What to pack in your hospital bag (and what to leave at home)

Packing your hospital bag is one of those jobs that feels very real. The good news: you need less than you think, and most of what people forget is small. Here's what to pack, the things people wish they'd brought, and what you can leave at home.

For the full list to tick off as you go, use our printable hospital bag checklist.

When to pack

Most people pack at around 36 weeks. Pack earlier, from about 32 weeks, if you're expecting twins or have been told your baby may come early. Keep the bag by the door or in the car, and make sure your birth partner knows where it is.

It helps to pack two bags: a small one for labour, and a bigger one for after the birth that can stay in the car until you need it.

For labour

• Maternity notes and birth plan. Many hospitals now use an app, so check you can log in.
• Something loose to wear: an old nightie or big T-shirt you don't mind ruining.
• Snacks and drinks. Energy goes fast. A bottle with a straw is much easier to drink from lying down.
• Lip balm and hair ties. Hospital air is dry.
• A long phone charging cable, as sockets are rarely near the bed.
• Things that help you relax: a playlist and headphones, your own pillow, a TENS machine if you've planned to use one.

For after the birth

• Maternity pads: two packs of the extra absorbent kind.
• Big, comfortable knickers, high-waisted if you might have a caesarean. Disposable ones save washing.
• Nursing bras and breast pads, even if you're not sure how you'll feed.
• Toiletries and a towel. Your first shower will feel amazing.
• Loose, comfy clothes to go home in. You'll still look around six months pregnant, and that's normal.

For your baby

• Sleepsuits and bodysuits, three or four of each, in newborn and "tiny baby" sizes, as you won't know which fits until you meet them.
• A soft hat, socks and scratch mitts.
• A blanket for the journey home.
• Newborn nappies (around 10–12) and water wipes or cotton wool. Most UK hospitals expect you to bring your own.
• Muslins, for everything.
• A car seat, already fitted in the car. Hospitals won't usually let you drive home without one, so practise fitting it beforehand.

The things people forget

• Slip-on shoes or sliders. Bending down to tie laces is hard after a birth.
• An eye mask and earplugs. Postnatal wards are rarely quiet or dark.
• A carrier bag for dirty clothes.
• Change or a parking app, and a note of the hospital's parking rules.
• Glasses, if you wear contact lenses.
• Any medicines you take, in their original packaging.
• Snacks for after. Babies often arrive at night, when the hospital café is shut.

If you're having a caesarean

Pack as above, plus:

• High-waisted knickers that sit well above the scar.
• Loose trousers or a nightie with nothing pressing on your tummy.
• A small pillow to hold against your tummy when you cough, laugh or travel home.
• Slip-on everything, as you won't want to bend for a few days.

What to leave at home

• Lots of baby outfits. Two or three days' worth is plenty.
• Valuables and jewellery. Wedding rings can get tight, and hospital lockers aren't always available.
• A full-size wash bag. Travel sizes are enough.
• Anything you'd be sad to lose or stain.

Check with your hospital or birth centre too. Some provide nappies, pads or towels, and some have rules about what you can bring onto the ward.

Build it into your baby list

Lots of hospital bag basics make easy gifts, from sleepsuits and muslins to a good water bottle. Add what you still need to your NuaNest list and friends and family can help. The newborn essentials checklist covers the first few weeks at home.