Being pregnant and becoming a first-time mother is one of the most exciting and emotional moments in a woman's life. But, it can be a scary experience, at times.
There is so much unknown, so much anticipation, so many new feelings...and once you enter the third trimester of your pregnancy, it's a good idea to start thinking about the hospital bag.
It is best to start planning early so you're not hunting around last minute for batteries to power up your much-needed TENS machine! Or, collecting your partner for a crazy last-minute drive to the next supermarket!
I know how unique and varying the needs are of every woman and have therefore provided you with the essentials that can be added and altered to suit your needs - from adorable clothes for the newest arrival to essentials for the new mum and birthing partner.
What to Pack for Mum & Newborn:
Being organised takes the stress out of the last, much- anticipated weeks of pregnancy.
I recommend having 3 separate smaller bags:
- one for labour
- one with baby essentials
- one with everything you need during your hospital stay
It is also a good idea to include a bag to put your dirty laundry in.
In general, you are likely to stay in the hospital for 1 to 5 nights. To be safe, take enough clothes and toiletries for 5 days for both yourself and your newborn baby, including pyjamas and your own choice of nappies.
It is also a good idea to check with your hospital about what paperwork you will need to provide for birth. This may include:
1. your Australian Medicare card
2. health care card (if you have one),
3. private health care card (if you have one)
4. maternal health records
5. your birth plan
6. your hospital pre-admission paperwork (if provided).
Hospital Bag Checklist - Detailed:
The following includes all the items you may want to take to the hospital with you for each of the three bags (labour, baby essentials and hospital stay).
The Big Essentials:
- Large overnight bag
- Car seat
For Mum...
- Birthing plan & notes
- Comfortable clothing for labour
- Comfortable going home outfit
- 2 or more bras/nursing bras
- Breast pads
- Nipple cream / lotions / massage oils
- Breast feeding nightwear
- Comfy pyjamas
- Dressing gown & slippers
- Socks
- 5 or more co‑on briefs
- Pack of disposable briefs
- Maternity pads
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Towel & flannel
- Toiletries / lip balm / hairbrush / hair ties
- Support/breast feeding pillow
- Pillows from home
- Fan/water spray
- Lots of drinks & snacks
- Mobile phone & charger
- Books/magazines
- Any medication that you may need
For Newborn Baby...
And For Birthing Partner...
- Change of clothes & underwear
- Comfortable shoes
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Toiletries
- Watch/stopwatch
- Cash for car parks / vending machines
- Mobile phone / laptop / tablet & charger
- Camera & charger / batteries
- Books/magazines
- Drinks & snacks