Packing Your Hospital Bag

It’s a good idea to be well prepared for the birth. Part of this preparation is having a hospital bag packed and ready in case labour starts. Four to six weeks before your due date is a good time to begin packing. Of course, it makes a difference whether you are planning a day birth or expect to stay in hospital for a few days. Even if you are not planning a longer stay, it’s still sensible to be prepared. You should bring some important documents, a few items of clothing, and the basic essentials for your baby.

The most important documents are your passport or ID card and your maternity notes. You will also need your NHS card (if applicable) and a referral letter from your gynaecologist or midwife, if one has been issued. If you do not have a referral, this is usually not a problem. For the registration of your baby with the registry office, you should bring your marriage certificate as well as the birth certificates of you and your partner if you are married. If you are unmarried, your own birth certificate is sufficient. Most hospitals will take care of registering your baby for you.

When it comes to clothing, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable. Choose loose-fitting, comfortable items. For your stay after the birth and for the journey home, it’s best to bring clothes that fitted you during your fifth or sixth month of pregnancy. The following items are particularly practical:

• 8 pairs of loose-fitting knickers that can be washed at high temperatures

• 2–3 comfortable nursing bras, one to two sizes larger than those you wore in your final month of pregnancy

• Breast pads

• 1–2 nightdresses, ideally ones that open at the front

• Warm socks

• Comfortable T-shirts

• Slippers

• A bathrobe

• If needed, clothing for your partner or birth companion, if they will be staying with you in a family room

In hospital, you will generally need the same toiletries and personal care items that you use at home every day. When choosing soap and shower gel, it’s best to opt for fragrance-free products. This allows your baby to recognise your natural scent immediately after birth. You should also pack the following items:

• Large, soft maternity pads

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Towels and flannels, if you prefer not to use those provided by the hospital or birth centre

• Lip balm, in case your lips become dry from breathing during labour

• Creams and other personal toiletries

Most hospitals provide clothing and nappies for your baby during your stay. For the journey home, however, you will need to bring nappies and clothing yourself:

• Bodysuit in size 56–62

• Footed sleepsuit or baby sleeping bag

• Baby undershirt

• Trousers

• Woollen blanket

• Jacket, hat and gloves (in winter)

• Muslin cloths

• Infant car seat (if you are travelling by car)

In addition to the items already mentioned, there are a few other things that many parents have found helpful. Have a look and decide for yourself which of these you might want to bring:

• Mobile phone

• Glasses or contact lenses

• Camera

• Music, books, magazines or a tablet

• Dextrose tablets and sweets

• Drinks and small snacks

• Cash for the hospital café or vending machines

• Hair ties or clips to keep your hair tied back during labour