What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag (From a Mum Who’s Been There)
Packing your hospital bag is one of those milestones that makes everything feel real.
It’s exciting… but it can also feel overwhelming.
After having my babies, I realised that you don’t need everything — you just need the right things. This checklist is here to gently guide you, based on what I actually used, what I wish I’d packed, and what truly helped in those first precious days.
🌸 The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist
Baby Essentials 🤍
When packing for baby, I always recommend buying a few newborn-sized items, even if you’ve been told babies grow fast (they do — but they still start small).
What to pack for baby:
Bodysuits (4–5)
Easy for nappy changes and perfect for layering.
Onesies (4–5)
Great for warmth and keeping baby cosy day and night.
Pants/leggings (4–5)
Soft and comfortable — especially for cooler months.
Singlets (3–4)
Ideal as an extra layer under bodysuits.
Beanies (2)
Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature well and get cold easily.
(Hospitals usually give you a knitted one, but I loved having a prettier one too.)
Socks (2–3 pairs)
Little feet get cold quickly.
Muslin wraps/swaddles (2–3)
Newborns love being swaddled — it helps them feel secure. I personally prefer stretchy wraps as they’re easier to use.
Baby blanket (1)
For warmth, cuddles, and the trip home.
Going-home outfit (optional)
I didn’t have one, but many mums love choosing something special.
Newborn nappies (around 10)
The hospital provides nappies, but having a few of your own is always reassuring.
Baby wipes
Choose gentle, good-quality wipes — newborns poo a lot 😅
Burping cloths (2–3)
Essential for milk spills and winding.
Sterilised bottles (2 – optional)
Handy if baby needs a top-up or is struggling to latch.
Dummy/pacifier (optional)
Even if you’re unsure, having one just in case can be helpful.
Mum Essentials 🌸
This is your time to be cared for too. Comfort is key.
What to pack for yourself:
Comfy pyjamas or a nightie
Something soft, breathable, and easy to feed in.
Loose, comfortable clothing
Your body will still be recovering — comfort matters more than anything.
Comfortable underwear
High-waisted and soft is best.
Dressing gown (optional)
Nice for walks around the ward or visitors.
Warm socks
Hospitals can be cold.
Nursing bra
Reusable nursing pads
Gentle on sore skin and better for the environment.
Maternity pads
Perineal bottle
One of the most helpful items post-birth.
Witch hazel drops
Soothing and comforting during recovery.
Nipple butter
A must for sensitive, early breastfeeding days.
Lip balm
Labour rooms are dry — trust me on this one.
Basic toiletries (travel size)
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face moisturiser, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant.
Birth plan (if you have one)
Hairbrush & hair ties
Phone + charger
Snacks & electrolytes
Labour and recovery are exhausting — easy energy helps.
Water bottle
Wet bag
For dirty clothes or laundry.
TENS machine (if you plan to use one)
Partner Essentials 👨👩👦
Your support person needs to be comfortable too.
Toiletries
Phone + charger
Snacks
Water bottle
General Essentials ✔️
These are often forgotten but so important:
Car seat or capsule installed
Hospitals won’t let you leave without it.
Extra tote bag
You’ll likely be sent home with more than you arrived with.
White noise device (optional)
Helpful for settling baby.
A Reassuring Note About Hospital Supplies 🤍
Hospitals and birthing units do provide a lot of support, including:
Breast pumps
Nipple shields (if baby is struggling to latch)
Nappies
That said, I always recommend bringing a few of your own essentials for comfort, familiarity, and peace of mind — especially for the journey home and those first hours together.
Packing your hospital bag doesn’t need to be perfect.
It just needs to support you in one of the biggest moments of your life.
One less thing to worry about 🤍