Have your bags (one for you, one for baby) packed and in your car by 35 weeks. (Taxi-taking mums -- stash your bags in the front hall closet.)
A tip for the thrifty: Ask your hospital what they provide for babies and mothers, and take those items off your list.
Must-Haves:
[ ] Insurance info, hospital forms and birth plan (if you have one) [ ] 2-3 pairs of warm, nonskid socks that can get ruined (for walking the halls before and after labor) [ ] A warm robe or sweater you don’t mind sacrificing to the cause [ ] 2 maternity bras -- no underwire -- and nursing pads (whether or not you plan to nurse, you’ll appreciate the support and leak-protection) [ ] Lip balm (hospitals are very dry) [ ] Toiletries and personal items -- hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, face wash, makeup (as if), shampoo, conditioner, lotion, contact lens case and solution (remember, travel-sized products are your friends) [ ] Sugar-free hard candy or lozenges to keep your mouth moist during labor (candy with sugar will make you thirsty) [ ] Pen and paper [ ] Lots of change for the vending machines and non-perishable snacks (you’ll probably be hungry after labor, and the hospital cafeteria could be closed) [ ] Mobile phone and charger, phone numbers of people to call after birth, prepaid calling card (if your hospital doesn’t allow phones) [ ] Camera, film or extra memory card, battery or charger [ ] A gym bag packed with a change of clothes and basic hygiene products for your partnerTake it or leave it:
[ ] Extra pillow (with a case that can get ruined, in a pattern distinguishable from hospital white) [ ] Comfortable going-home clothes in six-month maternity size and flat shoes (or, just wear the clothes you came in… sorry, but they’ll probably still fit) [ ] Bath towel (the hospital will likely supply a small, very thin one) [ ] Hairdryer [ ] Your favorite brand of soap, shampoo and heavy flow sanitary pads (the hospital supplies these things, but bring your own if you’re picky) [ ] A few pairs of maternity underwear that can get ruined (the hospital will have disposable pairs, which some women find handy and others find gross) [ ] A ruin-able nightgown (you can use those lovely hospital gowns, but your own might help you feel more human) [ ] Breast pump, if you plan to use one [ ] Slippers that can get dirty [ ] Very light reading (think mags and newspapers, not War and Peace) [ ] Your MP3 (loaded with your favorite tunes, of course) [ ] Massage oil and tools like rolling pins or tennis balls, and lucky or inspirational objects (honestly, we doubt you'll use 'em…but feel free to prove us wrong!)Leave Home:
[ ] Any clothes or nighties you really like (they will get ruined) [ ] Stopwatch (your nurse or a monitor will take care of timing contractions)What to Bring For Baby:
[ ] Approved car seat [ ] A coming-home outfit [ ] Warm blankets (for the ride home) [ ] Outdoor gear like a snowsuit and hat, as seasonally appropriate (remember, babies are extra sensitive to cold)
