What to pack in your birthing bag

From comfy post-birth pants to newborn sleepsuits, here’s what you need to pack in your birthing bag.

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When should I pack my birthing bag?

As you enter your third trimester, it's time to start preparing for baby's arrival and pack your hospital bag. Ideally, this should be done around 34 weeks in case you go into labour unexpectedly.

Once packed, keep your bag by the front door for easy access. Don't forget to tell your birth partner or the person driving you to the hospital where you're keeping it, so they’re ready to go when needed.

What type of birthing bag do I need?

You don't need to buy a special birthing bag, a regular weekend bag or small suitcase will be fine. You may even prefer packing two smaller bags for easier organisation – one for labour and one for after delivery. Remember, you're packing for a possible overnight stay for at least two people (even though one will be very small), so the items can add up quickly.

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Birthing bag essentials

What essentials do I need to pack for labour?

Everyone's needs are different, but here are some absolute essentials to get you through labour and delivery.

Maternity notes, including your birth plan, if you’ve made one.
A comfy, loose outfit for labour that you can move around in and that won’t make you too hot. If you’re planning on breastfeeding, choose front-opening pyjamas or nightdress.
A lightweight dressing gown.
A fan or water spray to cool you down. You can also pack a cooling spray for labour.
A phone and charger – with lots of storage for all those photos you’ll be taking.

Snacks and drinks, to keep you going. Snack bars with added protein such as our Nuts, Seeds and Sea Salt Protein Bars or dried fruit, like Collection Medjool Dates, can help with energy levels. Pick them in the M&S Food halls.
Any medication you’re taking.
Slippers or flip flops.
Your wash bag with your toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, soap, lip balm, hair ties and other toiletries. Non-perfumed wash products are best for using post-birth as you’ll still be feeling a bit sore.
You might also want to pack something to keep you occupied during those early stages, such as books and magazines.

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Must-haves for mum

Birthing bag essentials for after birth

After your little one arrives, you'll want to have a few things on hand to help you feel your best while you recover. This includes large sanitary or maternity pads, along with comfortable underwear (think big and comfy). Period knickers are a great space-saving alternative.

Don't forget a comfortable outfit for heading home – your maternity clothes are perfect for this. And if you're breastfeeding, pack nursing bras and breast pads.

Remember, you're not just packing for yourself. Your little one will need newborn bodysuits, vests, and sleepsuits. To keep them warm, include a hat, socks or booties (if your sleepsuits don’t have feet) and a blanket. If it's cold outside, consider adding a pram suit as well.

Although the hospital provides some nappies, taking a packet of newborn ones is always a good idea. Muslin squares and cotton wool pads are also must-haves – you'll be packing them in every bag from now on, so might as well start as you mean to go on.

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What to pack for a home birth

Even if you're planning a home birth, it's a good idea to pack a ‘just in case’ bag and keep it handy. You might need to head to the hospital unexpectedly during labour, and it's much easier to grab a pre-packed bag than to scramble for essentials during contractions.

You might also want to make sure you gather the essentials and keep them together in a box or drawer. Think of it as a birth kit that's easy to grab when things get going. Just make sure your partner knows where to find it.

You’ll also need a few additional extras for home births such as towels and plastic sheets to protect the area where you’re giving birth. Your midwife can help you to create a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need for a home birth.

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Published 8.15.2024

What to pack in your birthing bag

When should I pack my birthing bag?

£89

£16

£22

£22

What essentials do I need to pack for labour?

£29

£25

£16

£12.50

Birthing bag essentials for after birth

£12

£14.50

£14

£10

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