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Hi, I'm Valeza. I'm obsessed with shopping (and happen to shop online for a living). Since my sister is currently in her ninth month of pregnancy I thought I'd pick her brains and put together a list of all the things she's planning to take in her hospital bag.
1. Firstly, my sister is already super impressed with this mini portable fan! The flexible tripod legs can be securely wrapped around your bed frame (or wherever is most convenient) and a fully-charged battery offers up to eight hours of continuous breeze.
2. This hands-free water bottle has an incredibly long straw to help you stay hydrated during labour, no matter what position you're in! You can hang it up for easy access and it's also great for use while breastfeeding.
3. LOADS of new mums have recommended using a TENS machine to help ease early labour pains. This compact one is reasonably priced and super highly rated!
4. This pure frankincense essential oil has an extremely relaxing effect! Put a few drops on a tissue and inhale to help you keep calm during contractions.
5. New mums say this extra long charging cable is a *crucial* addition to your hospital bag. It means you can keep your phone conveniently close, even if your room or ward doesn't have a plug nearby!
6. You'll be so grateful you got these large travel shoe bags to pack individual outfits into. The transparent section allows you to see what's inside at a glance (which will be handy during rushed moments!).
7. Speaking of packing, this lightweight duffel bag has all the convenience of a wheely suitcase but won't take up much space in your car's boot. It has loads of handy pockets and fits a surprising amount!
8. These sturdy cotton hairbands have a seamless design which reduces friction with your hair, holding it firmly in place without tugging at the strands.
9. Let's be honest, this moisture-wicking headband is sure to come in handy! Use it to hold your hair back during particularly ~sweaty~ moments.
10. It's a good idea to bring your own pillows, and these pretty floral pillowcases will ensure you don't mix them up with the standard white hospital ones.
11. These silicone earplugs mould to the contours of your ears to help you block out any distracting sounds.
12. And this cosy cotton eye mask has a patented bending cartilage design to ensure ALL light is blocked out. It's *kinda* essential if you're trying to get some shut eye on a busy ward.
13. I have it on good authority that most people get super dry lips during labour. Enter: O'Keeffe's Lip Repair stick. It'll keep lips moisturised for up to eight hours!
14. It's a good idea to take these extra flannels with you! You can use one as a regular face cloth, and dampen the other in cold water to keep your wrists and neck cool.
15. You're gonna need some slippers to use in the shower. These surprisingly chic ones have a non-slip base and reviewers say they come up bigger than average, so they're great for swollen feet!
16. This hooded dressing gown is cosy and lightweight, so it'll keep you warm without making you feel stuffy.
17. You'll need some slippers so you don't have to bother with fiddly shoes! Reviewers say these fluffy ones are incredibly comfy and have a thick, sturdy base.
18. It's a good idea to bring some extra hats for your baby in case the ones you've packed get dirty or you end up staying in the hospital longer than expected. These soft-touch ones come in two sizes (newborn and 0-3 months) which is perfect, since you won't know what size your baby needs just yet!
19. And these extra-soft cellular blankets are specially designed to regulate your lil' one's temperature.
20. This memory foam neck pillow will make your birthing partner's awkward sleeping arrangement that bit more comfy.
21. And this lightweight-yet-cosy blanket won't take up too much space when it's not being used.
22. This flexible tripod will grip onto basically any rail-like surface. It's perfect for helping you film your birthing video!
23. These Emma Jane disposable maternity briefs are really highly rated – they're perfect for use both during labour and recovery!
24. This portable bidet bottle will help you freshen up ~down there~ after birth. The super long angled nozzle makes it easy to reach your bits, even around your bump!
25. This set of luxury teas will help to keep you going during delivery, and it looks pretty enough to leave as a gift for your lovely midwife team afterwards!
26. Pour your favourite hair and skincare bits into these silicone travel bottles so you don't have to carry any unnecessary extra products.
27. Finally, these flexible gel ice packs will stay cool for ages. Wrap them around your wrists or feet to immediately cool your blood flow.
