Documents — in an outer pocket, not the bottom
- All antenatal records, scan reports and blood test reports.
- Aadhaar and one more photo ID for you and your partner.
- Insurance card, policy number and pre-authorisation paperwork.
- Hospital registration or booking receipt.
- Your birth preferences, one page, printed.
- Blood group cards, and a note of any allergies or medication.
- Cash, plus a card. Hospital canteens and parking often need cash.
Labour bag — goes into the room with you
- Loose, front-opening nightwear or a labour gown.
- Non-slip slippers and thick socks. Feet get cold in air-conditioned labour rooms.
- Hair ties, a clip, and a hairband.
- Lip balm — mouth-breathing through contractions dries lips fast.
- Phone, and a long charging cable. Sockets are rarely near the bed.
- Your labour playlist or meditation tracks, downloaded for offline use.
- A small fan or handheld fan, and a face towel.
- Energy food: dates, glucose biscuits, oral rehydration sachets, a sports drink if permitted.
- A bottle with a straw or sipper — easier than a glass in labour.
- Massage oil or a tennis ball for back pressure, and a birth comb if you use one.
- Glasses if you wear contact lenses. You may be asked to remove lenses.
Postpartum bag — for you
- Three to four front-open nightgowns or kurta sets, dark coloured.
- Two nursing bras, one size up from your pregnancy size, and nursing pads.
- Six to eight pairs of high-waist cotton underwear you do not mind discarding, or disposable ones.
- Maternity pads — at least two packs. Regular sanitary pads are not enough.
- Toiletries, including a gentle soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, moisturiser and a peri-bottle or mug for washing.
- Two towels and a couple of old dupattas or cloths.
- Nipple cream, and a nursing pillow if you have one.
- Any regular medication, plus your iron and calcium tablets.
- A loose going-home outfit — you will still look pregnant, so pack accordingly.
- Abdominal binder only if your doctor has advised one.
Baby bag
- Four to six cotton onesies or jhabla sets, washed and sun-dried beforehand.
- Two soft cotton blankets or swaddles, and two receiving towels.
- Mittens, socks and two caps.
- Newborn nappies — one pack — plus cotton wool and a soft baby towel.
- Mild baby soap and a soft cloth. Skip powder and oil for the first days.
- Going-home outfit appropriate to the season.
- A car seat, installed and checked in advance. This is not optional.
- Nothing else. Hospitals supply most newborn needs, and formula, bottles and pacifiers should only be introduced on medical advice.
Partner bag
- Change of clothes, toiletries, a light blanket or shawl.
- Snacks, a water bottle and a power bank.
- A list of who to inform, and a printed copy of your documents.
- Patience, and comfortable shoes.
What not to pack
Jewellery, large amounts of cash, anything valuable, tight postpartum shapewear, scented products, and a full-size suitcase. If you are planning a caesarean, add an extra two days of clothing and pads, plus loose high-waisted clothing that will not sit on the incision.