There’s a lot to think about when packing your hospital bag, but armed with my check-lists you should have all you need for the birth and for your amazing new baby. It’s so exciting to pack your bag for the big day, because suddenly, everything feels real.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
My advice is to be prepared before you reach 36 weeks, in case your little one decides to make an early appearance!
Here’s your hospital bag checklist for you, your baby and your partner:
What do I need for labour?
- Maternity notes and your birth plan
- Nightshirt or other comfy sleepwear
- Dressing gown
- Socks and slippers
- Towel and flannel or sponge, to stay fresh (a facial water mist can be cooling and refreshing, too)
- Hairband or bobbles to keep your hair out of your face
- Books, magazines or downloaded films to keep you occupied during quiet moments
- Phone, charger, back-up battery pack and headphones
- Lip salve or Vaseline for dry lips
- Massage oil with essential oils if you want to use aromatherapy
- Water and snacks to stay hydrated and sustain your energy
What do I need for my baby?
- Three vests
- Threes sleepsuits
- Nappies
- Wipes
- Nappy cream
- Socks, booties and scratch mittens
- Cotton wool
- Baby blanket for swaddling
- Going home outfit with coat or shawl for the first outing in the big wide world
What will I need after the birth?
- Your washbag and toiletries
- Disposable pants and maternity pads, not glamorous but oh so useful
- Two nursing bras and breast pads
- Button fronted nightwear for easy breastfeeding access
- Mobile phone, charger and spare battery pack
- Hairbrush and makeup
- Change and cash for food or vending machines
- Comfortable clothes and shoes for travelling home (don’t be too ambitious; you won’t be squeezing into your old jeans yet)
What does my partner need?
A copy of your birth plan
Contact list for passing on the good news.
- Phone, charger and back-up battery pack
- Camera, if they don’t use their phone
- Change of t-shirt, in case they get a little messy too
- Books, magazine or downloaded films
- Snacks and drinks
- Cash and change for food, vending machines and parking charges
Mums’ tips
I forgot a towel when I had my first and it was difficult to get one, so definitely put one in the bag. Talc is also good because hospitals are so warm—it was good to stop you sweating.
~ Lindsay, Kilkeel
My big recommendation is packing paper knickers. The blood floods through everything and who wants to spend time washing grubby underwear? The disposable ones were big and comfy and less hassle all round.
~ Philippa, Gloucester
think you should pack something warm. I got shivery after the birth and would have loved to have had a fleecy blanket or shawl or something. Instead, I had to use a hospital towel and scratchy blanket. Next time I’m going to definitely pack something soft and snuggly for me, not just the baby.
~ Fi, Leeds
This article is an adapted version of a chapter from Dr Duncan's new book, Anything Pregnancy. If you've enjoyed reading it, the full book is available to purchase on Amazon.