealable
  • Fragrance free
Cons
  • Single-use wipes

Size: Pack of 50 wipes

Why We Love It

Cinique’s cleansing wipes will come in handy if you don’t have the energy to shower post-delivery. They’re soaked in micellar water to remove dirt and sweat, plus they’re fragrance-free to avoid irritation. I love using these wipes because the micellar water doesn’t leave a residue behind, so I felt it was really cleansing my skin. 

Portable Speaker

JBL Clip 3 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - JBL Portable Speaker
Buying Options
Pros
  • Compact
  • Waterproof and wireless
Cons
  • Battery powered so needs to be recharged

Weight: 7.84 ounces

Dimensions: 4.33 x 2.17 x 4.30 inches

Why We Love It

If your hospital allows it, bringing a portable speaker into the delivery room to play songs you love can go a long way toward creating a more relaxing environment. This speaker is particularly great: It's just a touch bigger than a smartphone, so it won't take up tons of room in your hospital bag and provides 10 hours of play time. I also appreciate that it’s waterproof, which is helpful if there are any spills on your cluttered hospital bedside table. 

A Soft Robe

Posh Peanut Robe

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Posh Peanut Maternity Delivery Nursing Gown
Buying Options
Pros
  • 3-in-1 design is pregnancy friendly too
  • Convenient for breastfeeding
  • Lightweight and cooling
Cons
  • May run small

Size: S to 3XL 

Fabric: Papook bamboo

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

You’ll want to slip this Posh Peanut robe on as soon as you get to the hospital. Just like a nightgown, it’s easier to deal with than pants, whether you’re going to the bathroom, changing your pads or attempting to breastfeed. It’s made of super soft bamboo that is comfortable, stretchy and lightweight, and it has deep pockets for your phone or anything else you want to keep close by. Plus, you might also be able to find a matching onesie for your little one since the brand makes those, too. 

Community Reviews
  • I ordered a robe, swaddle set and matching dress for my toddler from Posh Peanut. All are made of such beautiful, soft fabric. I even went back and bought another outfit for the baby. I’d highly recommend that site.”

  • “I’m already living in my posh peanut robe. I love it!!”

  • “I just got a push peanut order. A robe, gown and swaddle and I love them! So soft, fairly light so good for the warmer weather, made primarily with bamboo. I'm already living in the robe”

     

Ponytail Holders

Goody Ouchless Elastics

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Goody Ouchless Elastics
Buying Options
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Offers a great hold
Cons
  • Can stretch out easily

Count: 111 

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

For moms-to-be with longer hair, it’s good to stash a ponytail holder or two in your hospital bag. They barely take up any room, yet they can be a game-changer in terms of comfort when you sweat or just want your hair out of the way. I personally brought several Goody Ouchless ones for both of my deliveries. I find they offer a really great hold, but aren’t so strong that they’ll rip out your hair when you remove them. (No one wants a jump start on postpartum hair loss!) They’re also inexpensive and you get over 30 in a pack, which is great considering how easy they are to lose. 

Community Reviews
  • I use Goody Ouchless. I like them the best because they do not come out. And don't hurt coming out.”

  • “the brand goody makes an “ouchless” kind that we loooove! The only kind we use. So easy to get out!”

     

Breast Pump

Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Spectra 1 Breast Pump
Pros
  • Can be used as a single or double pump
  • Portable and doesn’t need to be plugged in during use
Cons
  • Uses battery so requires charging

Power source: Battery powered (included)

Weight: 3.3 pounds

Special features: Rechargeable, portable 

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

If you’re planning to pump, you should consider bringing your pump to the hospital. This way, the on-site lactation consultant can help you set it up and answer any questions you may have. If you haven’t bought yours yet, the Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump comes highly recommended by What to Expect moms. (It is a What to Expect Mom-Must Have winner and Feeding Awards winner). Having used this pump myself, I understand the praise. It offers hospital-grade suction, despite being so compact and light. But what’s particularly appealing is that it works with a battery: I liked not having to be “plugged in” when using it, so I could move around more freely when pumping. 

Community Reviews
  • S1 for sure, i ended up exclusively pumping with my first for a year and being able to move around and pump was totally worth it - being able to grab a water, snack, bottle, nuk , toy or a diaper or anything instead of having to unhook the pump is worth it, also pumping in the car is an incredible time saver.”

  • “S1 for me. I loved not having to be plugged in. I exclusively pumped and it made it so easy to just tote it around!”

  • “I LOVE my spectra. I used the medela at the hospital and I hated it. I was so happy to get home and use my spectra. It’s supposed to be the closest thing to baby actually sucking. Super comfortable and easy to use. The medela doesn’t have a timer, at least the one I used, and the spectra does with a light. 100% recommended!”

     

A Nightgown

Ekouaer Nursing Nightgown

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Ekouaer Maternity Nightgown
Buying Options
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Available in a lot of colors
  • Breastfeeding friendly
Cons
  • No open back for epidural

Material: Rayon, spandex 

Size: S to XXL

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

A nightgown might not be the first thing that comes to mind when packing for the big day, but it can make things more comfortable and convenient. This Amazon gown is a great option, especially since you might not feel like wearing pants post-birth. It's made of super soft stretch fabric and allows for easy nursing access. Plus, you can even get away with wearing it home if you want because it basically looks like a regular dress.

Community Reviews
  • I ordered this for after labor! I will wear the hospital gown until my post delivery shower”

  • “Living in these, super comfy but definitely not something to wear outside the house” 

     

  • “I wore nursing nightgowns the entire time I was in the hospital! I have a couple Ekouaer brand ones from Amazon that I like.”

An Outfit to Take Baby Home In

Little Me Welcome To The World Set

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Little Me Welcome to the World Footie and Cap Set
Pros
  • Easy button down for convenient diaper changes
  • Comes with a photo keychain
Cons
  • White stains easily

Sizes: Preemie to 9 months 

Fabric: Cotton

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

Your baby will be wrapped in a swaddle for most of their time at the hospital, but don’t forget to pack an outfit or two for them to wear home. This adorable outfit is both cozy and cute, perfect for taking your newest arrival home. I personally love Little Me because all of the clothes are super soft and fit snugly. Some moms recommend bringing multiple outfits to take baby home in, just in case an accident happens before it’s time to leave or if you plan on taking professional photos at the hospital. 

Community Reviews
  • “[Bring] extra outfits for the baby incase he spits up or accidentally pees and the diaper isn't on correctly at the time.”

  • Don’t forget a nice or dressy outfit for baby if you plan on buying the hospital photos.

A Nursing Bra

Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Nursing Bra

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Nursing Bra
Buying Options
Pros
  • Easy for breastfeeding and beyond
  • Inclusive sizing
Cons
  • No hands-free pumping option

Sizes: Small to 3XL 

Fabric: Nylon and spandex

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

If you’ve chosen to breastfeed, you’ll want a nursing bra or added comfort and ease. Winner of the What to Expect Mom Must-Have Award, the Kindred Bravely nursing bra has snap-down straps for easy access, is made of a stretchy but supportive fabric, and is soft enough you can wear it to bed. It comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes, including extra busty options to fit different breast shapes. Plus, it can be easily used for nursing or pumping, which offers great versatility for learning how to do both in the hospital with ease.

Community Reviews
  • 10/10 recommend kindred bravely simply sublime for bigger busted ladies!”

  • “I also really like their simply sublime bra. I've only got DDs, so I'm not super busty, but it's supportive and comfortable.”

     

  • “I saw a suggestion for the Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime nursing bras and I got a couple... I chose tan and black. Very comfy, I do have bigger boobs (honestly just because I'm fat) but I'm pretty sure they'd work well for all sizes!”

Toiletry Travel Kit

Yuni Beauty On the Run Kit

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Yuni Beauty On the Run Travel Kit
Buying Options
Pros
  • Free of harsh chemicals and fragrances
  • Comes with a bag
Cons
  • Pricey
Why We Love It

Another way to feel fresh in the hospital is a toiletry kit. This travel set is a great choice, particularly because of the individually wrapped shower sheets. You may not be able to shower post-birth, but these shower sheets can be used to wipe down your body for an instant cleanse without having to get in the water. I used them after giving birth to my second daughter, and wish I’d had them the first time around. 

The kit also comes with a calming aromatherapy mist (which was a pleasant addition to have), hand and body cream and a no-rinse body cleanser. 

Entertainment

'What to Expect the First Year' by Heidi Murkoff

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - What to Expect the First Year by Heidi Murkoff
Buying Options
Pros
  • Easy read
  • Full of useful advice
Cons
  • Bulky and a bit heavy to pack

Weight: 1.82 pounds 

Pages: 702

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

While the movies make it seem like delivery is a chaotic, fast-paced process with a lot of screaming, that’s not always the case. Sometimes labor can last for days and a lot of moms say it’s good to be prepared with your favorite entertainment options to fill the time.Although this What to Expect book is a little heavy to pack, it’s worth it: This was basically my bible during the first year of my first daughter’s life. I really liked reading through it before she was born so that I felt more prepared for, well, what to expect when she arrived!

Community Reviews
  • “[Bring] some form of entertainment. Who knew how boring it would be sitting in a bed all day for two days with only a newborn baby who sleeps for over half the day as entertainment? I’m bringing a laptop this time so I can log into Netflix and Hulu.”

  • We brought our laptop to watch movies while labor was progressing.

Folder

Five Star 2-Pocket Folder

Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Five Star 2-Pocket Folder
Buying Options
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Organizational pocket
Cons
  • It’s a little large

Dimensions: 0.25 x 9.38 x 11.69 inches 

Material: Plastic

Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It

You’ll be getting a bunch of documents and valuable papers from the hospital before you go home with your newest addition to the family. While not necessary, a designated folder can help you avoid losing or wrinkling anything important, especially during the chaos of delivery. Five Star’s 2-pocket option made it so easy to stay organized: The upper corners keep papers from falling out even if it’s not upright, and the small pocket on the inside is perfect for items that aren’t full-sized pieces of paper.

Community Reviews
  • “[Bring a] folder to keep the million important papers you will get.”