How big is too big for a hospital bag?????

[Baretoes]

I am packing my hospital bag and at this rate am going to end up with 2 pieces of decent sized luggage plus a car seat. This seems excessive to me - or does this sound about right???

I don't want to make an eejit of myself!!!

depends what you have in there! You might be able to get away with one bag, and leave the other, say, in the car only to be brought in if needed...

I think it does have to be a pretty big bag! All the lists I've seen mention the same things and what's bulking it up for me is:

2 packs maternity pads
1 pack newborn nappies
Towel

If I didn't have to take them then it would be a much easier task... I've packed 2 bags as well. One with the stuff I'll need for actually giving birth and the immediate aftermath (eg one baby outfit & change of nightshirt) and then one for dh to bring in with him with going home clothes, more baby clothes etc.

I suppose I could divvy up the mat pads and nappies but this is my first time so I don't really know what I'll need - you won't be alone with your big bags!

i took two bags....big holdall for me, little bag for baby

the bath towels , toileteries & maternity pads took up the most room....you don;t want to start leaving stuff out rather than taking a big bag.......take what you need!! leave the car seat in the car obviously until you are discharged...xx

Yes I have much the same in terms of bulk! We can't leave the car seat in the car as we're in london and need it for a taxi home! We are hoping all will be well and we can come home in 6 hours and really don't want DH dashing across london to come home and collect anything. The 2nd bag is not yet packed and was thinking a pillow or two...... do you really think it's worth it??

I also have two bags packed. A large(ish) travel bag for all my bulky items and a smaller one for all my bits and pieces, shower gel, hair brush, tooth brush etc.. We have been asked to take a bath towel too, that's really going to bulk things up!?

The car seat can stay at home 'til needed. We are lucky as we are only 5 mins drive from the hospital, husband can easily pop back if I need anything else! Happy packing ladies!

Oh and I MUST remember to take my notes- I'm sure I will forget!

is a pillow worth it? yes, definitely - you will really appreciate it unless you are going to a very luxurious hospital!

Re: the 6 hours thing, I too hoped I would be home after that time, but even though everything was absolutely fine with the birth and the baby, it seemed to be hospital policy that I should stay overnight after a first baby - and if you are bf you may want to get a couple of feeds done before you leave, so you know it's established. hth, good luck x

Hi 6 weeks ago i was thinking and doing the same as u guys. My bag was bulging. I had an emergency c section so normally would stop in longer than a natural birth. i was in midnight tuesday and out thursday as i was doing so well, All i would say is take a 2 packs of maternity pads, a couple of nighties,pants, toothbrush, soap, 1 towel and a few nappies and 2 outfits for little one. Oh and a going home outfit for yourself. Thats all i needed. If u need more ask someone to bring them. Obviously everyone is different. Just a tip.... take some straws to drink with. Great when you've had a c section.