Packing your hospital bag
I spent more time than necessary thinking about what to pack for hospital and ended up packing plenty of things I didn’t need. These are the items I would recommend packing for post birth. I had a c-section so unfortunately I’m not able to help with what to pack for labour!
Remember - if you forget something, the shops are all still open and hopefully a partner, friend or family can help by picking it up and dropping it to you!
Pyjamas: Piyama
Piyama is my go-to for pyjamas and Resort Wear. I almost exclusively wore this brand postpartum - they’re comfy, cute and you can wear them at home or out of the house. These make a great gift and come with a canvas gift bag to pop your items in. I love supporting local brands and this one was founded by a Brisbane-based mum and daughter. I actually wore Piyama on my wedding morning, as did my bridesmaids and mum, so they’ve been there for several important events in my life!
I packed a pair of casual clothes/cute pyjamas each for day I was in hospital which made me feel ‘ready’ for the day.
Maternity bras
Pack your maternity bras - covered off in my Pregnancy list.
Slippers: O Smile Smiley
I got these Smiley slippers for hospital. They’re not expensive and I thought it was nice to keep things bright and cheerful! They’re comfy and I still wear them all the time at home - they always put a smile on my face.
Portable light
This was one of the best items I took to hospital. We used it at night to avoid turning on the harsh hospital lights, when doing night feeds, and continued to use it for night feeds once at home. The nurses were confused by what it was at first, but often commented on what a great idea it was. I used it whenever. I got ours from Beacon, but you can find them anywhere - just look for a portable lamp that you recharge via USB port. Ours throws enough light to see without being overpowering and has three levels of brightness.
Toiletries
I used the bare minimum for toiletries (only once I was up for it) - face wash, moisturiser, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste. I don’t wear makeup everyday but if that makes you feel more like yourself post-partum, pack it!
Whether you give birth vaginally or via c-section, you will need maternity pads. I had a c-section, so maternity pads were enough for me but if you have heavier bleeding you may need something more - I’ve heard the Frida Mom disposable underwear is great.
Nipple shields: Silverettes
I almost didn’t take these to hospital but I’m glad I did. I only breastfed for a week but these were a saviour for sore and damaged nipples. They accidentally got thrown out on my lunch tray one day (devastating on many levels as they aren’t cheap) and my angel of a mum went and picked up a new set for me. Tip: seems counterintuitive but the most common size is XL, not Regular!
Packing for baby
Clothes: Don’t overthink it (I did!). Pack 3 singlets, a onesie for each day in case of accidents (Bonds is the best and go over the feet to save on socks) and, if you’re taking your Love to Dream or Ergopouch, pack one or two. Pack a beanie in case, but volunteers often make knitted beanies free of charge for for maternity wards. Don’t forget any special items - we also packed a blanket mum crocheted for my daughter!
Nappies and wipes: I packed nappies and wipes and did not even use them. Don’t tell the hospital I told you, but we were able to use nappies and wipes they provided and just asked for more when we ran out.
Additional comments
I also packed my Kindle (and a USB charger that worked for both my Kindle and the Portable lamp) as well as an 2m phone charger so that my phone could reach the hospital bed.
Many packing lists recommend a robe and cardigan - I did pack these but never used them as I ran pretty hot post-partum.