Doulas of Long Beach

View Original

What do I pack in my Hospital Bag? {Free Printable PDF}

Chelsea Croce

Creating a list of what to pack in your Birth Bag is one of the last items on the checklist for most expecting parents. As birth doulas, we definitely get this question a lot. We’re going to share our picks for what to pack in your go-bag. This is perfect for the hospital, birthing center or to have on hand for a home-birth.

Essentials

In reality, all you really need to birth your baby, is showing up ready to push! However, here are a few essentials you don’t want to forget for yourself or partner.

  • Phone & charges

  • Glasses or contacts

  • Birth plan

  • Installed car seat

  • Driver’s license and SSN card

  • Insurance card

  • Hospital admission forms

Labor Snacks

We suggest easy to digest snacks and beverages that pack in some protein, electrolytes or a burst of natural energy!

  • Coconut Water

  • Protein Bars

  • Honey Sticks

  • Fresh Fruit

  • Broth

  • Crackers & Cheese

  • Yogurt

  • Nut Butter Packs

  • Fruit Squeeze

Labor Comfort

You know we’re all about make sure the atmosphere is set and the birthing person is as comfortable as possible. Many doulas carry some of these items, so we always suggest you ask before purchasing #allthethings.

  • Pillow & eye mask

  • Birthing Gown

  • Massage Oil

  • Tennis Ball

  • Handheld Fan

  • Rice Sock

  • LED candles

  • Music w/ headphones

  • Birth Ball

  • Essential Oils & Diffuser

  • Cotton pads & rounds

  • Affirmations

Oh Baby!

Let’s be real. This is everyone’s favorite part about packing the birth bag.

  • Diapers (in a few different sizes) and wipes

  • Beanie

  • Swaddle

  • 2-3 outfits

  • Nursing Pillow (even for bottle feeds)

  • Olive Oil

  • Muslin blanket

Just for You

These care items really help during or just after sweating for hours and birthing your bundle of joy.

  • Toothbrush & Paste

  • Face-wash

  • Moisturizer

  • Deodorant

  • Mints & Gum

  • Robe

  • Comfy Clothes x2

  • Warm Socks

  • Nursing Bra & Tanks (if applicable)

  • Slippers

  • Brush & Hair Clips

  • Chapstick

  • Nipple Cream

  • Shower Essentials

  • Make-up

Extras

You never know if you’re going in for a short labor or a long stay and these items can be helpful to bring along.

  • Cash & quarters (for those old school vending machines)

  • Ipad or Laptop

  • Camera and charger

  • Extra tote Bag (for all the fun postpartum freebies - mesh panties anyone?!)

  • Gift for the nurses

  • Entertainment

  • Change of clothes for partner

  • Postpartum snacks