Hospital bag checklist: what to pack

Packing your hospital bag is the perfect way to feel ready and empowered for labour. From the softest essentials and nightwear to nursing must-haves and skin to skin cuddles, we’ve got you (and baby) covered, mama!

We’ve divided the essentials into what you’ll need and what baby will need. It’s up to you if you bring two separate bags: some may find this easier, or, if you have a compartmented case or bag that will work just fine, too.

Get hospital bag-ready…

FOR MUM

Paperwork

  • Medical records
  • A copy of your birth plan (if you have one)
  • Clothes

  • Comfy, loose and breathable separates (leggings and easy-wear T-shirts) for arrival and going home
  • Seraphine maternity bag bundle (featuring pyjamas, nursing top and dressing gown)
  • Button-down nightie: great for regulating temperature in labour and for nursing once baby arrives
  • Dressing gown
  • Supportive sleep bra
  • Warm socks
  • Comfy slippers
  • 3-4 briefs/underwear (disposable, if you prefer; keep your favourites at home!)
  • Shop our hospital bag essentials

    Nursing

  • 3-4 nursing bras
  • 2-3 nursing vests
  • Skin to skin top
  • Nursing shawl
  • Nipple cream
  • Breast pads
  • Shop our nursing & postpartum styles

    Maternity

    Washbag

    Get all the overnight essentials ready, including:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Lip balm
  • Hairbrush and hair ties/clips
  • Flannel
  • Face wash
  • Deodorant
  • Travel-sized shower gel, shampoo and conditioner
  • Shower cap, in case you want to shower without a hair wash
  • Towels
  • Tissues
  • Wet wipes
  • Maternity pads
  • Electricals

  • Phone, charger and wires
  • Tablet distraction/entertainment
  • Headphones
  • Nourishments

  • Light snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Sleep

  • Your own pillow from home
  • Pillow spray
  • Eye mask
  • Ear plugs
  • FOR BABY

  • 3 x babygrows
  • 2 x sleepsuits
  • Scratch mittens
  • Socks
  • 3-4 muslins
  • Baby blanket
  • Newborn nappies [diapers] (your hospital may provide some but we think it’s worth bringing your own supply, especially if you have a particular type/brand you’d like to use)
  • Cotton hat
  • Nappy rash cream
  • 2 x small towels
  • Going home outfit
  • Car seat
  • Maternity

    Your birthing partner’s hospital bag

    Some people find it handy to have a bag ready for their birthing partner, but that’s entirely up to you. Whether they pack in advance or grab a few items before heading to hospital, we suggest that as well as the usual wallet/purse, phone (and all- important charger), keys etc, they should also consider taking a change of clothes, slippers, snacks, a book or magazine, tablet, pillow and cosy throw just in case they’re able to catch some zzzzs at any point.

    Shop Our Baby Clothes

    When to pack your hospital bag

    It’s worth having your hospital bag(s) ready by around 35 weeks, just in case the baby decides to make an early appearance and/or you find yourself having other things to prepare as your labour nears.

    Once you’re a week or two away from your due date, keep it close to the door or in your car so it’s right where you need it when it’s time to go.

    Maternity

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