What to bring to the hospital for childbirth in 2025
Preparing the bag for the hospital is one of those tasks that connect us emotionally with the arrival of the baby. Excitement, nerves and doubts are mixed, and many times we don't know exactly what to bring. What if I forget something important? What if I have too much? Don't worry, here we guide you step by step with an updated list designed for mothers who give birth in 2025, considering current protocols, advice from midwives and real needs.
When to prepare the hospital bag?
Ideally, it should be ready between the 34th and 36th week of pregnancy, especially if there is a risk of premature birth. This way you will avoid last-minute rushes. If you're expecting twins or have a high-risk pregnancy, consider moving it forward to 32 weeks.
What to bring to the hospital for yourself
Remember that in 2025 many hospitals still allow continuous accompaniment, and they usually ask that everything is well labeled and organized in separate bags. Here's the bottom line:
- Documentation: ID, health card, birth plan (if you have one), and recent blood tests.
- Comfortable nightgowns or pyjamas: better if they open at the front to facilitate breastfeeding.
- Robe and slippers: the robe provides warmth and privacy, the slippers must be non-slip.
- Postpartum underwear: disposable or cotton panties, underwire-free nursing bras.
- Postpartum pads: Many hospitals provide these, but you can bring your own if you prefer.
- Hygiene bag: toothbrush, comb, dry shampoo, gel, wipes, scrunchie, deodorant.
- Bath and face towel: soft cotton.
- Hair ties or bands, lip balm and water bottle with spout.
- Mobile phone charger (and extension cord!).
- Clothes to leave the hospital: comfortable and loose, as in the second trimester.
What to bring for the baby
Most hospitals provide diapers and wipes during your stay, but it is advisable to check in advance. This is the base list:
- 3 or 4 complete sets: bodysuit + leggings or rompers, made of soft cotton, without hard labels.
- Hat: to prevent heat loss.
- Muslins or gauze: very useful for drobing, breastfeeding and changes.
- Toquilla or blanket: especially if it is winter or the hospital is air-conditioned.
- Size 0 diapers and hypoallergenic wipes (in case the hospital does not provide them).
- Clothing for the outing: depending on the season of the year, with a layering system.
- Approved car seat (Group 0+): mandatory to leave the hospital by car, properly installed.
What to bring for the accompanying person
Don't forget who will be with you. This person also needs to prepare, as they could spend many hours (or even days) in the hospital.
- Comfortable clothes and a change of clothes.
- Snacks and reusable bottle.
- Basic toiletry bag and personal medicines.
- Coins or card for cafeteria or machines.
Preparing the hospital bag ahead of time gives you emotional peace of mind. Knowing that everything is ready helps you focus on what's important: birth.
Extra tips for 2025
By 2025, many hospitals have digital protocols, so we recommend that you have your important documents digitized on your mobile phone (blood tests, birth plan, health card). In addition:
- Label everything with the mother's name.
- Group into separate bags: childbirth, postpartum, baby.
- See if you can use your own dilation ball or headphones.
- Ask if you can record or take photos.
Always consult your hospital or midwife