The Woodlands Birth Doula & Birth Photographer: Ally Davis Photography

Packing your hospital bag is one of those exciting (and slightly nerve-wracking) moments that make everything feel real—your baby is almost here! As a birth doula, I’ve seen it all, and I can tell you what’s truly helpful during labor, birth, and those first postpartum hours. So let’s make sure you feel prepared, comfortable, and maybe even a little pampered when the big day arrives.

Labor Bag Essentials

• Important documents – ID, insurance card, birth plan, hospital paperwork all in one folder (trust me, having these handy makes check-in way smoother especially if you breathing through contractions in triage).
• Clothes for labor – A comfy sports bra, t-shirt, robe, or gown—whatever makes you feel good. You can wear the gown the hospital provides or opt to wear your own clothes.
• Sports bra or tank top for showering – If you prefer modesty or want photos of labor, this is a great option.
• Massage items – Tennis balls, a roller, or lotion (your doula may bring these, but extras never hurt!).
• Affirmation cards – A little visual encouragement goes a long way. I encourage all of my clients to choose affirmations beforehand so the birth team can speak them over them.
• Birth Plan-Consider displaying this in your room so everyone who enters your birth space knows your wishes!
• Slippers or Thick Socks (multiple pairs!) – Cold feet are a thing, and hospitals can be chilly. Slippers are easy to throw on if walking the hallways during labor.
• Lip Balm – Hospital air is dry, and you don’t want chapped lips while breathing through contractions.
• Water Bottle with a Straw – Staying hydrated is key. The hospital provides one, but I always suggest bringing one from home that you already love.
• Hair Ties, Clips, or Headbands – Keeping hair out of your face during labor = game changer.
• Stroller Fan- During transition, you will be thankful you have this!
• Music – Create a playlist or bring a Bluetooth speaker for your labor vibes.
• Extra Pillows and a Small Blanket – Hospital ones can be flat and scratchy, and having a piece of home can be comforting.
• A Kindle, Ipad, or Book- For you and/or your partner to provide distraction, comfort, entertainment, or a way to stay connected and informed during labor.
• Phone and Extra-Long Charger – Because labor can be long, and no one wants a dead phone when it’s time to share the good news!
• Snacks for Your Support Person – Think easy-to-eat, non-smelly options like granola bars or fruit.
• Cash or Debit Card- For the vending machines and/or hospital cafeteria runs.

Hospital Postpartum Bag Essentials

• Easy-to-nurse-in pajamas or a robe – You’ll want to be comfy for those first sweet snuggles once you’ve changed out of your hospital gown.
• Boppy- if breastfeeding, the poppy or a similar pillow can provide great support in the hospital bed.
• Shower shoes – Cheap flip-flops work great for that first glorious postpartum shower.
• After-ease tincture – Helps with those afterbirth cramps (always check with your OB or midwife).
• Comfy going-home outfit – Think stretchy leggings or loose pajamas—your body just did something amazing, so comfort is key.
• Extra clothes for your partner – In case they stay the night or need a fresh outfit.
• Coming-home outfit and blanket for baby – Bonus: use a soft blanket under baby for those first hospital photos. Don’t forget your announcement sign if you are going to include that in the photo!
• Baby nail clippers or file – Those tiny nails can be surprisingly sharp! Clipping them can help avoid baby scratching their little face. You could also bring mittens if you prefer.
• Toiletries – Shampoo, brush, face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, makeup, deodorant—you know the drill. The hospital provides toiletries, but many moms prefer their own products.
• Peri Bottle-The Frida Mom peri bottle is angled for better comfort and can be more effective than the hospital one.
• Adult Diapers and/or Mesh Underwear- Trust me… Depends Discreet adult diapers or the Frida Mom underwear are AMAZING!
• Nursing bra – Even if you’re not sure about breastfeeding, support is helpful.
• Nipple cream or silverettes – Your nipples will thank you later. Silverettes can be pricy but so so worth it in my opinion!
• Car seat, installed and ready to go – No car seat, no leaving the hospital. Rules are rules!
• A sibling gift – If you have older kiddos, a little “from baby” gift can help make the transition smoother.
• A Camera or Phone for Photos- If you are not hiring a birth photographer. You’ll want to remember these moments.
• Snacks- I don’t think this needs an explanation 🙂

Bonus: Postpartum Ideas for Home

• Take Home Anything The Hospital Gives You – Ice packs, pads, tuck pads, dermoplast, diapers, wipes, etc. Seriously, it’s better to have too many supplies than not enough.
• Frida Mom birth kit – The best kit I’ve found! The cooling foam and underwear are lifesavers, and it includes cooling pads, ice packs, and an angled peri bottle.
• Tucks Pads – The name brand ones are worth it!
• Adult Diapers- It may be easier to slip one of these on with some cooling foam or tucks pads instead of doing the mesh underwear.
• Pain relief and Stool Softeners – Ask your OB or midwife what they recommend for that first bowel movement and afterbirth cramps.
• Sitz Bath- Always consult your OB or midwife, but a sitz bath can be great for healing, bonding with baby, and even using in your peri bottle.

Bonus: Breastfeeding Must Haves for Home

I’ll have another more in-depth blog on this soon!

• Nursing Pads – Because leaks happen.
• Nipple Balm and/or Silverettes – Mentioned above but worth repeating!
• Haakaa – To catch letdown from the opposite side when breastfeeding.
• Nursing Pillow – Also mentioned above, but a must-have for support.
• Nursing Bras – Have multiple on hand so you don’t have to do laundry as often.
• Breast Pump- To relieve engorgement, boost milk supply, provide feeding flexibility, or manage breastfeeding challenges, especially if returning to work or needing others to assist with feeding.
• Breastmilk Storage Bags- To collect and store milk.

Final Thoughts

Pack your bag around 35-36 weeks so you’re ready whenever your little one decides to make their debut. Keep it by the door or in your car so there’s no last-minute scrambling. Most importantly, bring what makes you feel calm, supported, and empowered. You’ve got this!