The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Really Need for Labour & Baby

When your due date is approaching, packing your hospital bag can suddenly feel very real – and a little overwhelming. What do you actually need? What can stay at home? This guide is here to help you focus on the essentials, while still leaving room for those little extras that can make a big difference.

When should I pack my hospital bag?

Aim to have your hospital bag packed and ready by 36 weeks. That way, you're not scrambling to gather things during contractions!

For Mum (Labour + Postpartum):

• Maternity notes and birth plan

• Comfortable nighties or oversized T-shirts (great for labour)

• Dressing gown and slippers

• Nursing bras and breast pads

• Comfortable post-birth underwear (disposable or dark-coloured cotton)

• Maternity pads (bring extra!)

• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes, lip balm, hairbrush, hair ties

• Snacks and drinks for labour

• Phone + charger

• Water bottle with a straw (handy during contractions)

• Lip balm and facial mist for cooling down

• A comfy going-home outfit

Optional but Helpful:

• TENS machine (if you're using one)

• Birth ball (check with your hospital)

• Playlist + speaker or headphones

• Essential oils or aromatherapy spray

• Eye mask and earplugs (for rest!)

For Baby:

• Sleepsuits and vests (bring a few in newborn and 0-3m sizes)

• Nappies and wipes

• Cotton wool (some hospitals prefer this to wipes for newborns)

• Hat and mittens

• Baby blanket

• Going-home outfit

• Car seat (install in advance!)

For Birth Partner:

• Change of clothes

• Snacks and drinks

• Phone + charger

• Toiletries and toothbrush

• A list of important phone numbers

• Coins/card for parking or vending machines

Keep everything packed in a small suitcase or overnight bag. You might even want two bags: one for labour, one for after baby arrives. Leave it by the door so it’s easy to grab when the time comes!