Birth bag checklist

If you are having your baby in a hospital or birthing centre, use this handy checklist to make sure you have everything you might need.

Paperwork

• Medicare card
• Hospital paperwork
• Antenatal card
• Birth plan (if you have one)
• Insurance details (if you have it)

General

• Music
• Camera
• Phone
• iPad/tablet
• Chargers
• Books and magazines
• Snacks and drinks
• Cash
• Headphones
• Eye mask and ear plugs

Mum

• Going home clothes
• Old t-shirt for labour
• Loose, comfortable clothing
• Supportive bras (maternity bra)
• Slippers
• Thongs
• Socks
• Sleepwear
• Dressing gown
• Warm jumper or cardigan
• Cheap or disposable underwear
• Maternity sanitary pads
• Button-up shirt for breastfeeding
• Breastfeeding pads
• Hairband and hairbrush
• Massage cream or oil
• Lip balm
• Makeup (if you wish)
• Shower essentials
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Glasses or contact lenses

Partner

• Change of clothes
• Swimwear
• Toiletries
• Pillow

Baby

• Nappies (8-10 per day)
• Baby blanket
• Baby wipes
• Baby clothes
• Onesie
• Hat
• Booties or socks

Things to remember

• Check with the hospital or birthing centre what you need to bring.
• Find out about visitors' waiting hours and waiting rooms.
• Make sure the car seat is properly fitted.
• If you have other children, have a plan for who will be looking after them and when they will come to visit.
• If you have pets, make sure you have someone on standby to look after them.