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Hospital Bag Checklist
Try to avoid packing a heavy suitcase but do make sure you have some essentials ready to go long before the baby is due.
Your partner, family and friends can always bring in extra items once the baby has arrived but there are certain things it pays to have ready - the last thing you want to have to do is send out a knackered partner at 3am for sanitary towels and mars bars!
Unless you find yourself giving birth in an emergency situation and have not had a chance to pack a bag, most maternity units will expect you to supply most of the items that you well need during labour and your stay after the birth. Pack well in advance. Have your hospital bag packed by the 36th week at the very latest. Put all the items your need in the bag, including maternity notes and birth plan etc.. Do not assume you will have time or inclination to pack it when your contractions start!
Must have items for mum...
* Maternity notes and birth plan
* Nightdress or large t-shirt for labour (with front opening if planning to breastfeed)
* Slippers
* Socks. Your feet might get cold during labour
* Personal toiletries/Washbag/Makeup/Hairbrush
* Towel
* Sanitary towels
* Nursing pads
* Disposable panties
* Change of clothes for after labour and for going home (a top with front opening if planning to breastfeed and either elasticated or loose trousers - your belly will take a while to go down even after the baby has made some space!)
* Loose change for parking and phone
Optional items
* Camera
* Tens machine
* Other pain relief: massage oil/aromatherapy oil/labour bath ease
* Nipple cream/breast soothers
* Nursing bra (if planning to breastfeed) or support/sleep bra
* Lip balm
* Music/magazines/books
* Drinks and energy snacks for you and your birth partner
Must have items for baby...
* Two bodysuits
* Two sleepsuit
* Hat
* Scratch mittens
* Cardigan or warm outfit to go home (depending on the weather)
* Blanket
* Newborn nappies (7-10)
* Cotton wool balls or baby wipes
