Some of the items in my hospital bag

I finished packing my hospital bag at 37 weeks even though the NCT course teacher said to start thinking about it at 30 weeks. I did think about it but it took awhile to get everything together.

To be honest I wasn’t sure what to pack and there are tons of lists out there to get some ideas. I found I was compiling the lists until I had a list of everything I wanted, which is what I’m sharing with you today. I’ve also included a printable hospital bag list at the bottom of this post if you’d like to use it.

Don’t forget the things that won’t be in your bags like the car seat. There may also be items that you want to write down and keep as a list on top of your bag to grab before you go. Things like your phone, chargers, anything in the fridge, a birthing ball.

I think I’ve packed a lot and it can be so easy to over pack. I just had to remember I’m going to give birth not on holiday! If everything goes to plan I won’t be in that long, but something may happen that means I’m in a few days. So I will be taking some extra things to keep in the car like more nappies and pads. You can always send your birthing partner, friend or relative home or to the shops to buy anything else you may need for a longer stay.

My hospital bag

Toiletries

  • Shower gel
  • Shampoo 2n1
  • Toothbrush(s)
  • Toothpaste
  • Hairbrush
  • Hair ties
  • Hair clip
  • Towel
  • Flannel
  • Deodorant
  • Make up
  • Lip Balm
  • Maternity pads x20 pack
  • Breast pads
  • Face wipes
  • Hand sanitizer

Clothes

  • Bikini top
  • Fluffy socks
  • Dressing gown
  • Nighties x2
  • PJs
  • Nursing bra
  • Disposable or cheap pants
  • Flip flops
  • Going home outfit
  • Nursing top
  • Dirty clothes bag

Snacks

  • Energy drinks x2
  • Water bottle
  • Sweets
  • Sugar tablets
  • Straws
  • Energy bars x4

Misc

  • Hospital notes
  • Birth plan
  • Change for parking
  • Camera and charger
  • Phone and charger
  • Partner’s clothes
  • Water spray bottle
  • Tens machine
  • Massage oil
  • Arnica tablets
  • Paracetamol

Baby’s hospital bag

Baby’s clothes

  • Newborn-1m vests x4
  • Newborn-1m sleepsuits x4
  • Hats x2
  • Mittens x2
  • Socks
  • Going home outfit
  • Cardigan

Other bits for baby

  • Nappies
  • Nappy bags
  • Sudacream
  • Blanket
  • Cotton wool or wipes
  • Muslins
  • Changing mat

Download a free printable hospital bag checklist.