Pregnant in Summer? Skip the Hospital Bag Shopping Trip | MaternityBag

If you’re due over summer, you already know. The heat hits differently when you’re carrying a baby around with you 24 hours a day.

Your ankles have disappeared. Your back aches by lunchtime. You’re hot when everyone else is comfortable, and getting off the couch takes a run-up.

And somewhere on your to-do list is “pack the hospital bag”.

I’ve been packing hospital bags for Aussie mums since 2013, and summer mums tell me the same thing every year: the last thing they want is a trip to the chemist in 35 degrees, wandering the aisles for breast pads and postpartum undies. So here’s how to get through the hot months, and how to get the bag sorted without leaving the house.

Keeping cool in your third trimester

Drink more than you think you need. You need more water when you’re pregnant, and more again in the heat. Keep a bottle with you everywhere.

Put your feet up, literally. Swelling in your feet and ankles is common in late pregnancy, especially in summer. Lie down with your feet raised when you can, and go easy on long stretches of standing.

Cool your pulse points. Run cool water over your wrists for a minute, or drape a cold face washer around the back of your neck. It cools you down surprisingly fast. Keep a couple of face washers in the fridge so there’s always one ready.

Let the shops come to you. In your third trimester, online shopping with home delivery is your best friend. Groceries, nappies, the hospital bag, the lot. Save your energy for the things that actually need you there.

Know when to call your midwife. Some swelling is normal. Sudden swelling in your face or hands, especially with a headache or changes to your vision, isn’t. Call your midwife or hospital straight away.

What to pack for a summer birth

Most hospital bag lists are written for any time of year. Here’s what changes when it’s hot.

• Light, breathable pyjamas. Short sleeves, soft fabric and easy access for feeding. You’ll be living in them for a few days.
• Lip balm. Hospital air is dry, labour is thirsty work, and cracked lips are miserable.
• A water bottle with a straw. Much easier to drink from while you’re lying down or mid-contraction.
• Hair ties or a scrunchie. You’ll want your hair up and off your neck.
• Slippers for the ward and shower. Disposable ones are perfect. No one wants to pack wet thongs to take home.
• A layer for you and bub. Hospitals are air-conditioned, and it can feel cold, especially at night. Pack a light cardigan for you and a beanie for baby. Newborns lose heat quickly, even in summer.
• Keep the bag inside, not in the car. A hot car boot is no place for toiletries, balms or anything that can melt. Leave the bag by the front door and grab it on the way out.

If you’re having a planned caesarean, a few things change. I’ve covered those in C-Section Hospital Bag: What to Pack Differently. For the full list, see my hospital bag checklist.

When should you have it packed?

Aim to have your bag ready by 36 weeks. If you’re ordering a pre-packed bag, 30 to 32 weeks gives plenty of time for delivery and a look through everything before the big day.

Or skip the shopping altogether

This is exactly why I started MaternityBag. Every one of our hospital bags arrives at your door already packed with the things you’ll actually use: toiletries, postpartum underwear, nursing pads, nipple balm, a hot/cold pack, slippers, lip balm and more.

Choose the one that suits you, add your own clothes and maternity records, and you’re done. You can stay home with your feet up in front of the fan.

Our summer maternity pyjamas are also available on their own if you just want something cool and comfortable to wear.

Know someone due this summer? A hospital bag makes a gift she’ll actually use. Have a look at our hospital bag gifts.

Chauntel, Founder, MaternityBag