What to Pack in Your Maternity Hospital Bag for Birth in Australia
Waiting for the arrival of your baby is an exciting time, but packing your hospital bag can be a stressful job for soon-to-be parents. Some people like to pack heavy, ensuring they have everything they could possibly need during their hospital stay. Others might prefer to pack on the lighter side to avoid hauling around things they probably won’t need.
To make your job easier, we’ve gathered our picks for the top maternity hospital bag essentials.
What to pack in your hospital bag
To save you from rifling through a huge bag when you’re looking for something, it can be helpful to pack separate bags for yourself and your baby.
What to pack for baby born in Australia
In your baby’s hospital bag, we recommend packing:
- 2 growsuits per day
- 2 singlets or bodysuits per day
- 1 sleepsuit per day
- 1-2 breathable muslin cloths for swaddling
- Warm baby blanket
- Going home outfit
Hats/beanies and socks/booties are also important, particularly if your baby is born in the winter. When it comes to newborn nappies and wipes, your hospital may provide them for you, but it’s a good idea to double-check. Since newborns need to be changed up to 12 times a day, packing extra supplies can’t hurt!
What to pack for mum
Start packing your maternity bag with the essentials, such as your ID, wallet, Medicare card, phone, and charger.
Once you’ve got that in order, consider which clothing items you’ll be most comfortable in. After all, the comfort of mum is just as important as the comfort of baby! This is why we recommend packing plenty of loose, comfortable clothing and maternity bras to make those first few feedings a little easier. If you choose to breastfeed, including some breastfeeding-friendly clothes will also help.
It’s also important for mum to keep her energy up, so don’t forget to pack snacks and drinks. Things like muesli bars, bananas, biscuits, and crackers are great to have on hand for your hospital stay. Include a small toiletry bag with essentials, including a toothbrush and toothpaste, body wash, hairbrush, shampoo, and conditioner. We also recommend some lip balm to keep those chapped lips at bay.
You might also have some downtime during your hospital stay, so it’s also a good idea to have a couple of books or movies on your phone or laptop to keep you entertained.
What is included in the Baby Bundle?
If your baby is born in a NSW hospital, you’ll be given a free baby bundle before your discharge. This handy bag comes with essentials for your newborn baby, including:
- Sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and play mat
- Muslin wrap
- Mercury-free bath thermometer
- Baby toothbrush
- Breast pads
- First aid kit
- Board books
- Face cloth and baby wipes
- Hand sanitiser
- Barrier cream
The NSW newborn bag also comes with educational pamphlets about your baby’s safety and development, as well as your mental health. You don’t have to accept a baby bundle if you don’t need it, but it can be useful for new parents who need the essentials.
Arrived’s range of stylish baby bags are the perfect way to stay organised in style during your hospital stay and beyond. Shop our stunning range of nappy bags now!