What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labor and Delivery

Getting ready for the big day

Packing early gives you peace of mind before labor begins. Have your hospital bag ready by 36 weeks. This guide covers everything for mom, baby, and partner.

Essentials for Mom

Hospitals provide basics, but comfort starts with familiar items.

Documents & must-haves:

• ID, insurance card, hospital paperwork

• Birth plan (if applicable)

• Phone, charger, and headphones

• Snacks and water bottle
  
  

Clothing & comfort:

• Front-opening pajamas or nursing gown

• Nursing bras and pads

• Loose underwear or disposable briefs

• Socks, robe, and slippers

• Comfy going-home outfit

• Add a soft Wrap or Blanket from Wyld Bub for extra coziness during recovery
  
  

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush

• Lip balm, moisturizer, and deodorant

• Shampoo, conditioner, or dry shampoo

• Hair ties or headband

• Pillow from home (bright pillowcase helps keep it separate)
  
  

For Baby

Most U.S. hospitals supply diapers and a receiving blanket, but you’ll want your own soft essentials.

Clothing:

• 3–4 Onesies or sleepers (newborn + 0–3 months)

• Hat, mittens, and socks from the Accessories & Beanies range

• A special going-home outfit - try Wyld Bub’s organic Gender Neutral Baby Clothing for timeless style

• Lightweight Swaddles and Wraps for skin-to-skin and photos
  
  

Other must-haves:

• Blanket for the car ride home

• Pacifier if you plan to use one

• Infant car seat installed and ready
  
  

Tip: Choose organic cotton pieces - they’re gentle on newborn skin and perfect for hospital temperatures.

For Your Partner or Support Person

They’ll appreciate being prepared too.

• Change of clothes

• Toiletries and deodorant

• Snacks, coffee, and cash for vending machines

• Phone, charger, camera

• List of contacts to notify after birth
  
  

When to Pack

Have your hospital bag packed by week 36 and store it near the door or in the car trunk. Babies don’t always stick to schedules.

Another tip: Two-bag system

Keep labor items (snacks, chargers, birth plan) in one bag and postpartum items (clothes, baby gear) in another. It saves time and confusion when things get busy.

Final note

Packing your hospital bag is a simple step that brings calm before the chaos. With Wyld Bub’s soft, organic essentials ready to go, you can focus on what matters most: meeting your baby.