Packing my Hospital Bag | Checklist

With just 4 weeks left until baby number 2 is due, I thought it was about time I packed my hospital bag. Next week I'll be 37 weeks, which means baby is considered 'Full Term' and I could go into labour at any time. Dark & difficult times lie ahead (Harry Potter reference for those who don't know, lol). Having done this before, I can almost remember the main things I really needed/used when at the hospital, and with a little help from Pinterest to rejog the old memory, I've managed to compile a checklist of the things that really do come in handy when going into hospital.

For Mum to Wear

• An old nightie to give birth in. Last time I bought a new one and it got covered in blood and all sorts of other pleasant bodily fluids, and I ended up just binning it as soon as I got a shower.
• Pyjamas for after you're all clean. Preferably dark ones to hide any mishaps. A button down pyjama top will also help if you're planning on breastfeeding.
• Slippers - just because everyone loves a nice comfy pair of slippers to walk around in.
• Dressing gown - maybe not a necessity for some people but I couldn't do without mine.
• 1 or 2 nursing bras (again, only essential if you're planning on breastfeeding, and even then you might just be comfortable in just pyjamas. I probably will be lol).
• Disposable maternity briefs - I found these really handy last time, as they're mahoosive enough to hold those ridiculous maternity pads, and you don't have to worry about stashing loads of dirty knickers in your bag when you need a change. These ones from Asda are cheap.
• Some big comfy knickers - for if/when you run out of disposable ones, or if you want something a bit comfier.

Essentials

• LIP BALM LIP BALM LIP BALM!! I know I sound like a crazed lip balm freak. I am to an extent, as I can't go to bed without it at home, but during labour your lips can get seriously dry, which is why lip balm is an absolute essential for your hospital bag.
• Nipple Cream. This, again, depends on whether you plan on breast/bottle feeding, and it also depends on how long you stay in the hospital. If you're in and out within 24 hours, then it can probably wait at home, but you never know so I'd rather be safe than sorry.
• A hair bobble. Seriously, nobody wants their hair in their face when they're in labour.
• A handy travel mirror. Thank me later.
• Maternity Pads. Yep, those beasts. Normal pads just won't do it at first. You'll bleed the biggest period of your life for a good few weeks. (I did anyway).
• Toothbrush/toothpaste - obviously.
• Small makeup bag with the basics in. You might wanna make yourself look awake/alive for your visitors.
• Toiletries. This is where I save a bit of space. I bought the Badedas 3 in 1 Revitalising Shower Gel, Shampoo & Conditioner, which should do the job in the shower until I get home. I have a big bottle of the Original Badedas Bath Gelee for when I get home, too. Badedas is absolutely amazing on the lady area, especially if you have stitches. It really helped soothe my stitches when I had George.
• Tissues - for the weepy moments, and everything else in between.
• Face Wipes & Moisturiser
• Hair Brush
• A couple of towels, I don't know if all hospitals are the same, but mine advises to bring your own towels.

Essentials for Baby

• Nappies & Wipes. Clearly the biggest essentials going.
• 4 or 5 vests
• 4 or 5 babygrows/sleepsuits
• A swaddle blanket. I didn't take a proper swaddling blanket last time, but I wish I had as newborns love to feel safe and secure in a swaddle.
• Snowsuit for going home in.
• A warm cosy blanket.
• Hat/mittens for if the hospital room is cold.
• Nappy cream suitable for the delicate newborn skin. I've gone for this one.
• Muslin Cloths - just so handy with newborns.

Extras for Mum/Dad

• Bottled Water. I know you can get cups of water in the hospital but bottles are always handy to have on hand.
• Mobile phone & charger.
• Spare change / money. For things like the tv, vending machines, tea/coffee etc.
• Energising snacks (cereal bars are handy for both Mum and Dad).
• Camera
• Tablet, magazines. To keep yourself sane if you stay in hospital a while.
• Maternity file (notes).

So there we have it. I hope this list helps new mums in the future. No doubt I'll have forgotten something SUPER important. If anyone has any other hints or tips please feel free to let me know. I've got most of the essentials now so I'm pretty much ready if the baby decides to make an early appearance. 

Good luck to all those getting ready for labour, it's the scariest, most exciting time in the world and I can't wait to do it all over again.

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