Packing can be difficult at the best of times - whether moving house or going on a trip, they both have one thing in common, stress, and there is nothing worse than last minute, frantic packing that inevitably means something left behind.
If it's your first baby, packing your bag for a stay in hospital might seem like an equally daunting prospect away from your home comforts. How many changes of underwear? How many towels? How long will I be staying in? According to the NHS, you'll need to bring:
What to Pack In Your Hospital Bag Essentials
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your birth plan and hospital notes
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something loose and comfortable to wear during labour that does not restrict you from moving around or make you too hot
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3 changes of loose, comfortable clothes
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2 or 3 comfortable and supportive bras, including nursing bras if you're planning to breastfeed
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breast pads
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any medicines you're taking
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5 or 6 pairs of knickers – you may want to bring some disposable ones
And What Do I Need to Pack For My Baby?
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bodysuits, vests and sleepsuits
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a hat, scratch mittens and socks or booties
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plenty of nappies
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a shawl or blanket, muslin square or bibs
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a car seat for the trip home
But the best people to answer what a comprehensive hospital bag needs when the time comes, is mums who have been there and got the (comfortable) t-shirt, so we asked members of the Grazia team what the most important items in their bags were.... the little treats that helped... to make sure you have absolutely everything you'll need.
SHOP NOW: Hospital Bag and Maternity Must-Haves
1 of 10Caudalie Beauty Elixir,
"I took some face spray, as hospitals are hot in the summer – it's the easiest way of keeping cool and skin hydrated (not something you necessarily care about at the time but even a spritz can feel good as a distraction!)" Hattie Brett, Editor
2 of 10The White Company, Lightweight Waffle Robe, £60
"Functional nightwear. A dressing gown or something to wear over your night clothes in case you're in for a while, slippers that are easy to get on if you can't bend down, and pyjamas or a nighty that have buttons down the front and won't get too hot" Rebecca Holman, Lifestyle Editorial Director
3 of 10Neals Yard Mother and Baby Collection, £45
"Neals Yard Mother and Baby Collection!" Anna Dewhurst, Picture Director Organic balms, oils and shampoos for baby and mum before and after pregnancy, all in one box.
4 of 10Miaroma Clary Sage Essential Oil, £7.50
"Clary Sage essential oil, a doctor once told me smelling it helps bring on contractions" Hattie Brett, Editor
5 of 10Ouai Refresh Kit, £28
"That first shower after baby is blissful! But worth taking mini shampoo & conditioner as a treat. Also some non scented body was as you don't want anything too scented that might irritate a delicate body. Also dry shampoo for obvious reasons!" Hattie Brett, Editor
6 of 10Smug Satin Sleep Mask, Earplugs and Bag, £20
"Eye mask and ear plugs – other people's babies are LOUD!" Rebecca Holman, Lifestyle Editorial Director
7 of 10Yeti Rambler 26oz Tumbler and Straw, £29.99
"A chic water bottle with a straw to make drinking easier" Hattie Brett, Editor
8 of 10Mama Mio Keep Calm Nipple Balm, £12
"Don't forget nipple cream!" Rebecca Holman, Lifestyle Editorial DirectorTry a soothing oil based cream like Mama Mio's Keep Calm Nipple Balm for instant comfort and relief for dry, and sensitive nipples. The buttery blend is designed to soothe nipples throughout pregnancy, and is vegan and breastfeeding friendly for postpartum.
9 of 10SNACKS
"I was in hospital for a lot longer than I expected and did NOT enjoy the food (sorry, I still love the NHS though). So I always tell people to take nice food - the kind they can always stomach. You'll be hungry from labour, sleep deprivation and possibly feeding. Food is a great home comfort and a cheese sandwich won't do..." Rhiannon Evans, Senior Editor
10 of 10This Works Sleep Spray
"I know, sleep spray, am I kidding? But in those moments when your baby might fall asleep your brain (and the loud ward) definitely will not. I always find this spray helps, but if nothing else, just helps me feel more at home." Rhiannon Evans, Senior Editor.
READ MORE: Six Influencers To Follow For Maternity Style Inspiration