What to Pack in Your Birth Bag: Essentials for Hospital or Home Birth
Whether you’re planning to welcome your baby at a hospital, birth center, or in the comfort of your own home, having a thoughtfully packed birth bag can help you feel more prepared, calm, and in control.
As a birth doula, I always remind my clients that birth is unpredictable — but your comfort doesn’t have to be.Packing the right items can make a big difference in how supported and grounded you feel during labor, delivery, and the hours afterward.
Hospital or Birth Center Bag Essentials
Even if you're planning to labor at home for a while, having this ready is key.
For You (Birthing Person):
Photo ID and Insurance Card – These are usually required during hospital check-in, so keep them easily accessible.
Birth plan (if printed) — A simple copy to share with your care team
Comfortable labor clothes — Think loose-fitting gown, robe, or anything you can move in
Non-slip socks or slippers
Bath towel and washcloth — Hospital towels are often small and scratchy; bringing your own adds a touch of home and comfort.
Lip balm — Hospitals are dry!
Hair ties or headbands
Toiletries — Travel-size toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, face wipes, hairbrush, etc.
Snacks & drinks — Energy bars, coconut water, honey sticks (check with your provider)
Phone charger (extra-long cord)
Nursing bra or comfortable bralette
Postpartum underwear & pads — The hospital will provide some, but your own may feel better
Going-home outfit — Something soft and roomy!
Optional Comfort Items:
Essential oils or diffuser
Bluetooth speaker for a calming playlist
TENS unit (if using)
Heating pad or rice sock
Massage tools
Photos, affirmations, or birth mantra cards
For Your Partner or Support Person:
Snacks & water bottle
Change of clothes
Pillow or blanket (hospital extras can be rough)
Phone & charger
Notebook or birth log (optional, but meaningful!)
Toiletries – Toothbrush, deodorant, face wipes — helpful for freshening up during long labor.
Entertainment – Books, headphones, podcasts, or downloaded shows/movies for downtime between active labor moments.
For Baby:
Onesies & sleepers (bring a few sizes)
Receiving blanket or swaddle
Going-home outfit
Newborn hat & socks
Car seat (required to leave the hospital)
Home Birth Bag Essentials
Even with everything at home, you’ll want a designated birth space prepared with essential items.
For Your Birth Space:
Plastic drop cloths, towels, and old sheets
Extra pillows and pillowcases
Large bowl or container (for placenta if you're saving it)
Heating pad or hot water bottle
Clean-up supplies (trash bags, disinfectant wipes, etc.)
Snacks and hydration — Coconut water, broth, protein bars, fruit
For You (Post-Birth):
Comfy postpartum clothes
Mesh or high-waisted cotton underwear
Padsicles or perineal spray
Postpartum herbal sitz bath
Nursing pillow and nursing pads
A cozy robe or blanket
Pro Tips:
Pack your hospital bag around 36 weeks, or earlier if you’re high risk or expecting multiples.
Keep it simple and personal — bring what makes you feel safe, soothed, and supported.
Even for home birth, pack a small backup bag in case a hospital transfer becomes necessary.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re birthing in a hospital room or your own living room, comfort, preparedness, and peace of mind are key. Having your essentials packed allows you to focus on what really matters — bringing your baby into the world feeling empowered and supported.
Contact me for personalized support. [here] As your doula, I’m here to guide you through every step — from what to pack, to how to prepare your birth space, to holding your hand through the big day.
