In this guide, we’ve compiled the Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist that covers everything you, your baby, and your support person will need during your hospital stay. We've also included links to some of our fave Australian brands too!
You can also download a FREE Printable Hospital Bag Packing List here.
Hospital Bag Essentials for Labour
My first tip is to pack a separate smaller bag for the things you need in labour, and then a bigger bag for the rest of your stay. Just bring what you need for labour into the birthing suite, and keep your bigger luggage bag for when you are moved to your hospital room!
So, first up, here’s what to include in your labour bag:
- Loose comfortable clothes
- Extra socks and underwear
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Swim top: Particularly if planning to use the bath/shower for pain relief
- Dressing gown
- Slippers or non-slip socks
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Change of clothes for after birth: You'll get to take a lovely warm shower after the delivery, and change into a fresh pair of clothes!
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Snacks: Pack high-energy snacks like jelly beans, nut bars, or dried fruit. My top pick? Franjo's Kitchen lactation cookies—delicious and nutritious, plus containing ingredients that can help support a healthy milk supply.
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Water bottle (with straw): A water bottle with a straw that you can open one-handed. Franjo's Kitchen Motherhood Hydration Powder can also make for a yummy and refreshing option.
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Phone and charger: One of the best tips I received was to pack an extra long charging cable!
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Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, moisturiser, comb, and hair ties. My personal fave brand for busy time-poor mums is Cinch Skincare, simple and super hydrating skincare.
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Pain management aids: Heat packs, TENS machines, essential oils, and calming music can all help manage pain during labour.
Hospital Bag Checklist for Your Postpartum Stay
After delivery, comfort is key as you bond with your newborn. Here’s what to pack for your postpartum hospital stay:
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Postpartum compression leggings: It is recommended to wear compression as soon as possible in the days after giving birth. Compression garments provide support to your abdomen, reduce swelling, and improve circulation. They can also help support the healing process after a C-section by protecting the incision site and reducing pain. Mama Movement's Postpartum Leggings Range feature an extra high and stretchy waistband that is perfect for postpartum recovery.
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Comfortable pyjamas: My personal fave is a button up pyjama set which is then also nursing-friendly. Check out Jade & May for beautiful sets made from natural fibres.
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Warm jumpers or cardigans: Hospitals can be chilly, so bring layers. If planning to breastfeed, check out these Mama Movement Nursing Jumpers with zip access.
- High-waist full brief underwear
- Socks and slip-on shoes/slippers
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Going home outfit: Choose something practical and comfortable that you'll feel good wearing for your discharge day. And take ALL the photos!
- Maternity pads
- Nursing bras & breast pads
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More snacks: Hospital food can be... a little bit basic, and breastfeeding can make you hungry! Bring something yummy you'll love, and enjoy together with The Breastfeeding Tea Co’s herbal teas to support milk production and stay hydrated.
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Nipple cream/silverettes: MooGoo's nipple balm is a top choice, and is made from all-natural ingredients.
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Lip balm and moisturiser: Hospital air can be drying, so keep your lips and skin moisturised. We LOVE Cinch Skincare's Spray + Glow Hydration moisturiser!
- Peri bottle
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Wet bags: Handy for storing soiled clothes. Or pack a bag with a built-in wet section like our Mama Movement Weekender Bags.
- Deodorant
Baby Essentials for the Hospital
Honestly babies don't need much especially in those early days! Here’s what to pack:
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Blankets and swaddles/muslins:My favourite swaddle wrap is from Halcyon Nights which has the perfect amount of stretch.
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Newborn nappies: Newborns go through approximately 8-12 nappies a day. Comfy Koalas nappies are an eco-friendly option that’s gentle on your baby’s skin and the environment.
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Baby wipes: Gentle and fragrance-free for sensitive newborn skin like these bamboo ones at Comfy Koalas.
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Nappy cream: We recommend MooGoo for their incredible range of baby skincare with all-natural ingredients.
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Baby clothes: For easy nappy changes, pack two-way zipsuits and body suits with snaps. We absolutely LOVE the cute and colourful options at Halcyon Nights.
- Going home outfit
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Bottles & formula: Only if planning to bottle feed. If planning to breastfeed, don't worry about packing them "just in case" as these are easily available at any supermarket or chemist.
- Installed car seat
Essentials for Your Support Person
Don’t forget to pack a few things for your support person, who plays a crucial role during labour and postpartum:
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Snacks & drinks: Yes, make sure to pack enough for both of you!
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Phone and charger: Remember to have a chat before hand about what you want them to film and document during the birth experience.
- Change of clothes
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Swimwear: If they’ll be assisting you in the bath or shower
- Toiletries
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Any paperwork: Put your support person in charge of important documents like your Medicare card, insurance details, and birth plan.
You can also download this FREE Printable Hospital Bag Packing List here.
This checklist is designed to help you feel confident that you’ve got everything you need for a smooth, comfortable, and memorable hospital stay. But remember, every birth story is different, and so is every mama’s journey.
At the end of the day, what really matters is that you feel supported, comfortable, and ready to welcome your little one into the world. So, while we’ve packed this guide with all the essentials, don’t forget to add those personal touches that bring you comfort and joy—whether it’s your favourite snack, that playlist you love, announcement cards or a special keepsake.
And if you’re still on the lookout for the perfect hospital bag, our Mama Movement Weekender Bags are here to help. Spacious, vibrant, and ready for the adventure ahead, they’re the perfect companion to carry all your essentials (and a little bit of joy) into this new chapter. And you can also shop our award-winning Postpartum Compression Tights here!
Happy packing, Mama! We can’t wait to be a part of your beautiful journey.
