What Should I Pack in My Hospital Bag for Delivery in Singapore?
A complete, Singapore-specific checklist for KKH, NUH, TMC, Mount Alvernia, and Gleneagles. Have it ready by week 36.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
The general recommendation is to have your bag ready by week 36. If you are carrying twins or have a high-risk pregnancy, aim for week 32-34. Premature labour can happen with little warning, so it pays to be prepared early.
| Week | Action |
|---|---|
| Week 28-30 | Start your shopping list; order items online to spread the cost |
| Week 32-34 | Pack if you have twins or a high-risk pregnancy |
| Week 35-36 | Bag fully packed and near the front door; car seat installed |
| Week 37+ | You are at term - bag should be ready at all times |
Singapore tip: Book your Grab or taxi preference in advance - save your hospital's address in your phone so your partner can call at 2am without fumbling. KKH's main entrance for maternity is on Hospital Drive; NUH's delivery suite is accessible through the main tower.
Full Hospital Bag Checklist by Category
Documents and Admin
- ✓ NRIC (both parents' copies)
- ✓ Antenatal record / blue pregnancy booklet
- ✓ Hospital referral letter (if from polyclinic/GP)
- ✓ Insurance card and pre-authorisation letter (for private hospitals)
- ✓ Birth plan (if you have one - 1 page max)
- ✓ MediSave / Medishield Life details
- ✓ Emergency contacts list (printed, not just in phone)
For Labour and Delivery
- ✓ Button-front or front-open nightgown (for easy access during labour and breastfeeding) - bring 2
- ✓ Non-slip socks (hospital floor can be cold)
- ✓ Phone charger + portable power bank
- ✓ Light snacks for labour (energy bars, isotonic drinks) - for you and your partner
- ✓ Lip balm (breathing exercises dry out lips)
- ✓ Hair ties and clips
- ✓ Earphones / playlist for labour
For Recovery (Mum)
- ✓ Nursing bras x 3 (soft cup, no underwire)
- ✓ Disposable or dark underwear x 5 (maternity size)
- ✓ Maternity pads x 2 packs (hospital provides some but bring your own for comfort)
- ✓ Breast pads x 1 pack (for leakage once milk comes in, day 3-5)
- ✓ Lanolin nipple cream (Lansinoh is widely available in Singapore)
- ✓ Toiletries: face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, dry shampoo
- ✓ Comfortable loose pants + top to go home in
- ✓ Slippers or sandals (easy on/off due to swollen feet)
For Baby
- ✓ Going-home outfit (onesie + socks + hat; size newborn or 0-3m)
- ✓ Muslin cloths x 4 (lighter than blankets for Singapore weather)
- ✓ Car seat - mandatory by law to leave hospital in a car
- ✓ Newborn nappies x 1 small pack (hospital provides some)
- ✓ Baby mittens and booties (optional - helps prevent scratching)
- ✓ If formula feeding: pre-made formula bottles or travel formula powder + sterilised bottles
For Your Partner or Support Person
- ✓ Change of clothes + personal toiletries
- ✓ Cash and card (hospital canteens, parking gantry)
- ✓ Snacks and meals (labour can be 12-24 hours)
- ✓ Laptop or tablet (for waiting periods)
- ✓ Camera or confirm phone is fully charged
What Do Singapore Hospitals Provide vs What to Bring?
This varies by hospital type and ward class. Here is a general comparison between restructured (public) and private hospitals:
| Item | KKH / NUH (B1 and below) | TMC / Private |
|---|---|---|
| Gowns for labour | Provided (standard) | Provided (may be nicer) |
| Maternity pads | Limited supply only | Limited supply only |
| Baby nappies | Provided during stay | Provided during stay |
| Baby first outfit | Basic cloth wrap provided | Bring your own going-home outfit |
| Towels | Provided | Provided |
| Toiletries | Basic only - bring own | Kit often provided |
| Meals for mum | Included in ward rate | Included (more variety) |
| Lactation support | Lactation nurse on request | More proactive support |
Singapore Climate Tips for Your Hospital Stay
Hospital wards in Singapore are heavily air-conditioned, which can be a shock after the heat outside. Here is what experienced Singapore mums recommend:
Pack Light Layers
Wards can be cold at 20-22C. Bring a thin cardigan or wrap for yourself. For baby, muslin swaddles are ideal - they are breathable for the heat but can be layered if the ward is cold.
Skip Heavy Blankets
Thick knitted blankets are too warm for Singapore's climate once you leave the hospital. Muslin cloths (3-4 layers) work much better year-round here.
Hydration Matters
Air-conditioning is drying. Bring a large water bottle. Breastfeeding mums need at least 2-3 litres of water daily. Hospital water is safe to drink.
Going-Home Outfit
You will be going from air-conditioned hospital to hot Singapore air to (possibly) air-conditioned car. Dress baby in a single light layer; bring a muslin to cover them in the car seat.