Why You Should Still Pack a Hospital Bag—Even for a Home Birth
You’re planning a home birth—calm, supported, physiological. You’ve prepped your space, briefed your birth team, stocked your fridge, and charged your fairy lights.
🚨 But Should I Really Pack a Hospital Bag for a Home Birth?
Yes—because birth is unpredictable. Not because it’s likely, but because having a Plan B helps you stay calm and in control no matter what happens.
In NHS settings, hospital transfer rates for home births can be relatively high—particularly for first-time mums. But when you're supported by an experienced independent midwife, those numbers tend to drop dramatically (proper research into this is pending).
With continuity of care, careful selection of low-risk pregnancies, and support from someone you trust, the chances of needing to transfer are much lower.
That said—transfers do occasionally happen, and they’re usually not emergencies. Most are for things like:
A long labour that just needs a little help
A choice to have an epidural
Fatigue or dehydration
Packing a small hospital bag isn’t a sign that you’re expecting anything to go wrong. It’s simply a way to feel covered, not caught off guard, in any situation.
🎒 What to Pack in Your Home Birth “Plan B” Bag
Just a few well-chosen items can make a huge difference in how supported you feel if things shift.
Here’s what I recommend including:
✅ For You:
Comfy clothes for labour + change of clothes after
A birth preferences sheet (clearly marked “Home Birth Transfer” version)
Maternity pads and 2–3 pairs of big cotton knickers
Slippers or flip flops
Toiletries: toothbrush, face cloth, hair tie, lip balm, body wipes
Snacks + water bottle (even for the car!)
A phone charger (ideally with a long cord)
Headphones + playlist if you’re using music or hypnobirthing tracks
Anything you want to bring from your home setup (affirmation cards, LED candle, oil roller, etc.)
👶 For Baby:
A couple of newborn babygrows
Nappies and wipes
Hat and blanket
Car seat (make sure it’s installed or ready to go)
🧠 Why This Helps Emotionally
Having this bag packed isn’t just about being ready logistically—it’s about protecting your headspace.
Because if you do need to transfer, you’ll feel:
Respected and prepared, not rushed or panicked
Empowered to continue making informed choices
More likely to maintain your calm, confident mindset
Transfers are not failures.
They are simply a change in location, not a change in who you are or how you birth.
✨ Final Thought
Packing a hospital bag for your home birth doesn’t mean you’re being negative.
It means you’re ready. For all of it. And that’s powerful.
You’re still planning for a peaceful, supported, undisturbed birth at home. This is just your plan B—ready, waiting, and hopefully never used.