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What to take to hospital - checklist

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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.


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Last reviewed: May 2022


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