What Should I Pack in My Hospital Bag for Labour and Birth?

A hospital bag for labour should include comfortable clothing, toiletries, feeding supplies and newborn essentials for mum, baby and partner, packed in a small, organised bag ready by 36 weeks of pregnancy.

Preparing your hospital b

ag is an important milestone in the final weeks of pregnancy and a key part of personalised pregnancy and maternity care.

At Central Health London, we support families through every stage of consultant-led obstetric care, including practical preparation for labour, birth and the postnatal period.

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

Most people should pack their hospital bag by 36 weeks of pregnancy, or earlier if advised by their care team as part of birth planning and antenatal support.

Packing early helps reduce stress and ensures everything is ready should labour start unexpectedly.

What Size Bag Should I Take to Hospital?

Your hospital bag should be:

• Small and compact

• Easy to move, ideally with wheels

• Similar in size to hand luggage

Partners often unpack items during labour, so packing together helps them know exactly where everything is.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mum

What Clothes Should I Pack for Labour?

Pack:

• 3 to 4 loose, breathable outfits

• Nightwear suitable for breastfeeding

• A dressing gown for warmth and modesty

Button-up or nursing nightwear supports early feeding and skin-to-skin contact and works alongside professional breastfeeding support.

What Underwear Is Best After Birth?

Recommended options include:

• High-waisted cotton underwear, ideally reaching the belly button

• Disposable maternity or incontinence pants for post-birth bleeding or leaking waters

• A supportive nursing bra for frequent feeding and comfort as milk comes in during early postnatal care

  
  

What Toiletries Should I Bring to Hospital?

Pack toiletries as you would for a short stay:

• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Lip balm, as gas and air (Entonox) can dry lips

• Hair ties or clips

• Slippers or flip flops

• A bath towel, if you prefer your own

  
  

What Comfort Items Are Useful During Labour?

Helpful comfort items include:

• Refillable water bottle with a straw, especially useful during labour and delivery

• Cooling face mist, fan or flannel

• Pillow or feeding pillow

• Eye mask and ear plugs

• Small speaker or battery-powered lights to create a calm environment

  
  

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

What Does a Newborn Need in Hospital?

Essential baby items include:

• 2 newborn hats, particularly important in the first 24 hours

• 4 vests and 4 sleepsuits

• 1 going-home outfit, suitable for the weather

• 1 cellular blanket, which is breathable and helps reduce overheating risk

A general rule is that babies wear one more layer than an adult, adjusted for temperature.

What Feeding and Changing Supplies Should I Bring?

Pack:

• Newborn nappies

• Cotton wool pads for gentle nappy changes

• Ready-made formula, if desired, even if planning to breastfeed

• 3 muslin cloths for feeding and winding

Newborns are supported through early assessment and follow-up by our paediatric care for newborns team where appropriate.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Partners

Partners should pack:

• A couple of changes of clothes

• Sleepwear and slippers or flip flops, noting that shoes must be worn on wards

• Snacks and drinks for energy and hydration

• A pillow or light blanket for comfort during overnight stays

Sleepwear should always be appropriate, as healthcare staff will check on mum and baby throughout the night.

Final Hospital Bag Packing Tips

• Pack your bag by 36 weeks

• Keep items clearly organised

• Pack together so your partner knows where everything is

• Focus on essentials first, then add comfort items if space allows

  
  

Thoughtful preparation allows you to focus on what matters most, feeling supported, informed and confident as you approach birth.

If you would like personalised advice on preparing for labour, birth or postnatal recovery, you can speak to our obstetrics team at Central Health London.