The waiting period leading up to birth is filled with anticipation and often with the question: What should be in my hospital bag? Here you will get a calm and well-thought-out packing list for birth, so that your hospital bag is ready in good time. The guide is relevant regardless of whether it is a planned birth or you want to be ready if the birth starts earlier than expected.
When should you pack your hospital bag?
As a rule of thumb, it's a good idea to pack your birth bag around week 36–37. Place the bag in a visible place and inform your partner about what's where. This way, you'll both be safe when things get tough.
The practical checklist – divided according to need
Below you will find a realistic and concise list that covers both mother, baby and partner. Adjust it according to the season, personal preferences and any hospital guidelines in your area.
Documents & important things
- ID, health insurance card and possibly travel record
- Phone + charger (or power bank)
- Snacks and drinks for both of you
- Rubber bands, lip balm, water bottle
For mother
- Comfortable clothing with room and stretch (cardigan, t-shirts, loose pants)
- Nursing-friendly clothes and 2–3 nursing/sports bras
- Slippers/flip-flops and warm socks
- Toiletry bag: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant without strong perfume, facial cleanser/cream
- Postpartum pads/net panties (the hospital often has some, but feel free to bring extra)
If you need to supplement after returning home, you can see our selection for the first months here: products for 0–12 months .
For baby
- 2–3 bodysuits (size 50/56 depending on expected size)
- 2 rompers and a small hat
- Socks/wool lining and a soft blanket plaid
- Diapers for the first day (the hospital often has them, but it's nice to have your own)
- Car seat/lift for transport home (please have it ready in the car in good time)
Explore the entire range for newborns: All products or see everything together in collections . If you have a budget to stick to, check out Sale & Clearance Sale .
To partner
- A change of clothes and a warm sweater
- Snacks, drinks and possibly cash for machines
- Toiletries and charger
Extra little things that make a big difference
- Long charging cable and possibly headphones
- Hairbrush, dry shampoo and facial mist
- Camera or agreement to use phone - agree on who takes pictures
- A small gift for siblings if they are going to meet the baby at the hospital
After birth – a calm start at home
When you arrive home, it's nice to have a few soft basic furniture and sensory toys that support calm and closeness. For example, see our Alba play sofa for cozy moments and breastfeeding, and a soft activity blanket for the first tummy-time moments. If you're looking for a gift for the new parents, a gift card is a flexible solution.
How much should you pack?
Keep it simple. Think for 24–48 hours and supplement as needed. Many have found that an overstuffed birth bag creates more clutter than peace. Pack the most important things and remember that you can always bring more.
