The Big Day – Packing Your Bag for Birth
The excitement of packing your maternity bag is such a beautiful moment – folding tiny clothes that will soon dress your little one, imagining the moment you’ll finally hold them in your arms. It’s a magical time, but we know it can also feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. It's hard to know what you'll really need! Here’s the good news: the place you’re giving birth is likely just a short distance away from home. Your partner or family will be able to bring anything you forget, so don’t stress about having everything packed perfectly.
A really practical way to prepare is to pack two separate bags – one for labour and postpartum, and one for your baby. When things start moving quickly (as they often do), having your essentials for labour in one place makes it easy to grab and go. Your baby’s bag can stay tucked away until it’s needed later. It’s a simple way to stay calm, organised, and focused on welcoming your little one. 🥰
What to Pack in Your Go Bag
This bag should contain everything you’ll want need for both the big day and your recovery afterwards. Keeping it all in one place makes it easier for you and your partner to grab what you need when the time comes. Here are our recommendations, these are not all essential but many women find all of these items have helped them feel cool, calm, and collected, and make their experience a bit more comfortable. We also have a downloadable list here.
For your labour and birth:
Comfortable clothes for labour – whether that’s your favourite baggy t-shirt, bikini top, or nightie (or even nothing at all!) - wear what makes you feel at ease
A pillow from home – comfort is key, and something familiar can help you relax
Lip balm to keep your lips hydrated
Hair ties or bands to keep your hair out of your face
A drink bottle with a sipper top for easy hydration
TENS machine or other birth aid if you if you plan to use one – we love Your Birth Weapon
Music to create a soothing environment (you could create your own birth playlist!)
A quick sugar hit, like jelly snakes or barley sugars, to give you energy when needed, and some high protein snacks for your and your partner like muesli bars, nuts or jerky. Electrolyte drinks are also a great way to help your body hydrate, and provide a bit of a boost.
Mobile phone and charger, and a camera if you want to capture special moments
For after your birth:
Any regular medications you currently take
Comfortable clothes and PJs for you to change into once you’ve delivered your little bundle of cuteness. And your dressing gown if you’re a dressing gown gal!
Toiletries such as shampoo, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, your hairbrush – whatever you use everyday
Post Birth Care – This Pure Mama Spray is serious lifesaver to help ease any discomfort. Pair it with some postpartum undies and a soothing insert - this is the ultimate combo!
A maternity bra – a maternity bra will help make things more comfortable when your milk comes in.
Silverettes and Nipple Cream – The Silverettes will protect your nipples between feeding and pumping during the early days of breast feeding while your body is still getting used to the new normal. This Nipple cream by Pure Mama will help soothe discomfort.
More snacks Bring a few of your favourite snacks - you'll be doing alot of sitting in those first few days and you'll need to keep your energy up. We also recommend lactation cookies – they are soo delicious and really help to support your milk come in.
Two changes of clothes for your partner just in case
What to Pack for Baby 🐣
Your baby’s bag should include everything they’ll need during their first few days with you. Here’s what you’ll want to pack:
Clothes for baby - Warm onesies, bodysuits, pants, cardigans, socks, beanies, and booties. We’d recommend packing for two days, so three of each item should be perfect. Plus you can’t forget the special going home outfit! 📸 Our Dimples Merino range is perfect for newborns ❤️
Cotton or merino wraps for swaddling and a soft blanket for warmth
White noise machine (the YogaSleep Hushh is a great option) to help settle baby
Newborn nappies and Water Wipes - make sure you choose gentle products, with no perfume
A stretchy wrap for carrying baby if they get unsettled
Car seat – make sure it’s installed safely and ready to go home with baby (test it beforehand!) Dimples have a wide range of capsules and carseats available if you have not already purchased one.
With everything packed and organised, you’ll feel more relaxed and ready for the big day. Remember, there’s no need to have everything perfect, and you absolutely don’t have to have everything on this list to have a wonderful, positive and beautiful experience!
Focus on the amazing journey ahead, and know that you have everything you need for your baby’s arrival. You’ve got this, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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