What to Pack in Your Hospital Birth Bag — A Doula’s Guide to Feeling Calm and Prepared

Pack for Comfort, Calm, and Connection

Packing your hospital bag is more than checking off a list—it’s about creating a sense of home wherever you give birth. These items support comfort, grounding, mobility, and emotional ease during one of the most important experiences of your life.

1. Peanut Ball

Why include it: A peanut-shaped birthing ball helps open the pelvis, encourage baby’s descent, support side-lying positions, and improve comfort during labor (especially if you plan to get an epidural).

Amazon affiliate link to: Birth Ball

Tip for use: Practice at home ahead of time (sitting or leaning over it) so you’re comfortable with it when labor begins.

2. Cozy Comforts from Home (Pillowcase /+ gown + slippers, etc.)

Why include them: Bringing your own items from home helps your nervous system relax, makes the hospital environment feel less clinical, and supports comfort + calm.

What to look for:

• A pillowcase in a bright or unique color so hospital staff don’t mistake it for the standard hospital pillow.

• Your own labor gown or soft robe + comfy socks/slippers.

• Maybe a favorite throw blanket or something that smells like home (if allowable).

Amazon affiliate link to: Labor Gown | Non-slip slides

Tip: Pack them in a separate smaller bag inside your main duffle so they’re easy to grab when you arrive.

3. Relaxing Essential Oils

Lavender, citrus, bergamot, and chamomile blends can help regulate breathing, reduce tension, and create a soothing environment.

Amazon affiliate link to: Essential Oil

How to use: Apply roll-on near ears, temples, or ask your partner to place a drop on a warm towel near your pillow.

4. Bluetooth Speaker + Playlists

Music sets the tone for labor. Create two playlists:

• Calm & Grounding: for early labor or rest periods

• Strength & Momentum: for when you need energy, rhythm, or focus during active labor

A small Bluetooth speaker helps you take control of the mood instantly.

Amazon affiliate link to: Bluetooth Speaker

5. Mini Handheld Massager

A compact massager can provide gentle pressure on your low back, hips, or shoulders during contractions.

It’s simple but powerful—especially if your partner wants guidance on how to support you physically.

Amazon affiliate link to: Handheld Massager

6. Water Bottle + Energy Snacks

Labor is a marathon. Bring:

• An easy-squeeze water bottle

• Coconut water or electrolyte packets

• Simple, energy-boosting snacks like dates, honey sticks, crackers, or granola bars

Hydration and small bites keep your muscles and mind supported.

Amazon affiliate link to: Honey Packets | Water Bottle | Energy bites | Coconut Water

7. Bonus Item: The Birth Comb

A surprisingly effective tool.Squeezing a birth comb activates pressure points in the hand that can help redirect contraction sensations and give you something grounding to focus on. Many moms swear by it!

Amazon affiliate link to: Birth Comb

Final Tip

Bring only what makes you feel safe, centered, and supported. A peaceful birth environment begins with the intention behind every item in your bag.

Preparing for birth is more than a checklist—it’s a mindset.

👉 Join a Childbirth Education & Doula Coaching session to learn how to prepare physically, mentally, and emotionally for your baby’s arrival.