Hospital Bag Checklist – What to Pack for Mum, Baby and Partner

Getting ready for your baby’s arrival can feel overwhelming, but a well-packed hospital bag can offer real peace of mind on the big day. A thorough hospital bag checklist ensures you, your birth partner, and your newborn have everything you need for labour, delivery and your hospital stay. Essentials typically include personal items, comfort items, important documents, and your baby’s needs.

Here’s a quick overview of what to pack in your hospital bag:

• For Mum. ID, insurance details, birth plan, comfortable clothing, toiletries, phone charger, snacks and nursing essentials.

• For Baby. Bodysuits, swaddles and a going-home outfit.

• For the Birth Partner. Change of clothes, toiletries, snacks and a phone charger.

By organising your hospital bag by category and packing it by week 36, you’ll be better prepared for a smooth experience. Below, we break down each item in detail to help you build the perfect hospital bag checklist.

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When to Pack Your Hospital Bag

Are you wondering, 'When should I pack my hospital bag'? Your baby might arrive earlier than expected, so it’s worth having your hospital bag (or bags if you want one for before and after delivery) packed during the third trimester – at about week 36 − just in case. You might find it easier to pack with your birth partner so you can both double-check you haven’t forgotten anything.

Then, once all the bags are packed, keep them handy, either in the car or near the door, so you'll be ready to go at a moment's notice.

Keep reading for a full list of what to pack in your bag for the hospital and download your hospital bag checklist below!

What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Mum (Labour and Delivery)

Being ready for labour and delivery includes having a few administrative items handy in your hospital bag, as well as being prepared to pass the time as you wait for your baby to be born:

Being comfortable during labour and delivery is key, and many of the above items for your hospital bag may help you relax a bit. But, let’s be honest, fuzzy socks and soothing music might not cut it! Take the quiz below to discover your personalised plan for pain management during labour.

Hospital Bag Checklist for C-Section

Not sure what to pack in your hospital bag for a caesarean? If you’re having a caesarean, or simply want to be prepared, our other checklists can still help you decide what to pack in your c-section hospital bag. However, these additional c-section hospital bag checklist items may come in handy before and after your delivery.

• Loose-fitting nightdress or dressing gown. Having something loose and comfortable to wear will be easier on the incision area.

• High-waisted underwear. Wearing comfortable underwear that doesn’t irritate the incision area is important. High-waisted underwear can avoid irritating the incision and provide extra support for your abdominal area after giving birth.

• Abdominal support belt. This is optional and may provide added comfort post-op. It’s best to ask your midwife or doctor if they recommend using an abdominal support belt.

• Compression stockings. To help with circulation after surgery.

• Medications. Any prescribed meds or a list of your current ones.

• Snacks and drinks for recovery. Choose light and easy-to-digest options.

• Extra-long phone charger. Outlets may be far from the bed.

These items can make your hospital stay more comfortable and support your healing process after a C-section.

You might also want to check with your healthcare provider to see if there’s anything specific you need to bring in your post-caesarean hospital bag.

What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Mum (After Delivery)

To make your post-delivery hospital stay as comfortable as possible, pack these essentials in your hospital bag checklist for mum and head off with confidence.

• Nightdresses. You’ll need something comfortable to sleep in during your hospital stay, and a soft, loose nightdress is a good option. Choose a front-opening style if you plan to breastfeed.

• Heavy-duty maternity pads. The hospital will provide some of these, but you may want to pack a few heavy-duty maternity pads, just in case. It’s normal to bleed a lot after the birth, and maternity pads are softer and more absorbent than standard pads. Initially you may need to change pads every one to two hours, but within a few days, the flow will start to decrease.

• Underwear. Hospitals often provide stretchy underwear, but you may want to pack several pairs that are large enough to wear over heavy-duty maternity pads.

• Bras. Be prepared with a few nursing bras or other comfortable, well-fitting bras.

• Toiletries. Don’t forget tissues, a hairbrush, a comb, deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, a hairdryer, hair clips and hair ties. Pack a plastic bag to pop dirty clothes in.

• Cosmetics and skincare products. If makeup is part of your usual routine, then don’t forget your cosmetics. Plus, make sure you pack some moisturiser, as your skin may feel drier than usual.

• Glasses and contact lenses (if you need them). It may seem obvious, but sometimes it’s these little things that can escape your mind when packing your hospital bag. Don’t forget contact lens solution and a lens case if you use contact lenses.

• Phone and charger. Unless you opt for a little digital detox during this special time, don’t forget your phone and charger. You can stay in touch with loved ones, use it to take those first few pictures, and post your special news on social media.

• Clothes. Aside from your nightdress, you might choose to take some comfortable clothes to wear during your hospital stay. Pack an extra outfit to wear home. Choose something loose-fitting with a drawstring or elastic waist.

• Handouts and reference books. You might have received some handy notes from your prenatal classes or have some reference books about newborns. The doctors and nurses will be able to give you lots of personalised guidance, but you might find these resources more useful once you actually have your newborn in your arms.

• Snacks and drinks. Labour can sometimes be very long, so you could consider packing some snacks and drinks. However, speak to your medical team about whether or not you’ll be allowed to eat or drink anything during labour. Also, consider packing some of your favourite snacks for after labour as you may feel like some comfort food during your hospital stay.

What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Your Birth Partner

Being a birth partner often means you'll be by your loved one's side in hospital. To help things go smoothly, put together a practical hospital bag with the items you'll actually need. Here's a curated list of essentials for dads, partners, friends, family members, or anyone who will be your birthing partner:

• Snacks and water. Labour can be thirsty work even for supportive partners. Consider packing some snacks and water, as well as change for the hospital vending machines.

• Phone, camera, and/or video camera, plus chargers and spare batteries. Don’t forget to pack a phone to stay in contact with loved ones, and for some entertainment during downtimes. The camera will come in handy to take some happy snaps. (Make sure the camera’s memory card has plenty of free space on it.)

• Clothes. Labour is an unpredictable process, so a change of clothes is always a good idea, as you never know how long the stay will be.

• Toiletries. After a long labour, you might need to freshen up in the shower. Most hospitals are fine with this, but you can confirm this beforehand.

• Spare glasses or spare contact lenses. It might be a long day, so having spares of these essentials could come in handy.

• Small pillow. You might appreciate getting a bit of rest during downtimes, as well.

• Entertainment. Something to do: Books, a tablet, and a personal music player are all good options.

What to Pack in the Hospital Bag for Your Baby

Wondering what to pack in your baby's hospital bag? Before you know it, you’ll be holding your little one in your arms. The following list of newborn essentials will come in useful when they arrive:

Printable Hospital Bag Checklist

Download our free, printable hospital bag checklist below to keep track of what you’ve packed.

Download Hospital Bag Checklist

What Not to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

Although it’s a great idea to be prepared, you don’t need to overpack your hospital bag. And there are some things that many hospitals don’t allow, so it’s a good idea to double-check beforehand.

Here are a few things you probably won’t need to pack in your hospital bag checklist:

• Too many clothes. You'll likely be in your nightdress for most of your stay, so you won’t need a lot of clothes. Pack a going-home outfit that is comfortable and easy to put on, like leggings and a loose shirt.

• Valuables. Leave valuables, such as jewellery, at home where they will be safer. The last thing you want to worry about is losing something important while you're focused on giving birth and taking care of your new baby.

• Electronic devices. Your phone and camera might come in handy, but you won't need larger devices such as portable TVs or music players. If you want to watch or listen to something, remember to have headphones handy so you don’t disturb other guests.

• Too much food. A few of your favourite snacks and some water is good to have on hand, but don’t bring too much food with you. You might not get a chance to eat it, and if your stay is longer than expected, the hospital will likely provide you with food, or your partner can bring some extra snacks if needed.

Sibling Hospital Bag Checklist

If your older child/children will be staying with family or a carer while you're in hospital, pack a small bag to help them feel comfortable and cared for:

• A few changes of clothes and pyjamas

• Favourite comfort item (stuffed animal, blanket, etc.)

• Toiletries and any medications

• Snacks and a water bottle

• Small toys, books or colouring supplies

• A note or photo from you for reassurance

• Schedule or routine information for their carer.

This little bag helps keep things familiar and fun for the siblings-to-be while you focus on welcoming the new baby.

The Bottom Line

With this hospital bag checklist, Mum, Dad and baby can be well prepared for time in hospital. Read up on the signs of labour, which includes things like your waters breaking or seeing the mucus plug discharge.

If you're approaching your due date, it's helpful to know how to time your contractions as well as how to spot other signs of labour. Contact your midwife or doctor if you think you're going into labour. They'll be able to let you know when it's time to grab your hospital bag and be on your way.

While you’re here and in the mood for preparing for the birth of your baby, download the Pampers Club app. You can use the app to earn rewards for all the nappies you’ll be buying once your little one’s here.

_{How we wrote this article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the National Health Service (NHS). The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.}