Hospital bag checklist: what to pack and when

Short answer: pack around 35–37 weeks, keep it by the door, and split it into four parts: for you, for the baby, for your partner, and documents. Ask your hospital what they already provide.

For you

Comfortable robe or loose clothes
Nursing bras and maternity pads
Toiletries, lip balm, hair ties
Phone charger with a long cable
Slippers and warm socks
Snacks and a water bottle
Going-home outfit

For the baby

Car seat, already installed in the car
Going-home outfit, hat and socks
Newborn diapers, swaddle blanket, burp cloths, mittens

For your partner or support person

A change of clothes and a pillow
Snacks and a phone charger
Cash or coins for parking

Documents

ID and insurance card
Hospital registration papers
A copy of your birth plan and prenatal records

What you can usually leave at home

Lots of baby clothes, large toiletries and anything valuable. Check with your hospital — many supply pads, diapers and gowns.

How Arrivelle helps

Arrivelle starts with 27 of these essentials split into the same four groups. Tap to check, add your own items, remove what you don't need, and see "13 / 27 packed" on the home screen. Your hospital, midwife and partner numbers sit in the Plan tab with one-tap calling.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. When to call or go in is decided with your hospital or midwife — and if something feels wrong, contact them right away.

FAQ

When should I pack my hospital bag?

Many people pack it around 35–37 weeks so it is ready well before the due date. If you have been told labor may come early, pack sooner.

Does the hospital provide anything?

It varies a lot. Ask your hospital or birth center what they supply (pads, diapers, gowns) so you don't overpack.

What do people most often forget?

A long phone charger, the car seat installed in the car, snacks for the partner, and the documents the hospital asked for.

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