And sometimes babies arrive early. At around 36 weeks, pack your bag so you're ready to go at a moment's notice. Even if you are planning a home birth, it's a good idea to have a bag packed in case you need to go to hospital for a premature birth, or if you have pregnancy or birth complications.
In the hospital, blankets and onesies are typically provided. If you'd like to bring baby his/her own clothes to wear during your stay or a special outfit, please do so, but it isn't required.
It's fine. I used a cabin size suitcase, much easier than lugging a carry bag around. I took a carry on sized suitcase for dc2. It was way easier than the two or three smaller bags one for me/one for baby/one for labour etc.
Blanket. While the hospital will likely provide blankets, a blanket of your own is always good to have on hand to use during skin-to-skin contact. It can also be used to keep your baby warm in the car seat on the way home.
2 packets of super-absorbent sanitary or maternity pads. 5 or 6 pairs of knickers – you may want to bring some disposable ones.
You're likely to need: clean bed clothes and towels. clothes (including a hat) and nappies for the baby. 2 packets of super-absorbent sanitary or maternity pads.
Clothing: A bathrobe, a nightgown or two, slippers, and socks. Hospitals and birth centers provide gowns and socks for you to use, but some women also bring their own. Choose a loose, comfortable gown that's either sleeveless or has short, loose sleeves so that your blood pressure can be checked easily.
The Right Bag
“A suitcase or duffel bag suffices for that.” But remember, you're going to be in the hospital or birthing center for a few days, so you'll need a few different bags. “Bring a couple of changes of clothes for each of you in your suitcase.
A lot of mothers want breast coverage while they deliver, which is completely understandable, and you can keep your bra on during labor if you want. However, we recommend wearing a simple bra that is comfortable and easy to remove.
Some hospitals supply a pack of disposable nappies, but you'll probably need to bring extra ones if you're staying in hospital for more than a day or two.
Pack two different outfits in different sizes because you don't know how big or small your baby will be! Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don't forget hats and/or socks, if weather-appropriate. Your pediatrician's contact information.
The hospital will likely provide essential items for your baby, such as swaddling blankets, pacifiers, wipes, and diapers. If you bring one item to the hospital, make sure it is this one.
Since you'll spend most of your recovery time sitting down or lying in bed, you'll want comfy clothes like loose pants with an elastic or drawstring waist. If you're breastfeeding, you'll need tops with stretchy necklines or easy nursing access.
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag? You should have your hospital bag ready to go between weeks 32 and 35 of your pregnancy, in case your baby comes a bit earlier than expected. A good time to start the packing process is around the 28 week mark, or at the start of your 3rd trimester.
The hospital will usually have blankets for you, burp cloths, diapers, wipes, pacifiers, bathing supplies, and formula. Usually the hospital does not let you take any of the linen (baby blankets and burp cloths) home so make sure to bring your own baby blanket to keep your babe warm on the ride home!
You do not have to bring your breast pump to the hospital — one will be provided to you while in the hospital if needed. However, if you would like help learning the set-up and use of your breast pump, you can bring it and a lactation consultant can assist you.
There are several postpartum essentials you'll need for recovery, and you can likely snag a bunch of them for free upon discharge. And feel free to ask for what you want! More than you realize might be up for grabs. Don't feel shy about taking as much as they'll let you—and don't turn anything down.
breast pads. maternity pads (two packets) an extra five pairs of knickers. towels.
The hospital will probably have basic items for the baby, such as towels and blankets.
Towels: Again, the hospital can provide towels but many people find bringing their own to be preferable due to the quality and size of the hospital towels. You will be looking forward to that post-delivery shower (provided you are able to take one), so having a nice towel to use after is a bonus.