Your hospital bag
What to pack for the birth. Have it ready by around week 36, so it is one less thing to think about.
Birth & Mother
Pack the documents first; they are the only things you truly cannot do without. Everything else is comfort, and you will likely want less of it than the lists suggest. A birth house or home birth needs less again, and your midwife will tell you what. Have the bag by the door from around week 36, so that when the day comes you simply pick it up and go.
Documents (pack these first)
Your Mutterpass
ID or passport, for you and your partner
Health insurance card
Marriage certificate, or your Vaterschaftsanerkennung papers
Your birth preferences, and your rights pocket card
For you
A long phone charger, and your own pillow if you like
Loose, warm clothes and a going-home outfit
A nursing bra, and big comfortable underwear
Maternity pads, toiletries, lip balm, hair tie
Slippers and warm socks
Snacks and a drink you actually want
A TENS machine, if you plan to use one in early labour.
Anything that comforts you: music, a speaker, oils, a photo
Your birth place usually has (so you needn't pack it)
Birth aids: a ball, a stool, a bath, a rebozo
Gowns and towels for labour
Nappies and baby bodysuits for your stay
Sometimes a TENS machine. Ask in advance, or bring your own.
For your baby
Bodysuits and sleepsuits (a couple of sizes)
A hat, socks, and a cardigan
A swaddle or blanket, and muslins
A going-home outfit, weather-appropriate
A car seat, ready in the car
birthandmother.comJuly 2026