Written By &honey Store

The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What You REALLY Need to Pack

The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What You REALLY Need to Pack

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag – The Ultimate Midwife-Approved Checklist

Packing your hospital bag can feel like a mix of excitement and “what if I forget something?!” panic. But don’t worry—I’ve got you! This midwife-approved checklist covers everything you actually need (and none of the unnecessary extras) so you can head into birth feeling prepped, not stressed.

And the best part? You can download the full checklist for free—because one less thing to think about is always a win.


For You (Māmā)

Labour Must-Haves

  • Comfy crop top (for labour & birth)
  • Tens machine (if you’re planning to use one)
  • Massage oil & essential oils for relaxation
  • Water bottle with a straw (trust me, it’s a game-changer)
  • Snacks & labour electrolytes (energy = essential)
  • Your birth weapon (like a comb for acupressure)
  • Fairy lights/LED candles for that calm birth vibe

Postpartum Essentials

Toiletries

  • Body wash, shampoo & conditioner
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste & deodorant
  • Moisturiser & lip balm (hospital air is dry!)
  • Hair ties & a brush
  • Colostrum (if expressing beforehand—bring a chiller bag!) - check out our colostrum kit here to make your life easier!

Extras to Make Life Easier

  • Pillow (hospital ones aren’t always the comfiest)
  • Kindle/book/card game for downtime
  • iPad/laptop for entertainment
  • Speaker & headphones (hello, birth playlist!)


For Baby (Pēpē)

Clothes & Layers

  • 3 x singlets
  • 3 x long sleeve bodysuits
  • 3 x full-zip onesies
  • Going-home outfit
  • Socks, booties & a warm hat
  • Swaddle & blanket

✔️ Other Essentials

  • Nappies & wipes (unscented)
  • Burp cloths
  • Dummy (if you’re using one)
  • White noise machine (if you want extra soothing vibes)
  • Announcement plaque (for the cutest first photo!)


For Your Birth Partner

The Non-Negotiables

  • Change of clothes
  • Deodorant & toothbrush
  • Snacks & a drink bottle
  • Your birth plan & midwife’s details


Ready to Pack Like a Pro?

I’ve done the hard work for you—just download the free checklist and tick things off as you go!

What’s your #1 hospital bag must-have? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to know what you swear by!

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