You can start packing your pregnancy bag whenever you want to. But it’s a good idea to have your bag ready at least two weeks ahead of your due date.
You can use whichever of your bags that’ll do the job. You definitely don’t have to spend money on a special bag to take into hospital.
Some people find it easier to pack two bags, one for labour and one for after.
Here are a few ideas of what to pack …….
- Birth plan and hospital notes
- any medicines you’re taking
- a TENS machine if you have decided to use one for pain relief (with spare batteries)
- loose comfortable clothes for labour
- nightwear that is front opens for breast feeding
- dressing gown and slippers/flip flops
- two changes of clothes
- socks
- 5 pairs of knickers (disposable one may be of use)
- 2 or 3 comfortable bras, including nursing bras if you’re planning on breastfeeding
- breast pads
- 2 packets of super-absorbent sanitary or maternity pads
- your wash bag – with toothpaste, toothbrush, hairbrush, flannel, soap, lip balm, deodorant, hair bands and anything else you need
- fan or water spray to cool down
- Towels
- your own pillows plus / minus your pregnancy pillow
- pregnancy ball
- healthy snacks, drinks and a water bottle for you and your birthing partner
- books, magazines, podcasts, music playlists
- phone and phone charger
- spare glasses or contact lenses if you wear them
- baby clothes – vests, hats, baby grows, socks, cardigan , coat, blankets, scratch mittens, muslin clothes
- nappies, nappy bags, cotton wool
- baby formula and bottles
- your birth partner should bring a change of clothes, books, money, phone with contacts
Amie Whittard, Sonographer