what do i pack in hospital bag?

[memoo]

This is my 3rd pregnancy but have quite a large gap between my last DC and this one.

The last two times I have always taken far too much in to hospital and really want to avoid lugging a huge bag about when i go in to have this one.

So what are the absolute must have items and what things can you really do without?

what should I take in for baby?

I took in mini toiletries which saved loads of space, 2x pyjamas (me)
1x extra set clothes (me)
1xbag newborn nappies & wipes
3xbaby vests
3xbabygrows
1xbaby hat
3xmittens
1xsnowsuit &blanket
I didn't take a dressing gown but a big jumper instead, that saves a lot of room
good luck

as above, but would add:

towel (that after birth bath!)
chocolate

can i take baby wipes? or do they frown on using them on newborns?

For me the only thing that was actually taken out of my embarassingly big bag was the lucozade with a straw (the straw is vital as you can sip it whatever wierd position you are in!)

I had no problem with using baby wipes, they do make your bag heavier though if you take a whole pack, take a small carrier pack or just some cotton wool. I also recommend taking flip flops for the shower.

Dettox ! The state of the toilets and showers ! You'll be very glad ....

You often get small packs of baby wipes and anti-bacterial spray in Bounty packs. They're handy to reduce bulk, as well as "travel-sized" toiletries. I saved space by leaving the going-home stuff out too - DH brought it in the day after, when we actually did go home.

my mind has gone blank from last time do i need a towel for the baby?

and how many packs of maternity pads would i need roughly?

I used two bags. One for the labour room and then a second bag to take up onto the ward with me. Once I had transferred to the ward DH popped down to the car and swapped the bags over before he left.

I didn't bath my baby for about 2 weeks after the birth so no to a baby towel

Something to read
Ear plugs
socks
slippers
3x vests
3x sleepsuits
blanket
nappies
bottom salve
handcream
lip balm
concealer
mascara
blusher
HAIRBRUSH (I forgot mine)
2x mat pads
some type of cakey biscuit
bit weird but essential oil in a little spray for your room

sense of humour

Dh didn't even get my bag out of the car till after DD was born.....Am very glad I had packed in case of us staying in over night. Don't forget slippers and change of nightie but the only thing I could not have stayed in hospital without was Flash Wipes. If I ever visit anyone in hospital now I always taken some for them. Using a toliet that other women have used after also just giving birth was not to be considered without taking flash wiptes to the lou with you!!!!!!

I read on MN when I was pregnant that a straw was really useful so I took one when I was in labour and my god it was invaluable!!!

I also used millions of pads and disposable undercrackers.