Hospital bag checklist.
Forty items across three bags, taken from the NHS list. Tick things off as you pack. Your progress is saved on this device, and you can print the list.
For you
For your baby
For your birth partner
This tool is educational and does not replace your midwife or doctor. Nothing you enter leaves your device.
When to pack
The NHS suggests having your bag ready at least 3 weeks before your due date. Only about 1 in 20 babies arrive on the day itself, and some come early. Use the pregnancy week calculator to find the date you reach 37 weeks.
Three things people forget
- The car seat. Practise fitting it before the day. You will need it for the journey home if you travel by car.
- A long phone cable. Sockets on wards are rarely next to the bed.
- Your notes. If your maternity notes are on paper, they go in first.
What you probably do not need
Hospitals differ, so ask what yours provides before you buy duplicates. Two medium bags, one for labour and one for afterwards, are easier to manage than one large one.
For everything after the hospital, see the newborn essentials checklist.
Questions, answered
When should I pack my hospital bag?
The NHS suggests having your hospital bag packed at least 3 weeks before your due date, so around 37 weeks, in case your baby arrives early.
What do I need in my hospital bag for the baby?
The NHS list is: bodysuits, vests and sleepsuits, an outfit for going home, a hat, scratch mittens and socks or booties, a snowsuit in cold weather, nappies, cotton wool or wipes, muslin squares, a blanket or shawl, and a car seat for the trip home.
How many nappies should I pack?
The NHS says young babies may need changing as many as 10 or 12 times a day, so a pack of newborn nappies covers a typical stay.
What should my birth partner pack?
A change of clothes, toiletries, phone and charger, snacks and drinks, any medicines, spare glasses or lenses, swimwear if they may get in a birth pool, and change for the car park.
Is my list saved?
Yes, ticks are saved in your browser on this device only. Nothing is uploaded. Use Print to get a paper copy.
Sources
Sources last checked on 11 November 2026.