The last weeks of pregnancy are exciting, emotional, and often a little overwhelming. At some point, almost the same question always arises: What exactly needs to go into the hospital bag? To avoid stress just before the birth, it's worth preparing everything calmly and early.
In this article, you'll find a practical hospital bag checklist for Switzerland – with everything you truly need for the birth, your hospital stay, and the time thereafter.
When should the hospital bag be packed?
Ideally, your hospital bag should be ready from the 35th to 37th week of pregnancy. This way, you'll be relaxed and prepared if things happen earlier than planned.
Many women find it helpful to place the bag in a designated spot and also have all important documents readily accessible.
The most important documents for the birth
Before you think about clothes, snacks, or baby outfits, you should prepare the most important documents. These usually include:
- Health insurance card
- ID card or passport
- Maternity record or pregnancy documents
- Blood group card, if available
- Birth plan, if you have created one
- Important phone numbers
- Hospital or clinic documents, if applicable
It's best to keep these documents in a separate folder so you don't have to search for them at the crucial moment.
What to pack for the birth
During birth, one thing matters most: that you feel as comfortable as possible. So pack items that give you security, calm, and comfort.
Often helpful for you are:
- comfortable, loose nightgown or long shirt
- warm socks
- hair tie or hair clip
- lip balm
- water bottle
- snacks for after the birth
- phone and charging cable
- headphones or music
- massage oil or small relaxation spray, if you like that
Many clinics already provide quite a bit. Nevertheless, it's nice to have personal items with you that give you a familiar feeling.
Clothing and toiletries for your hospital stay
After the birth, you'll be glad to have comfortable and practical items with you. Remember that your body needs time and you shouldn't feel constricted.
For your stay, it's useful to have:
- 2 to 3 comfortable nightgowns or pajamas
- nursing bras or soft wire-free bras
- comfortable underwear
- loose, cozy clothes for the journey home
- robe or cardigan
- slippers or non-slip socks
- toiletries
- toothbrush and toothpaste
- shower gel, shampoo, brush
- face cream and lip balm
- large sanitary pads, if not everything is provided
Especially after birth, comfort is more important than style. It's better to bring clothes in which you truly feel comfortable.
What you can have for breastfeeding or feeding
Even if much is available at the hospital, some mothers feel more comfortable having a few of their own items.
Useful items can be:
- nursing tops
- nursing pads
- nipple cream
- small nursing pillow, if you prefer your own
- muslin cloths
If you are not breastfeeding or are still undecided, you don't need to plan everything perfectly in advance. The most important thing is to take the pressure off yourself.
What your baby needs
For your baby, you usually need less than many people think. Most hospitals provide a lot during the first hours and days.
Nevertheless, you should be prepared for the journey home and the start.
Pack for your baby:
- 2 to 3 bodysuits
- 2 rompers or comfortable outfits
- socks
- hat
- cardigan or warmer layer depending on the season
- burp cloths or muslin squares
- baby car seat
- cuddly blanket for the journey home
Choose soft, uncomplicated clothing that is easy to put on and take off.
What is useful for your partner or companion
If someone is accompanying you to the birth, it's worth thinking about a few things for them too. Especially during longer births, it's pleasant if the companion is also well-prepared.
Helpful items are:
- snacks
- water
- change of shirt
- power bank or charging cable
- some cash or card
- comfortable clothing
This way, attention remains where it belongs: on you and your baby.
What doesn't need to be in the hospital bag
Many bags are packed unnecessarily full. Usually, you need less than you think.
Often not necessary are:
- too many baby clothes
- large quantities of care products
- jewelry or valuables
- tight clothing
- too many "just in case" items
Keep it simple, clear, and practical.
Hospital bag in winter or summer: What else might be useful
Depending on the season, it's worth packing a little differently.
In winter:
- warm socks
- cozy cardigan
- thicker blanket for the journey home
- warm baby hat
In summer:
- lighter clothing
- water spray or refreshing wipes
- thin baby blanket
- airy outfits
Our recommendation: simple rather than overloaded
The perfect hospital bag isn't the biggest, but the one that gives you peace of mind. You don't need ten outfits or complicated preparations. What matters is that you have all the essentials and feel secure.
Birth is a very special moment. Your bag should support you – not add extra stress.
Hospital Bag Checklist at a Glance
For you
- Documents
- Nightgown / comfortable outfit
- Underwear
- Nursing bras
- Socks
- Hair tie
- Toiletries
- Lip balm
- Phone + charging cable
- Snacks
- Clothes for the journey home
For the Baby
- Bodysuits
- Rompers
- Hat
- Socks
- Cardigan
- Blanket
- Baby car seat
For the Companion
- Snacks
- Water
- Change of clothes
- Charging cable
- Wallet
Conclusion
A well-packed hospital bag gives you a calming feeling before the birth. You don't need to be perfectly prepared – but it helps to have the most important things ready in good time.
If you want to make your pregnancy as relaxed as possible, it's worth checking off small to-dos early and concentrating on what really matters: your well-being and the anticipation of your baby.