25 Items You'll Be Happy You Packed In Your Hospital Bag
![Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag](jpg/best-products-hospital-bag-alt-jan-2024-722x406.jpg)
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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.
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Water Bottle
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
![Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag - Owala Water Bottle](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/owala-freesip-bottle-jan-2024.jpg)
- 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
- Hand-wash only
Size: 24, 32 or 40 oz
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.
Extra-Long Phone Charger
Amazon Basics 2.0 Fast Charger 10-Foot Cable
![Hospital Bag Checklist - AmazonBasics Lightning USB Cable](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/amazon-basic-charging-cable-jan-2024.jpg)
- Inexpensive
- Fast charger
- Some reviews note it doesn’t last very long
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.
Lip Balm
Burt’s Bees Lip Balm, 4-Pack
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Burt’s Bees Lip Balm, 4-Pack](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Burts-Bees-Moisturizing-Original-Peppermint.jpg)
- Inexpensive
- Available in multiple different scents
- Not scent-free
Size: Pack of four 0.15-ounce balms
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.
Electrolyte drink
Liquid IV
![Best Products for Hospital Bag - Liquid IV](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/liquid-iv-multiplier-jan-2024.jpg)
- Comes in travel size packs
- Wide variety of flavors
- Pricey
Count: 16 .56-ounce packs
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.
Postpartum disposable underwear
Always Discreet Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear for Women
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Always Discreet Incontinence & Postpartum Underwear for Women](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/always-discreet-underwear-jan-2024.jpg)
- Fits like regular underwear
- Disposable
- May run small
Count: Packs of up to 84 pairs
Size range: S/M to XL
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.
Plenty of Snacks
Kind Bars
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - KIND Dark Chocolate, Nuts & Sea Salt Bars](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/KIND-Chocolate-bars.jpg)
- Available in a variety of flavors
- Inexpensive
- Contains nuts
Size: Box of 12 40-gram bars
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.
Pacifier
Philips Avent Soothie
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Philips Avent Soothie](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/philips-avent-soothie-pacifier-what-to-expect-mom-must-have-awards-2023.jpg)
- Designed specifically for newborns
- Encourages bonding with the fingertip hole
- May feel a little big
Material: Silicone
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.
Extra Underwear
Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Kindred Bravely Postpartum Underwear](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/kindred-bravely-high-waisted-postpartum-underwear-2023.jpg)
- Comes in multiple colors
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Some reviews note they rip or tear easily
Material: Rayon, spandex
Size: S to 1X
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.
Comfortable Pillow from Home
Casper Sleep Pillow
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Casper Sleep Pillow](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/casper-pillow-jan-2024.jpg)
- Breathable for a cool feel
- Removable outer layer for easy cleaning
- Pricey
Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 5 inches
Weight: 3.5 pounds
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.
Pain reliever
Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels
![Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag - Tylenol Rapid Release](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/tylenol-extra-strength-jan-2024.jpg)
- Works quickly
- Might need to transfer pills to a smaller case to save space
Count: 225 500mg capsules
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](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/dearfoams-slipper-jan-2024.jpg)
- Great for indoor or outdoor use
- Machine washable
- 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
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.
Loose Clothes to Wear Home
Hatch The Softest Rib Over/Under Lounge Pants
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Hatch Lounge Pants](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/hatch-lounge-pants-jan-2024.jpg)
- Waistband can go over or under the belly and is C-section friendly
- Versatile
- Expensive
Material: Rayon and elastane
Sizes: 0 to 3
Colors: Black or rose quartz
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.
Wash cloth
American Soft Linen Luxury Washcloths
![Best Products to Pack in Hospital Bag - American Soft Linen Washcloths](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/american-soft-washcloth-jan-2024.jpg)
- Affordable
- Soft
- Available in many colors
- Some wish these were fluffier
Material: Cotton
Count: 4 per pack
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](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/quip-electric-toothbrush-jan-2024.jpg)
- Makes it easy to brush your teeth for a full two minutes
- Can be purchased with a subscription to make replacements convenient
- Soft bristles
- Pricey
- Requires batteries
Requires: 1 AAA battery
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.
Facial Wipes
Clinique Take The Day Off Micellar Cleansing Towelettes for Face & Eyes
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Clinique Facial Wipes](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/CLINIQUE-Take-The-Day-Off-Micellar-Cleansing-Towelettes.jpg)
- Resealable
- Fragrance free
- Single-use wipes
Size: Pack of 50 wipes
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](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/JBL-Waterproof-Portable-Bluetooth-Speaker.jpg)
- Compact
- Waterproof and wireless
- Battery powered so needs to be recharged
Weight: 7.84 ounces
Dimensions: 4.33 x 2.17 x 4.30 inches
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](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/posh-peanut-robe-jan-2024.jpg)
- 3-in-1 design is pregnancy friendly too
- Convenient for breastfeeding
- Lightweight and cooling
- May run small
Size: S to 3XL
Fabric: Papook bamboo
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.
Ponytail Holders
Goody Ouchless Elastics
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Goody Ouchless Elastics](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Goody-Ouchless-Elastics.jpg)
- Inexpensive
- Offers a great hold
- Can stretch out easily
Count: 111
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.
Breast Pump
Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Spectra 1 Breast Pump](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/spectra-s1-plus-electric-breast-milk-pump-what-to-expect-mom-must-have-awards-2023.jpg)
- Can be used as a single or double pump
- Portable and doesn’t need to be plugged in during use
- Uses battery so requires charging
Power source: Battery powered (included)
Weight: 3.3 pounds
Special features: Rechargeable, portable
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.
A Nightgown
Ekouaer Nursing Nightgown
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Ekouaer Maternity Nightgown](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Ekouaer-Maternity-Nightgown-Breastfeeding-Nightshirt.jpg)
- Inexpensive
- Available in a lot of colors
- Breastfeeding friendly
- No open back for epidural
Material: Rayon, spandex
Size: S to XXL
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.
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](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Little-Me-Girls-Unisex-Baby-2-Piece-Footie-and-Cap-Set.jpg)
- Easy button down for convenient diaper changes
- Comes with a photo keychain
- White stains easily
Sizes: Preemie to 9 months
Fabric: Cotton
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.
A Nursing Bra
Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Nursing Bra
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Nursing Bra](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/kindred-bravely-sublime-hands-free-pumping-bra-what-to-expect-mom-must-have-awards-2023.jpg)
- Easy for breastfeeding and beyond
- Inclusive sizing
- No hands-free pumping option
Sizes: Small to 3XL
Fabric: Nylon and spandex
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.
Toiletry Travel Kit
Yuni Beauty On the Run Kit
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Yuni Beauty On the Run Travel Kit](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/YUNI-Beauty-On-the-Run-Travel-Kit.jpg)
- Free of harsh chemicals and fragrances
- Comes with a bag
- Pricey
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](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/What-to-Expect-the-First-Year.jpg)
- Easy read
- Full of useful advice
- Bulky and a bit heavy to pack
Weight: 1.82 pounds
Pages: 702
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!
Folder
Five Star 2-Pocket Folder
![Mom Recommended Hospital Bag Checklist - Five Star 2-Pocket Folder](http://images.agoramedia.com/wte3.0/gcms/Five-Star-2-Pocket-Stay-Put.jpg)
- Inexpensive
- Organizational pocket
- It’s a little large
Dimensions: 0.25 x 9.38 x 11.69 inches
Material: Plastic
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.