What to pack in a hospital bag when you live in Accra

A practical list that accounts for the heat, the traffic and the fact that everyone will bring food.

Start with the things the hospital will not give you: your own nightdress, a light robe, two changes of underwear, maternity pads, a phone charger with a long cable and a water bottle. Accra is hot, so choose cotton over anything heavy.

For the baby, pack two vests, two babygrows, a hat, socks, a soft towel and a pack of newborn nappies. Do not overpack clothes, because relatives will bring more than you can carry home.

Keep a small bag for documents: your antenatal card, ID, insurance details and a pen. Put snacks and a refillable bottle in a separate bag that whoever is with you can carry.

One thing people forget: a bag for the clothes you came in with. A simple drawstring bag takes no space and saves the awkward plastic bag at discharge.

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