Hospital bag checklist

Documents

• ID and insurance card
• Birth plan and medical notes
• Hospital registration or pre-admission paperwork
• List of emergency contacts
• Cash and a bank card

For the parent giving birth

• Comfortable nightwear or a front-opening top
• Dressing gown
• Slippers or non-slip socks
• Underwear and maternity pads
• Nursing bras and breast pads if you plan to breastfeed
• Going-home outfit that still fits comfortably
• Toiletries: toothbrush, lip balm, hairbrush, hair ties
• Water bottle and snacks
• Phone, long charger and headphones
• Pillow from home

For the baby

• Newborn clothes and one size up
• Bodysuits and a hat
• Swaddle blanket
• Nappies and wipes
• Going-home outfit
• Car seat, installed and checked before you leave

For the partner

• Change of clothes
• Snacks and drinks
• Phone charger
• Toiletries
• Camera or phone for photos
• Cash for parking and the vending machine

Before you leave home

• Pack the bag by 36 weeks
• Know the route to the hospital and where to park
• Keep the bag by the front door
• Tell the hospital or midwife when you are on your way