What to pack in your hospital bag

The best lessons you can learn are not through theories but through experience. You’ll never know when your water might break or when you will start getting contractions. This is why you should pack your hospital back early and keep it at the ready either by the door or in your car, or place it somewhere easily accessible by relatives.

So what should you actually pack in your going away bag? Here are some suggestions:

Practical Necessities

1. Your mobile: yes, it tops the list! You’re going to want to capture every single first day moment with your child, and take hundreds of pictures, so don’t forget your charger and an extra memory card if you have one.
2. Any medication that you have been prescribed or are taking daily.
3. Hygiene Essentials: A toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner, deodorant, feminine wash, wipes, lip balm, glasses or contact lenses and their solution. Also ensure your shower gel is one that protects your skin from germs and keeps it moisturized like Dettol’s range of nourishing bodywashes. They come with an 8 hour moisture lock in addition to Dettol’s 100% better protection from germs.
4. Intimate Essentials: Breastfeeding friendly bras, and nipple cream in case you feel soreness on your breasts while getting the baby to latch on.
5. Your favorite nightgown, a robe, slippers or soft comfy socks. You’ll also want to pack loose, easy-to-move-in clothes. Dark colors will help hide stains or any leaking. Pack some yoga or sweatpants and big shirts for your going-home outfit.
6. Sanitary pads are necessary post-delivery. After months of not getting your period, you should be prepared for a long bleeding period.
7. Purchase a breastfeeding pillow as it will make the feeding process nice and comfortable, especially since you’ll be feeding your newborn every few hours.
8. You should pack a book, some music or some cards – anything to entertain yourself when you can’t sleep and need to spend time on your own.
9. Pack some snacks and spare change in case you want to buy something to eat or drink.

Your Baby’s Essentials:

1. Two adorable outfits for your darling newborn to wear, in addition to a bib.
2. You may need baby nail trimmers and gloves. Don’t forget to have a baby car seat set up and secured before your due date.

Moral Boosters

1. Hair dryer: you’ll need to jump into the shower as quickly as possible and the hospital might not provide one for you. So bring yours along and you’ll find it to be one item you’ll be happy to have brought along.
2. A diary: Why not? If you’re one to keep a journal bring along your favorite pen and write your heart away. You’ll have a lot of emotions and thoughts going through your mind so a little scribbling and doodling will ease your tension.
3. Chocolate (in small quantities!)
4. A cushion to ensure your comfort post-delivery.

Lastly, a relative or friend might be able to stay with you in hospital, so make sure to pack a small bag for them with two changes of clothes, a sweater, pyjamas, and bath essentials.