As you anxiously await for delivery day, make sure you have everything you need for that trip to the hospital (or for your home birth). Instead of packing, repacking and double checking yet again, use this handy list to make sure you have everything you need with you.

For Labour

Any necessary insurance documents and prenatal reports
Hair clips and ties
Favourite pillow from home
Massage oil (so your partner can rub those sore spots during labor)
Relaxing music or favourite CDs
An ice pack or heating pad (for back pain)
Bathrobe
Slippers or warm socks
Snacks and fruit juice or sports drink (for effective thirst quenching during those labor stages)
Candles or special lighting (if you’re having a home birth)
Toiletries and pajamas if you are expecting an overnight stay away from home

After Delivery

Front-opening gown or pajama top for breastfeeding
Nursing bras and pads
Books, magazines and writing material (good time to get started on those birth announcements – if you have the time and energy!)
Snacks
Several pairs of underwear
Clothes to leave the hospital in (you’ll want something loose and comfortable since you won’t have your pre-pregnancy figure back just yet)

For the Labor Partner

Camera or video recorder
Calling card and phone numbers of friends and family (you may not be able to use your mobile in the hospital or birthing centre)
Books, magazines, and other items to keep you occupied while you wait
Watch with a second hand or a stop watch
Snacks

For Baby’s Trip Home

Properly installed car seat (make life easier by doing this even before your due date)
Diapers
Undershirt
Outfit or sleeper for that first car ride home
Booties for those tiny feet and a cap to keep that little head warm
A receiving blanket along with a second blanket for outdoors