What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Delivery: A Simple, Stress-Free Guide

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Packing your hospital bag is one of those pregnancy milestones that makes everything feel very real. Whether you’re a first-time mom or you’ve been down this road before, knowing exactly what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery can make your birth experience smoother and more comfortable.

As your due date approaches, having your hospital bag packed and ready can give you peace of mind. But with so many checklists out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What do you actually need, and what can you skip? In this guide, I’ll break it all down so you can focus on what matters most—welcoming your little one into the world with confidence and ease.

When to Pack Your Hospital Bag for Delivery

Most moms-to-be aim to have their bags packed by 35-36 weeks, just in case baby decides to make an early appearance. If you’re expecting multiples (fellow twin mom, here 👋) or have a high-risk pregnancy, consider packing even sooner. Tackling your checklist early? Don’t forget to schedule photos! 28-32 weeks is typical for most maternity sessions.

Essentials To Pack In Your Hospital Bag For Delivery

I’ve been there—staring at an empty bag, overwhelmed by the endless lists online, wondering if I really need to bring my own pillow. (Spoiler: You totally should!) To help you pack with confidence, I’ve put together this simple guide with everything you need—and nothing you don’t.

For Mom

• Comfortable Clothing

My personal opinion: hospital johnnies are for the birds and chances are you won’t be ready for ‘real’ clothes right away. A soft robe, loose pajamas or a nursing-friendly nightgown will make those post-birth hours much more comfortable. Don’t forget cozy socks and slippers when thinking about what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery!

• Going-Home Outfit

Think loose, comfy, and weather-appropriate. As someone who experienced an unexpected C-section, consider packing a high-waisted option in case you have an incision to consider.

• Toiletries

Bring travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, face wash, deodorant, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. Dry shampoo and lip balm can be lifesavers. Pro-tip: bring your own bath towel and flip flops. When putting together a list of what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery, you’ll appreciate having your own full-size bath towel and shower shoes with you in the hospital.

• Postpartum Essentials

I didn’t have a clue about the items I would need after giving birth, especially when recovering from a c-section. Disposable postpartum underwear (much nicer than the ones you’ll get in the hospital), cooling pads, and peri bottles are all things to consider. When putting together this guide of what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery- postpartum recovery essentials had to be on the list.

• Snacks & Drinks

Labor can be long, and hospital food isn’t always satisfying. Wondering what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery when it comes to snacks and drinks? Consider protein bars, crackers, and electrolyte drinks for a quick energy boost.

• Phone Charger

Outlets aren’t usually close to the beds, so make sure to pack an extra long charging cord. In between resting and holding your sweet new baby, you’ll likely want your phone close by.

• Important Paperwork

This probably isn’t top of mind when considering what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery, but have your ID, insurance card, and any hospital paperwork ready to go.

For Baby

• Going Home Outfit

Choose something soft, seasonally appropriate, and easy to put on. Don’t forget socks and a hat if it’s cold!

• Swaddle or Blanket

Hospitals do provide blankets, but when considering what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery- you may want to include a special swaddle or blanket one for those first snuggles and photos.

• Car Seat

This is a must-have! We may or may not have forgotten ours at home 😅 Good thing the hospital I delivered at wasn’t too far away. Car seat tests are standard at most hospitals before you can be discharged.

For Your Partner

• Comfortable Clothing

For overnight stays, don’t forget PJs, a change of clothes, and a hoodie (hospital rooms can be chilly) are helpful.

• Snacks & Drinks

So you don’t have to share 😉

• Entertainment

When thinking about what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery, “entertainment” seems like a silly thing to consider. But, your newborn will be sleeping A LOT and hopefully mama will be, too. A book, tablet, or headphones can be good for downtime.

Don’t Forget These

• Pillow & Blanket

These are two items I wish I hadn’t left off my list for what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery. The pillows and blankets at the hospital aren’t the coziest, and having a familiar pillow can make a big difference in comfort.

• Portable Fan

Not only to keep you cool during labor, but night sweats are still a thing in those early postpartum days! Having a fan handy for the one or two overnights after baby arrives is a great idea.

• Sound Machine + Sleep Mask

The hospital is a busy (read: loud) place at all hours of the day and night. A sound machine is a great way to block some of that out. Daytime and nighttime can seem like one big blur while you’re in the hospital. But getting sleep (when you can!) during recovery is so important. If you’re anything like me, harsh overhead lighting and sunlight during the day will make it hard to nod off. A sleep mask is a must-add to our what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery checklist.

What You Don’t Need to Pack

• Tons of Baby Clothes

Your little one will likely be swaddled most of the time and one or two outfits are enough.

• Diaper Bag

The hospital provides most newborn essentials. Pro tip: take as much with you as possible. Most nurses will gladly allow you to pack your bag up with diapers and wipes (and sometimes formula!) when it’s time to go home.

• Jewelry + Valuables

It’s best to leave these at home to avoid misplacing them.

Shop Our ‘What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Delivery’ Checklist

Bonus Info!

Where To Find Great Maternity Clothes

Finding great maternity clothes isn’t always easy. As your body adjusts to pregnancy, you may find yourself looking to add to your wardrobe. The good news: there are plenty of brands that specialize in stylish, comfortable maternity clothing. Check out these posts Casual Maternity Clothes and Where to Shop for Boston Maternity Clothes.

• Shop My Favorites

Baby Registry Must-Haves

Overwhelmed by the thought of making your baby registry? As a newborn photographer who works with lots of new moms and dads, I thought I’d have a leg up when it came to putting together my own registry. But when that time came, the overwhelm was REAL. Turns out, that’s because building a baby registry is a lot of work. Sound familiar? Check out my blog post Baby Registry Must-Haves or shop our list of favorites below:

• Shop My Favorites

How To Book Your Maternity Photos

Ready to book your Boston maternity photography session? Here’s how it works:

• Reach Out Early – Send me an inquiry as soon as you’re comfortable sharing the news so we can reserve your spot.
• Dream Big – We’ll chat about wardrobe, styling, and whether you’d like a studio, in-home or outdoor session.
• Relax & Enjoy – Between 28-32 weeks, we’ll set a session date and create a beautiful, stress-free experience for you and your family.

I believe in delivering organic, connection-filled portraits and a refined, full-service experience. From a beautifully curated wardrobe to a light-filled studio space and complimentary artwork design, I take care of everything. Whether you envision a being outdoors, having a cozy in-home session or embracing the serene studio setting, I’m here to make the process effortless and enjoyable. Contact me today to Schedule Your Next Session!

Looking For A Boston Maternity or Newborn Photographer?

This season of pregnancy is just that: a season. But the memories can last a lifetime with a beautifully planned maternity photography session. You’ll never regret being able to share these photographs, when it was just you two, with your child as they grow up.

Feeling overwhelmed by the process (planning outfits, finding a good location, getting your partner on board, managing siblings during photos)? Because you’re not alone and that’s why I believe in taking care of every detail so you don’t have to. If you’re looking for a Boston Maternity Photographer, I’d love to share how I provide a truly done-for-you portrait experience: Send Me A Message.

Baby’s first days are fleeting, and by booking photos early, you’ll ensure a stress-free experience and timeless portraits that your family will cherish forever. Whether you envision a cozy in-home session, being outdoors or a taking advantage of a serene studio setting, I’m here to make the process effortless and enjoyable. If you are looking for a Massachusetts Newborn Photographer contact me today to Schedule Your Next Session!

Final Thoughts

Packing your hospital bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Keep it simple, focus on the essentials, and remember—you’ve got this! Whether your birth plan goes exactly as expected or takes an unexpected turn, being prepared can help you feel more in control.

When thinking about what to pack in your hospital bag for delivery- what’s one thing you couldn’t live without? Did it make our list? Let me know in the comments!

more reads from the blog

• Where To Shop For Boston Maternity Clothes
• 3 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your Baby Photographer
• Top 5 Places For Prenatal Massage in Boston

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoyed the “What To Pack In Your Hospital Bag For Delivery” feature.

Molly Katherine is a Boston Maternity, Newborn and Family Photographer offering organic, connection-filled portraits and a refined, full-service experience. From a beautifully curated wardrobe to a light-filled studio space and complimentary artwork design, Molly delivers it all with exceptional client experience in mind. Molly Katherine Photography serves Boston, MA and the surrounding metro areas including Brookline, Newton, Natick, Weston, Wellesley, Sherborn, Hopkinton, Westborough, Grafton and Shrewsbury as well as Middlesex and Worcester county.

I’d love to connect and share more about my process with you! To reserve your 2025 maternity, newborn or family portraits, visit Molly Katherine Photography or send an email to mollykatherinephotography@gmail.com.

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