What To Pack In A Hospital Bag For Your C-Section: Easy to Follow Checklist (2025)

When it comes to packing your hospital bag, there are some pretty key differences for C-Section mums. Rather than getting the usual generic packing list off the internet, here’s our suggestions for the things you ACTUALLY need for C-Section births and recovery. I’ve split my top two recommendations for each stage below, but you can get our full C-Section bag packing list in our Prep Course.

Hospital bag checklist for you

Before your C-Section

  • Long acting carb snacks - think bananas or crackers 

  • Water bottle - keep hydrated before heading in 

After your C-Section

  • Peppermint tea bags - start at 4 hours to regain bowel function

  • Long charging cable for your phone 

Hospital bag checklist for your newborn 

  • Sooo many muslins - they’re likely to be more mucousy 

  • Pump for colostrum - be sure to get expressing before birth if you’re breastfeeding

Hospital bag checklist for your birth partner

  • Food - minimise fainting by making sure they’ve eaten and drank plenty 

  • Spare shirt - they’re going to get super hot on the ward

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