The last few weeks of pregnancy go by quickly, and labour does not always wait for a convenient moment. A packed hospital bag means you can leave for the hospital calmly, knowing everything you need is already by the door.
This checklist is written for Pakistani families, including the documents hospitals usually ask for and the winter extras that matter between November and February.
When should you pack the hospital bag?
Aim to have the bag ready by around 34 to 36 weeks. Keep it near the door or in the car, and make sure your husband or the person going with you knows where it is.
Baby's bag: clothing
Hospitals keep newborns warm, but you will need your own clothes for the stay and the trip home.
- 3 to 4 soft cotton bodysuits or vests in newborn or 0 to 3 months size
- 2 full-sleeve sleepsuits or rompers
- 2 soft caps
- 2 to 3 pairs of socks or booties
- 1 pair of scratch mittens
- 1 swaddle or wrap blanket
- 1 warm going-home outfit
A ready-made set saves time. The 3-Piece Baby Romper Set (0 to 3 months) or the Luxury Newborn 11-Piece Winter Gift Set covers most of the clothing list in one go.
Tip: Wash all baby clothes with a mild detergent before packing them.
Baby's bag: hygiene and care
- 1 pack of newborn-size diapers
- Fragrance-free baby wipes or cotton and warm water
- Soft washcloths, like the 8-Piece Ultra Soft Washcloth Set
- 1 small soft towel
- A few plastic or zip bags for dirty clothes
Baby's bag: feeding
- 2 to 3 burp cloths or bibs
- If you plan to formula feed, ask the hospital in advance whether you should bring formula and bottles
Mother's bag
Documents
- CNIC (original and a few photocopies)
- Hospital file, antenatal card and recent ultrasound and lab reports
- Health insurance or company panel card, if you have one
Clothing
- 2 to 3 loose, comfortable outfits with front opening for feeding
- A warm shawl or cardigan
- Nursing bras and comfortable underwear
- Warm socks and easy slippers
- A dupatta or chador for visitors
Care items
- Maternity pads
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, lip balm and moisturiser
- A small towel
Other essentials
- Phone and a long charging cable
- A water bottle and light snacks
- Some cash for small expenses
Attendant's bag
In most Pakistani hospitals, a family member stays with the mother. Their bag can be small: a change of clothes, a warm shawl or jacket, a phone charger, snacks and a small pillow if the hospital allows it.
Winter extras
Hospital corridors and the ride home can be cold, especially in Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar during foggy December nights.
- A warm blanket for the car. Babies should not wear thick, puffy jackets in a car seat because they stop the straps from fitting snugly. Instead, buckle the baby in normal clothes and tuck a blanket over the straps.
- An extra cap and socks. Babies lose heat quickly from the head and feet. Our Caps & Socks collection has soft options for newborns.
- A swaddle sack. A Dino Zip Swaddle is easy to use when you are tired and keeps the baby snug.
- A warm layer for the mother. A shawl or cardigan makes late-night feeds more comfortable.
What you can leave at home
- Too many outfits. Babies spend most of the hospital stay wrapped up.
- Jewellery and expensive items.
- Heavy baby gear. You only need a car seat for the trip home.
Packing tips
- Pack baby items in a separate bag so they are easy to find.
- Put each set of clothes in a labelled zip bag: Day 1, Day 2, Going home.
- Keep documents in one folder at the top of the bag.
- Print or save a copy of this list and tick items off as you pack.
Frequently asked questions
How many baby outfits should I pack?
Three to four outfits is enough for a normal delivery stay of one or two days. For a C-section stay of three to four days, pack five or six.
Which size should I pack: newborn or 0 to 3 months?
Pack mostly 0 to 3 months with one or two newborn pieces. If the baby is small, the newborn pieces will fit, and if not, the larger size will.
Should I wash baby clothes before packing?
Yes. Wash everything once with a mild, fragrance-free detergent to remove any residue from manufacturing.
Does the hospital provide diapers?
Some do and some do not. It is safer to bring a small pack of newborn diapers.
Final thoughts
A well-packed bag removes one big worry from the last weeks of pregnancy. Pack early, keep it simple and add a few winter extras if your baby is due in the cold months. Browse our Clothing and Accessories collections to complete your list.