Second Baby? Packing Your Hospital Bag When You've Got a Toddler at Home
First pregnancy: hospital bag packed at 32 weeks, colour-coded, with a laminated checklist.
Second pregnancy: "Has anyone seen my other thong? And why is there a Matchbox car in my toiletries bag?"
If that sounds familiar, hello. I'm Chauntel, founder of MaternityBag and mum of two boys. Packing for baby number two is a completely different game. You know more, you've got less time, and there's a small person "helping" you the whole way.
Here's how to make it easy.
What's different the second time around
- You know what you actually used. Last time you might have packed three books and a face mask. This time you know it's disposable maternity underwear, snacks and a long charger.
- Labour is often quicker. Many Mum's note that labours after your first are often shorter. That means less time to get organised once things start.
- You've got someone else to plan around. And they need a bag too.
Pack early. Earlier than last time.
With a toddler in the house, "I'll do it on the weekend" turns into three weekends. Aim to have your bag packed by 34 weeks. [When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?] or save yourself walking the shops with toddlers treat yourself and let us do it for you!!
And put it somewhere little hands can't unpack it. Top of the wardrobe or in the car boot.
Your bag: keep it lean
You already know what works, so skip the extras. Focus on:
- Front-opening pyjamas and a dressing gown [What to Wear in Labour, After Birth and for the Trip Home]
- Disposable Maternity underwear, breast pads and high-waisted undies
- Toiletries, lip balm and a hair tie
- Snacks and a big water bottle
- Phone charger with a long cord
- Baby's first outfits, a wrap and a going-home outfit
Or skip the shopping trip with a toddler altogether (the dream). Our Jewel is our most popular bag. It's just for mum, it's a little bit special, and it slots straight into the overnight bag you used last time. If you've still got plenty left over from baby one, Grace is our starter with just the hospital essentials, no pyjamas or bag, so you can top up what you've got.
Your toddler's "go bag"
This is the bag second-time mums wish they'd packed earlier. Whoever is looking after your toddler should be able to grab it at 2am and go.
- Two or three changes of clothes and pyjamas
- Nappies, wipes or spare undies if they're toilet training
- Their favourite toy, blanket or comforter
- Snacks and a drink bottle
- Any medications, with clear instructions
- A note with their routine: naps, meals, bedtime and how they like to be settled
The childcare plan (have a plan B)
Work out who's looking after your toddler when labour starts, then work out a backup. Babies love arriving when grandma is on a cruise.
- Plan A: Who can come to you, day or night?
- Plan B: Who's the backup if plan A is unavailable?
- Daycare or school runs: Who's doing drop-off and pick-up while you're in hospital?
- Write it down and stick it on the fridge with phone numbers.
Helping your toddler meet the baby
A few small things that make a big difference:
- A gift "from the baby". Pregnancy, Birth and Baby suggests packing a little present from the new baby to the big brother or sister. It works a treat.
- Have your arms free when they first walk into the room, so baby is in the cot and they get a big cuddle first.
- Read a book about becoming a big brother or sister in the weeks before.
- Give them a job, like choosing baby's going-home hat.
FAQs
Is labour faster with a second baby? Often, yes. Many people find later labours are shorter than their first, so have your plan in place early.
When should I pack my hospital bag for my second baby? By 34 weeks, and keep it out of reach of little helpers.
What should I pack for my toddler when I go into labour? A few changes of clothes, nappies, their comforter, snacks, any medications and a note with their routine.
Should my toddler visit me in hospital? If your hospital allows it and you're up to it, a short visit can help them feel included.