What to Pack in Your Birth Bag (And What You Don’t Need)

Packing your birth bag is often one of those moments where it all starts to feel very real.

You might find yourself wondering…

Have I packed enough? Too much? What do I actually need?

And it’s so easy to fall into the trap of overpacking - just in case.

The truth is, you don’t need as much as you think.

This blog will guide you through what’s genuinely helpful to have in your birth bag, what often goes unused, and how to pack in a way that helps you feel calm, prepared and in control.

First Things First: Your Birth Environment Matters

Before we get into the list, it’s important to remember:

Your birth bag isn’t just about “things” - it’s about how those things support your environment. Feeling comfortable, safe and relaxed plays a huge role in how your body responds during labour.

So rather than packing everything you might need, focus on what will help you feel:

• Calm

• Comfortable

• Supported

Creating a Calm Space

This is often overlooked, but so important.

Think about what helps you relax:

• A playlist or calming music

• Headphones

• A familiar pillow or blanket

• Essential oils (if you plan to use them)

These small things can make a big difference to how you feel in the space.

Essentials for Your Birth Bag (During Labour)

These are the things I see make the biggest difference:

• Comfortable, loose clothing (or something you feel good in)

• A long phone charger (hospital plugs are never where you need them!)

• Snacks and drinks (for both you and your birth partner)

• Lip balm (labour can be surprisingly dehydrating)

• Hair ties / clips

• A water bottle with a straw (so much easier during labour)

• Non-medicalised pain relief options (birth comb, birth orbs, TENS machine etc)

Essential For Baby Birth Bag

You really don’t need much:

• A couple of baby grows

• A hat

• Nappies and wipes

• A blanket

For After Birth

Once baby has arrived, you’ll want to feel as comfortable as possible:

• Comfortable clothes

• Maternity pads

• Toiletries

• Snacks (again - very important!)

What You Probably Don’t Need

This is where so many bags become overpacked. You likely won’t need:

• Multiple outfit changes

• Full makeup bags

• Too many “just in case” items

• Large amounts of baby clothes

Keep it simple. Less really is more.

A few helpful tips:

1. Pack each baby outfit into a separate zip-lock bag, including everything needed for that change - vest, babygrow and hat if needed.

   This makes things SO much easier after birth, especially when you’re tired and adjusting to your new baby.

2. Let Your Birth Partner Pack the Bag

   This is something I always recommend. It might feel natural for you to pack everything, but having your birth partner involved means they know exactly where things are when you need them. During labour and those first moments after baby arrives, you won’t want to be directing or searching - and this helps everything feel calmer and more seamless.

3. Keep “Just in Case” Items in the Car

   If you’re unsure about a few extras, pack them - but leave them in the car. That way, you have what you need if plans change, without feeling like you’re heading off on holiday for a week. Keeping your main bag simple helps you stay focused and calm.

A Final Thought

Packing your birth bag isn’t about being perfectly prepared for every possible scenario. It’s about giving yourself a sense of calm and readiness. When you understand how birth works and feel confident in your choices, what’s in your bag becomes far less important.

If You’d Like More Support

If you’d like personalised support as you prepare for birth, I offer private 1:1 antenatal sessions designed to help you feel calm, informed and confident - whatever path your birth takes. You can find more information on my courses or book a relaxed connection call here.