Are you all set for the big day? Your baby might decide to surprise you and come earlier than expected, so it would help to have all your birth essentials sorted as early as possible just to be on the safe side.

At some point in the third trimester, you really want to be thinking about getting your maternity bag ready so you can start adding bits and bobs to make your birth experience as comfortable as possible.

Wherever you are in your pregnancy, you may be wondering what to pack, so we’ve put a little list together that can help you get started.

We know you may want to pack like you’re going on a two-week holiday, but try and pack only the essentials so you’re not lugging around a big heavy suitcase to the hospital. Remember, your friends and family can always bring you any extra or missing items.

So let’s take a look at what you’ll need for your maternity bag.

What items do I need to pack for my maternity bag?

Essentials for labour:

Night dress or a large t-shirt.

Personal toiletries.

Sanitary towels.

A few pairs of knickers.

Camera/Mobile phone and charger.

Optional items for your labour:

Face spray/sponge.

Personal stereo, music and headphones.

Magazines and books.

Items for your partner:

Food and drink.

Entertainment (books, music, magazines).

Change of clothes.

Small pillow.

Items for the baby:

Nappies for newborns.

Zinc barrier/nappy cream.

Two sleepsuits.

Two vests.

Cotton wool balls.

Items for after the birth:

A nightdress (front open suitable for breastfeeding).

Disposable knickers or a few of your old pairs.

Extra absorbent sanitary towels.

Slippers and socks.

Towel.

Breast pads.

Toiletries.

Dressing gown.

Some of your favourite snacks, food and drinks that boost your energy.

Ice pack and/or heated pad.

Optional items for after the birth

Ear plugs.

An eye mask.

Reading material including a practical book about child-care.

A pillow, although maternity wards will usually provide these.

What do I pack in my maternity bag?

Packing is rarely this essential. Unii has some ideas.