Your hospital bag checklist

The practical bits

• Birth plan and hospital notes You'll want these handy! Keep them in a side pocket or at the top of your bag.
• Sanitary pads The thicker the better, especially for overnight.
• Hair tie or band Keeping your hair off your face gives you one less thing to think about.
• Sleepwear and socks An old, comfy nightie is perfect for labour and, if you get cold feet, socks are essential!
• A going-home outfit Take something loose and comfy, and some (sensible!) shoes.
• Knickers Plenty of pairs that aren't too precious!
• Snacks and drinks It's thirsty (and hungry) work. Stay hydrated and refuel when you can!
• Toothbrush and toothpaste The simplest things make the biggest difference.
• Nursing bras and breast pads To make breastfeeding easier and protect you from any leaks!
• Laundry bag To keep your washing away from your fresh clothes.
• Phone and phone charger For taking snaps and spreading the good news. Just check your hospital's mobile phone policy first!

Make yourself comfortable

• Slippers Your favourite pair... yes, even the fluffy ones!
• A comfy pillow The most comfortable one you have at home.
• Deodorant and moisturiser A quick and easy way to freshen up and feel pretty when you're stuck in bed.
• Your favourite body wash To make you feel more at home.
• Make-up You may want to make yourself up for that first photo!
• Lip balm Dry lips are a real problem during labour - tackle them with moisturising lip balm.
• TENS machine A clever little contraption to relieve pain in labour.
• Music Make playlists that keep you energised; tune in and zone out.
• An eye mask Helping you nod off under the bright hospital lights.

Top tips from mummy bloggers

• A mini fan To keep you cool - even better, try one with a water spritzer!
• Laxatives Labour can leave you constipated, so come prepared, but check with your midwife before taking them.
• Flip-flops Perfect for wearing in shared hospital showers.
• Straws Handy for sipping when you're lying down.
• Glucose tablets A quick and easy energy boost.
• Your favourite toiletries bag Things that remind you of home will help you feel calm - or why not treat yourself to a new one?
• Hand sanitiser For times when you can't make it to the sink to wash your hands.
• Sports-top water bottle The easiest way to stay hydrated without pouring water all over yourself!
• Notebook or diary Always handy for jotting down important info from the midwife.

For hospital

• Baby clothes A few of your favourite first outfits, including vests, babygrows and sleepwear.
• Muslin cloths Leaks and dribbles are easily mopped up with a muslin.
• Toy or teddy Something to mark the occasion and a prop for those first priceless photos.
• Newborn nappies If they’re feeding, they’re pooing! Take plenty, plus nappy bags.
• Cotton wool Baby wipes aren’t recommended for newborns – opt for cotton wool and water instead.

For the journey home

• Car seat You might not fit this in your bag, but it’s an absolute essential! Make sure it’s correctly installed before going anywhere.
• Hats and booties To make their journey home warm and cosy.

For the bag

• Change for parking Don’t get caught out – take plenty to top up.
• Snacks and drinks Though you’re not the one pushing, you’ll need to keep your energy levels up for support.
• Games and reading material For both you and your partner. Something entertaining for hospital waits.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste A quick way to freshen up.
• A change of clothes In case you end up staying longer than expected.
• Painkillers Take your own stash in case a headache strikes.
• Your own pillow Improve your quality of sleep and feel more at home in a bedside chair with a familiar pillow.
• Camera To capture those precious first moments.
• Money In case you need to nip to the shop for supplies.
• A written list of phone numbers It may seem a bit old-school, but if you can’t use (or charge) your mobile, this will come in handy.

To remember

• A full petrol tank Not strictly one for the bag, but very important prep for that quick dash to the hospital.
• Contraction timing app Keep track of contractions from the very first instance.