Packing the hospital bag is one of the big milestones before the birth. Between the documents, baby's things and mum's things, it is best to organise everything in advance so you can leave calmly on the big day. Here is a complete list, to adapt to your maternity unit.
When should you pack the hospital bag?
Many parents-to-be pack it around the seventh month of pregnancy, so they are ready if baby arrives a little early. Ask your maternity unit for the list of what it provides (nappies, toiletries, etc.): it varies from one hospital to another.
The documents not to forget
- ID and health insurance card, with your insurance certificate.
- Blood group card, if you have one.
- Medical file: scans, test results, reports.
- Family record book or acknowledgement documents, depending on your situation.
- Birth plan, if you have written one.
Baby's bag
For clothes, ask your maternity unit about the average length of stay and pack a few more outfits than you need. A few ideas:
- Cotton bodysuits, for example a pack of 5 bodysuits. Our bodysuit guide helps you choose the size.
- Soft pyjamas or sleepsuits, such as the sleepsuit pyjamas. See also the sleepsuit guide.
- A sleeping bag for the nights: the cotton sleeping bag, with our baby sleeping bag guide.
- A cardigan, socks or booties, and a hat.
- An outfit for leaving the maternity unit, suited to the season. In winter, read our guide to dressing baby in winter.
- A comforter, such as the multicoloured comforter.
- Nappies and wipes, if your maternity unit does not provide them.
- A bathrobe or hooded bath towel for the first bath.
- The car seat, essential for the drive home.
You will also find ideas in our gift sets and baby gift ideas and in the category baby clothes.
Mum's bag
- Nightdresses or loose, comfortable clothes, with easy access if you are breastfeeding.
- Comfortable underwear, disposable knickers and special postpartum maternity pads.
- Nursing bra and breast pads, if you plan to breastfeed. Our nursing pillow guide can help you.
- Toiletry bag, toothbrush, gentle soap and moisturiser.
- Slippers and a cardigan for the maternity unit corridors.
- A long phone charger cable, and something to keep you busy.
Dad's or the birth partner's bag
- Change of clothes and toiletry bag.
- Snacks, drinks and some change.
- Charger, camera or phone to capture the very first moments.
- The documents needed to register the birth.
How to organise the bag?
Prepare three bags: one for baby, one for mum and one for the birth partner. Pack baby's clothes as complete outfits in small labelled bags, so you can find them without searching. Keep the documents in an easily accessible pouch.
Frequently asked questions about the hospital bag
How many bodysuits and pyjamas should you pack?
Pack a few more bodysuits and pyjamas than you need, as baby can dirty several a day. The exact number depends on the length of stay and the maternity unit's services.
Should you wash the clothes before packing them?
Yes, a first wash at a low temperature with a gentle detergent is recommended for baby's new clothes.
What should you not pack?
Avoid valuables and extra belongings: space is limited in a maternity room.
Once the bag is ready, all that is left is to wait for baby! To prepare for their arrival, also discover our changing bag checklist.