The Ultimate Hospital Bag Packing List
From a Doula Who's Helped 200+ Mamas in Singapore
Doula Jannah
5/7/20252 min read


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