Your hospital and labour bag checklist, from a midwife's perspective

There is something about packing your hospital bag that makes the arrival of your baby suddenly feel very real.

Over my years working as a midwife, I've seen families arrive at the birthing unit carrying what looked like everything but the kitchen sink! And while there are certainly a few things you really won't want to be without — hello, comfortable underwear and your toothbrush — you don't need to pack your entire house.

The key is to think about what will help you feel comfortable, prepared and supported during labour, birth and those first precious days with your baby.

I like to think about packing in two parts: what you'll need during labour and birth, and what you'll need afterwards for your postnatal stay.

Every hospital and birthing centre is a little different, so it's also worth checking what your maternity unit provides before you pack. Some provide things like maternity pads, baby nappies and basic baby-care supplies, while others may ask you to bring your own.

And remember, if you forget something, don't panic. There is a very good chance someone can bring it in for you!

When should you pack your hospital bag?

You don't need to have your bag sitting by the front door from the moment you see those two lines on the pregnancy test!

Having said that, I recommend getting organised well before your due date. Around 35–36 weeks is a good time to have the essentials packed and ready to go, although you may choose to prepare earlier if your circumstances mean your baby could arrive sooner.

It's also a good idea to have your car seat installed and your journey to your hospital or birthing centre planned.

Think of it less as "I must be completely ready" and more as "I'm making things easier for myself and your birth partner when the time comes."

Your Labour & Birth Bag

This is the bag you'll want to be able to grab easily when you head off to your place of birth.

Comfortable clothing

Pack something comfortable that allows you to move freely during labour.

A loose T-shirt, oversized shirt or comfortable nightdress can work well. If you're planning to use a birthing pool or have a water birth, you may also like to pack a bikini top or sports bra.

Don't worry too much about keeping things pristine — labour can be messy, so choose something you're happy to get a little grubby.

A water bottle

Labour can be thirsty work!

A water bottle with a straw or sipper top can be particularly handy because it allows you to take a drink without having to sit up or fiddle with a screw-top lid.

Snacks

Pack some snacks for yourself and your birth partner.

Depending on your individual circumstances and your maternity unit's advice, you may be able to eat and drink during parts of your labour. Easy-to-eat options such as fruit, muesli bars, crackers, barley sugar sweets or other familiar snacks can be useful.

Don't forget your support person — they need to keep their energy up too!

Massage oil

Massage can be a lovely way for your birth partner to support you during labour. 

Pack your favourite massage oil and make sure your birth partner knows where it is. You might even like to practise some massage techniques together before the big day.

Natures Touch Birth Support Massage Oil was designed with this special time in mind, with a carefully selected Clary Sage essential oil blend to create a calming, nurturing massage experience during labour. You can also add a few drops of Birth Support Massage Oil to a diffuser to help create your calming birth environment   Take a closer look → 

Lip balm

This is one of those little things that can make a surprisingly big difference.

Your lips can become dry during labour, particularly if you're breathing heavily, so pop your favourite lip balm into an easily accessible pocket or use our Natural Nipple Balm which doubles as a fantastic lip balm. 

Hair ties or a headband

If you have long hair, you'll probably appreciate having it tied back and out of your face.

Pack a few extras — they have a habit of disappearing when you need them most!

Phone and a long charger

Your phone will probably be doing double duty — communicating with family, playing your labour playlist, taking those first photos and keeping your support person connected.

A long charging cable is particularly useful when the nearest power point isn't conveniently beside your bed.

Your labour playlist

Music can help create a familiar and calming environment, particularly when you're somewhere that isn't your own home.

Create a playlist before you go and download it so you aren't relying on hospital Wi-Fi.

And don't be afraid to include songs that simply make you happy. Your labour playlist doesn't have to be serious!

Pillow

Some people love having their own pillow from home.

It's familiar, comfortable and can make an unfamiliar room feel a little more like your own space. Just use a pillowcase you're not precious about.

Birth preferences or birth plan

If you've written down your birth preferences, keep a copy in your bag or have it easily accessible on your phone.

A birth plan isn't a contract for how your labour has to unfold. It's simply a way of communicating what matters to you and opening up conversations with your midwife and birth team.

Most importantly, remember that you're in control and you can change your mind.

Birth doesn't always follow the plan, and that's okay. Your preferences can be discussed and adapted as your labour unfolds.

Your Postnatal Bag

Once your baby has arrived, your needs change.

You'll want things that help you feel comfortable, clean, warm and supported while you recover and get to know your new baby.

For Mum

Comfortable underwear

This is not the time for your prettiest underwear!

Think soft, comfortable and generous. High-waisted underwear can be particularly comfortable after birth, and dark colours are often a practical choice.

You may also like to take a few pairs of disposable underwear or nappy style pants.

Maternity pads

Your maternity unit may provide these, but it's worth checking beforehand.

Having your own supply packed means you know exactly what you have available when you need them.

Something for post-birth comfort

The first few days after having a baby can be a time of significant change for your body, so having a few simple comfort items packed can make those early days a little easier.

A soothing perineal spray can be lovely to have on hand after birth, particularly when you're feeling tender or simply want a little extra comfort and freshness.

Natures Touch Relief Spray was created as a gentle addition to your post-birth care routine and is small enough to tuck easily into your hospital bag. It provides rapid soothing relief to sore, swollen or bruised perineal especially if you've need stitches. Take a look → 

Comfortable clothes

Pack loose-fitting clothes that are easy to get on and off.

Your tummy won't necessarily look or feel the way it did before pregnancy immediately after birth, so don't worry about packing your pre-pregnancy jeans!

Soft pants, loose tops, oversized shirts and comfortable layers are ideal.

Breastfeeding-friendly tops and bras

If you're planning to breastfeed, tops with easy access can make those frequent feeds a little easier.

A couple of comfortable nursing bras and some breast pads are also useful.

And remember that breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby. You don't need to have everything mastered before you arrive.

Nipple care

The first few days of feeding can take some getting used to, so having a gentle nipple balm packed can be reassuring.

Look for something fragrance free, designed specifically for the delicate skin around the nipple and suitable for your feeding journey.

Natures Touch Nipple Balm is made with nourishing olive butter, vitamin E, chamomile and calendula to gently care for the delicate skin around the nipple. Its lanolin-free and safe for you and baby.  Take a look →

Toiletries

Pack the things that help you feel like yourself:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap or body wash
• Hairbrush
• Hair ties
• Moisturiser
• Lip balm

I recommend keeping fragrances fairly gentle, particularly when you're spending lots of time close to your newborn. Your baby's sense of smell plays an important role in those early days of bonding and feeding.

Pyjamas

A comfortable pair of pyjamas or nightwear is a must if you're staying overnight.

Choose something soft and easy to move around in, preferably with easy access if you're breastfeeding.

Dressing gown and slippers

Hospitals can feel chilly, particularly overnight during winter months.

A warm dressing gown, fluffy socks and slippers can make those middle-of-the-night trips much more comfortable.

Something to make you feel like you

This might sound unnecessary, but those little comforts matter.

Your favourite moisturiser, a soft pair of socks, a comfortable robe, a book or something else that makes you feel at home can be lovely to have.

You've just done something enormous. It's okay to make yourself as comfortable as possible.

For Baby

Newborns don't actually need a huge wardrobe for their first days in the hospital.

Keep things simple, soft and practical.

Newborn clothes

Pack around 3–5 changes, depending on how long you expect to stay.

You might include:

• Singlets
• Bodysuits
• Sleepsuits
• Cardigans or warm layers
• Socks or booties
• Mittens if needed
• A soft hat

It's worth packing a few different sizes if you're unsure how big your baby is likely to be.

Nappies

Check with your hospital or birthing centre about what they provide.

If you're bringing your own, newborn-size nappies are usually a good place to start.

Wipes or reusable cloths

If you choose wipes, consider fragrance-free options suitable for newborn skin.

Reusable bamboo cloths are another handy option and can be useful for much more than nappy changes — including little spills and baby burps.

Muslin or cotton wraps

These are incredibly useful.

Pack a couple of lightweight muslin wraps or a suitable baby wrap for cuddles, settling and keeping baby comfortable.

A warm blanket

A soft wool or merino blanket can be useful, particularly during cooler months. Those  handknits are perfect. 

Going-home outfit

Choose something comfortable and weather-appropriate rather than worrying about creating the perfect Instagram-worthy outfit!

Remember, baby will need to be safely secured in their car seat, so bulky jackets shouldn't be worn underneath the harness. Blankets over baby not around baby. 

Car seat

This is one thing you definitely don't want to leave until the last minute.

Have your baby's car seat or capsule installed correctly before your due date and, if possible, practise using it before the day arrives.

It can be surprisingly fiddly when you're tired, emotional and holding a tiny newborn for the first time!

Don't Forget Your Birth Partner

It's easy to spend so much time preparing for mum and baby that the birth partner gets forgotten.

Their bag might include:

• Comfortable clothes
• Phone and charger
• Snacks
• Water bottle
• Comfortable shoes
• Any regular medications they need
• Something to keep them occupied during a longer labour

And perhaps most importantly, remind them that their job isn't to have all the answers.

Their job is to be there, listen, encourage and support you.

A Few Things You Might Not Think to Pack

These aren't essential for everyone, but they can be surprisingly useful:

• Long phone charger
• Extra hair ties
• Eye mask
• Ear plugs
• Small fan
• Extra pillowcase
• Wet bag or plastic bag for dirty clothes
• Reusable shopping bag
• Pen and notebook
• Glasses and contact lens supplies, if needed
• Any regular medications you take
• A small bag for keeping important paperwork together
• Easy snacks for your return home
• An extra blanket for the car in winter

And if you're having a caesarean birth, planned or otherwise, your hospital or maternity team may give you additional instructions about what to bring and how to prepare.

What You Don't Need to Pack

This is probably just as important as knowing what you do need.

It's very easy to get carried away when preparing for your first baby. You don't need to pack every baby product you've bought over the last nine months.

Your hospital or birthing centre will provide some things, and your midwife can let you know what you'll need to bring.

Before packing, check with your maternity unit about:

• Nappies
• Maternity pads
• Towels
• Baby clothing
• Baby wipes
• Toiletries
• What they provide for your particular length of stay

Every maternity facility is different, so their list should always take priority.

Your Quick Hospital Bag Checklist

For labour & birth

☐ Comfortable labour clothes
☐ Bikini top/sports bra if planning water birth
☐ Comfortable underwear
☐ Water bottle with sipper/straw
☐ Snacks
☐ Massage oil
☐ Lip balm
☐ Hair ties/headband
☐ Phone
☐ Long phone charger
☐ Labour playlist
☐ Pillow
☐ Birth preferences/birth plan

For Mum

☐ Comfortable underwear
☐ Maternity pads
☐ Loose-fitting clothes
☐ Nursing-friendly tops
☐ Nursing bras
☐ Breast pads
☐ Nipple balm
☐ Toiletries
☐ Toothbrush & toothpaste
☐ Hairbrush
☐ Pyjamas
☐ Dressing gown
☐ Warm socks/slippers
☐ Going-home outfit
☐ Regular medications

For Baby

☐ 3–5 bodysuits/sleepsuits
☐ Singlets
☐ Cardigans/layers
☐ Socks/booties
☐ Mittens if needed
☐ Hat
☐ Newborn nappies
☐ Baby wipes or cloths
☐ Muslin/cotton wraps
☐ Warm blanket
☐ Going-home outfit
☐ Correctly installed car seat/capsule

For your birth partner

☐ Comfortable clothes
☐ Phone & charger
☐ Water bottle
☐ Snacks
☐ Any regular medication
☐ Comfortable shoes

Preparing for those first days at home

Once you've packed the hospital bag, it can be easy to focus entirely on what baby will need. But remember to prepare a little care for you, too.

Those first days can be a beautiful, exhausting, emotional and sometimes overwhelming time. Having a few of your own essentials together means you don't have to think about what you need once you're home.

Our Natures Touch New Mum Care Pack brings together some of the gentle essentials we created with those early days of motherhood in mind — making it a lovely option for your own post-birth selfcare or as a thoughtful gift for a new mum. You may also like to take a look at our Birth Bag Essentials →

One last thing...

Try not to let packing your hospital bag become another thing to worry about.

There is no prize for having the most perfectly packed bag!

The important things are that you have the basics you need to feel comfortable, your baby's essentials are ready, and you have a plan for getting to your place of birth.

And if you arrive at the hospital and realise you've forgotten your favourite pillow, your hairbrush or even half the things on this list — you will still be okay. Someone can bring it to you. 

Your baby doesn't need a perfectly packed bag. They need you.

So pack what makes you feel prepared, supported and comfortable, then take a deep breath and remember:

You've got this.

Wishing you all the very best for your labour, birth and the beautiful journey into parenthood.

Clair xx