Becoming a parent can be a daunting task, whatever the age, but when it comes to planning what to buy for the new baby and what to pack in your hospital bag, where do you start?
 
We have put together a quick checklist to ensure you have most of the key things covered. We appreciate every parent is different, so feel free to add and remove items where you see fit.

Baby equipment:
Pram, rain cover and cosy toes (read our Choosing the Right Pram article here).
Approved car seat & sun visors - get it fitted by a professional as not all car seats are suitable for all cars Mothercare, Toys R Us and Halfords offer this service.
Moses basket or crib
Cot  / cot bed and bedding (bumper set) - a baby normally moves into a full sized cot from around 6 months
Changing table / mat - you can get drawers with topper
Bottles and sterilizer - If you think you will be breastfeeding at least have a look at the options available in case you need it
Formula - ask your midwife which would be most suitable.
Baby bath or baby support for big bath
‘Top to toe’ bowl great for giving your baby a quick wash, especially if they are suffering from nappy rash
 
Non-essential equipment: 
Play mat
Baby Chair/Bouncer
Cot Mobile
Toys
 
Newborn Clothes:
We advise you buy some newborn and some 0-3 months as newborn clothes can only last a couple of weeks. 
Vests & socks
Baby grows
Bibs
Hats
Scratch mits
Blankets
Muslin squares
Baby towels
Cardigans
All in one warm suit to travel back from the hospital
 
 
Mums hospital bag:

2 x nighties / nightshirts - button neck if you plan to breast feed
Dressing gown
Slippers / Flip flops
Towel
Large knickers
Toiletries - Shampoo, shower gel, Flannel / something to wash yourself with, wipes for quick face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, perfume / body spray, hairbrush / hair bands, make up, sanitary / maternity pads, breast pads, feeding bra, nipple cream
Snacks - muesli bars, fruit etc
Energy tablets or drinks - in case you can’t face food
Change for the hospital car park
Entertainment inc. magazines / Ipod / phone and charger
Your birthplan - advisable to have it done by 36wks
Tens Machine - speak to your midwife as you can hire these
Camera - don’t miss out on the first shots of your new baby but don’t forget to charge your camera first
Loose comfortable clothes for coming home
List of telephone numbers so that you can spread the good news  
 
Baby hospital bag:

Nappies & nappy sacks
Baby clothes - enough for a few days including hat and scratch mits
Blankets
Cotton wool (it is suggested baby wipes are not used on newborn babies - just cotton wool & warm water)
Muslin squares