If you’re a first time mum, the endless advice out there about what to pack in your holiday bag can feel overwhelming. But don’t panic, we’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to.

Here’s your ultimate hospital bag checklist broken down into helpful sections: what you’ll need during labour, after delivery, what your birthing partner should bring and of course, what to pack in your hospital bag for baby.

We’ve also created a free downloadable hospital bag checklist, so you can tick things off as you go. Save it to your phone or print it out and pop it on the fridge, whatever works for you.

Hospital bag checklist: What to pack for you, baby and your birthing partner

👶 What to pack in a hospital bag for baby

1. Baby grows and sleepsuits in different sizes

No one really knows how big their baby is going to be until they arrive, so choosing the right sizes can feel like guesswork. We recommend packing a mix of tiny baby, newborn, up to one month and 0–3 month clothes in your hospital bag. That way, you’re covered no matter what size your baby is. If they skip straight to the bigger sizes, you can always donate or sell the unused ones online, a little extra money during maternity leave never hurts.

2. Socks

Newborns need help regulating their body temperature and a few pairs of soft socks will do just that. That said, lots of baby sleepsuits come with built-in feet, so if yours do, you might not need extra socks on top.

3. Blanket

Most hospitals will provide a basic blanket but it’s nice to have your own, especially for skin-to-skin cuddles and the journey home in the car seat. 

4. Nappies in different sizes

Another one that depends on the baby’s birth weight. It’s a good idea to bring nappies in a couple of sizes so you're prepared whatever size your baby makes their entrance at.

5. Wipes

The NHS recommends fragrance-free and alcohol-free baby wipes as they’re gentler on newborn skin. Most supermarkets stock these in their own brand ranges, so you don’t have to spend a fortune.

6. Muslins

Muslins are one of those baby items you’ll find yourself constantly reaching for, whether it’s burping, feeding or a quick wipe up job. You can usually grab multipacks and we recommend bringing a few in your hospital bag.

7. Going home outfits in different sizes

This is the moment a lot of parents look forward to, dressing your baby for the journey home (and snapping a few adorable pics). Pack a couple of outfit options in different sizes, just in case the one you had your heart set on is too big or too small.

8. Cotton wool

Even if you’re using wipes, it’s useful to have cotton wool on hand, especially for those first few nappy changes, when your baby’s skin is extra delicate. 

9. Hat

Newborns are given hats shortly after birth to help regulate their temperature. Your hospital may provide one but it’s nice to have your own to pop in the bag too.

🤰 What to pack in a hospital bag for labour and delivery

1. Hospital file

You’ll need to bring your pregnancy notes with you. Some NHS trusts still use paper files, while others now upload everything to an app.

2. Birth plan

If you’ve written a birth plan, put a copy in your hospital bag. It gives your midwives a good idea of your preferences, even if things don’t go exactly to plan (which is totally normal) it still helps guide the experience. Remember: you’re allowed to change your mind at any time you don’t have to stick fully to your birth plan.

3. Dressing gown

Hospital gowns aren’t the cosiest, so bring your own dressing gown for warmth and comfort during labour. A loose, breathable one is perfect for popping on between contractions or while walking the hospital corridors.

4. Socks

Yes, more socks. Labour can make your body temperature go a bit haywire and cold feet are surprisingly common. Pack a pair of soft, non-slip socks to keep your toes cosy and help you move around safely.

5. Slippers/flip-flops

Slippers are great for shuffling around your room and flip-flops are handy for showers.

6. Lip balm

This one often catches people out. Gas and air can dry out your lips, so having a trusty lip balm on hand can be a total game changer.

7. Body lotion

Whether it’s for soothing dry skin or getting a much needed massage from your birth partner, body lotion can come in handy during labour.

8. Hand-held fan

Hospitals can get hot, even in winter. A little hand-held fan (battery-operated) can be a refreshing lifesaver when things heat up during labour.

9. Comfy pillow

Bringing your own pillow can give you that extra bit of comfort when you’re trying to rest, labour or just need some familiarity in the room.

10. Eye mask and ear plugs

If there’s a moment to rest, especially if you're being induced, as this can take longer, an eye mask and ear plugs can help you block out the hospital noise and grab a quick nap. Also brilliant for shared marternity wards.

🍼 What to pack in a hospital bag for after delivery

1. Button down nightie

A nightie with buttons is perfect for after birth as it gives easy access for skin-to-skin and if you’re breastfeeding.

2. Heavy-duty maternity pads

Postpartum bleeding is totally normal after birth. Make sure you’ve packed some proper maternity pads, we’re talking thick, comfy and absorbent. Not your average pads.

3. Extra pairs of underwear

Time to channel your inner Bridget Jones. Go for high-waisted, comfy knickers that can hold your pads in place and won’t dig in if you’ve had a c-section. You can pick up disposable or reusable ones depending on your preference.

4. Extra comfy clothes

Forget your jeans for now, loose, soft clothes are where it’s at. Think floaty dresses or stretchy leggings and oversized tops. Pick based on the season, and make sure they’re easy to change in and out of.

5. Long phone charger

Hospital plug sockets have a habit of hiding in the most awkward places. A long cable means you’ll be fully charged and ready to snap those first precious moments.

6. Glasses, contact lenses and medication

You’d be surprised how easy it is to forget your everyday essentials. Pack your glasses, contacts and any regular medication such as inhalers or whatever you need.

7. Phone

Obvious, yes, but you don’t want to be the one who forgets their phone. Between baby updates, facetimes, Spotify playlists and birth selfies, you’ll be glad you packed it.

8. Nursing bras and breast pads

Whether you're breastfeeding or not, your boobs might start leaking post-birth (yep, fun times). Nursing bras are great for support and breast pads catch any unexpected leaks.

9. Toiletries

Bring a washbag with all the basics to help you freshen up and feel more you. Here’s a handy checklist to pop in:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Flannel
• Soap or shower gel
• Deodorant
• Moisturiser and skincare bits
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hair tie or band
• Peri bottle (game changer after birth) 

10. Snacks and drinks

Giving birth works up an appetite. Whether you’re craving chocolate buttons or oat bars, pack some snacks for a post birth refuel. Think energy-boosting but easy to eat. A little bottle of juice can feel like such a treat too.

🧳 What to pack in a hospital bag for your birthing partner

1. Snacks and drinks

Labour can be a long slog, even for the plus one. Pack some of their favourite snacks and drinks, something to keep them going without needing to dash off to the hospital café every hour.

2. Phone

They’ll need it to take photos, message family and maybe Google things like “how to put a babygrow on a wriggling newborn.” Bonus: midwives are often happy to snap a photo of you together, so make sure they’ve got it handy.

3. Extra clothes

If labour takes a while (which it often does), your birth partner will be glad for a change of clothes. Something soft, warm and nap-friendly is ideal.

4. Toiletries

If they’re staying with you for a while, they’ll need their own washbag too. Here’s what to pack:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Flannel
• Soap or shower gel
• Deodorant
• Moisturiser and skincare
• Shampoo and conditioner

5. Glasses, contact lenses, medication

Same rules apply to your partner as to you, glasses, contacts, daily meds… easy to forget, annoying if you do.

6. Comfy pillow

Hospital chairs aren’t exactly plush. Having a pillow of their own makes all the difference when trying to catch a bit of rest (especially if you’re in for an induction or overnight stay).

7. Blanket or throw

Bring a small throw or lightweight blanket for your partner too, it helps them stay warm and cosy, especially if they’re sleeping in a chair.

8. iPad or laptop

If you’re in the early stages of labour or waiting to be induced, things can get a bit... slow. A tablet or laptop can keep your partner entertained, whether they're bingeing on a series or keeping busy while you rest.

9. Long phone charger

Yes, another long charger. Trust us, you don’t want to be fighting over the only cable in the room. Pack an extra one to keep everyone’s devices charged up.

10. Eye mask and earplugs

They might not get much shuteye, but a sleep mask and earplugs can help make any rest they do get a bit more restful, especially if you’re both on a shared ward or dealing with bright hospital lighting.

If you’re preparing for the arrival of your baby, we have lots of great essentials like our newborn baby bath and thermometer, newborn baby carrier, penguin musical baby cot mobile and animal adventures baby play mat with gym.