Vickyleigh, you can pack bag whenever you want to really. The list below is taken from another post on the forum
I havent packed yet but my house is in chaos right now because we're packing it up to move. I'm going to pack my hospital bag at weekend if I remember
What shall I bring to hospital when I go into labour?
This list is primarily for those women who plan to deliver in hospital, however if you are planning for a home birth many of the items suggested you may need.
Your own midwife may have a list also. There are 3 sections in the list:
1. For mums to be,
Your toilet bag with toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, shampoo, soap, hairbrush etc.
2 towels (small and large). I suggest that your bath towel should be a darker shade.
Sanitary towels, the large absorbent type, probably 2 packs.DO NOT USE TAMPONS.
Something comfortable to wear in labour, a loose T-shirt, night-shirt, something that you don't mind getting messy. If you are going to breastfeed you may wish to think about the type that you can open at the front. You may wish to wear a hospital gown for labour. In addition bring nightwear to put on after the birth. If you are in hospital in very early labour you may wish to wear something loose and comfortable during the day.
Dressing gown and slippers
2 or 3 nursing bras. (If you are going to breast-feed). When you are buying these remember that your breasts may be larger. If you are not breast feeding, ordinary bras will be fine but your breast may be larger initially.
about 6 extra pants. You may wish to include old pants or even disposable ones. They may get messy. Think about comfort too.
Odd-bits for the labour room. A personal stereo, tapes, CDs, water spray and sponges, massage oil, anything that you think will be helpful. Some people like to bring their own pillows, sweets.
Books, magazines, something's that will help you to relax, you may do needlework etc.
Plenty of change for the phone, a phonecard. Many hospitals do not allow the use of mobile phones in the maternity unit. Your address/phone numbers book.
comfortable outdoor clothes for travelling home in.
2. For your birthpartner/friend,
Plenty of cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches etc,
change for the phone and telephone numbers,
wear something loose and comfortable,
books, magazines or newspaper for when you take a break,
3. For your baby,
Most hospitals provide a gown for the baby after birth, however you may wish to dress the baby in your own babyclothes. Remember that they may get a bit messy. Do not over-dress you baby, hospitals are very warm places.
3 or 4 babygrows/stretch suits.
disposable nappies (check with your midwife as some provide these)
3 or 4 vests
a cardigan
Shawl/blanket to wrap the baby to come home in.
Hat, mitts, bootees to travel home in.
Some items are not supplied by your hospital so chat with your midwife, they may advise other items.
