For many mums to be, packing a hospital bag for labour and delivery is an exciting milestone marking the end of our pregnancy. You’re finally getting ready to meet the new, most important person in your life!
But when it comes to packing your maternity hospital bag, you’ll likely have lots of questions - from what to wear when giving birth to how many nappies your newborn baby will need. Read on for our handy checklist for packing your hospital bag, and don’t forget to download, print out or screenshot it when you’re ready to get packing!
What is a hospital bag?
You might have heard your midwife or other new parents talking about hospital bags. Simply put, a hospital bag is everything you, your baby and your birth partner might need if you’re planning on giving birth in hospital. It’ll contain anything you might need or want during labour, outfit changes for yourself and your baby, and any toiletries you or your baby might need. Usually, your hospital bag is packed in advance, so it’s ready to grab and go when you go into labour.
How to pack your hospital bag
As with all things related to pregnancy and babies, advice on what to pack in your hospital bag can be overwhelming. The internet offers countless pregnancy hospital bag checklists and you are pretty much guaranteed to overpack for baby’s very first journey. We encourage you to enjoy this final milestone of getting ready for baby’s arrival rather than feeling stressed and worried about forgetting an important item. As long as you have your hospital notes and something comfortable to wear during labour, you will be fine. Your partner can always nip out and get any forgotten items once baby has arrived. The truth is that you will be so busy during labour, you might forget about that playlist you had lovingly put together or that lip balm you thought was so important.
Some families prefer having separate bags to make finding specific items as easy as possible. These might be individual bags for baby and mum or for during and after labour. Consider that you might not be able to unpack yourself, so getting your partner involved in the packing process can help make things easier on the big day.
So, what do you really need in hospital during and after labour? We have aimed to give you the essentials, along with some nice-to-haves on a separate list. To make packing a breeze, please scroll all the way down for printable lists.
When to pack your hospital bag
It’s a good idea to have your hospital bag ready about a month before your due date, just in case your little passenger decides to make an early appearance. Have your hospital notes at the top of the bag or in a side pocket so you can grab them easily when going for check-ups during that final month. Remember to always put them straight back in the bag when you return home. Place your bag somewhere you are guaranteed to see it on your way out. This will make everything as easy as possible when it’s time to go.
What to pack in your hospital bag for yourself and your partner
- Hospital notes with birth plan if you have one – The single most important item on any UK hospital bag checklist. Place them at the top of your packed hospital bag after every check-up.
- TENS machine - If you have decided to use it for pain relief. Consider bringing some spare batteries, just in case.
- Drinks and snacks - for yourself and your birth partner. Cereal bar and glucose tablets work well. Bananas are also miracle workers and make a nice addition to your bag closer to the time.
- Toiletry bag for yourself and your partner: toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairbrush, moisturiser, shower gel, deodorant, shampoo if you feel fancy
- Clothing for labour – Button up nightdresses are great because they keep you covered up and cosy during labour (remember you will not be wearing any bottoms and if you are hoping for a natural birth, you will be walking around a lot) while facilitating skin to skin and breastfeeding once baby has arrived.
- Clothing for after labour – you will want some clean nightwear to put on once baby has arrived. Pyjamas work well now but try to find a pair with a button-up top. Socks and a dressing gown.
- Spare clothing and nightwear for partner – check with your hospital, if you are staying in the home from home part of the maternity unit (the home from home is specifically for low risk, natural births), your partner might be able to sleep over
- Underwear – cotton knickers (a few pairs that you are not too attached to), 2 nursing bras, breast pads (even if you are not planning to breastfeed, your breasts will be sensitive, bigger than usual and leaking).
- Sanitary/maternity pads – bring plenty
- Pair of glasses or contact lenses – if you need them
- Hair ties or headband
- Going-home outfit – make sure it’s loose and comfortable and you’re able to breastfeed in it if you’re choosing to.
- Change for the car park
- Full petrol tank
- Phones and chargers - with important numbers and contraction timing app
What to pack in the hospital bag for baby
-
10 – 20 new-born nappies – disposable & nappy bags or cloth & wet bag
-
Cotton wool or natural wipes, suitable for new-borns (1-2 packs)
-
Blanket
-
Baby clothes – 5x vests, onesies with feet.
-
Going home outfit – baby’s cutest ensemble.
-
Outerwear – booties, all in one, jacket or cardigan for going home.
-
1-2 muslin cloths
- Car seat - don’t forget to make sure it’s installed safely in advance, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Nice-to-haves
- Books/magazines/games for yourself and your birthing partner
A comfy pair of slippers might come in handy if you’re walking up and down the ward to use the bathroom. - E-reader - They are great for 1-handed-reading during feeds, but most likely you will want to simply stare at your new arrival.
- Playlist and speakers for labour
- Make up
- Breast balm – if you have a preferred brand you would like to use
- Lip balm – pro tip: nipple balm is wonderful for mama’s lips
- Ear plugs & eye mask – in case you should struggle sleeping in a shared room
- Pillow – to feel more at home and comfortable
- Water-spray – to keep you cool during labour
- Massage oil – for baby but also for yourself during labour
- lavender oil or spray – many women find these relaxing during a natural birth
All of us here at Kit & Kin wish you the very best for the next few weeks and for the birth of your little miracle!
FAQs
What do I wear when giving birth?
The main thing is that you’re wearing something loose and comfortable. Some women choose to wear a nightdress, which will make any examinations and the pushing stage a little easier, whilst others prefer a comfy t-shirt teamed with PJ bottoms or sweatpants that you can take off when it’s time to push.
What do I wear for a water birth?
This is personal preference, but some women will choose to wear a bikini top, or a comfy, baggy t-shirt, crop top or nightdress, whilst others will prefer to be naked. Whatever you choose, don’t forget your dry clothes and a towel for afterwards!
What do babies wear right after birth?
As soon as your baby is born, they’ll be wrapped in a blanket, and might be given a warm hat and a nappy. Once they’re all cleaned up and have enjoyed some skin-to-skin time, NHS advice recommends dressing them in a vest and comfy sleepsuit.
How many outfits to bring to the hospital for baby?
You probably won’t need more than 3 x vests and 3 x sleepsuits, a hat and a pair of scratch mitts for your newborn baby to wear in the hospital. If you end up staying in hospital for longer than a day and night, your partner can always nip home to pick up more outfits.
How many nappies do I bring to hospital for baby?
10-20 nappies. Your newborn will go through around 6-8 nappies a day, so it’s wise to pack enough for at least a night and 2 days. Don’t forget, your birth partner can always nip out for supplies if you end up staying longer in hospital.
When do I start packing my hospital bag?
It’s a good idea to have it packed and ready to go at least a month before your due date - just in case your little one decides to make an early appearance! If you like to be organised, there’s absolutely no harm in packing it earlier.
What do I wear in hospital after having a baby?
Comfy, loose clothes are best for after labour - think PJs, a nightdress, or sweatpants and a baggy t-shirt. Hospital wards can be warm, so a light dressing gown or cardigan is a good option for a light layer. Don’t forget comfy slippers for nipping to the bathroom!
Do I need baby wipes in my hospital bag?
This is personal choice. Some parents choose to use cotton wool and warm water to clean their baby after nappy changes, however, hypoallergenic baby wipes that will be kind to their delicate skin will make changes quick and simple. A pack of baby wipes might also come in handy for an easy freshen up whilst you’re giving birth.
What should my birth partner pack in their hospital bag?
Your birth partner might appreciate having some basic toiletries and essentials to hand. Toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash, deodorant, a phone charger, money and perhaps a change of t-shirt and underwear.
How many maternity pads should I take to hospital?
The NHS suggests packing 2 packets of super-absorbent period or maternity pads. It’s recommended you change your maternity pad every 4 hours, or sooner if you’re bleeding heavily. 6 pads a day is the average, but packing a few extra won’t hurt. Don’t forget, your birth partner can always nip out for supplies if you need more.
What do I wear if I’m breastfeeding?
Something loose and comfortable, that’s easy to lift up and feed your baby. Some women choose to buy special nursing bras and tops, that either unclip or have an opening on the side for you to discreetly slip out your breast. These are handy to have, but a comfy t-shirt or button down PJ top will also work just as well.
Prepping for your little one’s arrival?
Get your nappy and wipes subscription sorted before they arrive and give yourself one less thing to think about! Just tell us your due date and we’ll do the rest.
Read next
Most Popular Baby Names of 2024
Are these baby names on your list?
Read more >
The Ultimate Newborn Essentials Checklist
Written by new parents, for new parents.
Read more >
Download your FREE printable checklist
