Whether you are planning to have your baby at home, in hospital or in a midwifery unit, it’s a good idea to get everything ready at least four weeks before your due date.

For you:

• Front‑opening nightdresses or pyjamas (helpful for feeding)
• Supportive bras
• Sanitary pads
• Around six pairs of comfortable underwear
• Towels (non‑white is best)
• Toiletries
• Dressing gown and slippers
• Books, music or anything that helps you relax

For your baby:

• Vests and babygrows
• Hats
• Nappies
• Blankets
• A car seat can be brought in when you are going home

Tommy’s Pregnancy and Baby Charity provides useful information on packing your bag for labour and birth.

Important numbers

Keep a list of important phone numbers somewhere easy to find, such as in your bag or saved on your phone.

Make sure you include:

• Your hospital and midwife’s contact details
• Your partner or birth partner’s phone number
• Your hospital reference number (you will be asked for this when you call)
• A local taxi number, just in case

If you think you may be in labour, contact your maternity unit straight away.