What to pack in your hospital bag

You may also need to go into hospital for an overnight stay at some other point during your pregnancy before the birth, and although it's probably over-the-top to have a bag prepared on the off-chance, it is a good idea to be mentally prepared for what you would need to have with you. So here's what to pack for an overnight stay:

For you

• Your maternity notes
• A dressing gown you’ll feel comfortable walking around the halls in
• A washbag with your washing essentials and a hairbrush or comb
• Comfortable house shoes or slippers for when you want to go wandering the corridors
• A towel
• A change of underwear
• Two nightgowns

And if you're preparing a bag for labour then add to that:

• Several copies of your birth plan to hand out to those who are caring for you at the hospital. Remember that you may be in labour for a while and are likely to go through a change of staff
• Any props you plan to use in labour, whether that’s aromatherapy candles, oils, a pillow, massage instruments, rescue remedy, calming music and player etc.
• High energy snacks for yourself and birthing partner
• Several pairs of old or disposable knickers and at least one nursing bra if you’re planning/hoping to breastfeed
• If you're planning on breastfeeding then take nightgowns that won’t interfere with feeding after the birth i.e. open-fronted
• Breast pads and a couple of muslin cloths to keep your clothes clean when feeding and winding
• Suitable clothes to go home in, and remember, you’re likely to look about five months pregnant after the birth, however disappointing that may be, so the pre-pregnancy clothes can stay in the wardrobe

And you may like to have:

• Antiseptic wipes or solution
• A pair of warm socks for during labour
• Earplugs if you’re going to be on a ward or in a shared room
• Distractions – Whether it’s a deck of cards or a travel board game, a trashy novel or magazines, something that will help distract you from the pains and help you both pass the time
• Sweets to suck on. Sugary or glucose sweets may be good for an energy buzz but they'll also make you more thirsty, so you might want to try a sugar-free variety
• Herbal teas, fruit juices and mineral water if you prefer not to drink tap water
• Camera or anything else you want to record the birth or the time afterwards with that is allowed by the hospital
• Important numbers - e.g. check that either your or your partner's mobile has all the numbers for people you'll want to contact immediately after the birth

For baby

• A rear-facing car seat for a newborn - If you’re bringing your baby home by car don’t forget to fit the baby seat in advance
• A couple of babygros and baby vests
• Scratch mitts
• Nappies – Your hospital might provide these, but check in advance and bring a couple of spares, just in case
• A going-home outfit suitable for the season and weather

What the hospital will provide
What hospitals provide for you varies in quality as well as in scope so it's worth checking ahead wherever possible by asking at the hospital, and if you know anyone who's given birth at your hospital then ask them also. Most hospitals will provide the bare basics for baby such as wipes, nappies, dummies and bottles / sterilising equipment. Some hospitals provide items of personal hygiene, like disposable knickers, disposable breast pads, towels etc. Others may even provide music players and nursing pillows. However, most mums find that their hospital doesn't supply all that much: If something is important to you then don't assume it will be provided.