So this time 3 weeks ago I was double checking that my hospital bag was packed and ready to go. It is recommend thought that you have it ready to bang in the car from about 30 weeks. Here is a list of my essentials – I would have had them separated into two bags, one for labour and one for after:

For labour

  • Lip salve (I love Burt’s Bee’s)
  • Birth plan (see sample here)
  • Mobile phone & charger
  • Water bottle (I love Swell)
  • Protein snacks (I love Bounce Balls)
  • Slippers or slipper socks
  • Music & headphones
  • PJs with buttons on the top for breastfeeding
  • Dressing gown
  • Placenta container & cool bag – labelled (check out the dynamic doula for more info)
  • Reading material/IPad or tablet for movies
  • New born nappy

For you for after

  • Arnica tablets
  • Big comfy knickers
  • Ear plugs
  • Multi Mam compress (see here for more info)
  • SRC recovery shorts (see here for more info)
  • Hairbrush, hair ties & clips
  • Deodorant
  • Make up
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste & mouthwash
  • Shower gel, shampoo & conditioner
  • Face wipes or make up remover
  • Nursing bra
  • Flip flops
  • Disposable knickers
  • Dark towels
  • Breast pads
  • Cash & coins
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Going home outfit
  • Maternity pads
  • Hair Dryer

For baby for after

  • Baby blanket
  • Newborn nappies
  • 6 x Baby sleep suits
  • 6 x cotton vests
  • Cotton Wool
  • Car Seat
  • Cotton hat & scratch mits
  • Muslin Cloth
  • Muslin cloth
  • Towel
  • Cardigan
  • Travelling home clothes