Your hospital bag has been packed, unpacked and repacked for weeks but when the time finally comes to head for the hospital to have baby, it can be easy to forget some of those last-minute items that haven’t quite made it to your hospital bag yet. Here are some common items most forgotten as well as a few must haves to make your time in hospital a little easier.
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Phone charger (make that an extra-long one)
It’s likely on the list but is often the one item left behind in the rush. You just never know how long your labour and hospital stay will be. When the time comes to send that big announcement text or to simply keep in touch with loved ones, the last thing you want is for your phone or tablet to run out of charge. Top tip – bringing an extra long one will hopefully mean there will be a charge point in easy reach of the bed!
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Birth plan or hospital folder
You’ve been carrying your hospital folder or notes to all your midwife and doctor appointments throughout your pregnancy so its not an item that can just sit in your hospital bag waiting. Quite often its forgotten but keeping it at the top of your bag in between appointments will hopefully help act as a reminder.
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Snacks and drinks
Depending on how fast your labour progresses you might not even have time nor feel like you want to eat. It can be the last thing on your mind when you are thinking about what you need to bring. Having some flavoured water that you can sip on will really help. It’s not always easily on hand in the hospital so worth bringing your own just in case. Oh and a straw might come in very handy to sip on in between those contractions!
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Lip balm
Staying hydrated might not end up top of your priority list during labour and it can leave your lips quite dry especially if you are getting some help from gas and air. Having lip balm on hand will help soothe your lips and stop them getting sore and dry.
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Bath Towel
When you are feeling up to it you will want a lovely soothing shower after giving birth. Don’t forget to bring your own soft fluffy towel for that extra touch of comfort.
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Car Seat
Some people make a conscious decision not to bring a car seat out of superstition, but if you live far from the hospital or won’t have someone to deliver a car seat to the hospital then it’s one of those items that is easily forgotten. Not immediately needed for the birth but can be essential for bringing baby home.
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Extra cash or loose change
Just in case there are snack or drinks machines nearby for anything you or your partner might need, its always handy to have some spare change pre-packed so you are not caught short.
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Dressing robe
Something you might not ordinarily use but a dressing robe is great for keeping you warm as well as giving you a little more modesty during your hospital stay. Its also very handy during those first few weeks and months with baby at home.
