Checklist for your maternity bag: what you should take with you

Are you expecting a baby soon and is the big day getting closer? That means: time to prepare your maternity bag! Especially when it is the first time, it can be quite a challenge to pack your maternity bag. What do you really need for yourself, your baby and possibly your partner? In this blog I will give you a handy checklist so that you can leave for the hospital with peace of mind. Read on quickly and make sure you are well prepared!

Documents and administration

This may sound boring, but don't forget your important documents! Here are some things you absolutely should not forget:

• Your identity card
• The health insurance card
• Any pregnancy and medical records
• Your birth plan (if you have one)

It is useful to put these papers in a separate compartment or folder, so that you have them quickly at hand when needed.

Clothing for during and after childbirth

Comfortable clothing is a must, both during and after delivery. Remember that you will probably spend some time in the hospital, so it is smart to pack some items that fit well.

• A spacious, loose pair of pajamas or nightgown. Something that is easy to put on and take off, especially if you want to breastfeed.
• A warm, comfortable dressing gown for women. Hospitals can sometimes feel a bit chilly, and a dressing gown will keep you nice and warm during those first few days.
• Slippers or comfortable shoes for when you want to walk down the hallway or go to the bathroom.
• Firm but comfortable bras, especially if you plan to breastfeed. Make sure they fit well and provide support.

Underwear and hygiene

After giving birth, your body is still recovering, and that requires the right hygiene products and comfortable underwear. So choose women's briefs that are comfortable and that you don't mind getting dirty. Choose cotton briefs that are a bit larger, so that they also have room for maternity pads. In addition, it is smart to pack a number of maternity pads and possibly incontinence pads. You will still have blood loss for a while after giving birth, so it is useful to take a supply with you. Finally, it is also nice to pack your own toiletries such as shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste and a toothbrush. Even though you may already have these things in the hospital, it is always nice to use your own things.

Baby items

Of course, it's all about your little one! Here are a few basics that you should definitely not forget for your baby:

• Clothing for the first days, such as rompers, socks, hats and soft sweaters. Make sure you bring a few sets in different sizes (newborn and 1 month), because you never know exactly how big your baby will be!
• A warm baby blanket or shawl for extra comfort during the journey home.
• Diapers (for newborns) and wet wipes. These are often already available in the hospital, but it never hurts to have some on hand.
• A car seat for a safe ride home. It is smart to install this in the car before you go to the hospital.

For the partner

Although mom and baby are the stars of the show, you shouldn't forget your partner. To start with, take plenty of snacks and drinks with you. Giving birth can take a long time and hospital food is not always tasty or available. So make sure you have some food that is easy to take with you, such as energy bars, fruit or nuts. Also think about your phone, charger and possibly a camera to capture the first moments. Finally, a good book, magazine or tablet is always nice if you need to pass the time.

Additional tips

• Bring your own pillow or blanket if this makes you feel more comfortable in the hospital bed.
• Don't forget your favorite lip balm or moisturizer. Hospital air can make your skin dry and it's nice to have some extra care on hand.
• Bottles of water or a refillable drinking bottle are also useful. Giving birth is hard work and it is important to stay hydrated.