Packing your hospital bag can be a daunting task – especially for first time mums. Do I need this or that? You don’t want to end up with a suitcase of things you will not use. So let’s focus on the essentials – which is what we have done for you right here. Good luck!

Sonia

Essential Paperwork

• Ante natal card
• Hospital Information
• Your birth plan
• Private health insurance details (if applicable)
• Medicare Card
• GP’s details

Essentials for mum during labour

• Something comfortable to wear such as a loose fitting pyjamas
• Warm socks – feet can get very cold during labour
• Flat slip on shoes of slippers
• Lollies to suck on
• Snacks and drink for you and your birthing partner
• Lip balm – your lips will get very dry during that heavy breathing
• Soothing music of your choice (CD player or iPod if not available at the hospital)
• Hair band to keep your hair off your face
• Face Cloth / Face Spray
• Massage Oils
• Watch – to time your contractions
• Camera or video camera (fully charged battery!)
• Plastic bag for dirty clothes

Essentials for mum post labour

• Maternity pyjamas x 2 if you are staying longer
• Comfortable casual clothes for daytime
• Flat slip on shoes or slippers
• Socks
• Nursing tanks x 2
• Feeding Pillow
• Breast Pads
• Maternity Pads
• Underwear – and plenty of them. Preferable old ones, which you can throw away in case of staining
• Watch and Milk Band – to time your feeding
• Going home outfit
• Toiletries
  • Toothbrush / Toothpaste
  • Shampoo / Conditioner
  • Hair Brush / Hair Bands / Hairdryer
  • Deodorant
  • Soap / Body Wash
  • Moisturiser / Hand Cream
  • Lanisoh (nipple cream)
  • Make up – you’ll feel a whole lot better in those photos which will last forever
  • Tissues

Essentials for baby

• Jumpsuits x 4 (usually 00000 or 0000)
• Singlets x 4 (usually 00000 or 0000)
• Socks / Booties (if jumpsuits are footless)
• Scratch Mittens
• Hat and Cardigan in cooler weather
• Muslin Wrap
• Sleeping Wrap
• Baby Blanket
• Nappies and Wipes (check with your hospital prior to see if they provide these)
• Baby Toiletries – Baby Bath, Baby Shampoo, Moisturiser, Hooded Towel, (check with your hospital prior to see if they provide these)
• Going home outfit (Maybe 2 – just in case! Usually 00000 or 0000)

And remember, you will need to have your car restraint properly fitted before you can take your baby home.

Also have a look at our Essential Baby Checklist, Nappy Bag Essentials, Essential Gift Packs, and Essential New Products

Why not create your own Wish List for your friends and family and we will email it to all your baby shower attendees, and deliver to your special event on the day.