While you may have seen lists for hospital bags which tell you to pack your favourite CD to play during your labour, your favourite nightie and dressing gown, birth ball and snacks, the reality is although these things may be important for some people, there is a whole other list of practical items you are guaranteed to need and use during your hospital stay after the birth of your baby.  To help you out, we’ve put together a list of what you really need to pack in your hospital bag.

– A minimum of five pairs of big black high waisted undies. Now is not the time to wear your pretty skimpy knickers, you want something supportive (especially if you’ve had a caesarean) that will hold your ‘things’ in place and that you can throw away when (note I didn’t say if) they get soiled.

– Maternity Pads. It might seem like a no brainer but it’s a good idea to bring a two to three packs of maternity pads to the hospital with you.  If you have a caesarean, you can also use them as a soft protective barrier between your belly and pants.

– Baby wipes or flushable wipes for YOU. These will make things soooo much easier.

– Three to four pairs of pyjama pants as you are likely to need more than one pair during those first few nights.

– If you are a coffee love, bring your own!  Another good idea is to also bring a insulated travel mug, not only will it keep your coffee/tea hot but thanks to it’s lid it’s also safer than having a cup of hot liquid sitting around.  Also get you partner or friends to pick up a larger bottle of milk to keep in the fridge.

– Your own pillow!  Let’s face it, most hospital pillows are rubbish and you want to be comfortable.

– Skin moisturiser and lip balm. Your skin and lips will dry out quickly thanks to the hospital’s air-conditioning.

– Ural, even if you don’t think you need it, take it with you.

– Metamucil/Peppermint Oil/Movicol etc.  It’s a good ideas to bring your own and start taking it soon after birth.  While the prospect of doing a number two after giving birth (especially if you’ve had stitches or a caesarean) may be enough to stop you going for a month, many hospitals need you achieve this ‘special milestone’ before you are discharged.

– Thongs. If you are sharing a bathroom it’s a good idea to have a pair of thongs with you, they are also great if you need to duck out of your quickly.

– Phone and Camera chargers – it might seem obvious but these items are often forgotten.

– Plastic Bags to put your soiled and dirty clothes in.  It’s a good idea to have one for clothes and underwear you may just want to throw away as well as one for clothes to take home to be washed.

– Pen and Notepad.  It’s very likely you will forget a lot of things people tell your or things you need to do during those first few days. Having a notepad handy is a great way to help you remember things like the time you last fed bub/for how long and who has visited/sent flowers etc.

What are your hospital bag essentials?