What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag: The Essentials You Will Actually Use
- Emilia Nathanail
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
“Did you know that most first-time parents overpack their hospital bags with things they never touch?”
Packing your hospital bag is such a moment. It feels real. It’s exciting. It’s also a bit… overwhelming. Because somehow you’re meant to prepare for an experience you’ve never had before - and the internet will tell you that you need everything from cooling sprays to three types of nipple balm.
But let’s take a deep breath (maybe even through a straw - more on that in a second!). You really don’t need to pack your entire house. In this post, I’m sharing what you’ll actually use - and the 5+1 surprising items that no one tells you about but might become your best friends.
There’s also a free printable checklist to help you feel super-organised (without overthinking it).
When Should I Pack My Hospital Bag?
Honestly? You can pack your bag whenever you want! However, the sweet spot is around 34–36 weeks - a little earlier if you’re expecting twins or your healthcare team suggests it.
Some people like to pack in one go (due to the big nesting energy), while others do it gradually over a few weeks. Either way, once it’s ready, keep it by the front door or in the car so you don’t forget it in the rush when labour begins!
What to Pack for the Birthing Parent
Let’s be honest - you don’t need to look “put together,” you just want to feel comfortable, clean, and cared for. Here’s what helps:
Bring your hospital notes, ID, and a copy of your birth plan if you have one - they will be asked for when you arrive.
For clothing, soft and loose is key. A button-down nightgown is a dream for breastfeeding and skin-to-skin. Pack some extra socks, because hospitals are cold, and granny-style underwear (or disposable underwear) for after the birth of your baby - they are ideal for postpartum pads (yes, you will need them).
And don’t forget your toiletries! Dry shampoo, face wipes, a toothbrush, and deodorant will go a long way. Add a nursing bra and a comfy going-home outfit - think stretchy leggings or a loose dress. This is not the moment for skinny jeans.
5+1 Unexpected But Brilliant Hospital Bag Additions
Here’s where it gets interesting! These six small items might not be on every list, but they’ll make a big difference:
A Straw
Yes, really. Drinking water through a straw is so much easier when you’re lying down or in active labour. Bonus tip? Use it for slow, controlled breaths - like you're sipping air. Breath in through the straw and also breathe out through it. It will help you have a longer outbreath which is amazing to help those muscled relax. Great birth hack!
Lip Balm
Between breathing exercises, dry hospital air, and adrenaline, your lips will dry out fast. A soothing lip balm is one of those little comforts that makes a big difference.
Hair Tie or Clip
You do not want your hair in your face when you're sweaty, focused, and holding your baby. Keep one in your bag (and maybe on your wrist for backup).
Chewing Gum
This one is underrated! Not only is it great for freshening your breath (because not all labours smell like roses!), but recent research shows chewing gum can help wake up your digestive system after a C-section so it helps with your recovery.
Fluffy Socks or Slippers
Hospital floors are not spa-like. Soft, warm socks or easy slippers make walking around post-birth feel a lot nicer.
Bonus: Phone Charger or Power Bank
You will want to capture that first photo, text your loved ones, and maybe listen to your birth playlist. A dead battery is not what you need! Also, you might want to consider a longer cable as a socket closeby is not always a given!
What to Pack for Baby
Keep it simple. The hospital provides most basics, so here’s what’s actually useful:
Bring 4–5 sleepsuits and bodysuits, you do not need a hat and mittens. A hat might lead to overheating of your baby especially when they are asleep. Also, one of the first ways of your baby to discover the world is through touch - you don't want to restrict that by having your baby constantly with mittens. What if they scratch themselves? Firstly, their nails are quite soft when they are born and secondly what happens to you if you scratch yourself? You will have a scratch for a day or two maybe and then it's gone!
You’ll also need newborn nappies, cotton wool or gentle wipes, and a going-home outfit. It’s a special moment, so pick something soft and comfy - and maybe cute for photos, too.
And yes, you must bring a car seat if you’re planning to go home by car - hospitals in the UK won’t let you leave without one!
What About the Birth Partner?
They may not be pushing a baby out, but your birth partner definitely needs to come prepared as well as they have their own needs which are not less important!
A change of clothes, basic toiletries, and plenty of snacks are a must. Pack a phone charger (because you know they will forget), and maybe a book or headphones for downtime. And pro tip: bring real food. Hospital vending machines are hit or miss, and no one wants a hangry partner at 3am.
What You Don’t Need
Let’s save you some unpacking later. You probably won’t use:
Multiple baby outfits (unless it’s a fashion show)
Pre-pregnancy jeans (nope, not yet)
A full makeup kit (unless that brings you joy!)
Baby books (you won’t have time to journal)
What I Thought I’d Need vs. What I Actually Used
A couple of things based on my experience:
Thought I would need: | What I actually used: |
My own pillow | I was too busy to remember - I just used the hospital ones |
10 baby outfits | Maybe I used two? |
Skincare routine | Face wipes. That's it! |
Ready to Pack like a Pro?
To make things easier, I’ve created a printable hospital bag checklist you can download, print, and tick off at your own pace. Whether you’re a “pack it all at once” kind of person or prefer small steps, this guide will help you feel calm, organised, and ready.
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