✅ Essentials Checklist
- Maternity notes (your NHS records — essential)
- Birth plan (printed copies)
- Photo ID and NHS number
- Phone, charger and power bank
- Dressing gown — long stays mean lots of corridor walking
- Non-slip slippers or flip-flops for the ward
- Lip balm (gas and air dries lips significantly)
- Water bottle with straw (easier during labour)
- Snacks for labour and the ward
- Nightwear that opens at the front (for breastfeeding)
- Maternity pads × 20 minimum (hospital provides few)
- Breast pads
- Toiletries — shower gel, shampoo, toothbrush
- Clean clothes to come home in (loose and comfortable)
👕 Clothing Checklist
- Nightwear that opens at the front (front-opening nightdress or pyjamas)
- Old, dark-coloured underwear or disposable briefs
- Comfortable, loose clothes to come home in
- Non-slip slippers
- Dressing gown
- Warm socks
⭐ Nice to Have
- TENS machine for early labour pain relief
- Cooling face spray
- Massage oil or roller for back pain
- Eye mask and ear plugs (wards are noisy at night)
- Portable speaker for music
- Going-home outfit for baby (0–3 months size)
- Baby blanket
- Car seat (fitted and checked before hospital)
- Nursing bra (sized after milk comes in — buy in late pregnancy)
- Nipple cream
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I pack my hospital bag in the UK?
Most UK midwives recommend having your bag packed by 36 weeks. Premature labour can happen at any time from 37 weeks, and you don't want to be packing in early labour. Having it ready gives you peace of mind in the final weeks.
Do UK NHS hospitals provide nappies and formula?
Most NHS hospitals provide nappies for the first day or two and have formula available if needed, but stock varies by ward. Bring your own nappies (newborn size), cotton wool and a baby blanket to be safe. Don't rely on the hospital having your preferred formula brand.
How many maternity pads do I need in my hospital bag?
Pack at least 20 for your hospital stay. NHS hospitals provide very few and many women are surprised by how many they get through in the first 48 hours. Pack more than you think you'll need and leave the rest at home for when you come back.