Preparing the hospital bag for labour is usually a very exciting time. The arrival of the baby is approaching, and the desire to meet your little one is huge. But what to put in the bag raises many questions, and although it depends a little on each hospital, there will be things you will have to take and others that they will provide. Here, our team of midwives and IBCLC lactation consultants proposes a list of general things that you can adapt depending on the hospital where you are going to give birth.

Things to take for you

• Documentation:
  • ID or passport if required in your area
  • Health card and health insurance documents (if applicable)
  • Printed copy of the birth plan (if you have one, and even if you have already submitted it previously)
• Clothing:
  • 2-3 nightgowns or pajamas that are open in the front, allowing full opening to facilitate breastfeeding.
  • Comfortable dressing gown.
  • Comfortable, non-slip slippers
  • 2-3 nursing bras
  • Socks.
• Personal hygiene:
  • Maternity pads (hospital pads are usually large and plastic-free)
  • Disposable or reusable mesh underwear
  • Toilet bag with:
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Shampoo and shower gel
  • Deodorant (preferably unscented).
  • Brush/comb
  • Hair band
• Extras for you and your partner:
  • Phone charger
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Healthy snacks
  • Downloaded LactApp for Android or iOS

Things to take for your baby

• Clothing:
  • 4-6 cotton bodysuits (preferably with wrapover front and press-studs at the sides and crotch to avoid handling the little head)
  • 3-4 pajamas or comfortable outfits
  • 2-3 pairs of socks
  • Cotton hat (if born in winter and only for leaving the hospital)
  • Blanket or swaddling blanket
• Personal hygiene:
  • Newborn diapers (at least 10-15)
  • Alcohol-free wet wipes or gauze with water
  • Protective cream for diaper change
  • Baby towel
  • Soft hairbrush (optional)
• Extras:
  • Car seat (adequately set up for the return home)
  • Muslin cloths (2-3 units, to wipe dribbles and place on the shoulder to avoid staining with spit-up).

Remember that getting the things you might have forgotten or feel you need is usually very easy. We hope this list is useful!