When I was pregnant with Phoebe

I was FILLED with anxiety about what to pack in my hospital bag and what I actually needed for a newborn. Buying nappies was seemingly an impossible task and I had NO idea what a bunny rug was (it’s a stretchy square of fabric to swaddle a baby in).This anxiety and indecision lead to weeks of procrastination about what to pack and aimless googling! Second time round it’s much easier. 

Here is my list of what is in my hospital bag, I hope it helps some of you ladies avoid some of the anxiety I faced first time round!

For me

• Medicare and health insurance cards
• 6 pairs of old undies
• 2 pairs of pajamas (loose elastic waists and button down tops/loose tops to breast feed easily in)
• 3 maternity bras
• 2 bonds maternity singlets
• 2 pairs of nice warm socks
• Slippers
• Dressing gown
• I will wear the same outfit home that I arrived at the hospital in
• Old t-shirt for labour (one to throw out if needed! Don’t plan to wear anything special – you’ll probably just end up nude anyway!)
• Toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, facewash, body wash, moisturisers and a little bit of make up)
• Lanisoh
• Lip balm
• 2 packets of TOM maternity pads
• 2 packets of TOM breast pads
• Hair ties
• Hot/cold packs
• 3 packets of Tanker Toppers (of course!)
• Pen and notebook
• Ipad and charger
• Camera and charger
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes
• SRC recovery pants (these are totally optional – you can buy a great band from the hospital physio for around $10 from memory)

 

For baby

• 6 newborn onesies (my bubs will be on the smaller side so will easily fit 0000)
• 4 singlets
• 5 bunny rugs
• 2 muslin wraps
• 2 booties
• 2 mittens
• 2 hats
• Car seat
• Blanket
• Cardy

 

Extras for labour

• Tens machine
• Massage oil

Too easy! My hospital supplies nappies, cotton buds etc so I don’t need to pack any of those.