When you are at the final stretch of pregnancy, which may seem like eternity, you need to start packing your hospital bag.  When you’re 8 months pregnant, it’s the perfect time to gather all the essential items to bring with you to the hospital for the delivery and for after your baby is born. Since you could go into labor at any time in the weeks before your due date. Different hospitals have different policies about allowing you to bring items from home. It’s best to check with hospital before hand and then make a comprehensive list of essential items.

Pack the stuff in two bags: one for labour and the hours immediately after your baby is born, and another one for the stay in the hospital.

Packing for yourself

• Copies of your medical records.
• A pair of slippers.
• Cotton socks (if the weather is cold)
• 2 Nursing bras
• Massage oil or lotion if you would like to be massaged during your labour.
• Lip balm
• Maternity pads and lots of spare knickers (disposable ones are particularly helpful too!)
• Snacks and drinks, if permitted by the hospital.
• Things to help you relax or pass the time, such as books, magazines, games
• Mobile phone and charger. Make sure you have enough credit to send out announcement messages!
• Essential toiletries
• A hairband and Hairbrush
• Eyeglasses, if you wear them
• Water spray bottle and wet wipes to freshen up.
• Music to listen to. Some hospitals may provide CD players.
• Pillows and cushions to make you more comfortable. They will come in handy after birth while breastfeeding, too.

Packing for partner/ accompanying you at the hospital

• A change of clothes and toiletries.
• Snacks (if the hospital does not have a canteen).
• ATM or credit cards for emergencies.
• Some cash and change in hand.
• Medical insurance papers (if any).
• Mobile phone and charger.
• Comfortable shoes. The companion will need to be on his or her feet a lot.
• Digital camera or camcorder (if the hospital allows)

Packing for the baby

• Four sets of clothes that are suited to the season
• Three vests to be worn as innerwear.
• Two sweaters for winter babies.
• One pair of socks or booties.
• One cap
• Two soft cotton sheets for your baby’s bed.
• One waterproof sheet protector or rubber under sheet to keep the bed from getting wet with spit up, pee or breastmilk.
• One baby blanket.
• 12 nappies, nappy pads or diapers per day.
• Wet wipes and changing mat. They may come in handy for nappy changing.
• One soft towel.
• Toiletries (a baby cleanser, shampoo, massage oil, hairbrush, nail clippers).
• A few soft cotton clothes or hand towels to clean spit-up or spills while feeding.

Image Source: Pampers