In This Article
When Should You Start Packing Your Hospital Bag?
Who Should You Notify When You Go Into Labour?
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag?
What Should Mum Pack?
What Should You Pack for Baby?
What Should Your Partner Pack?
What NOT to Pack
You’ve been waiting for this moment - the day you finally meet your baby! But as the big day approaches, you might be wondering: what should you pack in your hospital bag?
Whether your birth is planned or unexpected, having your bag packed and ready by week 32-36 means you can focus on welcoming your little one without last-minute stress. To make things easier, we’ve put together this practical, no-fuss checklist to ensure you, your baby, and your partner have everything you need for a comfortable hospital stay.
When Should You Start Packing Your Hospital Bag?
It’s best to pack early - ideally around 32-36 weeks. Labour can sometimes start earlier than expected, and being prepared means one less thing to worry about.
💡 Tip: Keep your hospital bag by the door or in the car, and attach a checklist of last-minute items (like your phone or charger) to grab on the way out.
Even if you’re planning a home birth, having a hospital bag ready ensures all your essentials are in one place - just in case plans change.
Who Should You Notify When You Go Into Labour?
Your partner will have an important job - sharing the news! Make it easier by preparing:
📱 A pre-saved contact list of family and friends
🔋 A fully charged phone & power bank
✉️ A group message draft for quick updates
💡 Tip: If you have older children or pets, arrange care in advance so your focus stays on baby.
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag?
We’ve gathered real advice from experienced mums to create this ultimate hospital bag checklist. Here’s what you’ll need for mum, baby, and your partner - plus what you can skip!
Essential Documents & Miscellaneous Items
✔️ Birth plan
✔️ Medicare card, hospital notes & insurance details
✔️ Notebook & pen
✔️ Fully charged phone & charger
✔️ Noise-cancelling headphones or AirPods
✔️ Petrol in the car & baby car seat installed
✔️ Baby journal
What Should Mum Pack?
After birth, you’ll want to feel comfortable and supported. Here’s what to bring:
Clothing for Labour & Birth
👗 Soft, loose dress or birthing gown – Something you don’t mind getting messy.
💤 Maternity sleep bra – Great for extra support.
🧖♀️ Light robe – Easy to slip on when moving around.
💡 Tip: Some mums like to bring socks (hospitals can be cold) or slippers for walking around.
Post-Birth & Recovery Essentials
👚 Nursing-friendly hospital gown – Makes feeding easier.
🩳 Black maternity undies or disposable postpartum underwear.
🩹 Maternity pads (pack 2 packs—you’ll need them!)
🍼 Breast pads – To help with leaks.
🤱 Nipple cream – A lifesaver for sore nipples.
✔️ Going-home outfit – Soft maternity leggings with a nursing top. Choose something loose and comfy!
Toiletries & Personal Care
🦷 Toothbrush & toothpaste
💧 Unscented deodorant
🧴 Lip balm & moisturiser (hospital air is dry!)
🛁 Shampoo, conditioner & body wash
💊 Paracetamol or ibuprofen (for after-birth discomfort)
👜 Hair ties & dry shampoo (for quick refreshes)
🎒 Plastic bags (for dirty laundry)
💡 Tip: Some mums find bringing their own pillow makes the stay more comfortable.
What Should You Pack for Baby?
Newborns don’t need much, but these essentials will keep them warm and comfortable:
Baby Clothing & Essentials
✔️3 soft baby sleepsuits with built-in mittens
✔️ 3 singlets (layering helps regulate temperature)
✔️ Soft baby beanie & socks
✔️ 3 muslin wraps (for swaddling & feeding cover)
✔️ Newborn nappies (at least 10) & water-based wipes
✔️ Mild nappy rash / barrier cream (just in case)
✔️ Breathable baby blanket – Great for extra warmth.
Going Home with Baby
✔️Car seat – Must be professionally installed before discharge.
✔️ Going-home outfit – Choose something soft and cosy.
What Should Your Partner Pack?
Your partner will be with you for long hours, so they should come prepared too!
🥤 Snacks & drinks – Hospital food isn’t always available at odd hours.
👕 Change of clothes – In case of an overnight stay.
📱 Apps for timing contractions, meditation & music.
💰 Spare change – For vending machines or parking.
🦷 Toothbrush & deodorant – A must if staying overnight.
🏊 Swimwear – If you're planning a water birth.
What NOT to Pack
🚫 Tight or dressy clothes – You won’t need them.
🚫 Too many baby outfits – Stick to the essentials.
🚫 Nursing pillow – Save it for home.
🚫 Books & magazines – You’ll be too busy resting, feeding, or bonding.
🚫 Formula & bottles – If needed, hospitals usually provide them.
💡 Tip: If you forget something, ask visitors to bring it instead of overpacking!
Ready for the Big Day? We've Got You Covered
Packing your maternity hospital bag in advance gives you one less thing to worry about. With mum’s recovery essentials, baby’s first outfits, and partner’s must-haves, this printable checklist makes sure you’re ready for a smooth, comfortable stay.
Need maternity wear, nursing clothes, or baby essentials? Browse our maternity collection for stylish, practical pieces to take with you. If you have any questions, contact us - we’re here to help!
Now, all that’s left is to meet your little one! 💕
