Your little one is almost here, and you're counting down the weeks to the big day. One of the best ways to feel prepared and have everything in order is to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go for when that big moment arrives!
Welcoming a new baby into the world is an unforgettable occasion, filled with so much anticipation, excitement, and a bit of nervousness. We have put together all the essentials you need to help ease the transition and make your hospital stay and the first few days with your new baby a little easier.
Essentials for Mumma
Important Documents
- ID
- Health insurance information
- Your birth plan
- Hospital registration forms
Comfort Items
- Dressing gown (choose items that are comfortable and breastfeeding-friendly).
- Socks
- Slippers and thongs for the shower
- Nursing bras and pads (for breastfeeding mums, these are essential for comfort and convenience).
- Comfortable underwear (Opt for high-waisted or lose fitting options)
- Pillow from home (hospitals provide pillows, but having your own can be comforting)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo, conditioner and body wash
- Hairbrush and hair ties (and hair dryer if the hospital doesn't provide one)
- Lip balm
- Moisturiser
- Deodorant
- Makeup (optional)
- Face wash and moisturiser
- Maternity pads (if the hospital doesn't provide them)
- Peri-bottle (to make going to the toilet postpartum a little easier)
Clothing
- Comfortable clothing (trackies and t-shirts)
- Maternity leggings or loose pants (comfortable for lounging and moving around while you're recovering)
- Swimmers (if having a water birth)
- Going-home outfit
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Camera and charger
- Laptop or tablet (optional)
Miscellaneous
- Birth comb for labour, birth ball or other birthing tools
- Snacks and drinks (hospital food might not always be appealing or available when you're hungry and it's always good to have high-protein snacks for labour).
- Reusable water bottle
- Nursing Pillow (for nursing and breastfeeding)
- Nipple shields or gel breast discs (for breastfeeding mums)
- Books or magazines (for some light reading)
For Baby
Clothing
- Newborn outfits (pack a few outfits in different sizes (newborn and 0-3 months)
- Onesies and singlets
- Socks and mittens (optional to keep baby warm and prevent scratching)
- Going-home outfit (choose something special for the first trip home).
Blankets and Swaddles
- Muslin wraps (for swaddling)
- An organic cotton newborn sleep sack (as an alternative to a hospital blanket)
- Warm blanket (For the car ride home, especially in colder weather)
Baby Supplies
- Formula and glass bottles (if not breastfeeding)
- Burp cloths (essential for feeding and burping)
- Diapers, wipes and personal care
- Newborn diapers: Hospitals provide some, but if you have a preference for eco-friendly or organic bamboo bring your own).
- Baby wipes (unscented)
- Organic baby body wash if you want to wash baby during your hospital stay (to avoid toxins in regular brands or if your baby has sensitive skin)
Other Essentials
- Birth announcement plaque
- Baby book
- Baby hat or beanie (newborns lose heat quickly, so a hat is essential)
- Car seat (make sure it's properly installed and ready for the ride home)
For Dad or Birth Partner
Clothing and Toiletries
- Change of clothes (and pjs for overnight stay)
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and other personal items.
Comfort Items
- Pillow and blanket (hospitals don't always provide these for partners)
- Snacks and drinks
- Entertainment (phone, books, tablet or laptop)
Tips:
- Have your bad ready and packed by 36 weeks
- Keep your ID, OB card, birth plan and important documents accessible
- Make sure you've checked in with the hospital before your due date.