Hospital bag checklist: what to pack for birth

A packed bag by the door is one less thing to think about when labour starts. This list is split into three parts — for you, for your baby and for your birth partner — so you can tick things off calmly over a few evenings.

Tip: Hospitals differ a lot. Before you pack, ask your midwife or birth clinic what they provide and what you need to bring.

When to pack

Many parents pack the bag a few weeks before the due date. Keep it somewhere easy to grab, and put the most important things — documents, phone and charger — right on top.

Documents and essentials

• Maternity notes / pregnancy record
• ID or passport, health insurance card
• Your birth plan (if you have one)
• Phone, a long charging cable and a power bank
• Glasses or contact lenses
• A few coins or a card for vending machines and parking

For you: during labour

• A loose, comfortable nightdress or big T-shirt (it may get messy)
• Warm socks and slippers
• Lip balm — the air in delivery rooms is often dry
• Hair ties
• Snacks and drinks you like (ask what is allowed)
• Something to relax: music and headphones, a favourite pillow

For you: after the birth

• 2–3 comfortable nightdresses or front-opening tops (handy for breastfeeding)
• Nursing bras and breast pads
• High-waisted, comfortable underwear — several pairs
• Maternity pads (a big pack)
• Toiletries: toothbrush, shampoo, a towel
• Loose clothes to go home in — your belly will still be round

For your baby

• 3–4 bodysuits in size 50/56 (wrap-over styles are easiest)
• 3–4 sleepsuits or rompers
• A hat and socks or booties
• Muslin cloths
• Nappies in newborn size (if the hospital does not provide them)
• A warm outfit or snowsuit for the trip home, depending on the season
• An infant car seat — fitted in the car before you go to hospital

Babies do not need many clothes in the first days — a few soft basics are enough.

For your birth partner

• Snacks and a refillable water bottle
• Change of clothes and toiletries
• Phone charger
• A list of people to call or message after the birth

What to leave at home

• Jewellery and valuables
• Lots of baby toys — your baby needs you, not things
• Too many outfits: two or three days usually pass quickly

A quick check the week before

1. Is the car seat fitted and do you know how to buckle it?
2. Do you know the fastest route to the hospital — and a back-up?
3. Are the documents in the bag?
4. Does someone know to look after pets or older siblings?

Then: breathe. Whatever you forget, there is almost always a shop, a kind nurse or a partner who can bring it later.