Sometimes it seems as if pregnancy is all about to-do lists. There’s so much to organise, from ante-natal appointments to shopping trips for nursery furniture, and maybe even a baby shower with friends and family. But as you approach your due date, packing a hospital bag should definitely appear near the top of your list. The NHS recommends packing a bag at least three weeks before baby is due. But what exactly should you pack? It’s helpful to think of the bag as divided into three sections: the first to help you through labour, the second includes essentials for you post-delivery, and the third is for your new baby.

Although you might not stay in hospital overnight, it’s wise to pack for at least one night as it’s not uncommon to have a short stay in hospital. Follow our guide for more details…

1. Labour

• Your birth plan and hospital notes. Birth plans are a helpful guide for midwives and consultants, although it’s important to be flexible as labour develops.
• Any medication you are taking. If there are any medicines you need to take regularly, don’t forget to bring them to hospital and let your midwife know.
• A loose, comfortable top, plus one spare. An old nightshirt or baggy t-shirt will keep you cool during labour. Not only will you produce your own body heat, hospital delivery suites tend to be warm. Have a spare top in case it’s a long labour and you want to change.
• Washbag with toiletries. Pack all your usual items including toothbrush and toothpaste, soap or shower gel and moisturiser. Lip balm and hair bands are also a good idea.
• Relaxing music or podcasts. Create a playlist in advance to ensure you have your favourite music to hand. You may find you prefer not to listen to music as labour progresses, but it’s good to have the option.
• Water spray or cleansing wipes. You might want a quick freshen-up during labour, especially if it’s going on for longer than you’d hoped.
• Your favourite soft drink. It's important to keep hydrated during labour so pack a drink you like to keep your fluid levels topped up.

2. Post Labour

• At least two nightshirts or pairs of pyjamas. If you’re planning to breastfeed, choose a front-opening nightshirt or a loose top that’s easy to lift.
• Dressing gown, socks and slippers. For padding about around the ward.
• Plenty of spare underwear and maternity pads. Don’t pack your best undies – roomy briefs or even paper pants are the order of the day!
• Two or three comfortable bras. If you intend to breastfeed, bring nursing bras. Before you buy, check sizing advice with a maternity expert in-store or online.
• Breast pads. As your milk comes in, these are essential to stop bras getting soggy.
• Phone and phone charger. You shouldn’t feel under pressure to respond to every message, but you’ll probably want to keep in regular touch with very close family and friends.
• Clothes to travel home in. Don’t be over ambitious by packing your pre-pregnancy jeans. Jogging bottoms or a loose skirt are the best options.
• Snacks. Your hunger pangs might not coincide with hospital meal times, so it’s worth packing favourite snacks to keep you going.

3. New Baby Essentials

Sometimes it's easier to have a separate bag for you and baby so that you can easily find everything you need. Make sure your birthing partner is aware of where everything is so that they can help find bits for you as you need them.

• Baby vests and sleepsuits. Pack three to five sleepsuits (also called babygrows or bodysuits), and the same number of vests. Opt for poppers at the front of the sleepsuit for ease of nappy-changing.
• A hat, socks or booties, and scratch mittens. Babies can get cold quickly, so keep them toasty with a newborn hat and socks or booties. Some babies inadvertently scratch their faces with their tiny nails, so mittens are useful in the early weeks.
• Nappies. Whether you’re using cloth nappies or disposable, you’ll need a good supply.
• Shawl or blanket. Wrapping your baby in a soft blanket is a special moment. Buy one designed for newborns and keep an eye on baby’s temperature as it can fluctuate quite quickly.
• Muslin squares. These are invaluable for mopping up milk dribbles; muslin fabric is very light and soft, making it ideal for newborns.
• Baby’s going home outfit. The clothes you pack will vary depending on the season. If it’s the middle of winter you might want to pack a snow suit, but remove this before clipping baby into a car seat as newborns can quickly overheat.

There’s so much to think about at this special time, but it’s wise to be prepared to avoid any last-minute worries. Good luck to all the expectant parents out there – an exciting adventure awaits!