What you need for your hospital bag

For mom

• Your medical aid details/card
• Your birth plan
• Pyjamas or a large, loose t-shirt to labour in
• Pyjamas and a gown to wear after the birth
• Comfortable clothes to wear home
• Slippers and socks
• Maternity bra and don't forget the breast pads
• Plenty of panties (or disposable underwear) and maternity pads
• Toothbrush & other toiletries
• Face cloth to mop your brow
• A hair band to keep your hair out the way
• Lip balm for dry lips
• A breastfeeding pillow
• Any medications you have been taking
• Magazines, should you have a moment to breathe
• Ipod and charger
• Mobile phone and charger

For baby

• Baby clothes: including vest, socks, beanie, and of course a few newborn babygrows
• Newborn nappies and baby bum cream
• Olive or almond oil for baby's bottom before the first nappy goes on to make cleaning of meconium easier
• A receiving blanket or warm blanket if it's cold outside
• A car seat

For dad or partner

• Copy of your birth plan
• Change of clothes
• Toothpaste/toothbrush
• Ipod
• Cell phone and charger
• List of phone numbers to send an sms to those you want to notify
• Camera (charged and ready to go)
• Video camera and charger
• Books or newspapers for reading during a long labour
• Healthy energy-filled snacks and water for both of you