How to Pack the Perfect Birth Bag – Here’s Your Guide!

Once your birth bag is packed and ready, you can relax and feel like you're ready to go. But what exactly should you bring? Do you need to pack for your baby too? And what might your partner need? Packing your birth bag is also a great way for both of you to mentally prepare.
Shopping Ahead

Some items may need to be bought ahead of time — make sure to shop or order early in case anything needs to be swapped or added. For example:

• Nursing pads — when your milk comes in, your bra can get soaked quickly. Nursing pads absorb the milk and feel soft against sensitive nipples.
• Nipple cream — soothing for sore nipples.
• Nursing bras and nursing tanks — remember, your breasts often grow a size or two when your milk comes in.
• Large, soft underwear — absolutely essential after giving birth.
• Incontinence underwear — a smart alternative or extra layer to pads.
• Heating pad (like a microwavable wheat bag) — can be great for pain relief.

Clothing

Soft, loose-fitting clothes are the most comfortable before, during, and after birth. At the hospital, you’ll probably use the hospital’s gowns, so you don’t need to pack a ton of your own clothes. Don’t forget slippers — hospital floors can be cold.

If you're planning a C-section, it’s a good idea to get underwear and sweatpants with an extra-high waist so the waistband doesn’t press against your incision. They’ll be helpful at home during the first few weeks too. Some women prefer soft pants that aren’t too loose, giving a bit of support around the belly. Compression socks might also be useful if you're staying in bed for a while before you can get up.

Energy Boosts

Nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, and crackers will definitely come in handy — lots of snacks can be packed ahead of time. Also, think about your partner or birth companion — they’ll need food too! Prep some sandwiches, fresh fruit, and smoothies that you can quickly grab when it’s time to go.

Portable Speaker and a Motivating Playlist

Did you know that music can help reduce pain and calm you down before and during labor? Bring a portable speaker and create a few playlists… you never know what vibe will feel right — maybe classical music, hard rock, or some upbeat pop!

Here are packing lists for mom, baby, and your partner or support person.

Packing List for Mom:

• Hair ties
• Hairbrush
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Lip balm
• Toiletry bag with your favorite products
• Soft toilet paper
• Gentle intimate wash
• Cozy robe
• Slippers
• Pajamas
• Nursing bra
• Nursing tank
• Nursing pads
• Soft, stretchy underwear
• Comfortable clothes (like a long cardigan, sweatpants, and maternity leggings)
• Heavy-duty maternity pads
• Heating pad or other comfort tools
• Books and magazines
• Tablet (great for movies if the wait gets long)
• Water bottle (it can be tricky drinking from a cup while lying down)
• ID and birth plan
• Phone + charger
• Warm going-home outfit

Packing for Baby

While you're in the hospital, your baby only needs a couple of outfit changes. Newborns love skin-to-skin contact in the early days. The clothes you bring should be washed with a mild detergent that’s gentle on your baby’s skin. Bring a soft baby blanket too – it’ll probably stick around for a while. A baby nest is also a cozy and helpful addition for the hospital bassinet. And don’t forget the car seat if you’re driving home, plus weather-appropriate clothes for your little one.

Packing List for Baby:

• 2–3 wrap-style onesies
• 2 pairs of soft pants
• 1 cardigan or sweater (easy to take on and off)
• 1–2 pairs of socks
• Blanket
• Weather-appropriate snowsuit or pram suit
• Light hat
• Mittens (especially in winter)
• Baby nest (optional)
• Car seat for the ride home
• A few diapers for the trip home
• Washcloths or baby wipes
• Newborn pacifier
• Bottle and formula if you plan to bottle-feed

Packing List for Partner or Support Person:

• Change of comfy clothes
• Toiletry bag with essentials
• Slippers
• Phone + charger
• Camera