DUE DATE APPROACHING?
WHAT TO PACK IN THAT ALL IMPORTANT HOSPITAL BAG
I have so many lovely clients expecting babies over the next few weeks!
If, like them, your due date is drawing near, you'll no doubt be planning what to pack in that small holdall or suitcase that will sit by your front door waiting for the day baby decides to make an appearance. If you’re anything like me, it’s impossible to pack light for a day out on my own, so the pressure of having to pack a hospital bag for myself and a tiny baby is not a nice thought!
I speak to many new mums in my role as a newborn photographer and so I see daily the amount of ‘stuff’ you need to just leave the house with a newborn. (You can see more of my newborn work here)
I thought it would be really useful to pull together a list of essential items for your hospital bag to help you out.
As well as your hospital notes and birth plan you might want to consider the following.
Clothing
It goes without saying you need to pack your nightie or PJs. It’s best to pack at least 2 lots, so if your new baby decides to create a little mess on the first set, you can at least get changed. Pyjama tops that are loose-fitting and front fastening are best if you intend to breastfeed
It’s also a good idea to pack a cheap baggy comfortable nightdress for the actual birth. Without going into every gory detail, wearing a cheap nightdress saves your modesty over a hospital gown which is open at the back. It’s likely to end up a little worse for wear so don’t take anything you may want to wear again! (I have a small confession here, I do still own the nightdress I gave birth to our son in over 31 years ago! I promise it has been thoroughly washed)
Don’t forget to pack something loose and comfortable to come home in. Bear in mind if you have needed a c-section your maternity jeans may not be the most comfortable option.
Dressing gown and slippers. Choose a thin dressing gown as hospitals are always warm!
Underwear
You’ll want to take a couple of supportive bras or feeding bras if you intend to breastfeed. Also, don’t be expecting to get into your small pants anytime soon! Big comfortable pants in dark colours will be your best friend. Choose a higher waisted style rather than ones that sit across the hips in case you end up requiring a c section. Take 5-6 pairs
Toiletries
Breast pads are a must along with a couple of packets of maternity sanitary pads.
You’ll also need your washbag with toothbrush, hairbrush, hair ties, lip balm, soap, flannel, your skincare and deodorant.
Don’t forget to bring any medication you are taking too.
Towels
Comfort / entertainment
A breastfeeding pillow can come in really useful not just for feeding but for getting yourself comfortable too.
A bottle of water with a straw for during labour
Healthy snacks, magazines and books will all come in useful to pass the time and relax.
A camera! You may find it quite difficult to take good pictures of your baby – the lighting in hospital is often poor and your baby is still recovering from birth but even so, make sure you capture every moment possible. Once you are home you can bring your baby to a professional photographer to capture gorgeous portraits like these.
For Your Baby
Bodysuits, vests and sleepsuits. Newborns aren’t very good at regulating their own temperature so you’ll need to bring layers for your baby. Bring 5 of each – newborns can make a lot of mess!
An outfit for going home in. You’re going to take a special picture of this moment so you might want your baby to wear something special.
A hat, bootees and socks.
Plenty of newborn sized nappies and a packet of water wipes.
A shawl or blanket
Muslin squares – these are more useful than you could ever realise so take 2-3
A pram suit if baby is due in the colder months.
And that wraps up the essentials of your hospital bag.
Have I forgotten anything? Is there something you wish you had taken when you had your baby? Let me know here and I’ll add it in.