What Local Peterborough Parents Say You Really Need in Your Hospital Bag
Packing your hospital bag is one of those moments in pregnancy where everything suddenly starts to feel very real.
Some people pack weeks in advance. Others end up throwing things into a bag when labour begins.
Recently I asked local parents in Peterborough what they were actually glad they packed when giving birth. The responses were brilliant. Some things were obvious, but others were things parents said they wished they had known beforehand.
So if you’re preparing to give birth in Peterborough or the surrounding areas, here’s a hospital bag checklist based on real recommendations from local parents.
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Labour
Labour can last several hours, and sometimes longer, so comfort is important.
Comfortable clothing
Bring something loose and comfortable that you can move around in easily. Many people choose a long t-shirt or loose pyjamas.
If you’re planning to breastfeed, having a top and bottoms rather than a dress can make feeding easier afterwards so you don’t feel like you’re exposing your whole self on a busy postnatal ward.
Lip balm
Hospital air can be very dry and breathing techniques during labour can leave lips feeling cracked.
Hair ties or clips
If you have long hair, bring several. You can almost guarantee the moment you need one, you won’t be able to find it.
Snacks and drinks
Food is fuel during labour. Hospital food isn’t always available when you want it, particularly overnight, so having snacks can really help keep your energy levels up.
A water bottle with a straw
Much easier to drink from during contractions.
Phone charger (preferably a long one)
Hospital plug sockets are rarely where you want them to be.
Music or a playlist
Some parents find music helpful for staying calm, relaxed and focused during labour.
TENS machine
Many parents use a TENS machine during the earlier stages of labour while labouring at home before heading into hospital.
What to Pack for After Birth
Once your baby arrives you may stay in hospital for several hours, and sometimes overnight.
Comfortable clothes
Loose pyjamas or something comfortable to change into after birth.
Maternity pads
Hospitals do not provide maternity pads, so make sure you bring plenty.
Big pants
Comfortable and practical is key. And if you’re anything like me, you may end up wearing these for years to come because they’re just so comfortable.
Toiletries
Things like toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, shower gel — anything that helps you feel a bit more human after giving birth.
A towel
Hospitals don’t provide towels. So if you’re planning to shower after birth, or if you’re using a birth pool, you’ll need to bring your own.
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Baby
Parents recommended bringing more baby clothes than you think you’ll need, just in case.
Baby grows and vests
Bring several. Newborns can go through clothes surprisingly quickly.
Nappies
Hospitals don’t provide nappies, so make sure you bring enough.
Muslin cloths
Bring lots. Honestly, probably hundreds. You will go through them constantly.
A going-home outfit
Something comfortable and weather appropriate for the journey home.
Car seat
The hospital want to see you can safely strap baby into a car seat before you leave.
Practical Tips From Peterborough Parents (and One From Me)
Alongside the usual hospital bag essentials, local parents also shared some really practical tips that made their hospital stay easier.
Entertainment for early labour or waiting around
Labour doesn’t always start dramatically, and there can be periods of waiting around for appointments or checks. Parents said they were glad they packed:
• a book
• puzzle books
• an iPad or tablet
• downloaded films or shows
Pack separate bags
Packing a baby bag and a mum bag makes it much easier to find what you need quickly rather than digging through one large bag.
Keep an extra bag in the car
Some parents packed an extra bag with spare supplies and left it in the car, so you can bring a smaller bag into hospital but still have access to extra clothes, nappies or supplies if needed.
Bring a pen
A simple but useful tip for filling in paperwork, noting feeding times, or writing things down during your stay.
Label sections of your bag
Labelling pouches or sections of your bag makes it much easier if your partner needs to quickly find something while you’re focusing on labour.
Plastic bags for dirty or wet clothes
This is a tip from me personally — having a few plastic bags in your hospital bag is really useful for soiled clothes, wet towels, or baby clothes that need washing later.
Flip flops or sliders
Useful for walking around the ward or for showers.
A dressing gown
Easy to throw on when moving around the ward or if visitors arrive.
A handheld fan
Several parents said labour made them feel much warmer than expected.
A birth comb
Some people hold a comb during contractions as a distraction technique (You get one included in my hypnobirthing course).
An extra pillow from home
Some people just love their own pillow.
A dark towel
Practical and less stressful than worrying about marks on a lighter towel.
Things Parents Packed But Didn’t Actually Use
Of course every birth is different, but these were things parents said they packed but didn’t end up using:
• Too many baby outfits (simple baby grows were enough)
• Make-up or hair styling tools
• Lots of books (once labour started, reading wasn’t interesting)
• Large amounts of baby toiletries
Feeling More Prepared for Birth
Packing your hospital bag is just one step in preparing for your baby’s arrival. Feeling confident and supported during labour can make an even bigger difference.
In my Hypnobirthing and antenatal courses in Peterborough, we cover:
• Breathing and relaxation techniques for labour
• How birth partners can support you
• Understanding your choices during birth
• Creating a calm, supportive environment
• Practical tools for labour
If you’d like to find out more or book a place, just send me a message or click the link below.
