Checklist: Packing Your Hospital Bag for Childbirth

The birth of your child is a very special moment—exciting, emotional, and often a little overwhelming. A well-packed hospital bag gives you peace of mind and ensures that, in the hours before and after the birth, you can focus entirely on what matters most: yourself, your baby, and your shared start to family life.

It’s best to take your time and prepare your hospital bag in a calm setting. Many expectant parents even find packing to be a lovely ritual in the late stages of pregnancy—a tangible sign that the big day is approaching.

To make sure you don’t forget anything important, here’s a clear checklist for your hospital bag.

It’s a good idea to pack your hospital bag sometime between the 32nd and 34th weeks of pregnancy. From this point on, your baby could theoretically be born at any time—and you’ll be on the safe side in case labor starts earlier than planned.

It’s handy to use a printed checklist. That way, you can pack items you still need for daily life—such as identification documents or your health insurance card—just before you leave and still make sure you don’t forget anything. It’s best to keep the bag in a clearly visible spot and let the person accompanying you know where it is. That way, everything will stay calm and organized when the time comes.

• Prenatal care record
• Health insurance card
• Identification document (Identity Card)
• Family Register with the marriage certificate (if you are married to the child’s father) or birth certificate or acknowledgment of paternity (if you are single or unmarried)
• Allergy card (if applicable)

Tip: Keep all documents together in a folder—that way, you’ll have them quickly at hand.

Comfortable clothing is especially important for the birth and the days that follow. Pack clothes that you feel comfortable in.

• A large, loose-fitting, knee-length T-shirt for the birth
• Button-down nightgowns (convenient for breastfeeding)
• Sweatpants or comfortable, loose-fitting pants
• Robes
• Thick socks, slippers
• Cotton or disposable panties, sanitary pads
• Nursing bras, breast pads
• Nursing pillow
• Washcloths, towels, toiletries/cosmetics bag (e.g., toothbrush, face cream, deodorant, hairbrush, hair tie, lip balm)
• Possibly massage oil, favorite/relaxing music with headphones
• If you wear contact lenses: Storage case, contact lens solution, and glasses
• Food and drinks (snacks, juice) or money for the cafeteria
• Camera, cell phone

Be sure to pack some small comfort items as well—they can be very valuable during your hospital stay.

Many hospitals provide diapers, onesies, and baby care products for the first few days. It’s best to check in advance to see what your maternity hospital offers.

• Bodysuits, onesies, panties, rompers
• Hat, socks, jacket
• Several burp cloths
• Possibly a pacifier and diaper rash cream

• Baby blanket
• Car seat or infant carrier
• 2 to 3 diapers

Important: It's best to install the car seat in your car before the baby is born.