Baby hospital bag packing can be an overwhelming task, but we’ve put together a list of what you might want to include to help you. Your baby hospital bag should have everything you’ll need during labour, and for your newborn. It can be a good idea to have it ready at around week 30 of your pregnancy. Firstly, babies come on their own time, and secondly, it will be a relief to your mind to have it organised.
For You
It can be really easy to get wrapped up in organising what your little one will need, but you will need a supply of items for yourself in your baby hospital bag too. You might end up spending longer in hospital than you imagined, but it can help if you feel organised.
- Nursing pyjamas, or nightdresses. Nursing nightwear makes it easier to breastfeed, but it also makes it easier to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby.
- Maternity sanitary pads. There can be a lot of bleeding after giving birth, and maternity pads are designed to absorb it better than regular pads. Have at least one pack in your bag.
- Look for high-waisted underwear as you may need some support across your abdomen, but try to find dark colours, and underwear that you won’t mind throwing out. Aim to have around six pairs.
- Nursing bra and nursing pads. Pack at least two nursing bras, and at least one pack of nursing pads. If you’re using reusable nursing pads, pack three sets.
- Nipple cream. Nipple cream should help ease any discomfort or cracked nipples.
- Dressing gown. Bring your favourite dressing gown. It will be useful for popping to the bathroom, or taking a walk on the ward, but it can also give you some home comforts.
- Slippers. Again, you’ll need them for walking around, but remember to look for ones that have hard soles.
- Big, fluffy socks. Comfy socks are always comforting.
- Snacks and water. Cereal bars, nuts, and fruit are all great snacks. Remember to pack some change for the hospital vending machines, in case you need to use them.
- Clothes to go home in. Pack something loose-fitting and comfortable for you to wear home.
- Decaf, or herbal tea bags. The hospital cafe probably will have decaf and herbal tea options, but the cafe may be quite far from the maternity ward.
- Pack minis of toothpaste, face wipes, dry shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, lip balm, moisturiser, and a toothbrush. You will need these items, but minis will take up less room than full-size products.
- It can be helpful to have your own favourite music during labour.
- Phone and phone charger. Remember to pack the charger, and perhaps a power bank as well.
- Maternity notes. Your maternity notes and birth plan should be in your bag.
For Baby
Your baby hospital bag will need to have some essentials for your little one as well.
- 3 baby vests. Newborn or 0-3 months size should be suitable.
- 3 sleepsuits. Again, newborn or 0-3 months should be fine.
- Newborn baby hat. Soft cotton is a good choice.
- Baby socks. Newborn size, and cotton are suitable.
- Scratch mitts. Your baby won’t have control of their hand movements and can end up scratching themselves.
- Baby blanket. You may have a preference over the blankets in the hospital.
- Bibs are always useful.
- Baby towel. You may want to give your little one a bath while in the hospital.
- Clothes for coming home. Soft, and convenient onesies might be the easiest option, but choose whatever clothing you want.
- Nappy changing items. Nappies in newborn sizes, cotton wool balls, and nappy bags are all essential nappy changing items.
