There's so much focus on what to pack for baby. As osteopaths and mums, here's our gentle reminder: pack for you too.
Your body is about to do something incredible. A few well chosen things can make labour, those first postpartum days and the trip home a lot more comfortable, and they're worth the space in your bag.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Most people aim to have their bag packed by around 36 weeks, so you're ready if baby comes early. Keep it by the door or in the car, and write a short list of last-minute items (phone, charger, snacks from the fridge) on the top.
Osteopath's tip: pack two smaller bags instead of one heavy one: one for labour and one for after baby arrives. They're easier to carry, and your partner can bring the second bag in later. Late pregnancy is not the time to be hauling a heavy suitcase with one arm.
For baby
- 2 to 3 onesies or zip suits
- Singlets
- Muslin wraps or swaddles
- Nappies and wipes
- A going-home outfit
- A blanket
- A dummy, if you're planning to use one
- A correctly fitted car seat, installed before your due date
For labour
- Your birth preferences and hospital paperwork
- A big water bottle with a straw, so you can sip in any position
- Snacks and electrolytes
- A TENS machine, heat pack or other comfort items
- Lip balm and hair ties
- A long phone charger
- A robe or open-front nightie
- A speaker or headphones
For postpartum (the bit we think deserves more attention)
- Nursing-friendly PJs
- High-waisted undies and maternity pads
- A peri bottle
- Nipple balm and breast pads
- Comfy, loose going-home clothes
- Postpartum support wear, like our postpartum compression tights
- Compression socks
Our postpartum tights are designed with targeted support through the tummy, back and pelvis, giving you an extra feeling of support as you move through those early days. Compression socks are an easy addition for tired, heavy legs, and if you choose our grippy compression socks, the non-slip sole is very handy on slippery hospital floors.
Planned or possible caesarean? A few extras
- Extra high-waisted undies that sit well above your scar
- Loose, soft clothing with no waistband pressing on your wound
- A small pillow to hold against your tummy when you cough, laugh or sit up
- Slip-on shoes, because bending down will be hard for a little while
Read more in our C-section recovery guide.
Little extras mums tell us they were glad they packed
- An eye mask and earplugs for bright, noisy wards
- Your own pillow (in a coloured pillowcase so it doesn't get mixed up with the hospital's)
- A reusable bag for dirty clothes
- Toiletries, including a gentle face wash and dry shampoo
- A notebook or phone notes for feeding times and questions for your midwife
Moving comfortably in the first few days
Your body has just done a huge amount of work, so a few small habits help:
- Roll onto your side to get in and out of bed, rather than sitting straight up.
- Take short, gentle walks when you feel ready.
- Sit down to feed, with your back supported and baby brought up to you, not you leaning down to baby.
- Accept help, and rest whenever you can.
For what to expect once you're home, read our postpartum recovery timeline.
The bottom line
Pack for baby, pack for labour, and please pack for you. A little comfort and support goes a long way in those first days.
This article is general information only. Please follow your hospital's own packing list and your midwife or obstetrician's advice, especially if you're having a caesarean or a specialised birth plan.
