Hospital bag checklist (UK): for you, your baby and your birth partner

The NHS suggests packing your hospital bag at least 3 weeks before your due date, because only 1 in 20 babies arrive on their due date (NHS Best Start in Life). Pack three sets of things: your own bag (notes, comfortable clothes, maternity pads, snacks), a bag for your baby (vests, sleepsuits, nappies, a going-home outfit and the car seat) and a small bag for your birth partner.

The lists below follow the NHS hospital bag checklist, with a few practical additions so both parents know where everything is and what to do when it's time to go. Your hospital or birth centre may have its own list, so check with your midwife too.

Last updated: 20 October 2026 · Based on NHS guidance

Your bag

Your baby's bag

Your birth partner's bag

When labour starts: who does what

Agree this together a few weeks before your due date, so nobody has to remember it in the moment:

Maternity unit or triage phone number saved in both phones
Who drives, and a back-up plan (taxi number, a friend on standby)
Where the bags and car seat are kept
Who looks after older children or pets, with their number written down
Who updates family, and when
Parking: where to park and how to pay

FAQs

When should I pack my hospital bag?

The NHS suggests having it packed at least 3 weeks before your due date, in case your baby arrives early (NHS).

What do I need to pack for my baby?

Bodysuits, vests and sleepsuits, a going-home outfit, a hat, scratch mittens and socks, nappies, cotton wool or wipes, muslins, a blanket and a car seat for the trip home (NHS).

What should my birth partner pack?

A change of clothes, toiletries, phone and charger, snacks and drinks, any medicines, swimwear if they'll get in a birth pool, and change for parking and vending machines (NHS).

Do I need a hospital bag for a home birth?

It's still worth packing one in case you need to transfer to hospital. Ask your midwife what they recommend having ready at home.

Does my hospital have its own list?

Some do. Ask your midwife or check your maternity unit's website, as some units provide items such as nappies or have rules about what you can bring.

Every pregnancy is different. If you have questions about your birth plan or what to bring, check with your midwife, health visitor or GP.

Plan it in ParentDeck — start free

ParentDeck is a shared family organiser for both parents, so the hospital bag isn't just in one person's head:

Shared packing lists: copy this checklist into a shared list and tick items off together, from either phone.
Birth plan and to-buy list: keep your birth plan and baby shopping list where both of you can see them.
Schedule: add midwife appointments and your due date to one shared calendar.
Caregiver Pass: send grandparents or a friend the details they need to look after older children while you're at the hospital.

Start free

Want more? ParentDeck Pro is available as an upgrade.

Sources

NHS Best Start in Life. Hospital bag checklist.

ParentDeck guides are written to be practical, not medical advice. For health questions, speak to your health visitor, midwife or GP.