What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag
Preparing for the arrival of your baby is an exciting yet nerve-wracking time. Among the myriad tasks to complete, packing your hospital bag feels so important and is a top priority as you near your due date. Here’s a comprehensive guide for British parents on what to pack for both yourself and your baby to ensure you’re ready for the big day.
Essentials for Mum
1. Maternity Notes and Birth Plan
Always have your maternity notes and birth plan with you. These documents provide vital information to the medical staff about your pregnancy and any preferences you have for the birth.
2. Comfortable Clothing
- Labour: A loose, comfortable nightdress or T-shirt. Anything super comforting for you.
- Post-birth: Pack a dressing gown, slippers, and a few pairs of cosy socks. Pyjamas or nighties that are front-opening are ideal if you plan to breastfeed or have skin to skin bonding snuggles. Anything super comforting for you that you can lounge in.
- Going Home: Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for your journey home.
3. Underwear
- Maternity Bras: Bring a couple of well-fitting, supportive maternity or nursing bras.
- Knickers: Pack several pairs of comfortable, full-coverage knickers. Disposable knickers or dark-coloured ones are a good idea.
4. Toiletries
- Basics: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, and a flannel.
- Personal Care: Lip balm (hospital air can be drying), hair ties, face wipes, and moisturiser.
- Sanitary Pads: Heavy-duty maternity pads are a must as post-birth bleeding can be quite heavy.
5. Snacks and Drinks
Labour can be long and exhausting, so pack some high-energy snacks and drinks. Consider isotonic sports drinks, cereal bars, dried fruit, and nuts.
6. Entertainment and Comfort
- Books or Magazines: Something light to read during the early stages of labour.
- Music: Create a playlist of your favourite relaxing tunes. Or download your favourite podcasts ready.
- Pillows: The hospital will provide pillows, but having your own can make you more comfortable.
7. Technology
- Mobile Phone and Charger: To keep in touch with family and friends, and for those first precious photos.
- Camera: If you prefer a dedicated camera for capturing those special moments.
Essentials for Baby
1. Clothing
- Vests and Babygrows: Pack a few in newborn and 0-3 months sizes as you won’t know exactly how big your baby will be.
- Hat and Mittens: Newborns can get cold easily, so a hat and mittens are essential.
- Socks or Booties: To keep their little feet warm.
- Going Home Outfit: Choose something comfortable and weather-appropriate for your baby’s first journey home.
2. Nappies
Newborn nappies (up to 12) and a pack of baby wipes or cotton wool for cleaning your baby.
3. Blankets
A couple of soft, warm blankets for swaddling and to keep your baby cosy.
4. Car Seat
This is essential for bringing your baby home. Make sure it’s properly installed in your car before you head to the hospital.
Extras
1. For Your Birth Partner
- Comfortable Clothing: They might be there a while.
- Snacks and Drinks: For energy.
- Camera: To capture those first moments.
- Toiletries: A toothbrush and deodorant for freshening up.
- Entertainment: Books, music, podcasts, magazines, or a tablet. As well as their chargers to keep charging up the batteries.
2. Important Documents and Money
- ID and Insurance Details: If applicable.
- Cash and Change: For parking and vending machines.
Final Thoughts
Packing your hospital bag well in advance (around 36 weeks) can help reduce stress as your due date approaches. Every parent’s needs are slightly different, so personalise this list to suit you.
By having everything ready, you can focus on the excitement of meeting your new arrival and ensure a smoother experience for both you and your baby. Best of luck and congratulations on your upcoming bundle of joy!
