The important task of packing a hospital bag is an exciting prospect for a Mum to be – even if you plan a home birth it’s worth having all your supplied together and a small bag packed in case of any transfers.

I thoroughly packed my bag, in fact, first time round, I packed 4 bags; one for birth, one for a day or two hospital stay after, one for baby and then an extra bag of supplies in the car, along with my birth ball and pillows and blankets (35min drive to hospital) and the car was pretty full!

In fact I only used a couple of things –  I used the camera, snacks, a change of clothes and babies clothes and nappies, but I knew I had everything I could ever need. Everyone will have different essentials but here’s my full list to give you an idea:

Last Minute

Phone (contained my HypnoBirthing tracks)
Maternity notes
Birth ball
Baby car seat
Maternity mats for car seat
Blanket

Birthing Bag

Earphones and eye mask
Phone Charger
Camera, charged and with memory card
Dextrose tablets
Juice
Arnica
Lip balm
Couple of maternity pads
Something to wear in early labour
Cash
Flip flops

After Bag

PJs x1
Change of clothes (in case it’s day time)
Plenty of pants
Couple bras
Breast pads
Maternity pads
Snacks – lots of snacks
Dressing gown
Basic toiletries
Bag for dirty clothes
Lansinoh

Baby Bag

3 vests
3 sleepsuits
Cardigan for going home
Nappies
Nappy sacks
Wet bag
Wipes
Hat

What were your essentials? Was there anything you wish you’d packed?

Save