25 Best Snacks to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

I remember my first hospital stay as a labor nurse – those long hours at the hospital made me realize how important it was to have good snacks.

After helping many other moms through their birth journey, I know exactly what foods work best during and after labor. Trust me, the hospital food timing doesn’t always match when you’re hungry!

Many moms need quick energy at random times or something filling after nursing their baby.

Let me help you pack your hospital bag with the best snack options that are quick to pack and last longer.

Best Snacks for Your Hospital Bag

From my time in the delivery room, I know having good snacks within your reach makes a huge difference.

I have seen many moms struggling to eat hospital food or feeling too sick to eat at all. Most moms pack their favorite snacks in their hospital bags.

And I kid you not, they feel better when they eat snacks they like and have them nearby.

Pack what you enjoy eating – but keep it healthy.

What I Look for

• Foods that won’t need a fridge
• Snacks that are not messy
• Easy to pack and eat snacks
• Foods that have the right nutrients to give energy 
• A lot of liquids – water, sports drinks, coconut water.

Here’s a list of 25 snacks you should pack in your hospital bag.

Quick Dry Snacks

These snacks are easy to digest, do not spoil easily, and will probably last you for your entire visit. The most notable thing about them is they don’t smell.

So, eating them helps when you’re nauseous and cannot stomach anything with a strong smell. 

1. Plain Crackers (Approximate Price Range – $2-4 Per Box)

Simple, light snacks made with flour and salt help with morning sickness and are easy on the stomach. They’re perfect when you’re not feeling well.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Low in calories, easy to digest	Mild, salty taste	It helps with morning sickness, is easy to digest	Essential for early pregnancy nausea	Morning sickness pack – Plain crackers + ice chips

2. Rice Cakes (Approximate Price Range – $3-5 Per Pack)

These light, puffy rice discs are low in calories and gentle on your stomach. They’re good when you want something crunchy without feeling heavy.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Low in calories, mostly carbohydrates	Light, crispy with a subtle grain Flavor	Light on the stomach, good for nausea	Good for light snacking when appetite is low	Easy digestion – Applesauce pouch + rice cake

3. Small Pretzels (Approximate Price Range – $2-4 Per Bag)

Twisted, crunchy snacks with salt on top. They are very filling and help when you’re craving something salty. 

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Made from flour, salt, and yeast	Salty with a slight yeast taste	It helps with salt cravings, easy snacking	It helps maintain salt balance	On-the-go pack – Dried fruit bits + small pretzels

4. Dry Cereal (Approximate Price Range – $3-5 Per Box)

Ready-to-eat breakfast food that’s crunchy and often has vitamins added. It gives you energy fast. No milk is needed – grab a snack.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Contains iron, folic acid, B vitamins	Varies from sweet to neutral	Quick energy, fortified with nutrients	Quick breakfast or snack option	Quick breakfast – Dry cereal + cheese stick

5. Sugar-Free Cookies (Approximate Price Range – $3-6 Per Pack)

Cookies are made without regular sugar but taste just as sweet. It is a great alternative for when you want to watch out for your sugar intake.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Lower in calories, made with alternative sweeteners	Sweet but less intense than regular cookies	Satisfies sweet cravings with fewer calories	It helps control blood sugar	Sweet craving fix – Sugar-free cookies + banana chips

Quick Energy Foods

These snacks are rich in potassium, fiber, and iron and give a quick burst of energy. Remember to pack them in your hospital bag, as they are dried snacks and will not make any mess.

6. Banana Chips (Approximate Price Range – $3-5 Per Bag)

Sliced bananas that are dried until crispy. They’re sweet and crunchy, giving you potassium and energy. 

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Good source of potassium and fiber	Sweet with natural banana taste	Long-lasting energy	Good for between-meal energy	Sweet craving fix – Sugar-free cookies + banana chips

7. Dried Fruit Bits (Approximate Price Range – $4-6 Per Pack)

Small pieces of fruit that have been dried. They’re sweet, chewy, and last longer than fresh fruit. Feels like sweet gummy bears.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
High in natural sugars and fiber	Sweet and tart	Natural energy boost	Portable nutrition	On-the-go pack – Dried fruit bits + small pretzels

8. Small Raisins (Approximate Price Range – $2-4 Per Box)

Dried grapes that are small and sweet. They help with constipation and give you iron.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Rich in iron and natural sugars	Sweet and chewy	Helps with constipation	Iron-rich snack for energy	Hydration mix – Coconut water + raisins

9. Apple Rings (Approximate Price Range – $4-6 Per Bag)

Dried apple slices in ring shapes. They’re sweet and chewy with lots of fiber. They also taste like candy but are healthier.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
It is a good source of fiber and vitamin C	Sweet and slightly tart	Supports digestive health	Fibre-rich option	Post-feeding snack – Turkey roll + apple rings

10. Date Balls (Approximate Price Range – $5-8 Per Pack)

Sweet treats made from dates rolled into balls. They give you natural sugar and a quick burst of energy. 

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
High in natural sugars, iron, and fiber	Very sweet with caramel-like notes	Natural energy boost	Natural sugar boost	Energy boost – Date balls + mixed nuts

Protein Picks

Packaging snacks or food high in protein and minerals is very important. I’ve mentioned the top 5 snacks rich in proteins that you can bring in your hospital bag.

11. Mixed Nuts (Approximate Price Range – $6-10 Per Bag)

A mix of different nuts like almonds, peanuts, and cashews. They fill you up and help make breast milk. Full of good fats and protein.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
High in protein, healthy fats, and minerals	Savoury with a natural nutty taste	Sustained energy helps with milk production	Important for healthy fats and protein	Energy boost – Date balls + mixed nuts

12. Plain Granola Bars (Approximate Price Range – $4-6 Per Box)

Bars made with oats, nuts, and honey. They keep you full and are easy to carry.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Mix of oats, nuts, and honey	Sweet and crunchy	Quick energy, portable	Convenient meal replacement	Recovery boost – Bone broth + granola bar

13. Beef Sticks (Approximate Price Range – $5-8 Per Pack)

Dried meat snacks that are high in protein. They help boost your iron levels and keep you full. It is very convenient to have in your hospital bag.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
High in protein and iron	Savoury and salty	It helps with iron levels	Iron-rich protein source	Protein pack – Beef stick + cheese stick

14. Bone Broth (Approximate Price Range – $3-5 Per Container)

Liquid made from cooking bones for a long time. It helps your body heal and gives you protein. It’s a very popular postpartum snack.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Rich in protein and minerals	Rich and savoury	Supports recovery and healing	Supports postpartum healing	Recovery boost – Bone broth + granola bar

15. Applesauce Pouches (Approximate Price Range – $3-5 Per Pack)

Smooth apple puree in squeeze packets. They’re easy to eat and gentle on your stomach. 

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
It contains vitamin C and natural sugars	Sweet and smooth	Easy to digest, portable	Easy one-handed snack	Easy digestion – Applesauce pouch + rice cake

Additional Snacks

Now, these are optional snacks, depending on whether you put them in your hospital bag or not. Often, these can also be found at the hospital, but they will probably cost you an arm.

16. Ice Chips (Approximate Price Range – $1-2 Per Bag)

Small pieces of frozen water. They help with nausea and keep you hydrated. Good for sucking on when you feel sick.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Helps with hydration	Neutral, refreshing	It helps with hydration and nausea	Important for hydration	Morning sickness pack – Plain crackers + ice chips

17. Clear Juice Boxes (Approximate Price Range – $4-6 Per Pack)

Small boxes of fruit juice are a good source of energy. They give you quick energy and help keep you hydrated. Their size makes them very easy to carry.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
It contains vitamins and natural sugars	Sweet and fruity	Quick energy and hydration	Quick sugar and energy source	Hydration mix – juice + banana chips

18. Coconut Water (Approximate Price Range – $4-6 Per Pack)

Natural liquid from coconuts. It puts back minerals you lose and helps you stay hydrated. Better than plain water for hydration.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Rich in electrolytes and potassium	Slightly sweet, nutty	Supports hydration and electrolyte balance	Natural electrolyte replacement	Hydration mix – Coconut water + raisins

19. Turkey Roll-Ups (Approximate Price Range – $5-7 Per Pack)

Sliced turkey rolled up. They give you protein without much fat. Quick to eat and fill you up.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
High in protein and low in fat	Mild and savory	Supports muscle recovery	Lean protein source	Post-feeding snack – Turkey roll + apple rings

20. Cheese Sticks (Approximate Price Range – $4-6 Per Pack)

Long, individually wrapped pieces of cheese provide calcium and protein, which are good for bones and breast milk.

Nutritional Value	Flavor	Benefits	Importance	Combos
Good source of calcium and protein	Mild to sharp dairy taste	Supports bone health and milk production	Important calcium source	Protein pack – Beef stick + cheese stick

Packing for Your Partner

You can’t forget your partner here. He might be asleep for the delivery part, but shake a bag of chips, and he’ll be up and running.

A hungry husband is like a moody toddler, and a fed partner makes for better support during labor. They need to be full of energy, too. As your pillar of support in the delivery room, they need to be at their best as well.

So, pack more than you think you’ll need!

You can even make your own stash, put some

21. Sandwiches (Approximate Price Range – $3-5 Per Sandwich (homemade))

They’re quick to make, mess-free, and easy to eat. Toss in some veggies and homemade dressing, and you’ll have a good, nutritious snack.

22. Ready-to-Eat Bread Rolls (Approximate Price Range – $3-5 Per Pack)

This is a quick, filling option that needs no prep. Choose plain rolls that don’t crumble much. It’s good for quick bites between helping mom.

It’s not too messy and won’t leave strong smells in the room. Pack it in a zip bag to keep it fresh.

23. Energy Drinks (Approximate Price Range – $2-4 Per Can)

While these might seem helpful for staying alert, they’re not the best choice for delivery rooms.

They can make you jittery, require frequent bathroom breaks, and crash later.

24. Cream Cheese on a Tortilla (Approximate Price Range – $4-6 For Ingredients)

It’s easy to make and eat with one hand while supporting Mom. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic to stay fresh.

Pack the cream cheese spread already on the tortilla to avoid a mess, a good, filling snack that won’t make much noise or smell.

25. Bananas (Approximate Price Range – $2-4 Per Bunch)

It is a great source of energy and, I think, a very popular snack for dads-to-be. They have potassium and carbohydrates, which give you plenty of energy.

NOTE: And everything extra, including whatever you’re packing for yourself.

Pros Cons of Packing Your Own Snacks

While there are obvious benefits to bringing your snacks, packing snacks into your hospital bag can have quite a few drawbacks.

Let’s take a look here, 

PROS	CONS
Cheaper than hospital food	Some hospitals say no to food
Always have food ready	Small room space
No waiting for meal times	Food might get squished
Your favorite snacks on hand	Can get messy
It helps your partner, too	You may not want what you packed
Easy to eat while nursing	It needs to stay fresh
No trips to vending machines	Can’t bring hot food
Fresh food when you want it	Takes up bag space
Good for night feeds	Might attract bugs
Better than hospital snacks	Could spill in bag

A Perfect Storage Packing Information to Check Out

Keeping everything neat and clean when hungry in the labor room at 3 AM will save you much time.

Remember to pack your snacks in easy-to-carry, airtight bags. Choose snacks that won’t spill or go bad without a fridge and are ready to eat on the go.

• By now, you must know to keep your portions small
• Pack them in small zip-lock bags.
• Keep them near your bed label each box.
• Don’t forget to put paper towels, wet wipes, and trash bags. 

Here’s What I’ve Learned

• If you go into early labor at home, please eat light snacks
• If you’re already at the hospital, check with your nurse
• It’s best to ask your doctor, more so if you’re getting an epidural
• No food at all in cases of C-section.

I Tell Moms in My Care

• To always listen to their bodies
• Always take smaller bites, so it goes down easy
• Pick easy-to-eat food or broths
• Most importantly – stay hydrated

Every hospital has different rules. It’s best to ask your care team or doctors if you can eat. Each birth is different, and your doctor knows about your body best. Please ask about your hospital’s rules and policies first. 

If you’re allowed to eat, go for simple and light snacks.

Want to know what snacks to pack? I’ll share that next.

What Not to Pack?

You’re going to a hospital, so following the rules is important, too. You can’t be in there throwing a party—trust me! Keep it simple and clean. I’ve seen many moms regret getting messy foods.

Just think – “Can I Have This without Making a Mess?” 

You should avoid getting,

• Loud, crunchy chips or snacks.
• Anything that smells strongly, like fish or eggs.
• No sticky foods! Chocolates make a mess.

Additional Tips to Consider While Packing

You can never be too sure about packing every important item. Hence, include your partner in everything; he’ll most support you.

He might remember something that you may have forgotten.

Show him where all the things are and label everything clearly so he can easily find them later. 

I’m going to share the rest of the tips that I’ve picked up from helping mothers in the delivery room,

Best Money-Saving Tips

• Pack snacks from home
• Buy bulk packs
• Skip on that hospital food
• Bring your water bottles
• Pack small portions

Extra Things to Pack

• Paper towels
• Small towels
• Wet wipes
• Small trash bags
• Plastic spoons
• Paper plates

Personal Room Tips

• Keep a food list handy
• Mark bags by day
• Keep everything by your bed
• Clean up quickly
• Share with your nurses

Tips for Partners

• Help with opening her snacks or food boxes
• Keep your wife’s drinks filled
• Keep an eye on food breaks
• Keep everything clean

My Time-Tested Rules

• Check food daily
• Throw out old stuff
• Keep room clean
• Share your snacks with the staff, too
• Thank your care team

These small things make a huge difference when you’re in that delivery room, tired and hungry.

Trust me – good planning will make your experience a hundred times better!

I used to tell all the moms there – that being ready means being comfy, and comfy moms have better birth times.

Conclusion

Packing the right snacks and food in your hospital bag can help you stay strong through labor and the first days with your baby.

Some key takeaways for you:

• Make small portions
• Choose mess-free snacks
• Think about storage
• Keep drinks handy
• Pack for your partners, too

Whether in early labor or nursing your new baby in the wee hours of the night, having easy-to-eat snacks nearby can be very helpful.

Please keep it simple, pack what you like, and don’t forget those wipes and bags.

Need more help? Ask your care team what works best at your hospital.

You’ve got this!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do I Pack Snacks Efficiently?

Use airtight containers or small zip-lock bags to keep snacks fresh and prevent spills. Label each snack bag for easy access.

Can I Bring Hot Food to The Hospital?

Most hospitals don’t allow hot food due to safety and hygiene regulations. Stick to cold, ready-to-eat snacks instead.

How Do I Store My Snacks in The Hospital Room?

Keep your snacks near your bed for easy access. Use small, air-tight bags to prevent spillage and make clean-up easier.