Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack + (Free Printable checklist)

Packing your hospital bag is one of those exciting (and slightly nerve-wracking) pregnancy milestones. With your due date creeping closer, it’s natural to wonder what you actually need — and what you can leave at home.

After three babies, I’ve packed (and re-packed) a few hospital bags in my time. This is the exact checklist I wish I’d had with my first — covering everything for you, your baby, and your partner, plus the little extras that genuinely make those early days more comfortable. Grab the free printable checklist at the bottom so you can tick things off as you go.

When should you pack your hospital bag?

Aim to have your bag packed and ready by around 36 weeks. Babies don’t always stick to the plan, and having it done early means one less thing on your mind in those final weeks. Pop it by the front door or in the car so you can grab it the moment things start happening.

What to pack for mum

Comfort is everything after birth. Think soft, loose, and easy — you’ll want clothing that doesn’t fuss over a tender body and makes feeding simple.

• Comfy nightie or button-down pyjamas
• Comfortable loose-fitting clothing
• Nursing bra & breast pads
• Maternity pads (pack more than you think you’ll need!)
• High-waisted, supportive, firm underwear
• Toiletries (face wipes, deodorant, body wash, shampoo, toothbrush & toothpaste, lip balm, nipple cream)
• Hair ties or a headband
• Slippers and socks
• Dressing gown or robe
• Going-home outfit (comfy is key)
• Phone charger (with a long cord!)
• Snacks & a water bottle

What to pack for baby

Your little one needs surprisingly little — but layers are your friend, and you’ll want spares for the inevitable nappy surprises.

• Nappies
• Baby wipes
• Cotton singlets (I loved the full singlets with snaps at the crotch so they didn’t ride up baby’s back)
• Socks & booties
• Mittens and a hat
• Onesies
• Swaddles or wraps
• A baby blanket

The perfect first outfit

That first photo is one you’ll treasure forever, so it’s worth setting aside something special for the moment you introduce your baby to the world. A personalised romper adds meaning and becomes a beautiful keepsake to look back on — a reminder of just how tiny they once were.

• Romper (we love a personalised one!)
• Booties
• Beanie or headband
• Blanket
• A name plaque for that first announcement photo

“The first moment can never be replaced — you’ll be so glad you captured it.”

What your partner should pack

It’s easy to forget, but labour can be long — your support person needs to stay comfortable and fuelled too.

• A change of clothes
• Toiletries
• Phone charger
• Their own snacks & drinks

Extras that make a real difference

These aren’t essential, but they’re the little comforts that can make labour and recovery that bit easier.

• Massage aids
• A hot/cold gel pack
• A TENS machine
• A calming playlist or music

Hospital bag FAQs

When should I pack my hospital bag?

Aim to have it packed by around 36 weeks. Babies can arrive earlier than expected, so packing early means one less thing to worry about as your due date approaches.

How many nappies and maternity pads should I pack?

Pack more maternity pads than you think you’ll need, and bring at least a day or two of newborn nappies. Many hospitals supply some, but having your own means you’re never caught short.

What should my partner pack for the hospital?

A change of clothes, basic toiletries, a phone charger, and their own snacks and drinks. Labour can be long, so they’ll want to stay comfortable too.

What’s the best first outfit for a newborn?

A soft romper, booties, a beanie or headband, and a blanket. A personalised romper makes a gorgeous keepsake and looks beautiful in that very first birth announcement photo.

About the author. Rebecca is a mum of three boys and the founder of Petite + Co, where she creates personalised babywear and keepsakes for life’s littlest moments.

You’ve got this, mama. x