The third trimester has a way of making everything feel urgent — and packing your hospital bag is one of those tasks that's easy to keep putting off until suddenly, it's time. Whether you're planning a natural birth or a C-section, at KKH, NUH, TMC, or Mount Alvernia, this checklist will make sure you're not scrambling at 3am.
We've broken it down by who it's for, so you can pack in stages without feeling overwhelmed.
When Should You Pack?
Most Singapore obstetricians recommend having your bag ready by Week 36. If you're carrying multiples or have been flagged for any risk factors, aim for Week 34. Babies have their own schedules — it's better to be early.
For Mum: During Labour
- Birth plan (printed copies for your partner and the ward team)
- NRIC / passport and hospital pre-registration documents
- Insurance card and Medisave details
- Maternity notes / antenatal records
- Phone charger and portable power bank
- Lip balm (breathing exercises dry your lips out fast)
- Hair ties and a headband
- Light snacks for your birth partner
- A comfortable, loose robe or button-front nightgown (for skin-to-skin access)
- Slippers or non-slip socks
- Earphones and a labour playlist or meditation app
For Mum: Postpartum Stay
Singapore hospitals typically have a 2–3 day stay for natural births and 3–4 days for C-sections. Pack accordingly.
- 2–3 button-front or nursing nightgowns (front-opening is essential for breastfeeding)
- Nursing bras (2–3, sized up from your current bra size)
- Disposable maternity underwear or high-waisted cotton briefs (pack more than you think you need)
- Maternity pads (heavy flow — hospital-grade if possible; pack at least 2 packs)
- Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, gentle body wash, moisturiser
- Dry shampoo (a lifesaver when showering feels impossible)
- Nipple cream (lanolin-based; start using from day 1)
- Breast pads (disposable for the hospital stay)
- Comfortable going-home outfit (think: loose, stretchy, nothing with a waistband)
- Pillow from home (optional but many mums swear by it)
- Confinement food or snacks if your hospital doesn't provide meals you enjoy
For Baby
Most Singapore hospitals provide basic newborn essentials (nappies, wipes, a basic onesie) during your stay, but you'll want to bring your own for the journey home and the first few days.
- 2–3 newborn onesies or rompers — opt for soft, breathable fabrics like bamboo or organic cotton; avoid anything with rough seams or synthetic materials against newborn skin
- 2–3 swaddles — muslin or bamboo swaddles are ideal for Singapore's climate; large enough to wrap securely (120cm x 120cm minimum)
- 1–2 pairs of scratch mittens
- 1–2 pairs of newborn socks
- A going-home outfit (something soft and easy to put on — envelope necklines are your friend)
- Infant car seat (mandatory for the drive home; hospitals will not allow you to leave without one)
- Nappy bag stocked with: nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, a wet bag
For Your Birth Partner
- Change of clothes (labour can be long)
- Snacks and drinks (hospital cafeterias have limited hours)
- Phone charger
- Cash and card (for parking, vending machines, and food)
- A book, tablet, or downloaded shows for the waiting stretches
- Comfortable shoes (they'll be on their feet a lot)
What You Don't Need to Pack
Singapore hospitals are well-equipped. You can safely leave these at home:
- Towels (provided by the hospital)
- Baby bath products (not needed for the first few days)
- A full wardrobe of baby clothes (you'll be home before you know it)
- A baby monitor (not needed in the hospital room)
A Note on What Baby Wears in the First Days
Newborn skin is extraordinarily sensitive — it's still developing its barrier function and is prone to dryness, rashes, and irritation. The fabric your baby wears in those first days matters more than most parents realise.
We recommend choosing OEKO-TEX certified bamboo or organic cotton for your baby's first outfits. These fabrics are free from harmful chemicals, naturally soft against delicate skin, and breathable enough for Singapore's climate — whether you're in the aircon ward or heading home in the heat.
Our newborn rompers and swaddles are designed with exactly this in mind: gentle on sensitive skin, easy to put on (no fiddly buttons at 3am), and beautiful enough to be your baby's first photos.
Shop newborn essentials from Bubs & Sprouts →
Download & Print
Save this page to your phone or share it with your partner so you can check things off together. The best hospital bag is the one that's already packed — so start now, even if it's just one section at a time.
Wishing you a smooth delivery and a beautiful first meeting. You've got this. 🤍