Preparing for the arrival of your little one is an exciting time. Packing your hospital bag is a crucial step in your journey and can feel overwhelming and stressful! Whether you're gearing up for a natural birth or a C-section, having a well-packed hospital bag can make your stay more comfortable and stress-free. Here's a complete guide on what to pack in your hospital bag for yourself, your baby and your support partner.
FOR MUM
DURING LABOUR
• Comfortable clothing: for example, an oversized t-shirt, warm socks, comfortable underwear or whatever you prefer.
• Your birth plan (if you have one).
• A drink bottle (one with a straw is useful during labour).
• Snacks: Choose easily digestible snacks for labour including barley sugar, jellybeans, muesli bars, sports/hydrating drinks, etc.
• Lip balm.
• Small Bluetooth speaker: having your favourite music playing in the background can make the room feel more relaxing.
• Phone/iPad/tablet: don’t forget those chargers with an extra long cord!
• Hair accessories: for example, hair ties, clips, headbands and a brush to keep your hair out of your face.
AFTER LABOUR
• Underpants: waist-high, full briefs (rather than bikinis) and lots of them!
• Maternity pads: opt for adult nappies as they are a lot more comfortable after giving birth! (also lots of them!)
• Comfortable footwear: Thongs or slippers and perhaps non-slip socks.
• Nursing bras and breast pads.
• Nightwear: a nightie or nightshirt, pyjamas and a dressing gown. Make sure your clothing allows easy access for breastfeeding your new cherub!
• All your prescription and non-prescription medications.
• Toiletries: body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush etc.
• A going-home outfit: unless you want to walk out in your pyjamas!
FOR BABY
• Baby clothes: singlets, long-sleeved zip-up onesies and beanies. Depending on the size of your baby, we recommend packing baby clothing in size 0000.
• Muslin wraps and baby blankets: a warm blanket from THE BLANKIE CO. will keep your baby warm and snug!
• Newborn nappies: allow for at least 8 nappies a day.
• Nappy cream.
• Cotton balls and baby wipes (non-fragranced).
• Feeding formula and sterilised baby bottles: only if you plan to use milk replacement formula to feed your baby.
• An infant carrier for the day of discharge: most hospitals require you to have a baby carrier to take the baby outside of the hospital and won't allow babies to be carried in hands for safety reasons.
• Newborn photo outfit: a special little outfit for your first photo to share with your loved ones!
FOR SUPPORT PARTNER
• Snacks and drinks.
• Phone/iPad/Tablet.
• A change of clothes.
• Toiletries: body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush etc.
It is always best to have your hospital bag packed a ready to go early. Preparing ahead ensures you’re ready for anything and allows you to focus on what truly matters—embracing your incredible journey ahead with love, confidence and excitement! You’ve got this!