What's in my hospital bag (3rd time mum edition)
You’d think that by the third pregnancy I’d have my hospital bag nailed down to a fine art but no.
The truth is, every pregnancy has taught me something new about what actually helps in hospital - whether it’s dealing with the baby blues, recovering from a haemorrhage, or just finding some small creature comforts after birth (aka my Loco Love chocolates or a good book downloaded on my Kindle).
Both of my births have been vaginal. My first, unfortunately, ended in a haemorrhage where I lost almost 2L of blood and had further complications afterwards. My second birth, on the other hand, was an absolute dream. The recovery difference was night and day and I finally realised how much the right prep can change the entire experience.
So, as I head into my third birth, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. Everyone keeps warning me that the third birth is a “wildcard” (why do people say that?!), and with two little ones waiting for me at home (one toddler who is going through the .... tough 2s), I’m definitely not in the mood for any wildcards.
That said, I’m doing what I can (mentally, physically, and literally) with my hospital bag. Below is what I’ve packed this time around, including the things that helped me most in past stays and a few new little luxuries I’m excited about.
For Mum
➕ @bubba_bump Postpartum Recovery Kit
Use code “THEUNREFINED” for 25% off! This saves so much time — I honestly would have killed for it during my first pregnancy when I had a few complications. I LOVE this kit and highly recommend it.
➕ Breastfeeding-Friendly Pyjamas
Soft, easy-access sets make all the difference when you’re up feeding at 3am. I love Piyama or Bras N Things.
➕ Oversized Button-Down Shirts
Perfect for feeding, comfy, and still cute enough for visitors. I love Dissh.
➕ Leakproof Underwear + Disposables
Both are non-negotiables. I switch between the two depending on the day (and situation). I love ModiBodi or Bonds.
➕ Drink Bottle + Favourite Treats
Labour snacks and post-birth chocolate are essential in my book. I still haven't found a drink bottle I like so if you have a suggestion please comment on the post attached to this blog!
➕ Toiletries
Think: shampoo + conditioner, toothpaste, cleanser, moisturiser, hairbrush, chapstick, elastics, exfoliating glove (my favourite random addition). I actually do a big online order via adore beauty as they usually have all of my favs (and in travel sizes too!).
➕ Something Luxurious for Self-Care
I’ve packed a nice moisturiser, body wash, and a special face mask I’m saving just for hospital. My favourite body butter and oil is from @brillobeauty (use code Nicola15 for 15% off).
➕ Laundry Bags
Makes packing up and going home so much easier.
➕ Breastfeeding Bras
A few from Bonds and Bubba Bump (comfy, stretchy, and reliable)
➕ Compression Tights
I’m taking @bubba_bump ones plus a normal supportive pair for later. I cannot stress how much I love the compression shorts!
➕ Charger with Extra-Long Cord
Hospitals = inconveniently placed power points. Trust me on this one.
➕ Makeup (Optional, but… lovely)
A BB cream and some mineral powder go a long way in making me feel more human.
➕ Kindle or Book
I lived on my Kindle during those long breastfeeding sessions.
➕ Noise-Cancelling Headphones
A total labour game-changer.
➕ Separate Labour Bag
TENS machine, snacks, water bottle, coconut water, breast pump or Haakaa, extra pads, wipes, and a face cloth.
➕ Fluffy Socks + Slippers + Thongs for the Shower
Because cold hospital tiles are not the vibe.
➕ Breastfeeding Pillow
Used it non-stop last time and zero regrets bringing it again.
➕ @milkco_australia Colostrum Collection Kit
Perfect for antenatal expression and early feeds. I also received their wipe container & Muva bag which can attach to your pram, I LOVE both (use code NICOLA10 for 10% off).
➕ Tens Machine! You can purchase one from Chemist Warehouse/online or hire one from Mama & I co
➕ Camera & tripod (for photos or filming - obviously optional!)
➕ One "nice" going home outfit (also optional but I always buy one nice relaxed outfit that makes me feel good to wear on my way home)
➕ Postpartum supplements (I bring my All Things Better Natal Support & Unrefined Nutrients Whole Iron + C). Use code "Unrefined15" for Unrefined Nutrients
For Baby
➕ The nappy bag in my video is from @phile_home (a gift from my besties and i am obsessed)
➕ Onesies – 5–6 long sleeve, 3–4 short sleeve + stretchy jersey swaddles (I love Halcyon Night swaddles!!!!)
➕ Soft Nappies – I love Millie Moon.
➕ Newborn Dummies – always handy, even if you’re unsure you’ll use them. My favourite newborn ones are from Tommy Tippee (both my boys would ONLY take these dummies!!)
➕ Love to Dream Swaddle – I swear by these for settling (also great to have in hospital when you're breastfeeding - sometimes when you're just getting the hang of things their little hands get in the way so this is great for getting used to latching).
➕ First Outfit – optional, but it’s such a special moment dressing them for the first time. I bought my first outfit from the brand Curious Grace Co.
Every mum’s hospital bag will look a little different and that’s totally okay. The most important thing is that it’s packed with what makes you feel comfortable!
If I’ve learned anything over three pregnancies, it’s that you can’t predict how your birth will unfold but you can control how prepared (and supported) you feel walking in AND out of the hospital.
Here’s to a hopefully SEMI peaceful, grounded, non-wildcard third birth (with a few F bombs thrown in the mix) 🤍