The hospital bag is one of those pregnancy tasks that sounds manageable until you start googling it and encounter lists that suggest you need 47 items including battery-powered fairy lights and a scented pillow spray. Here is a realistic list based on what people actually use.
For Labour
- Your birth preferences — print two copies, one for your notes and one to give the midwife
- TENS machine — if you have one, bring it; use it in early labour before you need stronger pain relief
- Snacks and drinks — for you and your birth partner; labour can be long and hospital food is unreliable
- Phone charger — you will want it
- Lip balm — breathing through contractions dries your lips; this is one of those things people are always glad they packed
- Hair ties — if you have long hair
- Comfortable socks — labour wards are cold and you will be barefoot otherwise
- A loose, comfortable outfit — or just wear the hospital gown if they offer one
For After the Birth (For You)
- Maternity pads — pack more than you think you need; post-birth bleeding (lochia) is heavier than a period
- Comfortable underwear — large, soft, and ones you do not mind potentially ruining
- Nightwear — front-opening if you are breastfeeding; 2-3 sets
- Nursing bras — 2-3, sized for after milk comes in (go a size up from your late pregnancy size)
- Breast pads — for leaks in the first days
- Toiletries — basic; shampoo, face wash, toothbrush, deodorant; you will want a shower
- Going-home outfit — comfortable, nothing tight, maternity clothes still fit comfortably at this point
- Snacks — hospital meals have set times; you will be hungry at 11pm
For the Baby
- Vests (2-3) — short-sleeved, popper-fastening underneath
- Sleepsuits/babygros (2-3) — bring both newborn and 0-3 month size; babies vary
- Hat — newborns lose heat through their heads
- Cellular blanket — for wrapping in the car or pram
- Car seat — the hospital will not let you leave without one fitted correctly in the car
- Nappies (a small pack) — the hospital may provide some but not always
- Cotton wool and water — for nappy changes in the first few weeks
What You Do Not Need
A bluetooth speaker, an elaborate snack box, an iPad with a curated playlist, a specific brand of massage oil, or a birth pool if you are not at a home birth. These things are lovely but they are not what you will remember about the day. What you will remember is the baby and the people in the room.
Most hospitals also prefer you to travel light. If you are staying overnight, a partner can go home and bring anything you missed. Pack the essentials, know where the rest is, and do not stress about the list.
When to Pack
Have your bag ready by 36 weeks. Some women go into early labour before 37 weeks. It is not a common outcome but it is not worth being unprepared for.
