What to pack

What do I pack to take with me for labour and delivery?

Here is a checklist of items to pack to take with you to the hospital or birthing centre:

For labour:

  • Your ID
  • Your favourite lip balm
  • A hair tie, if you need one
  • Glasses (you probably won’t want to wear contacts)
  • Music
  • A towel
  • Massage oil
  • An icepack and a hot water ball
  • Your favourite clear drink
  • A comfortable pillow in a distinctive pillowcase

For your partner:

  • Food and drinks, or money for food, and change for vending machines
  • Comfortable clothes and footwear
  • Toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
  • A pillow and blanket
  • Bathing suit if necessary

For your hospital stay:

  • 1-2 nightgowns
  • Robe and slippers
  • Underwear, bras (no underwire), socks, a nursing bra
  • Comfortable clothing for daytime
  • Slip-on shoes
  • Toiletries: soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste
  • Hair brush and elastics
  • Unscented lotion
  • A package of large pads for postpartum flow
  • Your cell phone and charger
  • A comfortable pillow in a distinctive pillowcase

For your newborn:

  • Car seat
  • Clothing – undershirts, sleepers, hats
  • Receiving blankets
  • Diapers and wipes