You stand in front of your wardrobe, an empty bag at your feet, wondering: What do I really need for the hospital? The thought of realizing in the midst of labor that you forgot your toothbrush is not exactly comforting. But don't worry – at 29 weeks pregnant, you still have all the time in the world to thoughtfully and calmly pack your hospital bag.

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Why Now is the Right Time

The 29th week of pregnancy is ideal for starting preparations. You are still mobile enough to shop at your leisure but far enough along for the reality of childbirth to sink in. Packing about 11 weeks before your due date alleviates stress later on – in case your baby is in a hurry.

Many mothers report that packing their hospital bag was a special moment: It makes the upcoming birth tangible and gives you a feeling of being prepared. And that feeling is priceless when labor begins.

The Two-Bag Strategy

Here's a pro tip: Pack actually two bags. One for the birth itself (which you take immediately) and one for the following days in the maternity ward (which your partner or family can bring later). This way, you won't have to carry unnecessary items when labor starts.

What You Need for the Birth

You need surprisingly little for the birth – but the right things. Here’s what’s really important:

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Documents and Papers

  • Mother’s passport – your most important document
  • Health insurance card – for registration
  • ID card or passport
  • Hospital registration forms (if available)
  • Birth plan (if you have created one)

Personal Items

  • Lip balm – your lips will get dry from breathing
  • Hair ties – to keep your hair out of your face
  • Glasses instead of contact lenses (if you wear them)
  • Charging cable for your phone
  • Small snacks such as glucose sweets or granola bars
  • A water bottle

Many hospitals provide birthing gowns, but if you prefer to wear your own, pack an old, loose t-shirt that can get dirty.

For the First Days in the Maternity Ward

After the birth, a whole new phase begins – and for that, you need different things. These can comfortably go in the second bag, which will be brought later.

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Clothing for You

  • 2 loose jogging pants or leggings – your belly is still there, and comfort is everything
  • 3 loose t-shirts – ideally with nursing openings or just for pulling up
  • 2-3 nursing bras – one size larger than you are now
  • Comfortable underwear (that can get dirty) or disposable briefs
  • Warm socks and slippers
  • A cardigan or hoodie – hospitals can often be cool
  • Comfortable clothing for the journey home

Hygiene and Care

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Shower gel and shampoo (or use hospital products)
  • Towels (the hospital usually provides them, but your own are cozier)
  • Pads for postpartum bleeding – many of them (no tampons!)
  • Nipple cream (e.g., lanolin) – for breastfeeding
  • Possibly perineal care products (after consulting with your midwife)
  • Deodorant, facial cream, whatever you need daily

What Your Baby Needs

You also need quite a bit for your newborn – but most hospitals have diapers and basics on hand. Still, you probably want to have your own items with you.

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Baby Clothing

  • 4-6 bodysuits in size 50/56 (wrap bodysuits are the most practical)
  • 4-6 sleepers or pajamas
  • 2 sweaters or cardigans (depending on the season)
  • 2 caps – babies lose a lot of heat through their heads
  • Socks or booties
  • A special outfit for the journey home
  • A warm blanket or swaddling cloth

Baby Basics

  • Diapers (if you prefer your own) – size 1
  • Wipes or washcloths
  • Pacifier (if you want to give one)
  • Baby nail scissors (their nails can be long already!)

For the journey home, you also need an approved car seat – without it, you cannot leave the hospital. Have your partner install it in the car beforehand.

What You DON'T Need

Just as important as knowing what to pack is knowing what you can safely leave at home:

  • Too much clothing – you're only there for a few days
  • Valuable jewelry – can be lost
  • Too many toiletries – the hospital has the basics
  • Books (you will hardly have time to read)
  • Perfume – babies are sensitive to strong smells
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Practical Packing Tips

Make a list and check off what you've packed. Stick it outside the bag – this way, your partner can check in case of emergency if everything is in there.

Pack in layers: Put the things for after the birth at the bottom, and the things you need immediately on top. Or use packing cubes or zip bags to separate categories (hygiene, clothing, baby).

Keep the bag visible – preferably near the door. When labor comes, you don’t want to have to search the basement first.

The Emergency Plan

Discuss with your partner or support person where everything is. Write a list for last-minute items that you will pack just before you leave (phone charger, glasses, etc.). Some mothers stick this list directly onto the bag.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Hospital Bag

When should the hospital bag be completely packed?
Ideally by week 36 of pregnancy – but planning and gathering items at week 29 is perfect. This way, you can calmly acquire any missing parts.

What size should the bag be?
A medium-sized travel bag or trolley is completely sufficient. Remember: You may need to carry it yourself, and your partner will bring it home later – along with the baby and gifts.

What about food and drinks?
Most hospitals provide meals. But having your own snacks (granola bars, nuts, dried fruit) for in between is invaluable – especially at night. A personal water bottle is also handy.

Do I need special breastfeeding clothing?
Not necessarily. Loose t-shirts that you can pull up work just as well. Nursing bras are definitely more comfortable than regular ones.

What if I have a cesarean section?
Pack additional high-waisted underwear (that won't press on the scar) and possibly a longer nightgown instead of pants. Ask your hospital if they have specific recommendations.

Packing the hospital bag is more than just checking off a to-do list. It’s a ritual that prepares you mentally for the birth. Every item you pack brings you one step closer to the moment you'll hold your baby in your arms. Take your time, enjoy the anticipation – and then you can relax and wait for the moment to come. You are prepared. You got this.