Packing a hospital bag

Here is a list of things to consider when packing your hospital bag. Even if you are planning a homebirth, it is useful to pack a bag in case your plans change before or during labour.

For you

• Maternity notes and birth plan
• Any medications that you take regularly
• Comfy clothes to wear in labour
• Slippers and/or flip-flops
• Dressing gown and pyjamas/nightdress (x2) that opens at the front (for ease of feeding)
• Comfy clothes to wear home
• Crop top/bikini top if using water/birthing pool
• Comfortable bra/feeding bra
• Knickers for after the birth – large size, cotton and comfortable and/or disposable knickers
• Towel (x2 if using birthing pool)
• Toiletries, including toothbrush and toothpaste, hairbrush, hair ties and lip balm
• x2 packs of maternity sanitary pads (thick and ultra-absorbent)
• Breast pads
• Massage oils for use in labour
• Glasses/contact lenses
• Portable speakers/earphones toplay music
• Drinks, snacks and drinking straws
• Water spray/fan
• Extra pillow(s)
• TENS machine (if you plan to use one)
• Books/magazines
• Phone and charger

For your birth partner

• Coins for car park/car park payment details
• Drinks and snacks
• Phone and charger
• Camera
• Books magazine
• Comfy clothes/shoes/shorts
• Overnight stay clothes/toiletries etc if planning/able to stay

For your baby

• x1 pack of nappies
• Clothes; sleep suits and vests (x3-4 of each)
• Several cotton hats and a woollyhat
• Clothes for going home
• Socks/mittens (x2 pairs)
• Cotton wool/water wipes
• Muslin square/bibs
• Car seat to take baby home
• Baby blanket/shawl

If you are planning to formula feed your baby; check with your midwife what you need to take to the hospital.