Checklist: Hospital Bag Essentials for Mum and Baby

Be fully prepared for your little one’s arrival with Kennedy’s Pharmacy Ballymena

Packing your hospital bag is one of the most exciting steps as you approach your due date—but it can also feel overwhelming. What exactly do you need to take? When should you pack it? And how do you make sure nothing gets left behind?

At Kennedy’s Pharmacy in Ballymena, we’re here to make preparing for baby easier with trusted products and friendly advice. Whether you’re a first-time mum or a seasoned parent, this checklist hospital bag guide will ensure you're ready for the big day.

We've also created a downloadable Hospital Bag Checklist at the bottom of this blog that you can download or print off and check as you pack your bag!

When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?

Most expectant mums aim to have their hospital bag packed by week 36, just in case baby decides to arrive early. If you’re having twins or a planned C-section, consider packing a little earlier.

We recommend preparing two bags: one for labour and one for your postnatal stay. It keeps things organised and makes it easier for your partner or birth partner to grab what you need.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mum

Here are the must-haves for your comfort, recovery, and peace of mind:

• Maternity notes & birth plan

• Comfy nightwear or a loose t-shirt for labour

• Dressing gown & slippers

• Maternity pads & extra underwear

• Nursing bras

• Toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, face wipes, lip balm, dry shampoo

• Snacks & drinks – labour can be long, and hospital cafes might not always be open

• Phone charger

• Lanolin nipple cream – Essential for new mums planning to breastfeed. We recommend Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Nipple Cream (40ml), which helps soothe and protect sore nipples naturally, with no need to wipe off before feeding.

• Sanitary pads – even if you don’t plan to use them, they’re helpful post-birth

• Going-home outfit – choose something loose and comfortable

Check out our full list of items to pack in your hospital bag at the end of this blog. You can save it to your phone, or download it, print it off and check each item off as you pack! 

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby

Your newborn will need a few essentials to keep them warm, clean, and comfortable:

• Vests and babygrows (5–6 of each)

• Nappies (newborn size)

• Cotton wool or sensitive baby wipes

• Blankets

• Hats and scratch mittens

• Muslin cloths

• Baby toiletries – You’ll want gentle and trusted products for baby’s first baths. Try Johnson’s Baby Bath (500ml), a soft and soothing wash that’s been loved by generations of parents.

• Barrier cream – A must-have to prevent nappy rash from day one. We love Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment (40g) for its gentle, effective protection that’s suitable for sensitive skin.

• Going-home outfit

All of these essentials can be found in our dedicated Mother & Baby collection, both online and in-store at Kennedy’s Pharmacy Ballymena.

Check out our full list of items to pack in your hospital bag at the end of this blog. You can save it to your phone, or download it, print it off and check each item off as you pack! 

A Few Bonus Tips

• Pack an extra bag to leave in the car with spares – you never know how long you’ll be staying.

• Don’t forget baby’s car seat – hospitals will usually require you to have one properly fitted before leaving.

• Include a notepad and pen – helpful for jotting down feeding times or questions for the midwife.

Shop Your Hospital Bag Essentials at Kennedy’s Pharmacy

Preparing your hospital bag checklist doesn’t need to be stressful. With high-quality baby and mum essentials from Kennedy’s Pharmacy, you can feel confident and well-prepared for your hospital stay.

We wish you all the best wishes in the world for your upcoming birth!

Checklist Hospital Bag

We've also created a downloadable list that you can print and check off as you pack. See below! (right click then save image as)