If you have plans to deliver your baby in the hospital or a birthing centre, you’ll probably want to start packing your bag when you’ve reached your 3rd trimester. Not sure what to pack? Here’s a checklist to help make it easier for you.
For you:
Personal items:
- Health card
- Hair accessories
- Body lotion
- Sanitary pads
- Shampoo and soap
- Deodorant
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Lip moisturizer
- Underwear
- Bathrobe, slippers and socks
- Loose clothing to wear after the birth
- Supporting or nursing bra, breast pads
- Clothing for hospital stay and trip home
Things to help with labour:
- Pillow (in identifiable pillow case)
- Watch
- Focal point (object or picture to look at during contractions)
- Ice pack, tennis balls, rolling pin, hot water bottle
Other items:
- Mobile phone
- Pen, paper, magazine or book
- List of telephone numbers
- Chargers for electronic devices
- Snacks e.g., juice, yogurt, biscuits, fruit, vegetables, nuts, dried fruits
- Money for vending machines or cafeteria
- Camera
For baby:
- Diapers
- Baby wipes
- Blankets
- Set of clothing for the trip home
- Safety approved infant car seat
It’s best to leave your valuables at home. It’s also a good idea to check with your hospital or birthing centre for anything else you need to bring.
Going through your checklist, deciding what things you’ll need for yourself and your baby, and packing it all up can really hit home on just how close you are to holding your baby for the first time!
