What to pack in your hospital bag
Time to think about what to pack for your new child — including that special going-home outfit — and for yourself, as well as what you might need for breastfeeding.
My hospital bag checklist: What to pack for breastfeeding
- YOURSELF! While you're busy packing clothes for you both and thinking about the birth, your awesome body will soon be instinctively preparing perfectly balanced, tailor-made milk to nourish and protect your child. Without you having to do a thing, your breasts will begin to start making colostrum (and later mature milk) that contains exactly the right amount of calories, protein, and antibodies to help your new son or daughter thrive. When it comes to feeding, all your child needs is you.
- You might also think about packing these five extra items:
- Clothes that allow quick and easy access to your breasts for feeding
- A nursing bra
- Your own feeding cushion or pillow
- Burping cloths (sometimes called muslins)
- Contact details of a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support service in case you don't get the hang of breastfeeding straightaway.
My hospital bag checklist: What to pack for you
- Birth plan and medical information Make sure you have all necessary personal details at hand.
- Dressing gown, slippers, and socks Essentials for ensuring you're comfortable moving around the hospital.
- Comfortable, loose maternity clothing or old t-shirts Take some spares so you have the option of changing if things get messy.
- Toiletries Lip balm, washcloths, and your own toothbrush will come in handy for freshening up.
- Towels It might be nice to have your own towels from home.
- Underwear Choose old pairs or disposables.
- Hairbands or clips Long hair? You may want to keep it off your face and neck during labor and while in bed.
- Plastic bag for laundry Keep dirty and soiled clothing out of the way.
- Books, magazines, headphones, music player... A good idea to bring something to keep you occupied during down-time.
- Mobile phone and camera To tell all your friends and family the good news and capture those precious first moments together.
My hospital bag checklist: What to pack for your baby
- Check what's available Ask beforehand about which supplies, if any, your hospital provides for newborns. Depending on the answer, you may need...
- 1-2 packs of diapers Make sure you have enough supplies for the first couple of days.
- Wet wipes and cotton balls Useful during diaper-changing and for quickly wiping up any mess.
- 2-3 bodysuits and 2-3 t-shirts (depending on the weather and season) Newborns can need changing frequently so pack plenty of spares. You may also want to take a special, photo-friendly outfit for coming home.
- Hat To protect your child's head when you're leaving the hospital.
- Socks Essential for keeping your child's feet warm.
- Warm blanket You may want to bring a special blanket to wrap your baby in after birth or for the journey home.
- Child car seat Remember to bring this for the trip home from the hospital - it's mandatory in many countries.
Sources
US Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Women’s Health. Your guide to breastfeeding. January 2011.
Last revised: August, 2017
Related articles
Am I ready to give birth? Signs of labour checklist
You probably think it’ll be obvious when you go into labour, but it isn’t always what you see in the movies. Here are a few signs of labour to look out for.
1 min to read
How to Cope with First Trimester Anxiety
Suffering from first trimester anxiety? You’re not alone, 1 in 10 pregnant women experience this pregnancy symptom in their first trimester. Here’s how to keep the feelings under control.
2 mins to read
Planning a diaper party checklist
A new arrival is definitely an excuse for a party. Whether friends or family are planning a diaper party for you, or you’re doing it yourself, here are some diaper party ideas to get you started.
2 mins to read
How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Amazing news! You’re expecting your first child. But what can you do to emotionally prepare for parenthood?
3 mins to read
Children’s names help
Need children’s names inspiration? Here comes the fun bit! You may already have a favourite, or perhaps you’re waiting until you meet junior face-to-face.
2 mins to read
Working mom woes? Follow our tips for going back to work after giving birth
If your family finances demand that you’re to become a working mom, you’re more than likely planning your return to work while navigating a rollercoaster of emotions — from feeling guilty and anxio
3 mins to read
Getting your child's nursery ready
Preparing your child’s nursery is a fun job to do before your bundle of joy arrives. Here’s a nursery list to help get them settled in at home.
2 mins to read
7 Changes During Pregnancy
You lament, “I’m not myself anymore!” With a blossoming belly, comes crazy physical changes.
4 mins to read
Your maternity leave and maternity pay checklist
It might seem a while away, but once you’ve made your pregnancy announcement, it’s a good idea to begin maternity leave preparations and find out if you’re entitled to maternity pay.
2 mins to read
The 6 Best Apps for Couples in Pregnancy Mode
We’ve tracked down 6 apps to help you and your partner make the most out of this exciting stage in your life.
1 min to read
3 Tips to Reduce Stress for Mothers
The journey of motherhood is a joyful adventure with ups and downs. Though it is rewarding, there are times when you will feel stressed.
3 mins to read
8 Inspiring Parenthood Hits to Watch Together
Pregnancy and new parenthood are a natural part of life but they do not always come naturally. It can seem surreal.
3 mins to read
19-Week pregnant: Development and Diet
Your little lodger weighs between 300 and 400 grams – weigh a grapefruit in your hand and that’s about how heavy your child is. Read more about this week.
3 mins to read
35-Week pregnant: Development and diet
In about a month, you’ll be holding that little bundle of joy in your arms. Until then, there’s still lots of polishing and refinement going on inside you. Read more about this week.
3 mins to read
5 ways to reduce your child’s chances of having allergies
Find out how breastfeeding from birth and beyond and taking certain probiotics may also help reduce your child’s allergy risks
5 mins to read
Pregnancy Exercises to Help You Keep Fit
Pregnancy doesn’t mean you have to be stuck to the bed or the couch.
3 mins to read
14-Week pregnant: Development and diet
Your little angel is about the size of a grapefruit! Have you felt her move or kick yet? If not, you should be able to in the next weeks! Read more about this exciting time.
3 mins to read
30-Week pregnant: Development and diet
Every day, your little one develops more, getting ready to make an entrance into the world in just under 10 weeks. Has it gone fast or is the time creeping by for you?
2 mins to read
Stay Fit and Active for an Easier Delivery!
Did you know? Regular physical activity while you’re pregnant might help you have a shorter labour and an easier birth.
2 mins to read
Related tools
Ovulation calendar
Determine when you are likely to ovulate can improve your chances of conceiving.
Naming Your Little One
Search the perfect name for your child
Pregnancy week
Find out what changes you can expect in your body, your emotions, your life and your little one.
