The time has finally come! Packing your hospital bag is one of the last steps in preparing for your baby’s arrival, and having everything you need packed, and ready to go, can make those first few days let's just say, a whole lot smoother.
Whether it’s those oh so important documents, postpartum underwear, or baby sleepsuits for your newborn, a well-packed bag ensures you can focus on what really matters—welcoming your little one into the world.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete hospital checklist for new mums, helping you feel prepared, relaxed, and ready for the big day.
Contents:
The 5 W's
When should I pack my hospital bag?
I'd definitely recommend having your hospital bag packed and ready at around the 36 week mark of your pregnancy journey. This ensures you're prepared in case your baby arrives earlier than expected and let's face it, it ticks another thing off your never ending to do list. If you're having a planned C-section or induction, your midwife may advise you to have it ready even sooner.
Who do I need to pack for?
The 3 main people you need to pack for are yourself, your baby, and your birth partner (if they’re staying with you). Your bag should include essentials for labour, post-birth recovery, baby, and items to make your partner more comfortable during their stay (whether this is a toothbrush and change of clothes, or a snack for hospital bag to keep them quiet, you'll know what's best to bring).
What to include in my hospital bag?
We will delve into this properly but some of the main things to include are:
- For mum – Comfortable clothing, maternity pads, toiletries, maternity underwear, and important documents.
- For baby – Sleepsuits, vests, nappies, muslin cloths, and a car seat for the journey home.
- For your birth partner – Change of clothes, snacks, phone charger, and toothbrush.
Where should I get my bag from?
You can find the perfect hospital bag from many online and high street stores, it doesn't need to be anything specific. A spacious holdall, small suitcase, or sports duffle bag works well—something easy to carry and organise. You may want to consider having separate bags to organise everything even more; one for mum, one for baby and one for your birthing partner.
Why do I need a hospital bag?
Your hospital bag ensures you have everything needed for a comfortable and stress-free stay (well, as stress-free as possible). Whether you're in the hospital for a few hours or a few days, having everything you need ready to go means you can focus on yourself and your newborn without worrying about forgotten items.
The Ultimate Checklist
Now, it's common to overpack to ensure you're fully prepared with everything you need, however, you also don't want to be forgetting anything. We are here to help you keep things as simple as possible and find a happy medium. Let's break down everything you need:
Mum
- Your birth plan, hospital notes & any other important documents
- Loose, comfortable clothing to wear during labour
- Front-opening or breastfeeding tops if you're planning to breastfeed
- 3 changes of comfortable clothes
- Dressing gown and slippers
- Flip-flops (great for wearing to the shower)
- PJs/nightwear
- Maternity underwear
- Spare socks
- 5 or 6 pairs of postpartum knickers (be sure to include disposable ones too)
- 2 or 3 comfy bras (remember to pack a couple of nursing bras)
- Breast pads
- Peri bottle
- Perineal ice packs (great for any tearing)
- 2 packets of super-absorbent sanitary or maternity pads
- Wash bag (toothpaste, toothbrush, face wash, hairbrush, flannel, soap, lip balm, deodorant, hair bands, hand sanitiser, body lotion, shampoo, conditioner, nipple cream) - travel size toiletries are your friend!
- Towel
- Healthy snacks, drinks and a water bottle (one with a straw may be handy)
- Pregnancy compression socks/non slip socks
- Any medicines you're taking
- Books, magazines, podcasts, music playlists, ear/headphones (anything to help you relax and pass the time)
- Phone and phone charger (an extra-long charging cable or battery pack can be useful)
- Glasses/contact lenses (if you wear them)
Baby
- Bodysuits, vests and sleepsuits
- An outfit to go home in
- Hat/scratch mittens
- Socks
- Snowsuit if the weather is cold
- Nappies
- Nappy bags
- Water wipes
- Muslins
- Blanket
- Car seat for the trip home
- Dummy (if you're planning to use one)
Birth Partner
- A change of clothes
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Phone and charger
- Snacks and drinks
- Swimwear (if they are getting in a birth pool)
- Any medicines they're taking
- Glasses/contact lenses (if they wear them)
- Phone, camera and/or video camera (with chargers/batteries)
- Some entertainment (books, magazines, ear/headphones)
Hospital Bag Do’s & Dont’s
Remember when I mentioned about overpacking?
It's safe to say it isn't necessarily a bad thing to have more than what you need, however it's good to break up what is good to have just in case, and what we guarantee you won't need.
Good to Have
- An eye mask may help you sleep on the brightly lit ward
- Your own pillows (if you want more of a homely feel)
- A fan or water spray to help keep you cool
- Flannel (to help stop overheating)
- Feeding pillow
- TENS machine (if you're considering using one)
- Bottles and formula - if you're planning to bottle feed
- Extra plastic bags – useful for dirty laundry, wet flannels, or disposing of used maternity pads
- List of important phone numbers - just in case your phone runs out of battery or there's no signal
- Notebook & pen – Useful for jotting down any important information from midwives or doctors
- Some change for the car park and vending machine
-
First teddy - where this isn't a necessity, it's just down right adorable
Probably Won't Need
- Loads of nappies - a small pack (around 10-20 is usually enough for a short hospital stay).
- Baby shoes - cute but completely unnecessary for a newborn.
- Breast pump or pumping bra - most hospitals have pumps available if needed however the likelihood is, you won't need one straight away.
- Fancy toiletries & make up bag - a little self care is great, but stick to the basics (lip balm, deodorant, face wash etc).
- Hairdryer & straighteners - a quick hair wash is usually enough; you likely won't have the time or energy for styling.
- Lots of blankets - one or two will do, especially as hospitals often provide some for your stay.
-
Too many baby clothes – newborns mostly live in sleepsuits, and hospitals can be warm, so you likely won’t need multiple outfits.
Top Tips
So you know what you need to pack, however there's many other things to consider to help the process as smooth as possible. Here's our must have tips and tricks:
Pack early – Aim to have your bag ready by 36 weeks so you’re prepared for any surprises.
Use packing cubes or zip-lock bags – Separate items into "Mum," "Baby," and "Birth Partner" sections to keep things organised.
Roll your clothes – Saves space and makes it easier to find what you need.
Test your bag – Make sure you can find things without rummaging, and carry it easily (nobody wants a wonky wheel!).
Keep essentials within easy reach – Put things like hospital notes, birth plan, and phone charger in an outer pocket or small pouch.
Charge your devices before you go – A portable charger can also be a lifesaver if plug sockets are limited.
Check your hospital’s policies – Some hospitals provide nappies and maternity pads, while others don’t—so find out what you actually need to bring.
Plan for all weather – If giving birth in winter, don’t forget a warm blanket or extra layers, and for summer, items to help keep you cool.
Your Questions Answered
What is a peri bottle?
A perineal bottle is a small, handheld bottle designed for gentle cleansing of the perineal area, especially after childbirth. It features an angled spout for easy use and provides a soothing, hygienic rinse without harsh wiping. A peri wash bottle is essential for postpartum recovery, offering comfort and promoting healing after vaginal or C-section birth.
Are maternity pads good to use after delivery?
Absolutely! Maternity pads are essential for postpartum recovery. They are much more absorbent than standard sanitary pads and provide the comfort and protection needed to manage post-birth bleeding (lochia). Most women go through at least 2-3 packs in the first few days, so having plenty on hand is a good idea. You can also invest in some good maternity knickers that are reusable, with a built in pad for added comfort.
How many baby outfits should I bring to the hospital?
Bring 4-5 outfits, including a mix of bodysuits, sleepsuits and vest. Babies can have little accidents or spit-up, so having a few extras ensures you're covered. Don't forget a going-home outfit that’s weather-appropriate.
What to wear when giving birth?
Be sure to wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for movement and easy access. For example:
- A loose nightdress or oversized t-shirt
- A hospital gown (provided if preferred)
- A sports bra or bikini top if you’re planning a water birth
- Slippers or flip-flops for walking around
Are there any items that the hospital will provide?
Every hospital is different and so it's a good idea to do some research on your chosen one to see what they provide. Some common things hospitals generally provide are:
- Hospital gowns
- Basic maternity pads
- Disposable mesh underwear
- Some nappies and wipes
- Baby blankets and hospital swaddle
- Pain relief and postpartum care items (e.g., ice packs, witch hazel pads)
And there you have it, the ultimate guide to all things hospital bags!
Packing your hospital bag is an exciting step in preparing for your baby's arrival, and having the right essentials can make your experience more comfortable and less stressful.
Every birth experience is unique, so tailor your bag to suit your needs. Whether you're new to the whole giving birth thing or this isn't your first rodeo, a well prepped hospital bag is a recipe for a smoother birth. Because let's be honest, who doesn't want that?