How I Packed My Hospital Bag In 3 Steps

My husband has been panicking for the last 3 weeks over the hospital bag. I must confess I am an ‘I’ll do that tomorrow’ kind of person. He needs everything organised and if possible a checklist to make sure nothing gets forgotten.

There are many lists of what to pack, including those that like to make lists of ‘things you never thought of packing’. I have decided to use the NHS website as a guideline and just go with my gut.

1. For Mummy

When I go to the hospital I will be wearing leggings or sweatpants and a jumper. This is what I have been living in for the last 2 months. I have packed a dressing gown and slippers. My plan is to give birth in a pool in the birthing centre and do skin on skin immediately after birth, so no need for a birthing outfit. I will be naked in the pool as my husband is my only birthing partner.

I have 1 nursing bra and a button-up nighty and a pair of fluffy socks. Many hospital bag lists recommend taking a towel, I have a compact microfibre sport towel and a pair of flip flops. A washbag with shampoo, hair conditioner, hair ties, a hair brush, toothbrush, toothpaste and coconut oil. I’ve been using coconut oil as a moisturiser since I found out I was pregnant and I will also use it on my nipples. Important not to forget lip balm as I intend to use Gas & Air as my only pain relief, and I have read this can give you a very dry mouth.

For coming home, I packed a pair of sweatpants, a tank top and a loose jumper. Spare socks and 4 pairs of large black knickers.

With my baby box I received breast pads and maternity pads. I am taking 6 pairs of breast pads and the whole pack of maternity pads.

2. For Baby

For my little chicken I have packed 2 hats, 1 pair of scratch mittens, 3 pairs of socks and 1 pair of booties. 1 pair of jersey trousers and 1 pair of trousers with feet. In newborn size: 1 short sleeve baby grow & 2 long sleeve baby grows. 0 to 3 months: 1 short sleeve and 1 long sleeve baby grow plus 1 sleepsuit. I also have 3 muslins and a cellular blanket. 8 nappies and a pack of cotton wool.

3. For Daddy

My husband has 2 pairs of socks, 2 pairs of boxers a t-shirt and a shirt. He will be in charge of the camera and the munchies. We are taking a small bottle of water, 2 bottles of isotonic drink, a box of cereal bars, a pack of fig rolls and a pack of Mars bars. Under our midwife’s advice we will take a car seat to come home.