Your home is all ready for your new arrival. The nursery is ready, you’ve cleaned the house from top to bottom (nesting is so much fun!) and toured the hospital. But before you can relax, don't forget to pack your hospital bag!
Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a list of retailers who can assist with your hospital bag shopping.
The Newborn
Four baby onesies
Four sleepsuits
Six receiving blankets or muslin wraps
Two baby hats
Two sets of baby socks and mittens
Warm blanket
Going home outfit
Two towels
Two wash cloths
Two dozen newborn nappies
Baby wipes
Formula, if you don’t plan on breastfeeding
Infant car seat for day of discharge
The Mother
Insurance details
Your birth plan
Masks for mother and birthing partner
Four sets of sleepwear (front opening for breastfeeding)
Dressing gown
One pair of flip-flops
Headband or hair ties
Four to six pairs of underwear
Three nursing bras and breast pads
Loose and comfortable going home clothes
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, flannel/washer, moisturiser, shower gel, deodorant, lip balm, hair brush, shampoo, conditioner, any makeup)
Glasses/contact lenses
Two towels
Two dozen maternity sanitary pads
Pillow (recommended)
Camera, memory card, charger
Mobile phone and charger
Snack bag (for mum and dad!)
Top Tips
We asked some Cayman mums for their top tips on preparing to give birth and here's what they had to say....
Pack Early
You never know when your little one might decide it's time to meet the world! Pack your hospital bag at least four weeks before you're due so that you are not racing around at the last minute! Remember, don't pack your best towels, underwear or sleepwear as they may get ruined. Choose dark-coloured items where possible.
Pack Separate Bags
Consider packing a separate bag for you and your baby. It will be much easier to find what you are looking for, especially after labour when you may be sore and tired.
Don't Forget the Snacks
Labour is hard work, so pack some healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up. Good options include dried fruit, nuts, seeds and fresh fruit. Dark chocolate is great for a quick burst of energy.
Entertainment
Load up your iPad/tablet with plenty of entertainment in case you are in labour for a long time, and possibly confined to the hospital bed.
Car Seat
Car seats are notoriously difficult to fit so ensure it's installed before you go into labour and ideally when you are around 36 weeks. You may even want to practice taking the seat in and out of the base a few times so you know how to put the baby in safely when you leave the hospital.
Baby & Children's Shops
The retailers who can assist with your hospital bag shopping for both mum and baby.
