WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR NEWBORN HOSPITAL BAG:AUSTRALIA CHECK LIST UPDATED FOR AUSTRALIAN MUMS IN 2025

Preparing for your baby’s arrival is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to packing your hospital bag. To help you feel calm, ready, and supported, this soft and thoughtful checklist is designed specifically for Australian parents.
Whether you're welcoming your first baby or adding to your family, this guide covers everything you’ll need for a smooth and comfortable hospital stay.

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

Most midwives recommend having your hospital bag ready by 36 weeks, just in case your little one decides to arrive early. Keep it somewhere easy to grab when the moment comes.

Your Essential Hospital Bag Checklist

1. For Mum

Comfortable Clothing

• Loose, breathable pyjamas or a nightie
• Comfortable loungewear
• Warm socks
• A cosy cardigan or robe
• Slippers or easy slide-on shoes

Tip: Hospitals can be cooler than expected — layers help keep you comfortable through the day and night.

Toiletries

• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Hairbrush + ties
• Lip balm (a must during labour)
• Face wipes
• Travel-sized shampoo + conditioner
• Body wash
• Deodorant
• Moisturiser

Labour & Postpartum Essentials

• Maternity pads
• Nursing bras
• Disposable or high-waist postpartum underwear
• Nipple balm
• Heat pack
• Reusable water bottle with a straw
• Snacks for labour (muesli bars, crackers, lollies, bananas)

2. For Baby

Clothing (0–3 outfits per day)
Pack soft, breathable pieces that keep bub comfortable in any hospital climate:

• 2–3 newborn rompers
• 1–2 warm layers (knitted cardigan or jumper)
• Socks or booties
• Newborn beanie

A knitted romper is ideal for those early days — gentle on delicate skin, cosy, and perfect for first photos.

Baby Care Essentials

• Newborn nappies (10–12 per day)
• Baby wipes
• Cotton pads
• Burp cloths
• Swaddle wraps or a warm blanket
• A going-home outfit (choose something cosy, simple, and sweet)

3. Documents & Important Items

• Hospital paperwork
• Medicare card
• Health insurance details (if applicable)
• Birth plan (optional)
• Phone charger
• Camera (if you'd like higher-quality photos)

4. Optional (But Helpful!) Extras

• Your own pillow from home
• Essential oils or a mini diffuser for a calming space
• Bluetooth speaker for your labour playlist
• Extra snacks for your partner
• Long phone charging cables
• A folder for baby’s first documents, prints, and keepsakes

Newborn Hospital Bag Checklist — Quick Copy Version
Mum:

• Pyjamas, robe, socks, slippers
• Toiletries
• Maternity pads, nursing bras, postpartum underwear
• Snacks, water bottle, lip balm

Baby:

• 2–3 rompers
• Warm layer
• Socks, beanie
• Nappies, wipes, swaddles, burp cloths

Documents:

• Medicare card
• Hospital paperwork
• Birth plan
• Chargers + camera

Extras:

• Pillow
• Oils/speaker
• Snacks
• Folder for documents

Pack With Love, Not Pressure

Your baby won’t mind if everything isn’t perfect. Pack what makes you feel nurtured and supported. The most important things you’ll bring into the hospital are your courage, your instincts, and your heart.

For soft, cosy outfits and essentials for bub’s first days, explore our carefully curated newborn pieces https://www.casitabebes.com.au/essentials-collection— each chosen with comfort and gentleness in mind.