Packing your hospital bag is one of those jobs that makes it all feel real. Aim to have it ready by around 36 weeks, just in case baby decides to arrive early. To keep things simple, we've split everything into three bags: one for you, one for baby, and one for your birth partner.
For mum: labour & after
- Maternity notes and birth plan
- Comfortable nightie or oversized t-shirt (a few — things get messy)
- Dressing gown, slippers and warm socks
- Maternity pads and dark, comfy underwear
- Nursing bras and breast pads
- Toiletries, lip balm and hair ties
- Phone charger (extra-long cable) and snacks
- Going-home outfit for you (loose and comfortable)
For baby: the essentials
- Bodysuits & sleepsuits — 2–3 in newborn and 0–3 months. Browse baby bodysuits.
- A coming home outfit — plus a spare in a different size. See ideas in our coming home outfit guide.
- Muslin swaddles — for wrapping, feeding and mopping up. Our organic muslin swaddles are endlessly useful.
- A soft hat and a blanket for the journey home.
- Nappies and cotton wool / wipes
- Scratch mitts and a cardigan or knotted gown for warmth
Tip: a ready-made newborn gift set covers most of baby's essentials in one go — handy if you'd rather not gather everything piece by piece.
For your birth partner
- Snacks and a refillable water bottle
- Change of clothes and toiletries
- Phone, charger and camera
- Small amount of cash / card for parking and vending machines
- Pillow and a light blanket
Quick tips
- Pack baby's outfit and swaddle near the top so they're easy to reach.
- Use packing cubes or labelled bags so your partner can find things quickly.
- Keep your maternity notes in the same place every time.
- Have the bag (and the car seat) ready from 36 weeks.
Shop newborn essentials & gift sets →
Frequently asked questions
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Aim to have it packed by around 36 weeks of pregnancy, in case your baby arrives earlier than expected.
How many baby clothes should I pack?
Around 2–3 bodysuits and sleepsuits, plus a coming home outfit and a spare in a different size. Add a hat, a blanket and a couple of muslin swaddles.
What do I need for the journey home?
A weather-appropriate coming home outfit, a hat, a blanket or muslin, and a properly fitted car seat.
