Your Maternity Hospital Bag
The last few weeks of your pregnancy can feel never ending but remember soon your baby will be here. It is important to be prepared and have your hospital bag packed and ready to go. You should try and have your bag ready from about 36 weeks, but I always started to buy some essentials from about 32 weeks. It always gave me peace of mind knowing my bag was ready and waiting.
At Your Hospital Bag, we understand the importance of being prepared, which is why we’ve created a checklist of essential items for your hospital stay.
To start with, we recommend having two separate bags – one for labour and one for the stay after. Here’s what you should pack in your labour bag:
- Change: You might need to pay for parking, so it’s always handy to have some change on hand in case the parking app is unreliable.
- Charger: Don’t forget to bring your phone charger to keep your loved ones updated during your hospital stay.
- Nightshirts: Bear in mind heat. Maternity hospitals usually have the heat on for new-borns, so don’t wear something too heavy, cotton is best. Also, something with buttons all the way down or a wide neck is ideal for feeding/skin to skin.
- Dressing gown: A light one is my preference. It’s so warm in maternity hospitals.
- Slippers/socks: Comfy slippers are essential if you walk about trying to induce labour or even after walking about. If you get epidural, cosy socks may come in handy. Your feet can often get cold.
- Bottle of water: Staying hydrated during labour is important, so bring a bottle of water to sip on.
- Lip balm: Your lips can get dry during labour, so don’t forget to pack some lip balm.
- Maternity pads: You can never have enough. And make sure they’re the proper big green ones. You’ll need them, especially for labour and the early days. Don’t use pads that have plastic underneath the side. It can make the area extra hot and sweaty. Definitely don’t use it if you have stitches, it could increase the risk of infection.
- Big pants: Pack some big comfy pants that are a size up from your usual size, as you’ll need the extra room for your maternity pads.
- Breast pads: Whether you plan on breastfeeding or not, bring some breast pads, as your milk will come in and you’ll need them.
- Maternity bra: Don’t forget to bring a fitted maternity bra to ensure you’re comfortable during your stay.
- Toiletries: Pack your essentials, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap. You might also want to pack some extra special items to pamper yourself, such as face masks or body lotion.
- Baby’s first outfit: Pack a vest, hat, and other essentials for your baby’s first outfit.
- Nappies: Bring plenty of nappies for your baby.
- Water wipes: These are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin and great for nappy changes.
- Earphones: Bring some earphones to listen to music or relax during labour.
- Light snacks. Nothing too rich or heavy. More than likely, you won’t feel like eating much, but you’ll need to keep your energy up.
- Labour aids: Consider bringing labour aids, such as a TENS machine or yoga ball, if you plan on using them during labour.
- For your birthing partner: A spare t-shirt and some toiletries to freshen up could be a blessing. Also a drink and snacks may come in handy too.
As for Stay bag checklist:
When preparing for an overnight stay with a new-born, it’s important to pack efficiently to minimise stress and maximise relaxation. Start with a present for siblings, followed by comfortable nightwear like cool cotton pyjamas for easy breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact. Don’t forget the essentials like nappies, wipes, and pack each outfit separately in a Ziplock bag for easy access. Bringing a book or Kindle, toiletries, maternity and breast pads, and makeup can help make you feel more at home. Earplugs, an eye mask, and face spray can be helpful for a comfortable night’s sleep, especially in hot hospital rooms. For car seat, make sure you are familiar with how it works before the big day!
By following our hospital bag checklist, you can rest assured that you have everything you need for your maternity hospital stay. Remember to also pack a separate bag for the stay after labour. Good luck, and congratulations on your upcoming arrival!
