Hospital bag checklist: what to pack for you, your baby and your birth partner

A packed bag by the door takes the pressure off. Here’s a checklist, based on the NHS list, and when to have it ready.

When to pack

The NHS suggests packing at least 3 weeks before your due date, because only 1 in 20 babies arrive on their due date, so an early arrival is possible. Your hospital or birth centre may also give you its own list, so check before you buy anything.

For you, during labour

Your birth preferences and maternity notes
Loose, comfortable clothing to labour in
A robe and slippers or flip-flops, which also work in the shower
Snacks, drinks and a water bottle. The NHS says one with a straw may be handy
A fan or water spray for cooling down
A TENS machine with spare batteries, if you plan to use one
Reading material, music or podcasts
Your phone and charger. An extra-long charging cable or battery pack can be useful
Any medicines you take, and spare glasses or contact lenses
A spare bag for laundry

For you, after the birth

Front-opening or loose nightwear if you plan to breastfeed
Three changes of comfortable clothes, socks, and 5 or 6 pairs of knickers (disposable pairs may help)
Two or three comfortable bras, including nursing bras if you’re breastfeeding, and breast pads
Two packs of super-absorbent sanitary or maternity pads
A wash bag with basic toiletries, a hairbrush and hand sanitiser
An eye mask for sleeping on a brightly lit ward
Towels and your own pillows

For your baby

Bodysuits, vests and sleepsuits
An outfit for going home
A hat, scratch mittens and socks or booties, and a snowsuit if it’s cold
Nappies, cotton wool or wipes, and muslin squares
A blanket or shawl
A car seat for the journey home

For your birth partner

A change of clothes, toiletries, phone and charger, and a camera
Snacks, drinks and any medicines they take
Spare glasses or contact lenses if they wear them
Swimwear, if they’ll be getting in a birth pool
Spare change for the car park and vending machines

More on their role in the dad’s guide to being the ultimate birth partner.

Things to check before you go

Know the number for your maternity unit, and keep it in your phone. See signs of labour for when to call.
Ask your hospital what it provides, and whether there are limits on visitors or what you can bring.
Plan how you’ll get there, including the car park.

If you’re having a planned caesarean

Ask your hospital what to bring. Read planned c-sections and what happens if you go into spontaneous labour.

Questions people ask

Do I need to pack my own pillows?

The NHS list suggests bringing your own pillows, but check what your hospital allows.

What do I need for the car journey home?

A car seat for your baby is on the NHS list.

Do I need to bring nappies?

Yes, the NHS list includes nappies, cotton wool or wipes and muslin squares for your baby.

What if I forget something?

Your birth partner can often bring things in later, and your maternity team can usually help with essentials.