Health
The packing checklist to make birth (slightly) less stressful
24 July '26
4 min read
Overpacker? Or always forget your toothbrush? We’ve asked the parents who have been there before and here’s what they think is worth the space in your hospital bag.
The nursery is almost ready, the freezer is being filled and the due date is getting closer. There’s a lot of planning, so packing a hospital bag may be at the very bottom of the list. But having it all ready by 34 weeks can make the third trimester feel a little calmer.
Note that every hospital is different and may provide some items from this list. Be sure to check with the maternity ward to understand what may be covered before you pack your bag.
Packing for birth
Simplicity is the key here. Your hospital will usually provide the must-haves to bring a baby into the world, so you just need to bring the little extras.
Snacks
You’ll need to keep up your energy during labour, but you’re not going to be keen for a full meal. Take the chance to treat yourself with a mix of your favourite savoury and sweet treats. Pack extras so you’ve also got something other than hospital food post-birth.
Water bottle with a straw
So you’re able to take sips whether you’re sitting or lying down.
Socks & slippers
The delivery room is usually warm but you might want something on your feet when you find yourself pacing the ward to get that baby moving.
A headband
For an easy way to keep your hair out of the way, regardless of whether you’re lying down, immersed in a pool or up and about.
Comfortable pyjamas
Prepare for all situations (both during and after birth) by ensuring you’re choosing a button-up top and pants with a loose, wide waistband.
Bluetooth speaker + a curated playlist
Some hospitals may provide this, but don’t get stuck listening to your carefully chosen music from a tinny phone speaker.
Lip balm
Prepare for the dry heat of a hospital and avoid chapped lips.
Packing for the newborn
A newborn usually needs less than you think. You may find that your hospital will provide most of the must-haves, but it’s handy to have them packed with you just in case.
Onesies & bodysuits
Be sure to pick onesies with a zip and bodysuits with snaps to make midnight nappy changes so much easier.
A swaddle & a sleeping bag
Some parents swear that their newborns sleep longer in swaddles while others prefer the ease of a sleeping bag. Bring both options while you figure out what works best for you and your baby.
Nappies
And ideally in several sizes. Your baby will only have a few changes in their first few days, but will ramp it up as they start to put on weight so pack around a dozen nappies to start, with more at home if needed.
Wipes
Just one pack of baby wipes is enough for your hospital bag but keep plenty at home because it won’t be long until you'll be carrying them in your car, pram and every bag you own.
Packing for postpartum recovery
With so much focus on birth and the baby, it’s easy to forget about yourself. Here’s where you want to focus on comfort.
Electrolyte drinks or powders
The post-birth dehydration is real and continues if you’re breastfeeding, so you may want a some extra help to keep up the fluids*.
A luxe body wash
The first shower after birth is an experience in itself and a great body wash is just icing on the cake.
A single face cream or serum
For a while, you might have to drop the 12-step skincare routine in favour of sleep. Instead, find yourself a single, good quality cream or serum that can be applied quickly and in the dark.
A sleeping mask
It’s hard to escape light in a hospital ward and if you want the best chance to “sleep while the baby sleeps!” then a sleeping mask will go a long way.
An extra long phone charger cord
Don’t find yourself nap-trapped with your phone battery on 2%.
A pillow you love
Getting sleep is tough enough, so don’t suffer through flat, lumpy hospital pillows.
Postpartum underwear + padsicles
Unfortunately these don’t look good on anyone but this is a time when comfort trumps looks.
Pack for potential stitches: choose disposable underwear over maternity pads as they may sit more comfortably over a c-section incision than your undies and put some padsicles in the freezer for relief after a vaginal birth*.
Peri bottle
To provide some relief during peeing and generally help you feel a little more comfortable during a time when you’re feeling anything but.
A pen
You’d be surprised how many forms you’ll need to fill out and nurses are understandably reluctant to hand over their pen. It’s also helpful if you need to write instructions or suggestions or if you want to track feeding and sleeping.
Headphones and a phone loaded with your favourite podcasts or audiobooks
Whether you’re locked into parenting podcasts or you prefer content that reflects your world outside of babies, make sure that you've got something to keep you entertained during downtime.
Your usual toiletries and medication
Your toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush and all the absolute must-haves that you would take on a weekend away.
Now that the bag is hopefully packed, you can focus on the important things (sourcing cute onesies and figuring out how to install the car seat). If something has been forgotten, don’t stress because many of these items can be ordered online and delivered to you with Fast Delivery^.
Disclaimers
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Article content disclaimer: *Always read the label and follow the directions for use. ^Fast Delivery excludes bulky items, Online Only products, pharmacist only medicine, prescription medicine and gift cards. Valid for Australian addresses within 50kms of participating stores.
