Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Labour in Scotland
- Joy
- May 18
- 3 min read
Help! What should I pack in my hospital bag for labour?
It’s one of the most common questions I hear in my antenatal classes in West Lothian, so here’s a practical guide - with insights from real parents I’ve worked with.
Packing a hospital bag is a bit like packing for a holiday: it’s personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all list. Think of this as a starting point and adapt it to your needs.
Tip: Pack your bag at least two weeks before your due date. Even if you’re planning a home birth, have a “transfer bag” ready in case you need to go into hospital.
Birth Partners: This Bit’s For You
Birth partners, listen up! You’ll often be the one rummaging through the bag in the middle of labour, so get involved with packing it. Even better, do it together so you both know where things are.
What to consider:
Clothing: Labour wards are warm. Bring a change of clothes (t-shirt, shorts).
Essentials: Snacks, drinks, toiletries, medication. You can’t support well if you’re hungry, hot, or uncomfortable.
Your own “go-bag”: A small bag with your bits makes life easier.
Top Tip: Looking after yourself means you’ll be better able to look after mum.
Entertainment & Distractions
Sometimes labour (or waiting for induction/caesarean) takes longer than expected. Having something to distract you can make a big difference.
Ideas for your bag:
A book, magazine, or Kindle
Movies or podcasts on your phone/tablet
Headphones (handy for zoning out too)
Cards or a small game
For birth partners: if mum is resting after pain relief, this is your chance to keep yourself calm and focused.
St Johns Hospital, Livingston, West Lothian.
Personal Comfort During Labour
Labour wards are warm, and birth can be messy - so think lightweight, loose, and nothing too precious.
Useful things to pack:
Oversized t-shirt, nightshirt, or hospital gown
Bra + floaty skirt, or tankini/bikini for water births
Comfy socks/slippers with grips
Hair ties, glasses (often easier than contacts)
Lip balm + toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant, moisturiser)
Snacks + drinks (bring straws for easy sipping)
Your own towel if using water (avoid white – all hospital laundry is white)
Enhancing Your Environment
Oxytocin (the labour hormone) loves privacy, comfort, and calm. A few home comforts can help you feel safer and more relaxed.
Consider packing:
Your own pillow/blanket (avoid white)
Affirmations or hypnobirthing anchors
Your own birth ball (pumped how you like it)
Postnatal Ward Essentials
If all goes smoothly, your stay may be 24–48 hours. If it’s longer, your partner can always bring extras. A “spares pile” at home is a lifesaver.
What helps on the ward:
PJs or lightweight day clothes with elasticated waists
Nursing-friendly tops if breastfeeding
Dressing gown/hoodie for layering
Slippers or flip-flops for showers
Maternity bras + breast pads
Big comfy underwear (“granny pants” one or two sizes up)
Maternity sanitary pads
Towel + toiletries
Snacks, chargers, earplugs or headphones
Top Tip: Many mums notice swelling in feet/hands after birth - slip-on shoes can be more comfortable.
Baby Essentials
Hospitals usually provide basics, but it’s handy to have your own.
Pack for your baby:
Nappies (newborn size)
Cotton wool balls for cleaning
Formula if needed (though hospitals can provide)
Hat + blanket
6 vests + 6 babygrows (a mix of newborn and 0–3 months)
Muslin squares (your new best friend)
Seasonal extras (snowsuit/hat if winter)
Car seat (keep in the car until discharge)
Final Thoughts
When you first arrive, you only need essentials for labour, birth, and the first few hours with baby. Your partner can bring the rest later once you’re settled on the postnatal ward.
Most importantly, pack what makes you feel prepared and supported. Everyone’s hospital bag looks different and that’s okay.
Want more than just a checklist? We cover hospital prep, birth options, partner support, and postnatal life in my antenatal classes in Linlithgow, supporting families across West Lothian, Edinburgh, Falkirk and Central Scotland.
Comments