Packing the hospital bag is one of those jobs that feels huge until someone hands you the list. This is that list — written for parents in Sri Lanka, covering everything mum, baby and your partner need for the big day, plus what paperwork to bring. Print it, tick it off, and relax.
Short on time? You can skip the shopping altogether with the Hospital Bag Essentials box — 10 core items in one customisable box, delivered islandwide with cash on delivery.
When should you pack your hospital bag?
Have your bag packed and ready by around 36 weeks. Babies keep their own schedule, so it's best to be done well before your due date rather than racing at the last minute. Many parents keep the bag by the front door from about 35 weeks. If you're ordering a ready-made box, allow a few days for islandwide delivery.
Hospital bag checklist — for mum
Comfort is everything during and after labour. Pack loose, soft clothing you won't mind getting messy, plus the recovery essentials.
- 2–3 loose nightdresses or a front-opening gown (for easy feeding)
- Comfortable going-home outfit (loose, soft)
- Maternity pads (heavy flow) — a full pack
- Comfortable underwear (a few pairs you don't mind ruining) + nursing bras
- Toiletries: toothbrush, soap, shampoo, lip balm, hair ties
- Nursing/breast pads and nipple cream
- Slippers and warm socks
- A light towel and a small blanket
- Phone charger (long cable) and a power bank
- Snacks and a water bottle for energy during labour
Hospital bag checklist — for baby
Newborns go through outfits fast, so pack a few more than you think you'll need. Keep everything soft and pre-washed.
- 3–5 onesies / bodysuits (newborn size)
- 2–3 swaddles or receiving blankets
- Newborn nappies (a small pack) + cotton wool / wipes
- Mittens (so baby doesn't scratch) and a soft hat
- A pair of socks or booties
- A warm going-home outfit
- Muslin cloths for burping and spills
- Baby-safe barrier cream for nappy changes
🤰 Don't want to hunt for all this?
The Hospital Bag Essentials box packs the 10 must-haves into one box you can customise in two minutes — then we deliver it to your door, islandwide, with cash on delivery.
Build my hospital bag →Documents & practicalities
- Your ID (NIC / passport)
- Clinic / pregnancy record book and any scan reports
- Birth plan, if you have one
- Cash and cards for any incidentals
- List of important phone numbers
- Any regular medication you take
For your partner / birth companion
- A change of clothes and toiletries
- Snacks and a water bottle
- Phone charger and a power bank
- A small amount of cash
- Something to pass the time — labour can be long
Skip the shopping — get it in one box
If pregnancy-brain and a growing to-do list have you dreading a shopping trip, the Hospital Bag Essentials box is the shortcut. It brings the core baby items into one box, you swap any item you like, and it's delivered islandwide across Sri Lanka with cash on delivery. One less thing to think about before the big day.
Prefer to build something broader? Explore all our customisable baby boxes, or browse maternity essentials individually.
Hospital bag — frequently asked questions
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Have it packed and ready by around 36 weeks. Keep it by the door from about 35 weeks so you can grab it and go.
What does baby need in the hospital bag?
Onesies/bodysuits, a swaddle, newborn nappies, mittens and a hat, and a going-home outfit. The Hospital Bag Essentials box packs these together.
How many baby outfits should I pack?
Pack 3–5 onesies and 2–3 swaddles — newborns go through changes quickly.
Can I just buy a ready-made hospital bag in Sri Lanka?
Yes — the Hospital Bag Essentials box is exactly that, customisable and delivered islandwide with cash on delivery.