Packing your hospital bag is one of those moments where everything suddenly feels very real.
Whether you’re weeks away from meeting your baby or nervously ticking things off “just in case”, knowing what to pack (and what not to overthink) can bring a surprising amount of calm during late pregnancy.
This guide is designed to help you feel prepared, organised, and reassured — without packing half your house. It’s written from real experience, not Pinterest perfection.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
Most midwives recommend having your hospital bag ready from around 36 weeks, earlier if you’re having twins or have been advised you may deliver sooner.
Having it packed doesn’t mean labour is imminent — it just means one less thing to think about if the time comes unexpectedly.
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labour & Birth
Let’s start with the essentials for you. Labour is intense, emotional, and tiring — comfort matters.
For Labour
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Your maternity notes and ID
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A comfortable nightdress or labour gown
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Lip balm (you’ll use it more than you expect)
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Hair ties or clips
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Phone charger (ideally a long cable)
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Snacks and drinks
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Slippers or cosy socks
You don’t need loads — just the things that make you feel grounded and comfortable.
What to Pack for After Birth
Once baby arrives, your focus shifts quickly. These items help you feel human again.
For Mum
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Comfortable clothes or pyjamas
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Maternity pads
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Large, comfortable underwear
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Toiletries (toothbrush, face wipes, deodorant)
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Reusable nursing pads
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A reusable water bottle (hydration is especially important if breastfeeding)
- Slippers or flip-flops
Many new mums spend hours feeding or holding their baby — being “nap trapped” is very real. Having water within reach makes a big difference.
What to Pack for Your Newborn
Babies don’t need much in the first few days — but what they do need, they need often.
For Baby
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Nappies
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Wipes
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Cotton wool
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Babygrows and vests
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Socks or booties
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A hat
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A blanket
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An outfit for going home
Hospitals provide some basics, but having your own favourites makes things feel more personal.
Helpful Extras That Often Get Forgotten
These aren’t essential, but many parents say they were glad they packed them:
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A small wet bag for dirty clothes
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Muslins
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Your own pillow or blanket
- Dressing gown
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Earphones
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Snacks for your birth partner
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A spare bag for taking things home
Choosing the Right Hospital Bag
Your hospital bag doesn’t need to be a one-use item. In fact, many parents prefer a bag that can be reused as a changing bag, overnight bag, or weekend bag later on.
When choosing a maternity or hospital bag, look for:
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A wide opening so you can see everything easily
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Multiple compartments for organisation
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Comfortable straps
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A size that fits everything without being bulky
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Durable, wipe-clean fabric
A structured bag makes packing (and unpacking) much easier during an already emotional time.
Use a Checklist (So You Don’t Have to Remember Everything)
When your brain is full of appointments, anticipation, and interrupted sleep, relying on memory isn’t fair on yourself.
That’s why I created a free hospital bag checklist — to take the mental load off.
It’s designed to be:
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Easy to follow
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Realistic (no unnecessary extras)
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Calm and reassuring
👉 Download the free hospital bag checklist here
(Perfect for printing or saving on your phone.)
A Gentle Reminder
There is no “perfectly packed” hospital bag.
If you forget something, it can almost always be brought to you or bought later.
What matters most is that you feel supported, prepared enough, and confident heading into one of the biggest moments of your life.
You’re already doing brilliantly.
— Lianne x
You may also find helpful:
– What to pack in a baby changing bag
– Why wet bags are useful long after the baby stage
