so we’re looking at all the essentials you’ll need to pack for a hospital birth, when you should have it packed by based on our own experiences.

When should you pack your bag?

Most babies arrive between 37 weeks and 41 weeks of pregnancy, usually within a week either side of their expected due date (NHS 2018, ONS 2019) but some babies do have other plans and arrive early so it’s recommended you have your bag packed at the beginning of your 3rd trimester and definitely by the start of your 32nd week of pregnancy. This gives you plenty of time to buy, borrow or hire anything you need without it feeling rushed. Having your bag ready early will give you peace of mind and one less thing to worry about.

So, what should you pack?

For labour and delivery

• Birth preference
• Maternity notes
• Nightdresses/big t-shirts – front opening nightdresses are good for labour
• Socks or slippers with non-slip soles
• Lightweight dressing gown
• Dak flannels
• Handheld fan
• Extra pillow
• Hair ties or headbands to keep hair off your face
• Lip balm to combat dryness during labour
• Snacks and drinks for energy (check with your healthcare provider for any restrictions)
• Massage tools or stress-relief items
• TENS machine
• Focal point objects or affirmations for relaxation
• Speaker for music
• Battery powered candles
• Birth partner!

Toiletries and personal care

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash
• Hairbrush or comb
• Face wash and moisturizer
• Body lotion or oil for massage
• Deodorant
• Shower essentials (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)
• Nursing pads (if planning to breastfeed)
• Maternity pads

For after birth

• Comfortable pyjamas or nightgowns – front opening or something easy to feed in if you’re planning to breastfeed
• Nipple cream
• Nursing bras or comfortable bras
• Robe or cozy sweater
• Maternity underwear or disposable underwear
• Comfy big pants
• Earplugs
• Entertainment (books, magazines, iPad)

For baby

• Newborn babygrow
• Sleepsuits
• Scratch mittens
• Hat for baby
• Muslins
• Cotton wool
• Swaddling blanket/baby blanket
• Nappies
• Going home outfit – you might need layers if it’s cold
• Car seat for the journey home

Other essentials

• Phone charger
• Money for car parking

Tips for packing

1. To make things as easy as possible we’d recommend having a labour bag, a baby bag and a bag for after baby has arrived.
2. Pack light – you need the essentials but don’t overpack as you’ll end up having to lug everything around with you when you move.
3. Check with the hospital/your midwife about anything that might be on your list that is available at the hospital.
4. Make sure your partner packs a bag for them too. Labour can be long and they’ll need to eat and drink too and may want to brush their teeth and wash too!

We wish your little one a safe and smooth arrival!

Daisy First Aid are the UK’s leading paediatric first aid provider teaching parents and carers vital skills and knowledge so they can deal with any emergency involving a baby or child. To find your lovely local Daisy Trainer head to www.daisyfirstaid.com and click on ‘find a class’.

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