Baby's almost here — now what? As the big day approaches, packing your hospital bag is one of the final (and most emotional!) steps of pregnancy prep. It means you're really in the home stretch. Whether you're a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, having a thoughtful, stylish, and complete hospital bag checklist ensures you’re ready for anything labor and delivery may bring. Bonus: it gives you one less thing to stress about when contractions start.
So let’s dive into your ultimate hospital bag checklist — plus a few aesthetic-friendly tips that make the whole experience feel just a little more luxe. This hospital bag checklist was designed to help you feel confident, calm, and totally prepped when the big day arrives.
Table of contents
When to Start Packing Your Hospital Bag What to Pack in a Hospital Bag for Mom Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby Bonus Tips for Hospital Bag Packing A Stylish & Functional Diaper Bag = Your Packing MVP Diaper Bag Add-ons! You've Got This, Mama (or For Her 😉) 📹WATCH: What's In My Diaper Bag (ft. The Caden Lane Moms)
When to Start Packing Your Hospital Bag
Most experts recommend packing your hospital bag between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. That sweet spot ensures you're prepped for early arrivals, but not feeling like you're living out of a suitcase for weeks. Starting early can also reduce stress and give you time to grab any last-minute essentials. Trust us — following a hospital bag checklist makes all the difference.
Want to see how other moms prep? Watch our Youtube video on What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for real-mom packing tips and inspo.
What to Pack in a Hospital Bag for Mom
Here's a comprehensive hospital bag checklist for what you'll want as a new mom for a comfortable, confident hospital stay:
ID and insurance card — These are your hospital entry tickets. Keep them easily accessible in an outer pocket of your diaper bag or purse.
Postpartum panties — After delivery, comfort and support are everything. High-waisted postpartum underwear helps hold pads in place and supports your healing body — bonus if they're super soft.
Cozy PJs or a nightgown for after delivery — Comfort meets confidence. Our Labor & Delivery Nightgown makes skin-to-skin and nursing easier while keeping you photo-ready for those first snuggles.
A comfy robe and non-slip socks — Hospitals can be chilly! A soft robe adds comfort and coverage when visitors pop in. Grippy socks keep you safe on those first walks post-birth.
Toiletries — toothbrush, shampoo, dry shampoo, deodorant, hair ties, lip balm — these mini luxuries help you feel human again after delivery. Dry shampoo and lip balm are MVPs.
Slippers or shower shoes — Keep your feet warm and protected, especially if you’re walking to the bathroom or showering in a shared space.
Your own pillow and blanket — Hospital linens are scratchy and thin. Bring a cozy layer of comfort with the Cuddle Lane Luxe Blanket to help you sleep better and feel more at home.
If you're planning to breastfeed, here's what to pack — if not, feel free to skip this section of the checklist:
Nursing bras, nipple cream, and nipple pads — These help manage leaks and tenderness during those early cluster-feeding days. Nipple balm is especially important for soothing and protecting sensitive skin.
Silicone breast pump (like the Haakaa) — A low-effort way to collect letdown milk from the opposite breast while nursing. Compact, quiet, and perfect for early milk collection.
Electric breast pump — If you’re planning to pump or want to start early due to latching challenges, a hospital-grade electric pump can help establish supply. Many hospitals have outlets and allow you to bring your own.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby
Let’s break down what your baby will need from day one — from photo-worthy first outfits to comforting essentials that make those early hours extra cozy. This section of your hospital bag checklist is where the memories really begin:
Coming home outfit — A special outfit for baby's first big debut. Our Bamboo Newborn Knot Gowns are soft, stretchy, and easy to change in, perfect for those first few photos. Choose a weather-appropriate version — layered in the winter, breezy in the summer — so baby is safe, comfortable, and stylish from day one. Not sure what style fits your newborn vibe? Take our Newborn Style Quiz to help you decide.
Zipper footies in newborn and 0–3 sizes — Babies grow fast! Bring two sizes just in case. Caden Lane's Zipper Footie Pajamas make late-night diaper changes quick and fuss-free — plus, they come in the cutest prints and classic colors.
Swaddle + extra (for blowouts or backups) — Hospitals may provide basic blankets, but our Personalized Swaddles are buttery soft and make for perfect keepsakes and cozy snuggles.
Personalized name sign for those sweet first photos — Capture that iconic “hello world” moment with Personalized Baby Name Wood Announcements with footprints or birth stats. It adds a meaningful, stylish touch to your newborn photos.
Newborn hat — Babies lose heat through their heads! Keep yours cozy with a snug Newborn Baby Knotted Hat that matches your chosen outfit.
Diapers and wipes (many hospitals provide, but extras are handy) — Great for backup or sensitive skin preferences. A must-have in your bag.
Bonus Tips for Hospital Bag Packing
Install your car seat ahead of time — Don’t wait until contractions start to figure out how that base clicks in. Installing your car seat early ensures you’re ready for a safe ride home (and avoids that last-minute scramble).
Use labeled pouches or packing cubes to stay organized — Separating items by category (like mom, baby, nursing, toiletries) makes it easier to grab what you need without rummaging during labor or recovery.
Pre-wash all baby clothes, blankets, and swaddles — Newborn skin is super sensitive. Washing everything in baby-friendly detergent ahead of time reduces the risk of irritation and ensures everything smells soft and sweet.
Partner checklist: snacks, water bottle, phone charger, and camera for memories — Labor can be long, and your partner will need to stay fueled and focused. Make sure they’ve got their essentials too — including a charger and a camera or phone with space for those first sweet photos.
A Stylish & Functional Diaper Bag = Your Packing MVP
When it comes to fitting all these hospital bag essentials, your diaper bag is your MVP. Whether you go for our iconic Diaper Bags or our spacious Weekender Bags, each one is packed with thoughtful, mom-tested features to make your hospital stay (and the weeks after) seamless.
Diaper Bag Features:
Convertible luggage sleeve for effortless hospital travel (and the airport!)🧳
Ultra-soft, wipeable memory foam changing pad for diaper changes on the go
Built-in cup holder that fits most 40oz tumblers (yes, even the giant ones!)
Insulated bottle pockets to keep milk or drinks at the perfect temp 🍼
Detachable neoprene zip pouch for your wallet, pacifier, or sanitizer 👝
Water-resistant Repreve wet bag — perfect for unexpected outfit changes 💦
Multiple smart storage pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve 💻
Weekender Bag Features:
- Large interior with plenty of space for both mom and baby must-haves
- Wide zip opening for easy access during labor or recovery
- Water-resistant lining and outer shell for worry-free travel
- Soft, durable handles and an adjustable crossbody strap
- Exterior pockets for organizing essentials on the go
- Sleek, minimalist style that pairs perfectly with any travel fit
These hospital bags were thoughtfully designed by us to do all the heavy lifting for you — all you have to do is choose the style that fits your vibe:
I’d give it 10 stars if I could. Best diaper bag I’ve ever owned. It’s worth every penny.
Lane Convertible Diaper Bag Tote – A sleek, fashion-forward tote that easily converts into a backpack when you need to be hands-free.
Weslie Diaper Backpack – A lightweight, modern backpack that blends everyday functionality with clean, minimalist style.
Weekender Bag – A spacious, durable hospital bag designed to carry everything you need for delivery day and beyond. Perfect for moms who love to be extra prepared (and extra stylish).
Diaper Bag Add-ons!
Want to level up your bag even more? These extras bring bonus function, personalization, and ease to your journey from hospital to home:
Personalized Bag Charm — A chic way to add a personal touch to your diaper bag. Choose initials or a monogram to instantly elevate your tote and make it uniquely yours
Stroller Straps — Make on-the-go parenting easier by securely attaching your diaper bag to your stroller. These are a game-changer for hands-free mobility in the hospital hallways or when you're out and about with baby.
Stroller Caddy — Keep your coffee, phone, and must-grabs within arm’s reach. This sleek caddy clips to your stroller and helps you stay effortlessly organized on walks, errands, or hospital strolls.
You can watch our Diaper Bag tour on YouTube:
You've Got This, Mama (or For Her 😉)
Packing your hospital bag is more than a checklist — it’s a beautiful milestone. With the right essentials, organized in a chic and functional diaper bag or weekender bag, you’ll feel calm, confident, and ready for your little one’s arrival.
Whether you're packing for yourself or someone you love — a bestie, sister, or grandma-to-be — this guide makes it easy to choose essentials that are both practical and beautiful. A thoughtfully packed hospital bag is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give to a new mama.
📹WATCH: Meet our NEW Weekender Bag | Must-Have Hospital Bag for Moms
FAQs About Caden Lane Diaper Bags 👜
How do the bags differ in storage space?
Both fit hospital bag essentials, baby gear, and even your laptop — but Weslie has a bit more vertical storage.
Lane Convertible Tote: 14.5” W x 12” H x 6.25” D
Weslie Backpack: 14” W x 15” H x 7” D
Weekender Bag: 22" W x 15" H x 11.5" D
What materials are the bags made of?
Both the Lane and Weslie bags are made with high-quality, wipeable vegan leather and lined with durable neoprene for easy cleaning. The interior is made of 100% REPREVE® recycled poly and hardware is color-coated zinc alloy.
The Weekender Bag is made of 100% polyester, offering a lightweight yet durable option for hospital and travel use.
Are these bags good for the hospital and beyond?
Absolutely! These bags are mom-designed to function as both hospital bag, weekender bag and long-term diaper bag. Whether you’re packing for delivery day, a road trip, or daily daycare drop-offs, they’ll keep you organized and stylish.
Which bag is better for gifting?
Both make incredible baby showers or new-mom gifts.
Choose Lane Convertible Diaper Bag if the mom-to-be loves a chic tote look that can convert on the go.
Choose Weslie Diaper Backpack if she prefers a hands-free, classic backpack style.
Choose Weekender Bag if she’s the type who packs it all — perfect for hospital stays, weekend getaways, or stylish travel.
🌟Bonus: add a personalized bag charm or a pre-packed bundle for extra wow factor.
How do I clean and care for my Caden Lane diaper bag?
Hand wash with mild detergent and cold water. Reshape while wet. Lay flat to dry. Remove creases with light steaming on very low heat. Use protective cloth while steaming.
What should I know about returns?
We accept returns on unused products in original packaging. Returns or exchanges must be submitted within 20 days of fulfillment for your original form of payment or within 45 days of fulfillment for store credit. All returns are subject to a $15 shipping & handling fee. This fee will be waived if store credit is selected as your refund method. We do not accept returns or exchanges on sale items. To initiate a return or exchange, please fill out the request form here.
Author
Katy Mimari
Katy Mimari is the mom boss behind Caden Lane—your go-to for stylish baby must-haves. CEO, designer, and founder, she’s been shaking up the baby world since 2005 with trend-forward gear that makes parenting easier (and cuter!).
