Hospital Bag Checklist UK

Aim to have your hospital bag completely packed by 36 weeks. Babies sometimes arrive before 40 weeks, and you will feel so much calmer knowing the bags are by the door and ready to grab.

We have split everything into five clear categories so you can pack across two or three separate bags if you prefer: one for labour, one for after the birth, one for baby, plus a small bag for your birth partner. Tick items off as you pack, print the final list for the hospital, or reset and start again.

When to pack your bag

Start collecting
32 weeks
Start gathering items. Order anything you are missing online and check through everything you already have.
Pack in full
34 to 36 weeks
Pack all your bags completely, including the baby bag and birth partner bag. Fit your car seat.
Ready by the door
37 weeks
Bags should be packed, zipped and placed by the front door or in the boot of the car.

Quick tips from UK parents

Pack light, ask for more

Most vaginal births mean 1 to 2 days in hospital, caesarean 3 to 4 days. You do not need to pack for a fortnight — someone can always bring more.

Maternity pads, not sanitary towels

Maternity pads are softer and more absorbent, and are safer on stitches and a healing body than standard sanitary towels.

Front-opening for breastfeeding

If you plan to breastfeed, choose pyjamas or nighties that open down the front, or have a low neckline you can pull down.

Car seat first

Fit and test your car seat before 36 weeks, not after. Many UK hospitals will not discharge you until they have seen baby safely strapped in.

Build your birth plan checklist→ Signs that labour has started→ What to expect after birth→ Your NHS antenatal appointments→

A note from our team

This checklist is based on NHS UK guidance and common experience from UK maternity units. Your hospital may have its own list — always check your maternity notes and ask your midwife if you are unsure. Read more about us.

Frequently asked questions

When should I pack my hospital bag?

Aim to have your bags completely packed by 36 weeks. Start collecting items from around 32 weeks. Babies sometimes arrive before their due date, so it is better to have everything ready to grab and go.

How many maternity pads do I need?

Pack at least 2 full packs. Postnatal bleeding (lochia) is often heavier than a normal period for the first few days. You will need specific maternity pads rather than regular sanitary towels — they are softer and more absorbent, and safer immediately after birth.

Do I need to bring a car seat to hospital?

You do not bring it inside, but you must have a properly fitted car seat in the car before you leave hospital. Most UK hospitals will not let you leave without one. Fit and practice using your car seat well before 36 weeks.

What size babygrows should I pack?

Pack a mix of newborn (Tiny Baby or First Size) and 0-3 months, usually 2 to 3 of each. Some babies arrive small and swim in 0-3 month clothes, while bigger babies jump straight out of newborn size. Keep the tags on spares so you can return unused sizes.

Can my birth partner stay overnight?

Policies vary by hospital. Most UK maternity units allow a partner to stay during labour and for a set number of hours afterwards, but not always overnight on a shared postnatal ward. Check your hospital's policy in advance and pack their bag accordingly.

Your interactive hospital bag checklist