The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for Birth: What You Really Need (and What You Don’t)

The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for Birth: What You Really Need (and What You Don’t)

Whether you’re 30 weeks or days away from meeting your baby, packing your hospital bag is one of those exciting—and slightly overwhelming—milestones of pregnancy. Between advice from friends, TikTok lists, and midwife recommendations, it’s easy to wonder what do I actually need?

Here’s your simple, no-stress guide to what to pack for labour, birth, and those first precious hours (and days) with your newborn. 💛

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👜 When to Pack Your Hospital Bag

Aim to have it ready by 36 weeks—a little earlier if you’re having twins or a high-risk pregnancy. Keep it by the door or in the car so it’s ready to grab when the big moment arrives.

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👩🍼 What to Pack for You

🏥 Labour & Birth Essentials

These are the must-haves to help you feel calm, comfortable, and in control:

• Hospital notes and birth plan (if you have one)

• Maternity notes & ID

• Comfortable nightdress or oversized T-shirt for labour

• Hair ties & lip balm (you’ll thank yourself later)

• Socks & slippers—labour wards can be chilly

• Water bottle with a straw lid—hydration is key

• Snacks & isotonic drinks—for you and your birth partner

• Phone charger (extra-long cable if possible!)

• Music playlist or relaxation app to help you focus

💡 Tip: If you’re using hypnobirthing or relaxation tracks, download them offline ahead of time.

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🌸 After Birth Essentials

Comfort is everything after birth—here’s what helps most new mums:

• Loose, breathable pyjamas or nursing nightdress

• Postpartum underwear or disposable briefs

• Maternity pads (bring plenty!)

• Nursing bras or tanks

• Breast pads (you might leak early on)

• Toiletries: toothbrush, hairbrush, deodorant, face wipes, body wash, moisturiser

• Towel & flip-flops for showers

• A going-home outfit—something soft and loose around your middle

🌿 Optional extras:

• Nipple cream (lanolin-based or natural)

• Peri bottle or soothing spray for perineal care

• Lightweight dressing gown

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👶 What to Pack for Baby

Those first cuddles come fast—here’s everything your little one will need from day one:

• Babygrows or sleepsuits (3–5)

• Vests (3–5)

• Newborn hat, mittens & socks

• Swaddle or cellular blanket

• Nappies (at least 10–15 for 24 hours)

• Baby wipes or cotton wool pads

• Going-home outfit (soft and weather-appropriate)

• Car seat (make sure it’s installed correctly before heading to hospital)

💛 Tip: Pack baby’s outfits in labelled zip bags (“First Outfit”, “Going Home”, etc.) so your partner can find them easily.

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💕 For Your Birth Partner

Your partner will need a few essentials, too:

• Change of clothes & deodorant

• Snacks and water

• Phone charger

• Camera (if not using phone)

• Blanket or hoodie (labour can be long and cold!)

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💊 Don’t Forget Your Supplements

In the rush to pack baby grows and blankets, don’t forget your prenatal or postnatal vitamins—especially if you’re taking them to support energy, recovery, and milk production.
Keep a small pill case in your bag so you don’t miss a dose during your hospital stay.

Tip from The Mom Club: Our 4th Trimester Support supplement is designed to help your body recover, replenish nutrients, and maintain strength while breastfeeding. Consider packing it alongside your essentials for the days following birth.

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✨ Final Thoughts

Packing your hospital bag is about comfort, not perfection. Hospitals have the basics—what matters most is that you feel calm, supported, and prepared for whatever your birth journey looks like.

Start early, pack light, and remember: you’ve got this, mama.