Episode 22 | Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for New Parents: Essential Tips from a Midwife

Ep 22 | Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for New Parents: Essential Tips from a Midwife

Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s on every new parent’s mind as they prepare for the arrival of their little one – what to pack in your hospital bag. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your family, having a well-packed hospital bag can ease some of that pre-birth anxiety and ensure you’re ready for anything.

Click here to get my hospital bag checklist and other bonus checklists and flowcharts to help you prepare for your baby.

Let’s start with the essentials for labour.

First up, toiletries. Pack a hairbrush, hair elastics, shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel. Labor can be long, and feeling fresh can make a big difference. Don’t forget lip balm – hospitals can be quite dry, and you’ll appreciate having it handy.

For clothing, bring a nightie or a large, comfortable t-shirt to labour in. Comfort is key, so choose something loose-fitting. Heat packs can be a lifesaver for pain relief, and while some hospitals provide them, it’s good to bring your own just in case. It’s best not to bring the wheat pack style as most hospitals won’t allow these in their microwaves, so better with the gel filled ones that we put in hot water to heat up.

Massage oil with essential oils can also be soothing and enhances the pain relief felt from the massage.

Snacks and lollipops for both you and your partner can keep your energy up. A water spray bottle is great for a quick cool-down if you get hot.

And of course, pack your phone and charger – you’ll want to capture those first moments and keep everyone updated. Make sure your contacts are updated and ready to go for the birth announcement.

A labour playlist can provide soothing background music, and a labour app can help you track contractions, this is especially helpful when you first come into hospital to show us!

Don’t forget extra clothes for your partner, especially if they’ll be supporting you in the shower.

Now, let’s talk about your postnatal stay after the birth of your baby.

Hospitals can be quite warm, so pack lightweight sleepwear, slippers, and a lightweight dressing gown.

Comfortable, dark-coloured underwear is a must, as postpartum bleeding is normal.

If you’re planning on breastfeeding, maternity bras and breast pads are important. Some Mums like to use a lanolin nipple cream although research shows that massaging a small amount of breastmilk back into the nipple is as if not more effective. If any expressing is needed while in hospital they will usually have all the equipment available there.

If you’re planning on bottle feeding your baby you will need to supply baby formula and bottles & teats for this. Check what your hospitals policy is and what they suggest bringing with you.

Toiletries and cosmetics are important, and a hairdryer can be handy. A good book or magazine can help pass the time, and ear plugs can be a blessing if the hospital is noisy. If you have older children, consider bringing a small gift or activity to help them feel included and to give them something to do when visiting.

A small amount of money for snacks or newspapers can be useful, and comfortable clothing for daytime wear is a must – front-opening tops are great for breastfeeding. Most new mums still wear maternity clothes for a bit, so pack accordingly. Your tummy generally won’t go back to how it was pre-pregnancy for some weeks to months.

For your baby.

Pack at least four singlets and onesies, along with socks, mittens, and a hat. Bring wraps for swaddling, and if you plan to use a dummy, pack one of those too. A gentle ph balanced, soap-free baby wash is gentle on your newborn’s skin or many choose just to use water t=for those first few baths.

You’ll need a large pack of newborn nappies, baby wipes, and a nappy bag with a change mat. And of course, pack a special going-home outfit for your baby.

Remember, your partner and support people can always bring in anything you might forget. It’s a good idea to ask friends and family what they found useful to bring.

Most new mothers stay in the hospital for just a few days, so try to pack only the essentials. Aim to have your bags ready at least a month before your due date. Babies can come early, so being prepared can help reduce stress.

Make sure you’ve had your car restraint fitted well before you expect to have your baby so it’s ready to transport your baby home safely, I have seen so many Dads have to do this on the way to pick up at the hospital and it’s very stressful.

I hope you find this packing list helpful! I’d love to hear what you’re packing for your hospital stay, or if you’ve already had your baby, what you found useful. Let me know in the comments. And don’t forget to get your FREE hospital bag checklist and a bonus bundle of checklists to help you prepare for your new baby. Take care and happy packing!

Connect With Belinda:

Web: www.BelindaJoyce.com
Facebook: @BelindaJoyceMidwife
Instagram: @belinda_joyce_midwife
TikTok: @belinda_joyce_midwife

Download Belinda’s FREE Baby Bundle:

• Checklists for baby equipment, hospital bag, nappy bag, travel & childcare bag
• Newborn Sleep Flowchart-what to do next
• Baby Feed & Sleep Tracker

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