It's a good idea to have a labour bag packed and ready to go a few weeks before your due date. You don't know when labour might begin, and things are a lot easier if you're prepared.

What to bring for Mom:

  • Your provincial or territorial health insurance card.
  • Private health insurance documentation, if applicable (such as for a private room).
  • Copy of your birth plan.
  • Cord blood collection kit, if you plan to store your baby's cord blood.
  • Picture or object you find comforting. (helps with focusing and positive visualization during labour.)
  • Watch.
  • Massage oil or lotion.
  • Hot water bottle.
  • Cold packs.
  • Moisturizing lip balm.
  • Phone/tablet chargers.
  • Camera and/or video camera, spare batteries and film or memory cards.
  • Extra pillows.
  • Radio or portable Bluetooth speaker to connect to a phone.
  • Small amount of money (to purchase a magazine at the hospital, for example).
  • Paper and pens.
  • Hairbrush.
  • Shampoo.
  • Soap.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Deodorant.
  • Very absorbent sanitary pads.
  • Tissues.
  • Earplugs.
  • Comfortable sweats or track suit.
  • Two nightgowns (that open from the front).
  • Housecoat.
  • Two or more nursing bras.
  • Several pairs of inexpensive underwear.
  • Warm socks (two or more pairs).
  • Slippers.
  • Clothing to wear home (items that fit you in the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy.)
  • A laundry bag for soiled clothing you want to bring home.

What To Bring For Your Partner:

  • List of phone numbers of family/friends.
  • Snacks and drinks.
  • Bathing suit (for joining you in the shower or tub to help you through contractions).
  • Change of clothes.
  • Books, magazines, a deck of cards, etc.

What To Bring For Your Newborn Baby:

  • Package of diapers.
  • Undershirt.
  • Sleeper and hat.
  • Receiving blanket.
  • In winter, a heavy blanket or bunting bag.
  • Appropriate car seat. (This is the law. You will not be allowed to leave the hospital without one.)