What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag: A Gentle Guide for Expectant Mums in Barcelona
- annarochdeus
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Preparing your hospital bag is one of those exciting, tangible steps that brings the reality of meeting your baby a little closer.
For many expectant mothers—especially those navigating pregnancy far from home—it can also bring up a few uncertainties. What do hospitals in Barcelona provide? What should I bring from home? Will I forget something important?
As a Doula, Lactation Consultant, and Gentle Sleep Coach who supports expat families in Spain, I’ve created this helpful list to make things a little easier for you. Think of it as a supportive friend gently guiding you as you prepare for this beautiful, life-changing experience.
Hospital Bag Essentials for Mum in Barcelona
These are the items to help you feel comfortable, cared for, and confident during your hospital stay:
Comfy pyjamas or nightdresses with straps or front buttons for easy breastfeeding.
Nursing bras, if you prefer them (avoid underwires for comfort).
Disposable or soft cotton knickers—whatever feels best for you.
Slippers for walking around your room or down the hallway.
Toiletries in a small bag. Don’t forget your toothbrush, hairbrush, lip balm, and perhaps a hairdryer, as most hospitals don’t provide one.
Loose, comfy going-home clothes—something you feel good in.
Water bottle (ideally one with a straw for ease while in bed).
Healthy snacks—especially helpful for postpartum energy.
Sanitary pads, since hospital ones can sometimes be uncomfortable.
Nipple shields and breast pump—not essential as many hospitals have vending machines or rental services.
Chargers for your phone and any other essentials.
A small toiletry bag and clean clothes for your birth partner.
You won’t need to pack towels—these are usually provided by the hospital.
What to Pack for Your Baby
Welcoming your little one earthside means having a few gentle, comforting items ready for them:
1 small pack of nappies.
4 outer sleepsuits (cotton or linen preferred).
4 changes of underclothes (vests, rompers, bodysuits).
4 pairs of socks.
2 soft cotton hats.
2 baby shawls or blankets for swaddling.
Baby’s toiletries (just the basics: wet wipes or cotton wool).
Remember to wash all baby clothes before putting them in your hospital bag with neutral soap and cut off any labels. Choose natural fabrics to avoid irritation, and avoid clothes with zips, ties, or those that go over baby’s head.
Delivery Room Bag
Keep this small bag handy:
A nappy and a baby hat.
The mother’s ID (DNI/NIE/passport).
Any additional birth-related documents.
Important Documentation
You’ll need:
Mother’s ID card (DNI/NIE/passport).
Health insurance card or social security card (of the insured parent).
Family book or marriage certificate, if applicable.
Pregnancy health documents, scans, test results, and your birth plan.
A pen for filling out forms.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Packing your hospital bag in Barcelona can feel like an emotional milestone. It’s the moment when everything becomes a little more real—and that can bring both excitement and nerves. Be gentle with yourself. This is your journey, and you’re doing beautifully.
If you’re feeling unsure about what to bring, or simply want reassurance that you’re on the right track, you’re not alone. I lovingly guide expectant mums through all these details in my Birth & Baby Antenatal Workshop—including what to pack, what to expect from hospitals in Spain, and how to prepare emotionally and practically for birth.
🌟 You’ll leave feeling informed, empowered, and ready—with your hospital bag checklist in hand and a confident heart.
I’d be honoured to walk alongside you, whether through a one-to-one session or as part of our beautiful group space in the workshop.
With love,
Anna; Doula, Breastfeeding Consultant & Gentle Sleep Coach