Preparing for labour, delivery, and recovery is an exciting yet overwhelming part of pregnancy. One key task you can take care of early is packing your hospital bag. Creating an Essential Packing List for Labour can help ensure that you have everything ready to go, easing stress and making sure you have what you need to stay comfortable and prepared throughout the experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials to pack for labour, delivery, recovery, and beyond. Whether you're a first-time mum or experienced, these tips will help you get organised.

1. Essentials for Labour

Packing for labour starts with thinking about comfort and practicality. Hospitals in New Zealand provide basic necessities, but having your own items can make the experience more comfortable.

Here’s what you’ll want to include:

• Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothes like a cotton nightgown or oversized T-shirt. You’ll want to feel relaxed and have easy movement.
• Snacks and Drinks: Labour can be physically demanding. Pack light, energy-boosting snacks like muesli bars, nuts, or dried fruit. Electrolyte drinks or water will help you stay hydrated.
• Entertainment: Labour can take time, so having something to pass the time like a playlist, book, or magazine can keep your mind occupied.
• Massage Oils and Heat Packs: These can provide relief during labour, especially for back pain or discomfort.

New Zealand hospitals might offer birthing balls or extra pillows, but it’s always good to check with your hospital beforehand.

2. What to Pack for Delivery

The actual delivery can be unpredictable, so having a few essentials on hand will ensure you are ready for anything. Along with practical items, you’ll want to pack things to help you feel more comfortable and prepared to capture those first moments.

Here’s what to include:

• Lip Balm and Toiletries: Hospitals can be dry, so pack lip balm, face wipes, and basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap) to freshen up during and after delivery.
• Hair Ties: Keep hair off your face with some extra hair ties or a headband.
• Camera or Smartphone: Don’t forget your phone charger. Whether it’s for photos, texting updates, or listening to music, keeping your phone powered up is essential.
• Socks and Slippers: Keep warm and comfortable with soft socks or slippers, especially during those cooler New Zealand months.

Some women prefer to bring their own birthing items, like a personal birthing ball or water spray, especially if their hospital doesn’t provide these.

3. Post-Delivery and Recovery Items for Mum

After delivery, comfort is key to your recovery. You’ll want to pack items that help you feel relaxed, support breastfeeding (if that’s your plan), and make your recovery as smooth as possible.

Here’s what you should pack:

• Nursing Bras and Breast Pads: Nursing bras offer easy access for feeding, while breast pads will help absorb any leaks during breastfeeding.
• Loose-Fitting Clothes: Pack comfortable clothes or nightgowns that make it easy to breastfeed and rest. Go for loose, soft fabrics.
• Sanitary Pads: Hospitals usually provide some, but you may want to bring a pack of maternity sanitary pads for extra comfort and coverage.
• Robe and Slippers: A lightweight robe is perfect for those chilly hospital mornings or late-night feedings.
• Snacks and Water: Recovery requires energy, so keep some healthy snacks and a refillable water bottle nearby.
• Pain Relief Items: Cushions, ice packs, or soothing creams can help manage any post-delivery discomfort.

There are several New Zealand-based resources available for postpartum care, including support from midwives and lactation consultants, which can help during recovery.

4. Baby Essentials: What to Bring for Your Newborn

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with packing for your newborn, but you really only need the basics for those first few days. Keep in mind that most hospitals in New Zealand provide a few essentials like nappies, but you should still pack enough to be prepared.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Nappies: Bring a small pack of newborn nappies to ensure your baby has enough.
• Clothing: Pack several onesies, socks, mittens, and hats to keep your baby warm. Remember to bring layers for different temperatures.
• Blankets: Bring swaddle blankets to wrap your baby up snugly, plus a warm blanket for the trip home (especially during New Zealand’s winter months).
• Wipes and Diaper Cream: Keep some baby wipes and diaper cream handy for nappy changes.
• Car Seat: This is a must-have in New Zealand. Make sure the car seat is properly installed before leaving for the hospital.

5. Partner/Support Person Checklist

Your support person plays a key role during labour and delivery, and they’ll need to pack a few things to stay comfortable and helpful during the process.

Here’s a quick list of essentials for your partner:

• Snacks and Drinks: Labour can take hours, so they’ll need some energy too. Pack a few snacks and drinks for them.
• Comfortable Clothing and Toiletries: If they’re staying overnight, a change of clothes and basic toiletries will be essential.
• Camera or Phone: Partners can take photos, manage updates, and help you with entertainment.
• Cash or Card: Parking fees or vending machines are common in hospitals, so make sure they have a payment method on hand.

It’s also important for partners to stay calm and supportive during the entire process, helping both before and after the baby arrives.

6. Packing Tips for a Comfortable Hospital Stay

Packing efficiently can make a world of difference. Divide your bags into sections for labour, delivery, and recovery so you can access things easily. Hospitals in New Zealand typically offer a short stay for vaginal births, around 1-2 days, but if you have a C-section, you may stay longer.

Here’s how to stay organised:

• Separate Bags: Have one bag for labour and delivery, and another for recovery and going home.
• Essentials on Top: Keep your hospital paperwork, phone, and snacks in easy-to-reach pockets.

7. Seasonal Considerations for Packing in New Zealand

New Zealand’s seasons vary greatly, so it’s important to pack with the weather in mind.

For winter deliveries:

• Warm Blankets: Bring extra layers for you and the baby.
• Warm Clothing: Pack thick socks, a cozy robe, and warm clothes for your baby.

For summer deliveries:

• Light Clothing: Breathable, light fabrics will keep you and your baby comfortable.
• Cooling Spray or Fan: If it’s hot, a personal fan or cooling spray can be a lifesaver.

8. Preparing for the Ride Home

After your hospital stay, you’ll want to be prepared for a comfortable trip home for both you and your baby.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Going-Home Clothes for Mum: Choose loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. You’ll want something soft and easy to wear, especially if you’ve had a C-section.
• Warm Clothes for Baby: Dress your baby in layers, including a hat and socks if it’s cold.
• Car Seat: This is required in New Zealand, so make sure it’s installed properly before heading to the hospital.

Be Prepared and Pack Early for Peace of Mind

Packing for labour, delivery, and recovery doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing early and packing in stages, you’ll ensure that you’re ready for each step of the process. Keep the essentials close at hand, stay organised, and adjust your packing for the season. Every labour experience is unique, so feel free to personalise your hospital bag based on your specific needs.

Packing early with BubsKart will give you peace of mind as you approach your due date, leaving you free to focus on what really matters—welcoming your baby into the world.