The Ultimate Hospital Bag Packing List

Hey lovely mama,

If you're reading this, you’re probably counting down the weeks (or days!) until you meet your baby—and I’m so excited for you!

One question I get all the time as a doula in Singapore is:
"When should I pack my hospital bag?"

Here’s my honest answer:
👉 Between Week 34 and Week 36 is ideal.
You’ll still have the energy to get organised, and you won’t be caught off guard if baby decides to surprise you a little early.

Some mamas like to pack two bags: one for labour, one for post-birth recovery. Others keep everything together in one medium-sized suitcase. Do what works for you, but keep it simple, light, and focused on comfort and calm.

Now let’s dive into the list—tried, tested, and lovingly curated from supporting over 200 births right here in our Singapore hospitals. 💕

What to Pack for Yourself (the birthing queen)

1. Important Documents

• NRIC

• Hospital admission forms

• Doctor’s letters or maternity notes

• your printed BIRTH PLAN!

2. Comfortable Clothes

• 2–3 nursing-friendly nightgowns or pyjamas or even an abaya

• Lightweight robe or cardigan (you might get cold)

• Non-slip socks or slippers

• Going-home outfit (loose and comfy, please!)

3. Toiletries & Comforts

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, facial wash, deodorant

• Lip balm

• Hair ties or clips

• Small towel or face cloth

• Essential oils (lavender, clary sage, peppermint—your favourite) & diffuser

• Massage tool or tennis ball

• anything else that helps to calm you (like your "bantal busuk", etc)

4. Birth Support Items

• your printed birth plan!

• Snacks (dates, energy balls, energy bars)

• Water/isotonic drinks (best if they're not fizzy)

• Reusable straw or water bottle

• Heat/cold packs

• TENS machine (optional)

5. Tech

• Phone + charger + extra-long cable

• Earphones / Bluetooth speaker

• Power bank

• a playlist of music/prayers/calming sounds or even birth affirmations (hopefully, you are already listening to these sounds, so your body remembers to stay relax when listening to these sounds)

What to Pack for Your Birth Partner

(Yes, they need their own mini survival kit!)

• Change of clothes

• a sweater/jacket (as it can get cold in the delivery suite!)

• Toiletries (toothbrush, face wash)

• Easy snacks & water bottle

• Phone charger

• Copy of your birth preferences

What to Pack for Baby

(Hospitals provide some basics, but bring these for comfort + photos!)

1. Clothing

• 2–3 onesies

• Going-home outfit (and a hat if you like!)

• Swaddle or receiving blanket

2. Diapers & Wipes

• A few newborn-sized diapers

• Travel-size wipes

3. Optional Baby Toiletries

• Diaper cream

• Baby mittens & booties

❤️ My Doula’s Heartfelt Tip

Don’t just pack things—pack intention. Fold those onesies with love. Pop in a little affirmation card or du'a/prayer. Put your lip balm in a pouch with the thought, “This will comfort me.”

Labour isn’t just a medical event. It’s a sacred transition. And you, dear Mama, are walking the threshold between worlds. You're not just packing for a hospital stay—you’re packing for a transformational moment. Birth is powerful. You are powerful. This bag is your gentle reminder of that truth.

And when you walk into that hospital room, know this:

You are not alone.
You are strong.
You are ready.

With love and doula hugs,
Jannah, your Doula