What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labour

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

Most midwives suggest having your hospital bag ready from around 36 weeks, since labour does not always follow a due date. Packing early also takes the pressure off, so you are not trying to think clearly about what you need while contractions are already underway.

What to Pack for Yourself

• Comfortable clothes to labour in, plus a change for after birth
• Toiletries, including anything you use daily rather than travel sized substitutes
• Maternity pads and comfortable underwear for the days following birth
• Phone charger with a long cable, since sockets are not always close to the bed
• Snacks and a refillable water bottle for during and after labour
• A going home outfit that fits a still soft postpartum body comfortably

What to Pack for Your Baby

• A few newborn and 0 to 3 month sleepsuits, since sizing can vary
• A hat, as hospitals are often kept warm but babies still lose heat quickly
• Nappies and wipes for the first days, even if the hospital provides some
• A going home outfit and a blanket suitable for the season

Choosing the Right Bag

Rather than an ordinary suitcase, many people find a dedicated changing bag works better, since it comes with built in organisation you will keep using long after hospital. The Insulated Changing Bag Tote doubles as a hospital bag and later as an everyday changing bag, with insulated pockets for bottles once you are home.

For a design with more structure and back straps, the 3 in 1 Changing Bag Backpack includes a fold out changing surface, useful from your very first nappy change onwards.

A Simple Packing Checklist

Once You Are Home

The same bag that got you through hospital can carry on as your everyday changing bag for outings. For more on choosing between styles day to day, see Are Portable Changing Mats Worth It?, and What to Expect in the First Weeks Postpartum for more on what else to expect physically once you are home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most commonly forgotten hospital bag item?
A phone charger with a long cable is one of the most common items people wish they had packed, since sockets are rarely close to the bed.

Why should you pack early rather than waiting for your due date?
Labour can start before your due date, so having a bag ready from around 36 weeks avoids a last minute scramble.

Who needs a separate bag for the baby?
It is not essential, but a separate compartment or bag for baby items makes it easier for a partner or midwife to find what they need quickly.

When do most people pack their hospital bag?
Around 36 weeks is the most common guidance, though some pack earlier if expecting twins or a higher risk pregnancy.

How many outfits should you pack for the baby?
Two to three sleepsuits is usually enough for a short stay, since sizing can vary and hospitals are often warm.

Browse our changing bags, or explore the rest of our maternity essentials for pregnancy, birth and beyond.