Your Hospital Bag Checklist

Everything you need to pack for labour, from maternity clothes to nursing bras and newborn sleepsuits to post-birth knickers

Content editor

Sarah Lafarge

When do I pack my hospital bag?

As you enter your third trimester of pregnancy, it’s time to start thinking about your baby’s birth and getting items together to pack into your hospital bag. It’s best to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go from around 34 weeks just in case you go into labour earlier than planned. You don’t have to buy a special maternity bag, just look for a weekend-style bag, as you’ll be packing items not only for you but also your new baby, so you'll need something roomier.

Once your bag’s packed, keep it by the door or in your car so you can grab it quickly. It’s also worth planning your route to the hospital and doing a quick practice run, so you know how long the journey takes.

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What do I need in my hospital bag?

Packing your hospital bag is an exciting step in preparing for your baby's imminent arrival. Getting everything organised ahead of time will help to keep you calm and feeling more in control.

Think loose and comfortable nightwear (look for buttons down the front if you’re planning to breastfeed), toiletries, a nursing bra, a lightweight dressing gown (hospitals are often very warm) plus newborn-sized clothes, maternity pads or period knickers. You’ll need something to wear during labour. It’s also a good idea to pack an outfit for going home in – just remember you might not be back in your ‘normal’ clothes for a few weeks or months yet.

Toiletries such as toothpaste are obviously a must, but also take a cooling spray and soothing lip balm to keep you comfortable during labour. Non-perfumed wash products are best for using post-birth as your body might be feeling tender.

And, don't forget you'll also need clothes and nappies for your new baby.

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Hospital bag checklist for baby

Sleepsuits and bodysuits made from soft, comfortable materials such as cotton. Pack newborn size, but also 0-3 months just in case your baby weighs more than expected
Muslin cloths are a must for mopping up spills and milky dribbles. Take several so you always have a clean one to hand
A blanket, sleeping bag or swaddle: hospitals do provide blankets but you'll probably want to take your own for the baby. You can also use a blanket as a breastfeeding shawl.
A special going-home outfit is a must to mark the moment
Choose a soft, hooded towel to keep your baby as cosy as possible during bath time
Nappies
Wipes

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Hospital bag checklist for mum

Hospitals can be very warm so choose a lighter wrap-style dressing gown and avoid anything too bulky
A front-opening nightdress or pyjamas makes nursing your baby easier and is also much more discreet
A nursing bra with drop-down cups – pack at least two
Period knickers and maternity pads for wearing postpartum
Slippers for wearing around the ward during and after labour
A wash bag containing essential toiletries (non-perfumed is best to avoid irritation post-birth) plus a cooling spray and lip balm for labour
A going-home outfit: think loose, comfortable clothing in natural breathable fibres
Mobile phone charger
Snacks