The hospital bag is one of the most important preparations in the final months of pregnancy. Ideally packed from the 7th month, it should contain everything needed for mom and baby during the stay at the maternity ward. Here's our complete checklist so you don't forget anything.
When to pack your hospital bag?
It is recommended to pack your hospital bag from the 32nd week of pregnancy (8th month). In case of premature birth or an unplanned check-up, you will be ready. Plan for a medium-sized bag — you won't need to bring your entire wardrobe!
Mom's bag
Essential documents
- ✅ "Carte Vitale" (health insurance card) and mutual insurance card
- ✅ Pregnancy health record
- ✅ ID card
- ✅ Prescriptions and test results
- ✅ Birth plan (if you have written one)
Clothing and comfort
- ✅ 3-4 nightgowns or pajamas open in the front (for breastfeeding)
- ✅ 1 warm dressing gown
- ✅ 3-4 maternity briefs (high-waisted, cotton)
- ✅ 2-3 nursing bras
- ✅ Warm socks
- ✅ Slippers or house shoes
- ✅ A comfortable outfit to wear home
Hygiene and care
- ✅ Complete toiletry bag (shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste...)
- ✅ Towels (2-3)
- ✅ Nursing pads
- ✅ Nipple cream (lanolin)
- ✅ Post-birth perineal pads
- ✅ Thermal water spray
- ✅ Lip balm
Comfort during labor
- ✅ Hot water bottle or heating pad
- ✅ Soothing music or playlist (headphones)
- ✅ Energy snacks (cereal bars, dried fruit)
- ✅ Water bottle
- ✅ Phone charger
Baby's bag
Clothing
- ✅ 4-5 long-sleeved bodysuits (newborn and 1 month sizes)
- ✅ 3-4 sleepsuits
- ✅ 2-3 pairs of socks
- ✅ 1-2 hats
- ✅ 1 cardigan or jacket depending on the season
- ✅ 1 outfit for leaving the hospital
Baby hygiene
- ✅ Newborn size diapers (about ten)
- ✅ Unscented wipes
- ✅ Diaper rash cream
- ✅ Cotton
- ✅ Gentle baby wash gel
Comfort and sleep
- ✅ Soft bath cape 👉 See our selection
- ✅ Sleeping bag suitable for the season 👉 See our selection
- ✅ Comforter/loveys (if you've already chosen one) 👉 See our selection
For returning home
- ✅ Car seat: mandatory for leaving the maternity ward by car
- ✅ Stroller: ready for use 👉 See our selection
- ✅ Footmuff: if birth is in autumn/winter 👉 See our selection
What we often forget
- ⚠️ The camera or checking that the phone is charged
- ⚠️ Something to occupy your partner (book, tablet)
- ⚠️ Headphones for music during labor
- ⚠️ A list of contacts to notify after the birth
- ⚠️ Cash for parking or the cafeteria
Conclusion
A well-prepared hospital bag will allow you to approach childbirth with a calm mind. Pack it early, check it regularly, and adapt it to your personal needs. The main thing is to be ready to welcome your baby in the best conditions. Happy birth to you!
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