As the big day approaches, it's essential to prepare a well-organised hospital pack list to make your stay more comfortable and stress-free. In partnership with Babycenter.com.au, we've compiled a comprehensive packing list for expectant mothers, their birth partners, and their newborns. Don't forget to check out Darby and Co's wide range of baby essentials to make your transition into parenthood as smooth as possible.
For the Expectant Mother
Important Documents
Bring your Medicare card, health insurance details (if applicable), hospital paperwork, birth plan, and maternity notes or antenatal card.
Clothing
Pack an old nightdress or large t-shirt for labor, a dressing gown, backless slippers or thongs, and socks to keep your feet warm during labor. Check out our collection of baby clothing for more options.
Comfort Items
Consider massage oil or lotion, a birth ball, heat packs, and a TENS pain relief machine for extra support and pain management.
Entertainment
Bring books, magazines, games, knitting, or a tablet to pass the time, as well as lip balm, glasses or contact lenses, and hair accessories.
Food and Drink
Pack snacks and drinks for energy and hydration, including carb-rich snacks, mints, and isotonic sports drinks.
Post-Birth Essentials
Prepare nursing bras, breast pads, nipple cream, maternity pads, nightshirts, toiletries, and comfortable clothes for the journey home. Browse our best-sellers for more inspiration.
For the Birth Partner
Comfort Items
Include water spray, a handheld fan, comfortable shoes, and a change of clothes to stay fresh during labor.
Practical Items
Bring bendy straws, swimwear (if allowed by the hospital), a mobile phone, charger, digital camera, address book, and snacks and drinks to stay energized.
For the Car
Pack spare change for parking and vending machines.
For the Newborn
Clothing
Prepare two or three wraps and vests, socks, booties, mittens, a hat, and a going-home outfit. Find a variety of baby wraps and blankets to choose from.
Essentials
Bring a baby blanket, disposable or reusable nappies, wipes or cotton wool, muslin squares or burp cloths, and an infant car seat.
Extras
Consider gifts for older siblings and a jacket or cardigan for added warmth when leaving the hospital.
Before bringing your baby home, stock up on essentials like Haakaa products for breastfeeding and a Snuggle Me lounger for a safe and comfortable place to put your baby down.
Explore our wide range of baby products, from baby blankets to hospital travel bags, at Darby and Co to make your parenting journey a breeze.