Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Baby, Mum and Partner

The final weeks of pregnancy can feel like a waiting game. One of the most useful things you can do during that time is pack your hospital bag, so you are not scrambling when the big day arrives. Many parents aim to have it ready a few weeks before the due date.

This checklist covers what to pack for your baby, for yourself and for your birth partner, plus tips on choosing the right newborn sizes. Always check with your hospital too, as each has its own list of what is provided.

What should I pack for my baby?

• Two or three sleepsuits or rompers for the hospital stay
• One going-home outfit
• A swaddle or two for the journey home
• A hat, mittens and socks (or a sleepsuit with built-in mittens and footies)
• Nappies and wipes, if your hospital does not provide them
• A baby car seat, already fitted in the car

Our baby zip sleepsuits are made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and come with foldable mittens and footies, so there are fewer small pieces to keep track of. A two-way front zip makes night-time changes easier. Our kimono rompers are another simple option for the first days. See our 100% GOTS organic collection.

Hospitals often provide swaddles during your stay, but it is lovely to have your own for the trip home. Our organic swaddles measure 120 cm by 120 cm and can double as a light blanket or stroller cover.

Should I pack newborn or 1-3M sizes?

Babies vary a lot in size at birth, so it helps to pack both. Newborn (NB) sizes fit most babies in the first weeks, while some larger babies go straight into 1-3M.

• Pack two outfits in NB and one or two in 1-3M.
• Check the size chart by your baby's expected weight and height rather than by age alone.
• Remember that babies grow quickly in the first months, so do not buy too many pieces in the smallest size.

Our improved organic zip sleepsuits have been upsized, especially in the NB and 1-3M sizes, to give more room to grow. For measurements, see our size guide.

What should I pack for myself?

• Identity documents, hospital admission papers and any birth plan
• A comfortable, loose outfit to go home in
• Nursing-friendly tops and a nursing bra
• Maternity pads and comfortable underwear
• Toiletries, lip balm and a hair tie
• Slippers and a light cardigan for air-conditioned wards
• Phone charger with a long cable
• Snacks and a refillable water bottle

What should my birth partner bring?

• A change of clothes and basic toiletries
• Snacks and drinks
• Phone, charger and a power bank
• Any parking or transport arrangements sorted in advance

How can I keep the hospital bag organised?

Pack your baby's things separately from your own, so they are easy to find. Small pouches or drawstring bags work well for keeping each outfit together. Our organic swaddles come in a drawstring bag of the same material, which is handy for this. Label a bag for the going-home outfit so it is ready when you need it.

What makes a good gift for expecting parents?

If you are shopping for a friend who is expecting, practical newborn pieces are always appreciated. Our gift sets come in gift boxes, with selected items personalisable by embroidery, and suit baby showers, full-month celebrations and first birthdays. Le Petit Society has been named Best Children's Clothing Brand (Gold) in the HoneyKids Love Local Awards every year since 2021. For ideas, read our newborn baby gift guide for Singapore or browse our baby gift sets.

FAQs

When should I pack my hospital bag?

Many parents pack it a few weeks before the due date. Keep it by the door or in the car once it is ready.

How many baby outfits should I bring?

Two or three outfits for the stay plus one for going home is usually enough. Check what your hospital provides.

Should I pack newborn or 1-3M clothes?

Pack a mix of both, as birth sizes vary. Check the size chart by weight and height.

Can I personalise a baby sleepsuit as a gift?

Yes. Our organic zip sleepsuits are personalisable with an embroidered name or initials. Personalisation takes around 3 to 5 working days, and personalised items are final sale.