Hospital Bag Checklist: For Canadian Parents | Nest Designs

As parents-to-be, the excitement of welcoming your baby is an experience unlike any other. But before the big day arrives, ensure everything you need is packed and organized—it's one less thing to think about when your little bub is ready to enter the world. If you're looking for a hospital bag checklist for Canadian parents, we’ve curated lists of the essentials for mom, baby, and dad or co-parent to help you feel prepared and calm.

Packing your hospital bag with confidence gives parents-to-be peace of mind, and having all the right items will make the experience so much smoother. Read on for our hospital bag checklists.

Plan to have your hospital bag ready by week 36—a few weeks before your due date. Babies don’t always stick to schedules; in Canada, only about 5% of newborns arrive on their due date, so it’s better to prepare early than to be caught off guard.

Keep your hospital bag in an easy-to-reach spot, and don’t forget to leave room for last-minute items. Some hospital bag essentials that you use daily can't be packed ahead of time (like glasses or contacts), so keep a list of these items with your go-bag to make a rushed departure much smoother (we’ve noted these items in the lists below!).

When it comes to choosing a hospital bag, think about functionality and the amount of time you’ll actually be in the maternity ward. A medium-sized duffle bag or a carry-on suitcase should do the trick for all the essentials. It should be spacious enough for your items but compact enough to carry (or roll) and slide easily into the car. 

According to the Canadian Institute of Health Information (CIHI), the average length of stay after giving birth is 2.1 days. Most mamas are discharged 24 to 36 hours after delivery, but the length of stay can vary based on the woman’s health, the baby’s health, hospital policies, and more. With this in mind, pack enough essentials for two days (you can always have the other parent run home to pick up more things if your stay is longer than expected).

When packing your pregnancy hospital bag, bring your own supplies. Canadian hospitals may not provide everything you’ll need for your personal comfort. Whether you’re preparing for a vaginal birth or need a c-section hospital bag checklist, here's what you’ll want to pack:

You’ll need clothing that makes you feel relaxed and at ease. Pack loose-fitting nursing pajamas or a robe, especially one with an open front if breastfeeding. Include comfortable flats, slippers with rubber soles, socks, or flip-flops for walking around the maternity ward. You'll also need multiple pairs of soft, full-coverage underwear and a nursing bra for after delivery.

If you want a picture-perfect first family photo, matching family pajamas for your first night with your new bub is one of the cutest things you can do together.

When heading home, soft and loose lounge pants or a cozy dress will be most comfortable. Form-fitting clothing typically does not feel good immediately after childbirth.

While some Canadian hospitals provide you with mesh underwear and some pads during your stay, be prepared with your own. Pack your own pads for the trip home or in case you don’t get enough at the hospital.

Breastfeeding can be oh-so-rewarding but may leave your nipples feeling sore or irritated in the early days. A soothing, natural nipple cream provides instant relief and helps keep your skin hydrated and protected. Pack a small tube in your bag for peace of mind.

While hospitals may provide some basics, having your own personal care items can make a huge difference. Pack your favourite shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, lip balm, hairbrush, hair ties, skincare, and any other items that will help you feel like yourself during your stay.

Though you may not be able to eat during labour, having snacks and your favourite treats on hand after delivery is something you'll thank yourself for after your little love enters the world. 

A refillable water bottle is essential to stay hydrated during your stay. The hospital has disposable cups, but they can be too small and wasteful.

You’ll want your phone to keep in touch with loved ones, take those first precious photos, and keep yourself entertained during any downtime. Don’t forget to pack a charger—hospital outlets are often in awkward spots, and having a long cord can be a lifesaver.

Bring all your current medications and vitamins to the hospital. Try to refill any prescriptions before having your little love so you don’t run out of necessary medication at an inopportune time.

Don’t forget your spectacles. You need to see, after all! Contacts are optional as you may not feel up to putting them in during your stay at the hospital.

Responsibility always seems to come with paperwork. Make sure you have your photo ID and/or your provincial health card for hospital admittance. If you have private insurance, bring proof along with you. Some Canadian hospitals have you complete intake and insurance paperwork weeks before your due date, but for birth centres that don’t have this option, make sure all the necessary papers are filled out and ready to go.

Compression Socks

Swelling and the risk of blood clots can increase after a C-section. Compression socks are a great way to boost circulation in your legs and feet.

Abdominal Binder

Some moms find an abdominal binder helpful for support and comfort during recovery. It can ease movement and protect your incision area. Check with your healthcare provider to see if they recommend one for you.

Comfort is key during labour! Pack loose-fitting, breathable clothes that allow for easy movement. Many moms prefer a loose gown or robe over loose-fitting pants and a comfortable top. For labour, think comfort over fashion—nothing too restrictive. Once you are checked in at the hospital, you’ll change into a hospital gown for active labour and birth.

The general advice is to plan for six to eight pads in a 24-hour window, so having about a dozen pads in your hospital bag is a good baseline. Canadian hospitals do provide new mamas with maternity pads, but you’ll still want to be prepared with your own.

If you plan to breastfeed and have a breast pump, bring it along just in case. Some hospitals will help you get started with breastfeeding, but having your breast pump available may help you feel more confident. If you need additional help breastfeeding, in many parts of Canada, public health nurses come to visit you and your little bub at home, and one of the things they can help with is feeding your baby.

Pack one to two pairs of comfortable maternity pajamas in your hospital bag. Choose loose and breathable sleepwear, especially if you plan to breastfeed. Keeping your newborn’s sensitive skin in mind, opt for nursing pajamas made from healthy fabrics that are gentle and soft for you and your little one.

In Canada, it’s also your responsibility to bring the supplies needed for your baby, as hospitals typically do not provide them beyond the basics. Here's what you’ll need for your newborn:

Your baby may spend much of their time in the hospital wearing just a diaper and a swaddle, but they still need some clothes. Pack some cute newborn onesies or sleepers to keep them cozy.

While hospitals provide diapers during your stay, you may want to bring your own to ensure they’re your preferred brand. Pack enough to get you through your hospital stay, plus a few extras just in case. Don’t forget to bring a pack of baby wipes and a tube of diaper cream, as these are essential for keeping your baby clean and fresh.

Hospitals provide basic swaddle blankets, but it’s nice to have your own soft, cozy blanket to wrap your baby in. It’s perfect for skin-to-skin contact and will also come in handy for the car ride home to keep your little one warm. Shop the perfect baby blankets here.

If you’re planning to bottle-feed, bring a small tub of formula and two to three clean bottles (more if you don’t want to wash them in a hospital sink). Some hospitals provide formula, but it’s a good idea to bring your own supply just in case.

Before you leave the hospital, you need a safe and secure way to transport your baby. Ensure you have a properly installed car seat, as hospitals will not let you leave without one.

Your little one doesn’t need a whole wardrobe, but you will need a few outfits. Pack at least two to three outfits for your baby, depending on the hospital’s length of stay.

While Canadian hospitals usually provide some newborn diapers, new moms and dads may want to bring a few extra to make sure you're covered. Pack about six to eight diapers, just in case.

As with diapers, Canadian hospitals generally provide wipes, but if you prefer a specific brand or want to be sure you have enough, add a pack of gentle wipes to your hospital bag.

Most hospitals will offer formula if you need it, but you may prefer to bring your own if you're not breastfeeding. Be sure to check with your hospital ahead of time to see what they provide to babies who are not breastfeeding.

It’s not just about mom and baby—dads and co-parents should pack a bag too! If you’re the partner heading to the hospital, here’s what you’ll need:

Just like moms-to-be, partners need a change of clothes, including a couple of comfortable outfits and a pair of slippers or flip-flops for the hospital. If you plan on staying overnight, pack pajamas, underwear, and a warm sweater or hoodie to stay cozy in the maternity ward.

Hospital chairs and couches aren’t known for their comfort, so pack along a cozy pillow and blanket to make your stay more restful. Whether catching a quick nap or staying warm overnight, these simple comforts can make all the difference.

Partners also need some personal care items to feel fresh at the hospital. Pack everything needed for overnight: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, glasses, contacts, medications, and any other toiletries they may need.

Having a baby can make for a long day (or night). Just like the expecting mama, add some snacks and a water bottle to the hospital bag to help keep your energy up.

As a support person, dads and partners need to stay connected to share updates on your growing family and take as many photos as possible. Be prepared by packing a phone, charger, and a portable power bank.

You never know what will happen the day your baby is born. Cash on hand can keep you prepared if the hospital has metered parking, you want something from the vending machine, or the hospital coffee kiosk’s credit card machine is down.

Expecting twins? Your hospital bag will need a little extra preparation. Many of these items are the same as if you’re having one baby, you just need more of them. Here’s what to keep in mind for a twin hospital bag checklist:

For twins, you’ll need at least two newborn outfits for each baby—think soft onesies or sleepers that will be comfortable for them to wear during their hospital stay.

Packing twice the amount of diapers and wipes is essential when you’re having twins. Bring at least a dozen diapers and extra wipes to keep both babies clean and happy.

You need two car seats for the ride home, so make sure you have them ready and know how to use them. Bringing a double stroller will make it easier for your family to leave the hospital on a single trip.

Packing two soft, cozy blankets for your twins guarantees they’ll be comfy and warm on the drive home.

If you’re bottle-feeding, bring enough bottles and formula to feed both babies. Consider packing extra in case your stay is extended or if your little ones are extra hungry.

Pack light and focus on hospital bag essentials! Here’s what you can leave at home:

• Valuables: Jewelry or pricey items aren’t worth the worry; keep them at home where they're safe.
• A full baby wardrobe: A couple of outfits are plenty; your hospital stay should be short and sweet.
• Extra electronics: Your phone can take videos and pictures of your little bub. You'll be so busy bonding you won't need anything else.
• Heavy makeup: You likely won't feel like applying it. If some makeup is important to you, pack the essentials in your toiletries bag.

Being prepared with a hospital bag checklist ensures you're ready for one of the most amazing moments in your life. For Canadian parents, packing the go-bag is about choosing premium, healthy products for you and your baby. 

Packing early, keeping things organized, and ensuring you've got the essentials for mom, baby, and dad will allow you to focus on what really matters—the moment your little one arrives!

Shop baby essentials here and get your hospital bag ready.