If you’re pregnant and getting your birth bag ready makes you anxious, the Kadolis natural sleep experts are here to help you. Let yourself be guided by our to-do list in anticipation of your delivery.

When is the right time to pack your bag?

We suggest you start packing your bag around your 36th week. In case of a delivery earlier than your due date, you will be ready and won’t have to worry about it. It’s preferable that your bag is as complete as possible, however it’s alright to add certain items at the last minute, such as a toothbrush. Here is a list of what we recommend you to put in your bag. Some of the items are obviously essential, but others could allow you to be more comfortable.

The items for you:

  • Health insurance card

In Canada, it’s essential to have your health insurance card if you wish to give birth at a hospital. So, make sure you don’t forget it.

  • Comfortable clothes and shoes

Bringing comfortable clothes is obviously really important following childbirth. You will want to feel good in these and have space to move and not feel squeezed. Therefore, plan loose, breathable and practical clothes. This may include a nightgown, baggy tank tops and t-shirts, sweatpants, etc. For your shoes, plan something that is easy to put on and take off such as sandals, crocs or slippers. Also, don’t forget comfortable underwear (ideally in cotton) and socks.

  • Electronic devices and accessories

Following your delivery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days, so you should plan all your electronic essentials. It can be your chargers for your devices, your tablet, a camera, a watch or any other items to keep you busy and immortalize the first hours of your baby’s life.

  • Breastfeeding items

If you decide to breastfeed, it’s important that you have all the items you may need. Therefore, make sure you have products such as nipple cream, nursing pads, nursing bras and swaddles. Organic cotton swaddles are particularly recommended as they are gentle on your newborn’s sensitive skin.

  • Pillows 

You may need to spend at least one night in the hospital. If so, you’ll want to make sure you’re comfortable so you can sleep as well as possible. Therefore, bring a pillow you like from home.

  • Toileteries 

Obviously, you won’t want to forget your items to wash and take care of yourself. Therefore, make sure you pack all your essentials for your hair, your teeth ad your body. It can be: a hairbrush, hair elastics, a toothbrush and toothpaste, lip balm, deodorant, soap, shampoo, a bath towel, body and face wipes, etc.

  • Birth plan or other documents

If you prepared a birth plan, be sure to bring a few copies of it to the hospital. Also, if you have other documents to complete, bring them in your bag.

  • Entertainment items

In case you have to stay in the hospital for a few days, plan items that can entertain you. For example, you can bring books, magazines, earphones, board games or even download series or movies on a cell phone, tablet or even a computer. 

  • Snacks and beverages

You will most likely be hungry or thirsty at some point. In order to not spend unnecessary money in the hospital and to have the food and drinks you like, be sure to bring these from your home. You can pack healthier items, but you might want something sweeter or saltier. Therefore, we suggest you bring many types of snacks so you have options.

  • Sanitary pads and adult diapers

After your delivery, you will most likely have some bleeding and you might have bladder weakness. Therefore, plan to have pads and diapers in which you are comfortable and that don’t irritate you.

The items for your baby :

  • Baby diapers and wipes

You are going to need diapers and wipes in order to change your baby. Bring these in sufficient quantity in your bag.

  • Car seat

For the return home, you will definitely need a car seat if you came or want to return home with a car. Do not forget to install and familiarize yourself with it before delivery.

  • An outfit for going home

Be sure to bring an appropriate outfit for the outside temperature for your hospital discharge. You want to make sure your baby won’t be too hot or too cold. A beanie and mittens are particularly adapted, not only during winter.

  • Blankets

Bring comfortable blankets so you can cover your newborn. You can also bring swaddling blankets to help your baby sleep. If you give birth during summer, we particularly recommend organic cotton swaddle blankets. Ultra-soft, they will cover your baby with softness and allow to lightly warm him up. 
  • Clothes

Bring comfortable and easy-to-wear clothes for your baby such as one-pieces, pajamas, socks, beanies, etc.