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Robyn Francis

Hospital bag 101

hospital bag

Apparently, at some point in the next 4 weeks, there needs to be a hospital bag packed and ready — in case. I thought I’d do some research into what the heck we need.

These are not tips, and I’m certainly not experienced, but this is what I’m throwing in.

For the small fry

  • 1 x bag — size to be determined (this list seems long)
  • 1 x pack of nappies
  • 1 x pack of wet wipes — apparently sensitive ones are best for brand new bums
  • Bum cream
  • Body lotion — guessing this is needed for both mom and bebe
  • Clothes — 4 x outfits / onesies, consider a mix of newborn and 0–3months, in case.
  • Hat
  • Socks
  • Swaddling blanket
  • Pacifier — if you’re going that route
  • Surgical spirits, cotton wool balls
  • Car seat and base!!

Mom-stuff

  • The gorgeous (please, please pick up on the sarcasm here), disposable maternity undies
  • 2 x packs of maternity sanitary towels — we’re going home in nappies, too
  • Linen savers
  • Dark, comfy, button up PJs
  • Robe, if your PJs are not suitable for walking around in
  • Slippers / slops
  • Feeding bras, breast pads, nipple cream (protect those puppies!)
  • Toiletries — for sanity and being presentable if you’re allowing visitors
  • Towel
  • Phone charger and adaptor — labelled MINE
  • Some form of entertainment, in case you have any energy left, and earphones
  • ID, copies of ID, pen
  • Hospital and medical aid docs — authorisation letters, etc.
  • Something to go home in, if wearing PJs outside isn’t your thing
  • Some juice / bottled water, in case.
  • Choccies, preferably Lindt Salted Caramel (ok that one I made up, but it sounds like a legitimate need, right?)

Other notes:

  • Book a wax for about 2 weeks before or have a plan for your ‘situation’. Nobody wants a nurse-in-a-hurry hacking around there.
  • It might be a good idea to have a route and plan for getting to the hospital sorted out. Uber sounds like a great idea if you’re stuck, but the Uber driver might not be too impressed.

What am I missing, mamas?