Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Really Need

Hospital Bag

Packing your hospital bag is one of the most exciting steps in preparing for birth. Whether you're planning a vaginal birth or a caesarean, having everything you need packed and ready by week 36-37 can help you feel organised and relaxed.

But with so many lists out there, it’s easy to overpack or forget the essentials. In this guide, we’ll focus on what you really need – so you’re prepared, comfortable, and ready to welcome your baby!

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

It’s a good idea to start packing between 32-35 weeks and have it completely ready by week 36. Babies can arrive earlier than expected, and being prepared means you won’t have to rush at the last minute.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mum 👜

These essentials will keep you comfortable, calm, and supported during labour and your hospital stay.

1. Important Documents 📄

✔ Maternity notes & birth plan – Your midwife will need these.
✔ NHS card & ID – If required by your hospital.
✔ Any medical records or allergy details.

2. Clothing & Comfort Essentials 👚

✔ Loose, comfy clothes – Soft, breathable fabrics are best. Pack:

• A nightdress or oversized T-shirt for labour.

• Comfy PJs (front-opening if breastfeeding).

• Dressing gown & slippers – Easy to slip on when moving around.
  ✔ Maternity bras & breast pads – Even if not breastfeeding, you may leak colostrum.
  ✔ Big, comfy knickers – High-waisted cotton or disposable ones are best.
  ✔ Thick maternity pads – Post-birth bleeding is normal and heavier than a period.
  ✔ Sliders – For the shower and if you are having a caesarean for compression socks
  ✔ An outfit for going home – Think soft leggings and a loose top.

3. Toiletries & Self-Care Items 🧴

✔ Toothbrush & toothpaste
✔ Face wipes or a gentle cleanser – Labour can be sweaty!
✔ Lip balm – Hospitals are dry, and gas & air can cause dry lips.
✔ Moisturiser – A hydrating face cream or body lotion.
✔ Hairbrush & hairbands – Keeping hair out of your face helps during labour.
✔ Shampoo & conditioner (mini size) – A shower after birth feels amazing!
✔ Deodorant (fragrance-free) – Newborns recognise your scent, so avoid strong perfumes.
✔ Hand sanitiser – Useful for quick clean-ups.

✔ Maternity Pads/- Large maternity pads for postpartum bleeding

4. Labour & Birth Essentials 🤰

✔ TENS machine – If you’re using one for pain relief.
✔ Snacks & drinks – Labour is long! Pack energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, and electrolyte drinks.
✔ Straws or a water bottle with a spout – Easy hydration when lying down.
✔ Cooling face mist or flannel – Helps keep you refreshed.
✔ Essential oils or pillow spray – Lavender can be relaxing.
✔ Your own pillow – Some prefer their own for extra comfort.
✔ Earphones & playlist – Music, hypnobirthing tracks, or a podcast can help during labour.

5. Post-Birth & Recovery Essentials 🛏️

✔ Maternity pads – The hospital may provide some, but bring your own just in case.
✔ Perineal spray or cooling pads – Helps soothe soreness if you have a vaginal birth.
✔ Nipple cream – If breastfeeding, lanolin cream helps with soreness.
✔ Light snacks – Hospital food may not always arrive when you're hungry.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby 👶

1. Newborn Clothes & Layers 👕

✔ 3-5 sleepsuits & vests – Newborns can go through several outfits a day.
✔ 1-2 hats – Babies lose heat quickly.
✔ Mittens & socks – Helps prevent scratching.
✔ Going home outfit – Something soft and comfortable.
✔ 1 warm blanket – To keep baby cosy.
✔ Muslin cloths – Essential for burping and wiping up spills.

2. Nappies & Changing Essentials 🍼

✔ Newborn nappies (10-15) – Even if using cloth nappies, disposables are easier at first.
✔ Water wipes or cotton wool & water – Gentle on newborn skin.
✔ Nappy cream – For any early irritation.

3. Feeding Essentials 🍼

✔ If breastfeeding:

• Nipple cream (lanolin is best).

• Breastfeeding pillow (optional, but useful).

✔ If bottle-feeding:

• Formula & bottles – Hospitals often provide this, but check in advance.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Birth Partner 👨‍👩‍👦

✔ Change of clothes – Labour can be long!
✔ Snacks & drinks – To stay energised.
✔ Phone charger & power bank – For updates, photos, and timing contractions.
✔ Small pillow & blanket – Some hospitals don’t provide them for partners.
✔ Notebook & pen – To jot down questions or birth details.
✔ Cash or card – For vending machines or parking.

What You DON’T Need to Pack 🚫

Many mums overpack their hospital bags, so here’s what you can leave at home:
❌ Pre-pregnancy clothes – You won’t fit into them yet; opt for maternity wear.
❌ Toys or books for baby – Newborns mostly sleep!
❌ Too many outfits – Newborns mainly wear vests and sleepsuits in the early days.
❌ Breast pumps – Most hospitals provide one if needed.
❌ Padsicles or sitz baths – Great for home, but hospitals may not allow them.

Final Tips for Packing Your Hospital Bag

✔ Keep it compact – A small suitcase or overnight bag is enough for most stays.
✔ Have a separate “extra” bag – Leave some spares (extra nappies, clothes) at home for your birth partner to bring if needed.
✔ Keep it near the door or in the car – So you’re ready to go when labour starts!