Hospital Bag Checklist (Australia): Mum, Baby & Support Person (2025)

I remember standing in front of my half-packed hospital bag at 36 weeks, wondering if I'd forgotten something crucial or packed way too much rubbish I'd never use. The truth? Most of us overthink it. You don't need a suitcase full of "just in case" items—Australian hospitals provide quite a bit, and you'll want to keep things simple when you're exhausted and dealing with a newborn.

This hospital bag checklist Australia guide covers exactly what to pack for hospital birth in Australia for mum, baby, and your support person—plus what you can safely leave at home. I've kept it practical and honest, based on real experience and typical Australian hospital norms.

Quick Checklist: What to Pack

Here's your at-a-glance packing list. I'll break down the details further on, but this gives you the essentials:

For Mum

• Medicare card, private health insurance details, hospital admission paperwork
• Birth plan (if you have one)
• 2–3 comfortable nighties or loose pyjamas that open at the front
• Maternity bras (2–3) and breast pads
• High-waisted, comfortable underwear (disposable or old pairs you don't mind ruining)
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, moisturiser, lip balm, hair ties
• Phone charger and headphones
• Going-home outfit (loose and comfortable)

For Baby

• 3–4 bodysuits in size 0000 and 000
• 2 sets of pants/leggings
• Newborn nappies (small pack for going home / preference)
• 2 wraps or light blankets
• If travelling home by car (including taxi/rideshare): an approved, correctly fitted rear-facing restraint
• Going-home outfit with weather-appropriate layers

For Support Person/Partner

• Snacks and drinks (hospital cafeterias aren't always accessible 24/7)
• Change of clothes
• Phone charger
• Small amount of cash/card for vending machines or parking

Before you start ticking things off, check out the complete baby essentials checklist to make sure you're sorted for everything beyond the hospital stay too.

When to Start Packing Your Hospital Bag

I started packing mine around 34 weeks, which gave me plenty of time to add or remove things without the pressure of early labour looming. Most people aim to have it ready by 36 weeks, especially if you're at higher risk of early labour or expecting multiples.

Why pack early? Labour can start unexpectedly, and scrambling to find your Medicare card or clean baby clothes while having contractions is not ideal. Plus, having it ready eases the mental load during those final, uncomfortable weeks.

That said, don't pack too early (like at 20 weeks). Your needs and preferences might change, and you'll waste energy re-packing. Around 34–36 weeks is the sweet spot—early enough to avoid panic, late enough that you won't second-guess every item.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mum

This is your maternity hospital bag checklist—the things that can make the stay more comfortable and help you feel a bit more human after giving birth.

Essential Documents

• Medicare card: Non-negotiable. You'll need this for admission.
• Private health insurance details: If applicable, bring your membership number and hospital excess info.
• Hospital admission paperwork: Usually sent by your obstetrician or midwife in advance.
• Birth plan: Optional, but if you have preferences (music, lighting, pain relief), bring a printed copy.
• ID (driver's licence or passport): Some hospitals request this during admission.

Clothing

• 2–3 nighties or loose pyjamas: Front-opening styles make feeding easier.
• Maternity or nursing bras (2–3): Comfortable, supportive, no underwire.
• High-waisted underwear: Disposable ones are popular, but old cotton pairs work too. Expect postpartum bleeding.
• Socks and slippers: Hospital floors can be cold, and you'll likely walk around more than you think.
• Loose going-home outfit: Think pregnancy-sized clothes, not your pre-baby wardrobe.

Toiletries

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
• Moisturiser (hospitals can be dry)
• Lip balm (labour can dry your lips out)
• Hair ties and a brush or comb
• Gentle body wash or soap (optional—hospitals often provide basic soap)
• Shampoo and conditioner (optional)

I skipped makeup entirely, and I'm glad I did. No one cares, and you'll be too tired anyway.

Postpartum Recovery Basics

• Maternity pads: Hospitals often provide these, but some mums prefer their own brand. Pack a few just in case.
• Breast pads: Leaking happens. Disposable or washable—your choice.
• Nipple cream: If breastfeeding leaves you sore, having a basic nipple cream can help. Some hospitals provide samples, but not always.

Comfort Items

• Phone charger: Essential. Labour can be long, and you'll want to update family or distract yourself.
• Headphones: For music, podcasts, or blocking out noise when you're trying to rest.
• Pillow from home: Optional. Use a brightly coloured pillowcase so it doesn't get mixed up.

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby (Australian Government initiative) has a helpful overview on going to hospital to have your baby, including reminders to check your hospital's own list.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

Here's your hospital bag checklist for baby. Newborns don't need much, and many hospitals provide basics during your stay. What’s provided varies, so always confirm with your hospital—especially if you're public vs private, or your hospital has specific policies.

Clothing

• 3–4 bodysuits (size 0000 and 000): Pack both sizes to be safe.
• 2 sets of pants or leggings: Soft, stretchy, easy to change.
• 1–2 cardigans or jumpers: Even in summer, air-conditioning can be chilly.
• 2 hats: Hospitals may provide one, but having your own is handy.
• Going-home outfit: Weather-appropriate layers.

Nappies and Wipes

• Newborn nappies (small pack): Often not essential for the whole stay, but useful for going home or preference.
• Wipes or cotton wool: Some parents prefer water + cotton wool early on.

Blankets and Wraps

• 2 muslin wraps or light blankets: Useful for swaddling, burping, or covering baby in the car seat.

Car Seat / Restraint

If you’re travelling home by car (including taxi/rideshare), you’ll need an approved, correctly fitted rear-facing restraint. Install it before labour starts so you’re not figuring out straps and anchors while sleep-deprived. The Raising Children Network explains car restraints and baby seats for Australian families.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Partner or Support Person

Your partner or support person needs their own mini kit. Hospitals don't always provide meals or comfort items for them, so pack accordingly. This is your hospital bag checklist for partner essentials.

• Snacks and drinks: Labour can take hours (or longer). Pack non-perishable snacks—muesli bars, nuts, crackers.
• Change of clothes: At least one fresh outfit.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant.
• Phone charger: They’ll be updating family and taking photos.
• Small pillow or travel pillow: Optional, but helpful if they’re sleeping on a chair.
• Cash or card: For parking, vending machines, or grabbing food.
• Entertainment: Book, tablet, or headphones—there’s often a lot of waiting.

My partner was so grateful for the snacks. Hospital vending machines have limited options, and buying overpriced chips at 2am isn't fun.

What NOT to Pack (Common Overpacking Mistakes)

Some hospital bag lists online go overboard. Here's what you can confidently leave at home in most cases:

• Towels: Hospitals usually provide these. They’re not luxury spa towels, but they do the job.
• Nappies (bulk boxes): Many hospitals supply nappies—bring a small pack for going home or preference.
• Formula (unless advised): If you need formula, hospitals can supply it. Confirm with your midwife/obstetrician and your hospital’s policy.
• Baby bath products: You won’t need a full bath routine in hospital.
• Strong scents / diffusers / candles: Many hospitals have strict rules for safety and allergies.
• Multiple going-home outfits: One is enough. You’ll both be tired.
• Valuables or jewellery: Leave expensive items at home.
• Laptop: Rarely used.

When planning what to pack for hospital birth Australia, remember: less is more. You're not moving in—you're staying a short time.

Printable Packing List

Here's a simplified birth hospital bag packing list you can print and tick off:

For Mum:

• ☐ Medicare card, insurance details, hospital paperwork, ID
• ☐ 2–3 front-opening nighties or pyjamas
• ☐ 2–3 nursing bras, breast pads
• ☐ High-waisted underwear (disposable or old pairs)
• ☐ Maternity pads (a few), nipple cream
• ☐ Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, moisturiser, lip balm, hair ties
• ☐ Phone charger, headphones
• ☐ Socks, slippers
• ☐ Loose going-home outfit

For Baby:

• ☐ 3–4 bodysuits (size 0000 and 000)
• ☐ 2 sets of pants/leggings
• ☐ 1–2 cardigans or jumpers
• ☐ 2 hats
• ☐ Newborn nappies (small pack)
• ☐ 2 muslin wraps or light blankets
• ☐ Going-home outfit
• ☐ If travelling by car: fitted rear-facing restraint installed

For Partner/Support Person:

• ☐ Snacks and drinks
• ☐ Change of clothes
• ☐ Toiletries
• ☐ Phone charger
• ☐ Cash or card
• ☐ Pillow (optional)

Australian Hospital Reality: Policies Vary

Every Australian hospital operates a bit differently. Public hospitals often provide more supplies (nappies, pads, basic toiletries) than private hospitals, but it varies by state and facility. Some hospitals encourage you to bring your own nappies and wipes; others have plenty available.

Always check your specific hospital's packing list. Most provide it during antenatal classes, by email, or on their website. If you haven't received one by 34 weeks, call the maternity ward and ask.

Also ask about partner/support person accommodations. Some hospitals provide a recliner or fold-out chair; others have restrictions on overnight stays outside of labour. Knowing this helps you pack appropriately.

Healthdirect has a solid hub of Australian information on pregnancy and birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should I pack for?

Pack for 2–3 days. Many hospitals discharge mums and babies within a few days for uncomplicated births. If you stay longer, your partner can bring extra items from home.

Should I pack two bags or one?

One medium-sized bag works for most families. If you prefer, keep a small “labour pouch” (documents, charger, snacks) at the top of your bag so it’s easy to grab.

Do I need to bring my own maternity pads?

Hospitals often provide maternity pads, but if you have a preferred brand or sensitive skin, bring your own. Having a few with you can also help if supplies are limited.

Can my partner stay overnight?

It depends on your hospital. Some allow overnight stays; some don’t outside of labour. Check your hospital policy and pack accordingly.

What size baby clothes should I pack?

Bring both size 0000 and 000. Babies vary, and having both avoids the stress of clothes being too small or too big.

Do I need to bring formula?

Only if advised by your healthcare provider or your hospital specifically requests it. Hospitals can supply formula if needed. Discuss feeding plans with your midwife or obstetrician.

Should I pack nappies for the hospital stay?

Many hospitals provide newborn nappies, but bringing a small pack for going home or personal preference is reasonable. Avoid bulk boxes.

When should I install the car seat?

Install it 1–2 weeks before your due date so you have time to adjust straps and check the fit. If you’re unsure, consider a professional fitting/check through local services available in your area.

Final Thoughts

Packing your hospital bag doesn't need to be stressful. Focus on the essentials—documents, comfortable clothes, basic toiletries, and a few items for baby. Australian hospitals are well-equipped, so you don't need to bring half your house. Confirm your hospital's specific list, pack light, and breathe.

For everything else you'll need once you're home with your newborn, check out the full baby essentials checklist for Australia—it covers gear, nursery items, and those first-week survival basics.

Not medical advice: This article provides general information about packing for hospital birth in Australia. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and your hospital's recommended packing list.

Last reviewed: December 2025