Packing your hospital bag is one of those quietly emotional milestones: it means the day is close. Aim to have it ready by around 36 weeks. Here is a calm, complete list — split into three simple bags so nothing gets lost at 3am.
For you — labour & birth
- Your maternity notes and ID / paperwork
- A comfortable robe, socks, and slippers
- Hair tie, lip balm, and anything that helps you relax
- Phone, charger (a long cable is a small miracle), snacks and drinks
For you — after the birth
- Two or three loose, comfortable outfits
- Maternity pads and comfortable high-waist underwear
- Nursing bras and toiletries
For baby
- Bodysuits and sleepsuits in newborn and 0–3 month sizes
- A soft hat, scratch mittens, and socks
- A swaddle or light blanket
- Nappies and cotton wool or wipes
- A special going-home outfit — the one that appears in the first photo
One gentle tip: pack in three small bags (labour, postpartum, baby) rather than one large one. When you are tired, "the baby bag" is far easier to find than "the big bag, third pocket."
For the trip home
A properly fitted car seat, a weather-appropriate layer, and that going-home outfit. That is genuinely all you need.
For the bag itself and a first outfit worth keeping, our changing bags and knitted pieces are made to feel special from day one.