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As baby’s due date gets closer, the hospital bag is officially packed and sitting by the door. This isn’t my first rodeo, so this time around, I packed with intention—less about overpacking “just in case” and more about bringing what I know will truly make me feel comfortable, calm, and supported during one of life’s biggest moments.

My Own Labor Gown

Yes, the hospital provides one—but let’s be honest, those things are scratchy, stiff, and anything but cute. I found a soft, cozy labor gown that’s easy to nurse in, offers skin-to-skin access, and just makes me feel more like me. I actually found it secondhand on Poshmark (score!). Highly recommend keeping an eye out there if you’re looking for one, too!

Bluetooth Speaker

Music was a game changer during my first labor. I’ve got a calming playlist queued up and ready to go. Whether I end up swaying to soft instrumentals or needing a little empowering Beyoncé moment—we’re covered.

Snacks, Snacks, Snacks

Because hospital food isn’t always it, and hunger can hit hard after delivery. I packed granola bars, fruit strips, hydration salts, and a few of my favorite gluten-free goodies to have on hand.

ALSO, during labor the first time, I had a really hard time keeping food down—so this time I’m trying something different. I packed a few GU pouches (the kind runners use during long races). They’re small, easy to get down, and might be just the thing to help me stay steady and energized when I need it most. Labor really is its own kind of marathon, right? I’m curious to see how they work for me.

Battery-Operated Candles

I know this sounds extra—but hear me out. These little flickering candles instantly soften the sterile hospital room and help me get into a more relaxed, homey headspace during early labor.

Essential Oils

I’m bringing a small roller bottle that a dear friend made for me, with copaiba, helichrysum, basil, and chamomile—all known for their calming and pain-relieving properties. It’s a blend she created specifically for labor, and I’ve already used it during some intense prenatal cramps—it really helped me feel grounded and supported.

I’m also packing a few other favorites: lavender for relaxation, peppermint in case nausea hits, and a little citrus to keep the room feeling fresh and bright. I might not want strong scents in the moment, but just having these with me brings a little sense of home and care.

Pillow + Cozy Blanket

Hospital bedding does the job—but bringing my own pillow (in a colorful case so it doesn’t get mixed up!) and a soft throw blanket helps me settle in and rest easier.

Slippers + Cozy PJs/Robe

Post-birth recovery means a lot of resting, feeding, and walking slowly back and forth to the bathroom. Having something cozy and easy to throw on—like a robe and slippers—makes those first few days a little more comfortable.

Toiletries

Think: toothbrush, face wipes, dry shampoo, chapstick (hospitals are so dry), and a good moisturizer. Basically anything that helps me freshen up and feel human again.

Phone Charger

With the extra-long cord—because the outlet is never where you want it to be.

Going-Home Outfit (for Me + Baby)

For me: something soft, stretchy, and easy to nurse in. For baby: a tiny sleeper, a little hat, and a swaddle blanket I can’t wait to wrap them in for the first time. Cue all the hormones.

A Few Extras I Tucked In:

• Nursing bra + nipple balm
• Folder for baby’s paperwork
• A few affirmation cards that I tucked into my bag—they’re simple, comforting, and might be just what I need to read mid-contraction or in those quiet postpartum hours
• White noise app on my phone to help us all rest

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This time, I’m going in with a little more clarity, a little more trust in myself, and a lot of anticipation. There’s no perfect way to prep for birth, but having a bag that brings me a sense of calm? That’s worth packing early.

Did I forget anything you loved having in your hospital bag? I’m always curious about what worked best for other mamas! Let me know below.