Hospital Bag Checklist

Items to Pack for the Hospital - Full List

It is important to consider what you will need to take to the hospital for both you and your baby. Find below a comprehensive checklist of the most important and useful items that you will need in the hospital after giving birth.

Aim to have a small bag packed and ready to go by no later than the 36th week of your pregnancy.

The following is a useful checklist of items you should consider packing to take to the hospital when the time comes. These are essential items for labour and straight after birth. If you are having a c-section, or you know you that your will be staying in hospital for a longer period, you will need to pack a few more items for yourself and your baby.

Items to pack for you and your baby

Items for You

  • Birthing plan and any hospital notes

  • 2 nightgowns (or other nightwear) which open at the front for breastfeeding – you can buy specially-designed nursing nightwear if necessary

  • Light dressing gown or bathrobe

  • Slippers

  • 2 pairs of socks (athletic type)

  • Cheap or old comfortable cotton briefs or disposable briefs

  • Maternity sanitary towels

  • Nursing bras

  • Breast pads

  • Toiletries, including hairbrush, hairbands, lip balm and toothbrush

  • Towel (dark if possible) and face cloth

  • Mobile phone and charger

  • Change of comfortable clothes for going home (you will still need maternity trousers)
Nice-to-haves, maybe father, birthing partner or family member can bring some of these
You will need a car seat if you are planning on driving your newborn home from the hospital – make sure you know how to use it beforehand. You may also need to have spare change for the car park!