Hospital Bag Checklist
There’s no telling when your new baby will arrive, but having your hospital bag packed early will mean that you’ll be ready whenever your baby does decide to put in an appearance.
It's best to have a labour bag containing items you’ll need during labour and birth, along with a hospital bag for after the birth with your baby’s things and your going-home clothes in it.
Your birth partner may want some personal items as well, in which case he or she may want to pack their own bag (yours is likely to be very full!).
It’s also worth noting that if you’re having a home birthit’s still a good idea to have your bags prepared so that everything is ready and in one place. It also means that should you have to go into hospital at the last minute, no one will need to rush around trying to gather together the things you want to take with you.
Here at Emma’s Diary, we wish to help and support parents on their journey, so we've put together this list to make sure you have everything you need in your hospital bag.
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Get ready to take note…
Your Labour Bag Checklist
Here’s a list of everything you should pack in your labour bag, to help you get through the birth of your new baby…
- Birth plan and maternity notes
- Several nightdresses or t-shirts
- Slippers or socks
- A lightweight dressing gown
- Lip balm
- Water spray or sponge – to help keep you cool
- Snacks and isotonic drinks – to keep your energy levels up
- Maternity pads
- TENS machine – used for pain relief (optional)
- Favourite music
- Hair clips and a brush
- Tissues or wet wipes
- Your mobile phone (and a charger!)
Your after birth bag checklist
There are a few things you will need for both you and your new baby so it’s worth packing these in your hospital bag too!
- Going-home clothes for you - loose & comfortable
- Nursing bras – two or three
- Breast pads – just in case you have any leaks!
- Maternity pads – at least two packs
- Big, comfy knickers
- Open-fronted nightie – suitable for breastfeeding
- Toiletries – wash items, toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant
Your hospital bag for baby
Here's what you'll need to pack in your hospital bag for baby...
- Baby clothes
- Muslins or bibs – useful for mop ups
- Nappies, baby toiletries and cotton wool
- Baby blanket or shawl – for when you go home
- Baby car seat – essential if you are driving home after the birth
