Checklist: What to pack in your maternity ward bag?

The big day is getting closer: you're going to give birth! Whether you want to give birth in the hospital or at home, it's always wise to have a hospital bag ready. This prevents last-minute stress and ensures that you have everything you need within reach. But what should you put in a hospital bag? We'll help you get started with a handy checklist, including an explanation of why certain items are essential. We'll also give you tips on products from our range that will make your delivery and postpartum period just that little bit easier.

Why prepare a flight case?

A flight case is a suitcase (or bag) in which you collect all the supplies you need during and after childbirth. It is recommended to have this case ready around the 36th week of your pregnancy. Childbirth can sometimes go faster than you think, and the last thing you want is to panic and look for things. Or a partner who doesn't know exactly where everything is!

A well-prepared flight case ensures that you can focus on what is important: your delivery and your baby. It also helps your partner or maternity nurse to find what you need more quickly.

What should be in the flight case?

Below we have compiled a checklist of possible requirements, divided into categories. This way it is clear for you and your partner.

For moms

• Comfortable clothing: Choose loose pajamas or a nightgown that can be easily opened for breastfeeding. Don't forget a cardigan or warm socks, as it can be chilly in the hospital.
• Underwear and Breast Care: Comfortable underwear, preferably disposable after giving birth. A comfortable nursing bra , specially designed for comfort and support during breastfeeding.
• Breast care products: Bring nursing pads to prevent leaking breasts or a Youha milk collector to conveniently collect breast milk. It may also be useful to bring a breast pump , this can help induce labor.
• Toiletry bag: Think of toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, deodorant, shampoo and lip balm. Lips often get dry during labor.
• Snacks and drinks: Energy-rich snacks such as nuts, granola bars and water (possibly with a straw).

For the baby

• Clothing: 
  • 2 rompers.
  • 2 sets of clothes (size 50-56).

  • A hat and socks.

• Hydrophilic cloths: These multifunctional cloths are ideal for everything from wiping to swaddling. The hydrophilic cloths from Hema are recommended.
• Baby care products: a soft baby brush and possibly a thermometer.
• Car seat: Make sure the car seat is already installed in the car for the ride home. It can be very reassuring to do this in advance, so that you don't have to puzzle on the way or have to call for help from Maxi-Cosi or Babypark .
  

For your partner

• Comfortable clothing and toiletries: In case it is a long labor.
• Phone and charger: To capture important moments and keep in touch with family. You could expand it with a camera and laptop.
• Snacks and drinks: Partners need energy too! In the hospital, there is always something available, but it is handy to have snacks and drinks on hand.

Other supplies

• Papers: ID, insurance card, pregnancy card and possibly a birth plan.
• Entertainment: A magazine, book or tablet for distraction if you have to stay longer.
• Chargers and power banks: For phones and other devices you take with you.

When do you start packing?

The ideal time to pack your flight case is around week 34-36 of your pregnancy. That way you are well prepared and you don't have to worry about it anymore. Put your flight case in a handy place and let your partner know what is where, so that he/she can quickly grab something if necessary. Sometimes it is also useful to add a note to your flight case with items that you can only add to your flight case on the day itself (for example a charger), that way you know for sure that you have everything.

Finally

A well-prepared getaway bag gives peace of mind and confidence, but also make sure the car is ready, arrange care for children or pets, check the route to the hospital, make appointments with healthcare providers and, above all, ensure rest and relaxation.

Use this checklist to have everything you need ready in time, so you can fully concentrate on the arrival of your baby. Want to see our recommended products? Take a look at our collection . Good luck with the final preparations, and enjoy this special time!

Love,
Elles - Youha