There’s a lot to think about when packing your hospital bag, but armed with Dr Duncan’s hospital bag checklist you should have all you need for the birth and for your new baby. It’s very exciting to pack your bag for The Big Day, because after all this time of being pregnant, the birth is now in sight!
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?
- Your maternity notes (including your birth plan)
- Something to wear for labour (hospital gowns are provided at The Portland if you prefer)
- Massage oils/lotions (if desired)
- Lip balm or Vaseline for dry lips
- TENS machine (if desired)
- Hairband or bobbles to keep your hair out of your face
- Swim wear if desired for possible water birth
- Essential oil (if you would like to use the diffuser)
- Your favourite music playlist to relax to on the labour ward (there are bluetooth speakers available in each room)
- Dressing gown
- Socks and slippers
- Books, magazines or downloaded films to keep you occupied during quiet moments
- Your favourite snacks, and any specialty soft drinks or water which The Portland may not have on their menu
- Towel and flannel or sponge, to stay fresh (a facial water mist can be cooling and refreshing, too)
What do I need for my baby?
- Six vests
- Six sleepsuits
- Nappies
- Wipes
- Nappy cream
- Hats, socks, booties and scratch mittens
- Cotton wool
- Baby blanket for swaddling
- Towels
- Car seat
- Seasonally appropriate going home outfit for their first outing
Formula milk is available upon request/medical need at The Portland
What will I need after the birth?
- Wash bag with toiletries (hair dryers are available at The Portland)
- Disposable underwear and maternity pads, not glamorous but oh so useful
- Clothes for a potential 3-4 night stay
- Two nursing bras and breast pads
- Nipple cream
- Feeding pillow
- 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)
Additional towels, disposable underwear and sanitary towels are provided at The Portland.
What does my partner need?
- A copy of your birth plan
- Contact list for passing on the good news
- Toiletries
- Phone, charger and backup battery pack
- Camera, if they don’t use their phone
- Clothes/nightwear for intended length of stay
- Books, magazine or downloaded films
- Snacks/food and drinks (complimentary breakfast is provided at The Portland but all other meals are chargeable)
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
I 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.