Smart & Simple Hospital Bag Checklist for Type B Moms Who Pack in 5 Minutes

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I spent way too long scrolling hospital bag checklists when I was pregnant, determined not to forget a thing. I wanted to be prepared for every scenario—labor, recovery, baby’s first outfit, you name it.

Then I waited til the final week to throw a ton of things in a bag…and used barely any of it.

So here’s the real deal: what I packed, what I actually used, and what I wish I’d left at home.

If you’re packing your hospital bag soon (or just love a good checklist), I hope this helps you stress less and pack smarter.

Hospital Bag Checklist: What I’d Pack Again

(…even if you’re packing it while timing contractions)

I’m not going to lie—I packed half my hospital bag the morning of. If you’re a fellow Type B mom, don’t stress. This list covers the actual essentials so you’ll be totally fine, even if your bag isn’t Instagram-ready.

What I Packed (and Loved) for Me

These were the things that actually made me feel human during and after labor:

Comfy PJs – Super soft, stretchy clothes. I still looked 5 months pregnant, and that’s totally normal. I brought loose button up PJs from Kindred Bravely. Even if you don’t put them on until it’s time to go home, they’re great to have. I still wear these all the time.

Lip balm – I have vivid memories of my dry mouth while pushing. I’ll prepare better next time.

Hair ties & clips – Must-have. No one wants hair in their face mid-contraction.

Comfy robe – I lived in this Kindred Bravely robe after delivery. Easy to breastfeed in, and made me feel slightly more put together. Pro tip: go with black. IYKYK.

Postpartum Underwear – Many people will tell you that you won’t need these and to take what the hospital gives you, and I highly disagree. Probably my top recommendation would be Always Discreet. They are so significantly better in every way.

Nursing bras – Soft, stretchy ones. I wore them 24/7 at the hospital. Again, I’d go with a tried and true brand, Kindred Bravely. Their French Terry bra is so simple, stretchy, and soft that you can sleep in it. I link more nursing and pumping bras in my feeding essentials post, along with a few other necessities.

Toiletries – Toothbrush, face wipes, dry shampoo, moisturizer. I felt so much better after a quick face wash and a little moisturizer. But make sure to bring the good stuff so you feel human, a little familiarity goes a long way.

Phone charger with a long cord – Outlets are never where you need them.

Portable fan – I used this bladeless stroller fan I got from the baby registry and attached it to the hospital bed. This came in clutch during four hours of pushing, and we use it all the time on the stroller and at the beach.

Sound machine or music – I brought the Hatch and played the beach waves sounds.

Extra bag – to stash freebies from the hospital on. (They’re charging you enough!)

What I Brought But Didn’t Really Use

Books or magazines – There was no downtime. If there was, I was sleeping.

Makeup – I packed it… and never touched it. I’m just not that girl. And if there’s one thing for sure, you gon’ cry.

Grippy socks or slippers – The hospital has these and while they aren’t luxe, they were the last thing on my mind. Fuzzy socks are a no-no on that slippery floor.

Pacifiers – The hospital gives you plenty.

What I Packed for Baby

Car seat – Not in the bag, but obviously a must-have for going home. Take some time to be sure it’s installed correctly and feel comfortable strapping bub in for the scariest ride home of your life.

Going home outfit – Choose something soft and weather-appropriate. I packed two sizes (newborn + 0–3M), just in case.

The One Thing I Wish I Packed…

Velcro swaddles – I discuss this in detail in The Swaddle Blanket Scam. The hospital has swaddle blankets, but as a first time mom, they caused unnecessary stress. I will die on this hill. The nurses “teach” you but they obviously have had tons of practice. It is such an acquired skill that you don’t want to figure out during sleep deprivation. These swaddles are my favorite for a snug and easy fit.

For the Husband

Snacks – I didn’t eat much but my husband would’ve died without Cheez-its.

Help Yourself to These at the Hospital

Honestly, take everything they offer you, and don’t be shy. Ask for extras before you leave. I left with a small stash of postpartum supplies and it was amazing.

Hospital Bag Checklist: What I’d Pack Again

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to overpack to be prepared. The hospital has the basics. Bring what makes you feel comfortable and calm—everything else is just bonus. Trust your instincts, take what helps, and let go of the rest.

You’ve got this, mama. 💪