Should it stay or should it go?

Whether you’re someone who usually packs two outfits for each day when travelling or you just grab the essentials like a change of underwear, you might have to reconsider when packing your hospital bag.

That’s because this bag will have a mix of cute items like tiny caps and adorable going-home outfits, practical things like nappies, and necessities for yourself like toiletries, pyjamas, and maternity pads. However, it can be tricky to figure out how much of each you’ll need.

These moms believe they got the balance right.

Emma, mother of two

“I really wasn’t too fussed about packing my hospital bag. The reality is that even if you leave something behind, it’s really not difficult to get it: even if your partner isn’t able to help, there’s certain to be a friend or family member who will pop down to the shops and bring you what you need. That said, some things are a must: nappies in newborn size, onesies – the zip-up ones are much easier to use than studded ones, and a few beanies. You don’t need blankets until you leave because the hospital will provide them.

“Also bring things for yourself: I’d pack pyjamas rather than clothes because they’re so much comfier – choose ones that will be easy to breastfeed in. Don’t worry too much about things to entertain you: maybe bring some earbuds so you can listen to a podcast. You might find it easier to concentrate on magazines rather than books, but then again, you might just want to sleep.”

Samantha, mother of two

“It might sound obvious, but don’t forget about the things you’ll need for your own comfort. It’s easy to do when you’re concentrating on what you should bring for the baby, but you don’t want to be without your facial cleansing products, facecloth, deodorant and shower gel, and body lotion.

“Maternity wards are heated, so bring summer pyjamas, or at least an extra short-sleeve T-shirt, but remember that the temperature will be different when you get outside, so pack for both cool and warm weather. Slippers are a must, although I preferred flip-flops because they’re easy to put on and take off.

“My gynae was a little horrified that my underwear was decorated with a small bow – he warned that it might irritate my C-section cut! It didn’t worry me, but if you’re concerned, shop for plain underwear beforehand. It’s a good idea to have a few linen savers to hand, as well as maternity pads, but you can stock up at the hospital pharmacy if need be.

“I found it helpful to have a pillow with me for when I went home – I pressed it against my C-section cut when we came across speed bumps, so I didn’t feel any pain. Also, it might sound silly, but don’t forget to take the baby’s car seat! I didn’t bring much for the baby apart from nappies, bum cream and aqueous cream so that I was prepared for the first bath.”

Cete, mother of one

“I stuck to the basics: babygros and vests, a muslin wrap because it’s warm without being too thick, and a beanie because babies lose most of their body warmth through their heads.

For hygiene, I brought wipes. You don’t need to bathe your newborn until they’re three days old, but I brought along some Epimax just in case – never use soap on a newborn’s skin.

I also brought breast pads and a breast pump, and a warm compress to stimulate breastfeeding. This was a great help, especially since my son ended up spending time in ICU. The compress helped to soften my breasts so that I could express milk. I brought period panties because they are more comfortable than maternity pads, some feeding bras, and pyjamas that open at the front. People tend to overpack, and that can make you feel even more panicked.”