Posted on October 20th, 2025

Introduction: Getting Ready for the Big Day

As your due date approaches, excitement mixes with nerves, and one of the simplest ways to ease that stress is by packing your hospital bag early. Whether it’s your first baby or your third, preparing in advance helps you feel calm, confident, and ready for anything.

At Hooria Health and Maternal Support, we often remind mothers: packing your bag is more than preparation, it’s an act of self-care. Here’s your complete checklist of what to bring for labor, delivery, and recovery, with thoughtful extras that honor your comfort, culture, and peace of mind.

 

When to Pack Your Hospital Bag

Start packing between 34 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. That gives you plenty of time to gather personal items, check expiration dates, and make sure you have everything you need, even if baby decides to arrive early!

Section 1: Essentials for Labor and Delivery

For You:

• Photo ID, insurance card, and hospital paperwork

• Birth plan (if you’ve made one)

• Comfortable robe or loose gown

• Hair ties or a scarf

• Lip balm and facial wipes (labor rooms can be dry!)

• Slippers or non-slip socks

• Refillable water bottle

• Snacks (granola bars, fruit, crackers) for after labor

• Charger and extra-long phone cable

• Music playlist or calming sounds

Pro Tip: Bring something that comforts you, a small blanket, prayer beads, or a familiar scent. Emotional comfort is as important as physical comfort.

Section 2: For the Baby

• Approved infant car seat (installed ahead of time!)

• Baby blanket or swaddle

• Going-home outfit (with mittens and hat)

• Newborn diapers and wipes (the hospital provides some, but extras help)

• Burp cloths

• Baby nail file or mittens (for sharp little nails)

Optional but meaningful: A small cultural item, perhaps a charm, a written blessing, or traditional fabric, can help you feel spiritually connected as you welcome your baby.

Section 3: For Your Support Partner or Doula

• Change of clothes and comfortable shoes

• Snacks, water, and a light blanket

• List of phone numbers or contacts

• Notebook or journal to capture details or messages

• Patience and positive energy, it’s a long, emotional day for everyone

At Hooria Health and Maternal Support, we encourage partners to stay engaged and informed. Simple acts like timing contractions, offering water, or holding hands can make a world of difference.

Section 4: Postpartum Comfort and Recovery

For You:

• Loose, soft clothing for going home

• Nursing bras or tank tops

• Maternity pads or adult briefs (the hospital provides some)

• Comfortable underwear

• Peri bottle or gentle cleansing wipes

• Nipple balm (if breastfeeding)

• Light snacks and herbal teas

• Eye mask or earplugs (for rest between check-ins)

Cultural Note: In many traditions, the postpartum period is sacred, a time for rest, healing, and nourishment. Pack items that help you honor that, whether it’s a shawl from home, herbal tea, or oils you associate with recovery.

Section 5: Optional Extras

• Favorite pillow or blanket from home

• A small speaker or headphones

• A thank-you card or small token for your nurses or doula

• A camera or phone tripod for photos

• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, lotion, deodorant

These extras aren’t essential, but they can make your stay feel more personal and less clinical.

Section 6: The “Do-Not-Forget” List

Before heading to the hospital, double-check:

• Phone and charger

• Car seat (installed)

• Hospital folder and insurance info

• Your partner’s bag

• Any medications you take

• Snacks or drinks for after delivery

Keeping these near the door or in your car ensures no last-minute panic when it’s “go time.”

 

Final Thoughts: Prepare with Care, Pack with Love

Every mother’s birth experience is different, but being prepared helps you approach it with peace and confidence. Packing your hospital and postpartum bag isn’t just a to-do list; it’s a ritual of readiness and self-compassion.

If you’d like personalized guidance or support preparing for birth, reach out to Hooria Health and Maternal Support. Our doulas and maternal health team can help you plan, pack, and prepare for a positive, culturally supported birth experience.

Contact Hooria Health and Maternal Support today to start a conversation about birth planning and postpartum care.