Last updated 20 August 2026
When we think about the hospital bag, we tend to want to pack everything that mother and baby might need. The result? A huge bag where, the moment you need something, no one knows where it is!
A simple way to organise this is to think of three different moments and prepare three bags.
This is the one that goes with you when you head to the maternity hospital. It should be small and practical, containing only what you might need during labour and in the first few hours after birth
Yes, your birth partner should prepare theirs too! Labour can take several hours and, to be able to support you and be truly present, they also need to be reasonably comfortable.
This is where the rest of the clothes, toiletries, nappies, and everything you will need over the following days go. It doesn't necessarily have to go with you when you are admitted for labour. It can stay in the car or at home, and someone can bring it after the baby is born. This way, you arrive at the maternity hospital with only the essentials.
Before you start packing, check the list from the maternity hospital where you plan to have your baby. What is provided during your stay and what families are asked to bring can vary between hospitals. If you have any questions, you can get in touch with us.
Remember: whoever is supporting you during the birth should help pack the bags, so they know where everything is and it isn't a source of stress when the time comes.