A complete hospital bag checklist for new mums

(Image: Getty Images)

Make sure you have packed all the essentials ready for labour, your newborn and you!

There’s no better way to feel prepared for giving birth than knowing that you have everything you and your baby could possibly need packed away in your bag, ready to take to hospital.

Whether it’s lip balm to stop your lips cracking during labour, teeny tiny nappies for when bub arrives or comfy clothes that won’t irritate a Caesarean scar, we’ve got all the tips on what to pack (and what not to take with you) when it’s time for you to go to hospital to meet your new baby.

What to pack in your hospital bag

Labour room essentials

It makes sense sometimes to have two separate bags. One for labour and one for when Baby has arrived. That way, things are easier to find. But here’s what you’ll need while you’re actually in labour.

Your Medicare card and/or private health insurance card
Any medications you have been taking (show the admitting staff when you arrive)
X-rays, ultrasounds, pathology reports relating to your pregnancy
Birth plan
Old nightshirt or T-shirt to wear while in labour
Lightweight dressing gown
Thongs or comfy slippers which are easy to slide your feet in and out of
Lip balm
Hair band
Light snacks
Water or a hydration drink like Mini + Me Hydramama® Watermelon + Lime that is packed with Electrolytes, Folate, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C
Washer (soothing to be soaked in cold water and then wrung out and placed on your forehead)
Mobile phone and charger
Birthing aids such as heat packs, stress balls, massage oils, aromatherapy oils
Socks (feet can get cold during a long labour)
Handheld fan (giving birth can be a sweaty business)
Hand sanitiser – Aquim Antibacterial Hand Sanitiser with Aloe

Mother holding newborn in hospital — Your new baby is going to need some supplies when they arrive Earthside. *(Image: Getty Images)*

What to pack for your newborn

Find out what your hospital provides from the following (it might be all, nothing or somewhere in between) and then plan accordingly.

Newborn nappies – Bambo Nature Eco Nappies and Rascal + Friends Premium Nappies
Baby wipes – Rascal + Friends H2O Water Wipes
Onesies
Scratch mitts
Blanket
Cotton wool for cleaning
Rite Aid Baby Nail Trimmer – designed for baby’s soft nails and skin and moving away from traditional nail clippers and scissors, its rotary filing function is completely safe.

What to pack for you

Maternity bras (one-handed drop down nursing bras if breastfeeding).
Breast pads
Nighties or PJs with buttons down the front for ease of feeding. Darker colours are best as you’ll bleed quite heavily in the days after birth
Lots of undies. You can get disposable but far better is to buy a load of cheapies that can be thrown as you use them. Or use your old, raggedy ones up instead. Just make sure the elastic is cut so it sits under where any Caesarean scar might be.
Earplugs and eye mask if you want to catch a daytime nap while baby is sleeping.
Comfortable day clothes and soft shoes. Avoid anything that might rub on your dressing if you’ve had a Caesarean
Toiletries
Thongs for the shower

Pregnant woman folding baby clothes while packing hospital bag — Alongside all the cute newborn supplies, remember to pack plenty of gear for yourself in your hospital bag. *(Image: Getty Images)*

What will your birth partner need?

Get the most from your birth partner by ensuring they have everything they need to help you. Or point them in the direction of this list and put them in charge of their own packing!