What to pack in your hospital bag before giving birth

As individual as we all are, there are some items which are a must in every Hospital Bag when going to hospital to deliver your baby. You should have your bag prepared and waiting to be grabbed on the way out of the door from about 36 weeks, earlier if your babies are at risk of arriving prematurely.

Your Hospital Bag should consist of:

For YOU

Paperwork

• Hospital Notes
• Birth Plan
• Books, magazines, something to pass the time

Clothing

• Something to wear during labour (try designer Gownies if you don´t want a hospital gown)
• Warm socks (you may suffer from cold feet during labour)
• Disposable maternity pants
• Bras or nursing bras
• Dressing gown and slippers
• Going home outfit (maternity clothes are still necessary)
• Nightdresses (front-opening if you plan to breast-feed)
  

Toiletries

• Maternity pads
• Towels
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, brush, antibacterial wipes

Birthing Items (if preferred and permitted by your hospital)

• Birthing ball/stool
• Candles/aromatherapy

Miscellaneous Items

• Drinks and snacks (for you and/or your birth partner)
• Ear plugs for the ward
• Camera or video camera
• Mobile phone
• Water spray
• Fan
• Coins (for the payphone/TV)
• A large bag to carry any gifts you receive (plants/chocolates)

For BABY

Clothing

• Several sleepsuits
• Several vests
• Going home outfit (wrap baby up well)

Travel Items

• Car seat (which complies to standards)
• Blanket to cover

Miscellaneous

• Cotton wool for cleaning
• Newborn nappies and wipes
  

This list is written as a bag for taking to hospital as that is where the majority of people have their babies. If you plan to have your baby at home, then you just need these same items readily to hand. It is recommended that in the event of complications, you have a bag ready in any case.