What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Baby

Hey mums and dads-to-be, it’s Brydee here! Sorting out your hospital bag can feel like preparing for the most important trip of your life—because, well, it kind of is! Here’s a guide to make sure you have everything you and your little one need.

When Should I Pack My Hospital Bag?
You can never be too early with this one. The general advice is to start packing about four to six weeks before your due date. This way, you’re ready for any surprises.

Breaking Down the Essentials
It’s helpful to organise your bags into three categories:

1. Labour Bag: Items for the labour and birth.
2. Your Own Bag: Essentials for you after the birth.
3. Baby’s Birth Bag: Everything the baby needs.

What to Pack in the Labour Bag

• Your Birth Plan and Maternity Notes: Always have these handy.
• Comfortable Clothes: An old nightie or T-shirt to give birth in.
• Hydration: A bottle of water with a sports lid.
• Snacks: You might be there for a while.
• Hair Clips/Band: To keep your hair out of your face.
• Dressing Gown and Flip Flops: For easy movement and comfort.
• Breast Pads, Nursing Bras, and Maternity Pads: Essential for postpartum care.
• Comfortable Sleepwear: If you’re staying overnight.
• Toiletries: Bring the basics.
• Phone and Charger (with a Long Cable): Staying connected is important.

If you know you’re having a C-section, include extra pillows and high-waisted knickers that won’t irritate your scar.

What to Pack in Your Baby’s Hospital Bag
Would you believe baby probably needs fewer things than you? Here’s a quick list:

• Nappies and Nappy Sacks
• Baby Wipes
• Muslin Squares
• Bodysuits and Baby Vests: Three of each.
• Blanket(s)
• A Baby Hat: To keep their little head warm.
• Scratch Mitts
• A Dummy: If you plan to use one.
• Socks or Booties
• Bottles and Milk: If you’ll be bottle-feeding.
• Baby Car Seat: You can’t drive home without it.
• Going-Home Outfit: An all-in-one outfit is best, and don’t forget a jacket if it’s chilly.

Packing for Your Birth Partner
Your birth partner will also need a bag. Here’s what they should pack:

• Comfortable Clothes and Shoes
• A Change of Clothes
• Swimwear: If they plan to get into a birth pool with you.
• Snacks and Drinks
• Camera, Phone, and Charger

What Sort of Bag Should I Use?
Something compact like a small holdall, cabin-sized suitcase, or a rucksack works best. Make sure it has pockets for easy access to essentials like your phone and charger. A similar-sized bag for after birth can stay in the car until you need it. For your baby, pack the essentials in a changing bag, and keep the car seat and extra nappies in the car until needed.

Do I Need a Bag for a Home Birth?
Yes, it’s a good idea to have a bag ready in case you need to transfer to hospital unexpectedly. This way, everything is organised in one place where the midwives can easily find it.

Keeping It Minimal

Remember, you’re going to hospital, not a remote island. The hospital will have some items already available. Also, shops will be open after your baby is born, so someone can always run out to get anything you may have missed.

Happy packing! Trust me, getting your hospital bag ready is just one of many exciting steps in your journey to parenthood. Best of luck!