Hospital bag

What to pack in your hospital bag!

For Labour for you.

Dressing gown
Slippers
Socks
Nightdress (I would recomend 3, and ones with button open fronts if possible if you intend to breast feed or have baby put on your tummy straight after birth)
Lip balm (you get very dry lips)
Anything to help you relax and pass the time - magazine, music etc
Hairband/bobble/clip and brush
mp3 player (some hospitals may have a cd player so take a cd just incase)
Water spray/hand held fan
Mobile phone and charger
Snacks and drinks (not to much food as you dont digest it when in labour, but your partner may enjoy)
TENS pain relief (if you are using one)
CAMERA!!

For after the birth

Bras
Underwear (either disposable or cheap ones you dont mind throwing away)
Breast pads
Another nightgown (pyjamas may be uncomfortable if you have a section)
Maternity pads
Going home outfit (loose and comfortable)
Toiletries (use travel size ones, shampoo, body wash, moisturiser etc, toothbrush, paste, flannel)
2 Dark coloured towels

For Baby

3 vests and sleepsuits
Hat
Scratch mitts
Booties or socks
Blanket (for the journey home)
Coming home outfit
Nappies
Cotton wool
Car seat
Milk (some hospitals no longer provide this so please check if yours does)


The outfits for home, for baby and yourself, you may want to keep in a bag, in the car so you are not carrying lots around with you. Also pack another small bag with one extra of everything for baby, few nightgowns, underwear etc for you to leave at home, or in the car so if you need to stay in hospital longer, its all packed to be brought to you :)