The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Really Need - By Donna, Antenatal Classes Auckland

Hey mama!

Let’s talk hospital bags. Because if you’re anything like most of the women I teach in my Antenatal Classes, you’ve probably wondered, “What do I actually need to pack for birth?”

There’s a fine line between being prepared... and dragging a small suitcase through the maternity ward for a two-night stay. Let me save you the stress (and the backache) with this ultimate hospital bag checklist!!

Whether you're a first-time mama or a seasoned pro, this list has the must-haves and a few niceties that make all the difference.

👜 1. Pack Like a Pro: Birth Essentials

Let’s start with your needs during labour.

Must-haves:

• Maternity notes (plus your birth plan if you have one)

• Comfy birthing outfit or oversized tee (whatever you feel most YOU in)

• Lip balm (those hospital rooms are dry AF!)

• Hair ties or headband

• Snacks + drinks for energy (think: nuts, bliss balls, coconut water)

• Phone charger with a long cable (outlets are never close)

Optional but lovely:

• TENS machine (if you’re planning to use one)

• Heat pack

• Essential oils or calming scents (if scents help you relax)

• Speaker or playlist ready to go

• I swear by birth combs or birth weapons

💡 Pro tip from my Antenatal Classes Auckland: Birth can be long. The right snacks and tunes can make a huge difference to how you feel.

👶 2. For Baby: Just the Basics

You really don’t need a full baby wardrobe.

Pack:

• 3–4 onesies or baby gowns

• 2–3 singlets

• 1 warm hat + booties

• 1 swaddle or muslin wrap

• Nappies (the hospital will often provide, but check)

• Wipes

• Going-home outfit (keep it soft and weather-appropriate)

• Car seat installed before birth

🤱 A newborn doesn’t need much — just warmth, comfort, and you. Simple is perfect.

🛏️ 3. Post-Birth Comforts for You

This is where most mums say, “I wish I’d packed better!”

Don’t forget:

• 2–3 pairs of comfy pyjamas or nighties (easy for breastfeeding if you plan to)

• Maternity pads (lots of them!)

• Big, dark, high-waisted undies (hello postpartum belly + pad security)

• Nursing bras or crop tops

• Toiletries: toothbrush, deodorant, face wipes, hairbrush, dry shampoo, shower bits

• Flip flops or slippers

• A water bottle

Optional but heavenly:

• Your own towel (hospital ones are... meh)

• Your blanket & pillow (with a coloured pillowcase so it doesn’t get lost)

• Light robe or cardigan for walking the halls or visitors

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 4. Don’t Forget Your Support Person

They need love too! A happier, more comfortable birth partner = better support for you.

Pack for them:

• Snacks + water bottle

• Change of clothes

• Hoodie or jumper (prefrably. zip up on for your golden hour with baby)

• Phone charger

• Toiletries (especially if they’re staying overnight)

• Book or headphones for downtime

In my Antenatal Classes Auckland, I remind partners they’re the birth DJ, snack supplier, massage therapist, and emotional rock. Pack accordingly!

📸 5. Memory Makers (Optional but Lovely)

This isn’t essential, but it’s so special:

• Camera or charged phone for photos

• List of people to text once baby’s born

• Notebook to jot down thoughts or baby’s firsts

• Special item for baby’s first photo (name plaque, handmade blanket, etc.)

Sometimes those first cuddles go by in a blur — and having something meaningful nearby can make it even more unforgettable.

🧼 6. Going To After Care & Home Ready

You’ll need:

• A comfy going-home outfit for you (soft, stretchy, and easy to get on)

• Baby’s outfit + car seat (already installed!)

Hot tip: Don’t bring pre-pregnancy jeans. Trust me. Go for leggings, loose dresses, or joggers — think “Netflix on the couch” energy, not “tight waistband” pressure.

💛 Final Thoughts from Me

At the end of the day, birth is about so much more than what’s in your bag. But being packed and ready can really help ease some of the mental load in the final weeks.

If you’re still feeling unsure or overwhelmed, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

In my Antenatal Classes Auckland, we cover everything from what to pack to how to feel calm and confident through birth and beyond.

Let’s get you prepared — not just your bag, but your mind and body too.

👉 Want to feel birth-ready? Come hang out with me in one of my modern one-day antenatal classes in Auckland — I’d love to support you.

Donna xx

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