Once you’re well into your 36th week of pregnancy, it will be a good idea to make sure your hospital bag is packed and ready. If you’re a first-timer, it’ll be of no surprise if you’re clueless on what should go into this bag. Fret not, for we have it covered for you! All you have to do is get that bag and go through our checklist for what you’ll need.

Ready? Let’s do this then…

A quick check with the hospital

Hospital policies may vary from one establishment to another on what is allowed into the hospital rooms. Some hospitals may even allow you to bring a few of your favourite items to make your birthing experience more intimate and comfortable. Before you even start on your packing, call up your hospital for a quick check on what’s allowed and what’s not.

Clever tip: Also, many mums have found it useful to pack two bags for the hospital – one for labour and the few hours after your baby is born, and another for a stay in the postnatal ward. You can just leave the second bag in the car, in case you don’t even have to spend a night in the hospital.

Checklist for items during labour

• Your birth plan. Don’t forget to pack it if you have one.
• A pair of comfortable slippers. Choose a pair with good friction to avoid any possible slipping.
• A decent dressing gown. This would be great if you don’t wish to be pacing the corridors in a flimsy hospital gown during the early stages of your labour. You may also pack another to use in the postnatal ward or room. Tip: Use a dark colour or a busy pattern which can help camouflage any stains.
• A pair of socks. It won’t hurt to have a pair ready in case your feet feel cold after labour.
• Something comfy to wear during labour. If you’re allowed to wear your own clothes during labour, remember that it will probably get a bit messy, so resist buying anything special to wear to give birth in.
• Massage oil or lotion. Toss in either one in case you would like to be massaged during your labour.
• Birth ball. This can be useful to you if you have learned how to use it during your birthing classes. Assuming you’ll be using one, check if the hospital has the size you want. If not, take your own.
• A pump. In case your birth ball gets deflated.
• Lip balm. Handy to keep at all times to avoid dry, chapped lips.
• Snacks and drinks. You’ll need all the energy you can get during your labour and also when it’s time to push. A good isotonic sports drink can be refreshing, thirst-quenching and energy-giving at the same time. You can also take some glucose tablets with you for that same purpose.
• Items of relaxation or entertainment. Don’t leave out your favourite pass-time items such as books, magazines, or your iPad/tablet and MP3.
• Hair scrunchies, hair band or clip. Important if you have long hair and wish to look a little less messy and/or a little more presentable.
• TENS pain relief machine. A useful item to have for some quick pain managing.

Checklist items for after birth

• Nursing bras. Bring two or three for your nursing needs.
• Breast pads. To prevent any leaking.
• Maternity pads. The hospital might provide these but if you prefer, you can bring your own.
• Front-opening shirts or nursing tops. Useful and convenient for breastfeeding.
• Toiletries, towel and deodorant. For personal care and hygiene.
• Panties. Larger than usual and super-comfy is the way to go with panties!
• A going-home outfit. You’ll need loose comfortable clothes to wear for the journey home. It will take a while for your tummy to go down, so one of your maternity wear should be fine!

Checklist items for your new bundle of joy!

• Newborn onesies. Have two or three on standby.
• Nappies. The hospital will provide these, but have a few on stanby.
• Baby handkerchiefs. Babies are known to be little mess-makers.
• Socks or booties. For keeping those little feet warm.
• Baby’s going-home outfit. So that you can bring the little one home in style!
• Baby car seat. Drive your baby home safely!