What to pack in your hospital bag

Packing your hospital bag is an exciting way to prepare for the big day and it’s best to do it about six weeks before your due date. Many maternity brands sell special hospital bags, which include anything from sections to keep your clothes separate from your baby’s, to bottle holders and laundry bags. But a weekend bag is fine, too.

It needs to be big enough to carry all the essentials – but remember these are what you need for a hospital stay, not a five-star weekend away! While you may be out of hospital a few hours after a straightforward birth, if you give birth in the evening, at the weekend or have complications, you may have to stay in for longer so it’s best to be prepared to stay a night or two.

Some women prefer to pack two bags – one with items to use during labour and one for staying in hospital afterwards.

You’ll also need…

Going-home outfit

You’ll need clothes to go home in, so pick a comfortable outfit that won’t crease easily and will allow you to breastfeed. You don’t know how big your tummy will be or if it’ll be sore post c-section, so a favourite maternity dress with a front opening would be great. And remember to pack a nursing bra.

Newborn Essentials

You may have been oohing and ahhing over cute outfits for the past nine months, but now you get to dress your baby for real. Pack a few newborn sleepsuits (or 0-3 months if you think you’re having a big baby), mitts, bootees, bibs, a blanket, newborn nappies and cotton wool for those first changes.

Nursing nightwear

This is a must. Feeding tops have a crossover front, detachable strap or front opening so you can comfortably and discreetly breastfeed your baby.

Camera

However exhausted and sweaty you feel, you will be glowing after giving birth. The first time you hold your child is an event to capture for keeps, so make sure the battery is fully charged.

Dressing gown/cardigan

Useful cover-up for early labour.

The latest issue of P&b

Chances are you’ll be doing a lot of hanging around. What better way to fill your time than with this month’s Pregnancy & birth magazine?

Headband

Keep your hair back during labour.

Disposable knickers and Breast pads

Pack several pairs of paper knickers or old pants to wear in early labour and afterwards. And breast pads for your leaky boobs.

Maternity pads

The hospital will provide you with some, but you will get through them at an alarming rate straight after birth.

Birth plan

Take a copy of the birth plan you worked out with your midwife – it’ll help you get the birth you want.

TENS machine

Can ease early labour pains by sending an electric charge through pads on the skin.

Slippers and socks

Warm cold feet in labour and wear if you stay in hospital afterwards.

iPod

Ask your man to fill it with your favourite tunes – he’ll love feeling useful.

Snacks
Pack chocolate, bananas, energy bars, high-energy drinks like Coke and Lucozade, and straws for easy drinking.

Toiletries

Pack a roll of luxury toilet paper, too – your sore bits will thank you.
Washbag, travel toothbrush, toothpaste, mini hairbrush, lip balm, face cream, antibacterial hand gel, and liquid facial soap.