Your Hospital Bag Checklist: Everything You Need for the Big Day

Packing your hospital bag is one of those magical moments when everything suddenly feels so real! As you get closer to meeting your little one, it's totally normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves - getting organised with this checklist can help settle those butterflies

When should I prepare my hospital bag?

Getting this sorted early means one less thing to worry about when you're feeling tired or a bit overwhelmed in those final weeks. 

"Any time after 20 weeks is fine, but definitely by 28 weeks," says clinical midwife specialist Monique Maitland. "When it comes to packing, less is more." 

"It's normal to go into labour any time after 37 weeks but sometimes women can go into premature labour so it's good to have a hospital bag with the basics packed ready to go." 

Use a bag that zips securely - think soft weekender, backpack, or carry-on suitcase. Pop it somewhere handy like the hallway or by the front door where it's ready for your big adventure. 

Your hospital bag checklist

Here's midwife Monique's main tip: “Remember less is more!”

For mum-to-be:

Clothes:

• A few pairs of socks 
• Slippers or slip-on shoes 
• Prescription glasses (if needed)
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes
• Maternity or dark, stretchy undies
• Soft robe for hallway wandering 
• Going home outfit that's all about comfort
• Soft and stretchy nursing bras if you're planning to breastfeed
• Cosy nightie or pyjamas/singlets that button down (think feeding friendly)
• Comfy clothes for your stay (think big baggy t-shirts, sweats)

Toiletries:

• Breast pads 

• Breast pads
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush and ties
• Dry shampoo
• Face wipes
• Shower items
• Nipple cream
• Peri bottle
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Lip balm (trust us on this one)
• Maternity pads (more than you think)
• Witch hazel sprays or peri wash foam
• Ice/heat packs (for perineum and breast)

For your little one

• 5 x Singlets
• 3 x Onesies
• 3 x Mittens
• 2 x Newborn caps
• 2 x Socks or booties
• 1 x Baby towel
• 1 x Baby blanket
• 2 x Face washers
• 2 x Sleepsuits or swaddles
• 2 x Special going home outfits
• Wipes or cotton balls

Important Documents/Items

Before anything else, pack your essential documents and small items to keep you informed, connected, and comfortable.

• Phone
• Snacks
• Camera
• Birth plan
• Notebook
• ID and wallet
• Water bottle
• Medicare card
• Hospital paperwork
• Paediatrician contact info
• A charger with a long cord
• Any important medical info (allergies etc)
• Health insurance information (if required)

For partner or support person

Your support crew needs to be prepared, too! This ensures they stay rested, fed, and ready to help however you need. 

• Change of clothes
• Comfortable shoes
• Snacks and drinks
• Swimwear if you want to join for a water birth
• Toiletries such as deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste

What not to pack

Don't overpack! Leave valuables, jewellery, and electronics at home. Skip the pram (leave it in the car) and don't worry about breast pumps or formula - hospitals supply these. Remember, you'll likely only be there 2-4 nights, and if you forget something, someone can bring it to you. 

What else should I have organized before birth?

Make sure you have a properly installed car seat ready before your bub arrives. You want to get the professional installation sorted a few weeks before labour to save any unnecessary stress. You'll also want a safe sleeping space ready at home with a well-fitted mattress and tight-fitting sheet for those precious first nights together. 

The Final Word

Packing your hospital bag is such a momentous milestone - it means you're so close to meeting your little one! Trust that you've got everything you need and remember that however you're feeling about the journey ahead, you're prepared and ready for this next incredible chapter.