Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide (1)

NEW MODERN MOM

11/03/23

|

Written by:

Barbara Mighdoll

You're about to become a dad. Welcome to the parents club! As a new dad-to-be, there's quite a bit to get your head around, and one of the very first things is going to be packing your hospital bag. Yes, that's right – moms aren't the only ones who need a bag full of essentials for the big day. You also need a well-stocked dad bag, and packing hospital bags is an important item on your third trimester checklist. But don't you worry, I've got you covered with the best hospital bag checklist for dad, tried and tested based on two birth experiences my husband has been through. This checklist helps you navigate this exciting journey with confidence and ensures you're ready for the big day when you're off to the hospital to meet your newborn. Consider this your ultimate packing list for everything you'll need in your Dad hospital bag.

  • What's the Difference Between a Hospital Bag Checklist for Dads and Moms?
  • The Importance of A Hospital Bag for Dads
  • When and What Essentials Should be Packed First?
    • Clothing Must-Haves for Dads
    • Important Paperwork to Remember
  • Packing for Comfort During the Stay
    • Snacks and Hydration Essentials
    • Items to Make a Few Nights Stay Comfortable
    • Practical Items Not To Be Forgotten
  • Need a List for Mom, Baby and the Room?
  • Nervous About The Big Day?
    • Can a Well-packed Bag Help Dads Stay Calm?
    • Is a Checklist Enough to Feel Prepared?
    • What Can Dads Do to Make Moms More Comfortable?
Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide (2)

What's the Difference Between a Hospital Bag Checklist for Dads and Moms?

Yes, there are some differences between a dad hospital bag checklist and the one for mom. While some items like toiletries may be similar, dad's checklist should include items like snacks, sleeping support, and comfortable clothing.

The Importance of A Hospital Bag for Dads

So, you might be wondering why a dad even needs a hospital bag. Simple. As a supportive partner and co-parent, you'll be there cheering on your partner during labor and delivery. And during those long labor hours, you'll need your stuff within reach – think comfort items, change of clothes, snacks, a light distraction like an iPad or a book to keep your energy up, and some relaxing songs for the first hours after the baby arrives.

When and What Essentials Should be Packed First?

Packing your hospital bag isn't a last-minute task, believe us. It's best to have it ready by the 38th week – just in case your little one decides to make an early entrance. This gives you enough time to gather all the essentials you'll want for the hospital or birthing center, and eliminates the stress of scrambling for items at the last minute when you'll meet your baby for the very first time. Trust us, it’s a great idea to be ready to go as early as four weeks before your due date.

Clothing Must-Haves for Dads

  • Socks
  • Joggers
  • 2x T-shirts
  • 2x underwear
  • Beanie/Hat
  • Sweatshirt
  • Swimsuit (If mom-to-be is planning to use the bathtub during labor and doesn't have a doula, a swimsuit is a good idea)

Important Paperwork to Remember

  • ID
  • Insurance information
  • Copy of birth plan (if you have one)
  • Copy of birthing support resources (if you took any classes – we brought a support guide from our class with pictures of pressure point and massage techniques for Jason)
Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide (3)

Packing for Comfort During the Stay

You'll want to ensure that you're ready for a few nights away from home.

Snacks and Hydration Essentials

  • Your favorite snacks – hospital food is terrible, and if yours only lets you get partner specific meals… don’t even bother placing an order
  • Easy-to-eat, healthy snacks like granola bars, protein-packed trail mix, or fruit (vending machines only have so many options)
  • A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your stay (Mamas will get one of those souvenir water bottles from the hospital 😉 but dads don't get this gift)
  • Instant coffee packets for a quick pick-me-up during those late-night hours (or tea if you're like my husband who doesn't love coffee)

Items to Make a Few Nights Stay Comfortable

  • Slippers – highly recommend taking the disposable ones from the hotel on your babymoon
  • Pillow with a colored pillowcase – as to not confuse your own pillow with a hospital pillow
  • Cozy blanket
  • Inflatable Mattress Pad – yes, I know this may seem extra, but let’s face it, the sleeping accommodations for new dads are anything but comfortable. Jason brought this for our second birth, and has since recommended it to so many friends who have thanked us for the recommendation

Practical Items Not To Be Forgotten

  • Toiletries (recommend bringing these in a hanging toiletry bag since there is little to no counter space typically in postpartum recovery room bathrooms) – toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, travel-sized body wash, hairbrush
  • Medications
  • Glasses/Contacts
  • Laptop – there is a lot of downtime during labor and in the postpartum recovery room, you can use the laptop to watch shows or for practical purposes such as scheduling your first pediatric appointment or adding your baby to your health insurance
  • Designated folder for important paperwork – new parents are often required to complete numerous forms after the delivery, making it convenient to have a dedicated folder to keep everything orderly and protected
  • 10ft phone charger
Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide (4)

Need a List for Mom, Baby and the Room?

Of course, dad's bag isn't the only one to consider. Check out my minimalist approach to a hospital bag packing checklist.

Nervous About The Big Day?

Can a Well-packed Bag Help Dads Stay Calm?

Absolutely! Knowing that you're prepared can be a huge stress relief. Packing well isn't just about having the items you need – it's also about feeling ready to tackle your new role as a dad. So, take your time to thoroughly organize your bag, and know that each item you pack is another step towards feeling calm and ready for this amazing journey.

Is a Checklist Enough to Feel Prepared?

A checklist is a great start, but feeling prepared goes beyond just packing the right items. Be sure to also take time for self-care, mentally preparing yourself for your new role, preparing a thorough baby budget and open communication with your partner. Feeling prepared is about more than just having the right stuff – it's about feeling ready to embrace the joy and challenges that come with parenthood.

What Can Dads Do to Make Moms More Comfortable?

When it comes to making mom more comfortable, it's all about being attentive, supportive, and patient. Offering a comforting word, a hand to hold, or a shoulder to lean on can go a long way. A little bit of humor can help lighten the mood and alleviate stress. Being there, both emotionally and physically, can make a world of difference. Additionally, bringing a portable speaker, like a hospital-approved one, is a great way to enhance the comfort level even more. The speaker can be used to play mom's favorite tunes or a birthing playlist downloaded from a music app, creating a soothing and relaxing atmosphere during her hospital stay.

The journey into parenthood might seem overwhelming, but rest assured, you're better prepared than you think. Packing the right items in your hospital bag, from clothing to snacks and comfort items, is one of the best ways to ensure you're ready for the experience ahead. More than just being physically prepared, being emotionally ready to support your partner is crucial. Understand that your presence, patience, and support can make a significant difference during this remarkable journey. Trust in yourself, your partner, and the bond you share. This is an incredible moment in your life, welcome to the journey of parenthood. Beyond packing for just you and your partner, you need to pack clothes for your new baby, too. Take some time with your partner to plan out a special going home outfit for your newborn, and be sure to pack that outfit (plus booties, scratchproof mittens, hat, diaper bag, a pacifier!), and a comfortable robe in your bag for the inaugural trip home.

Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide (5)

Featured image by Barbara Mighdoll

Author

Barbara Mighdoll

I live in San Francisco with my husband, Jason, toddler, Caden, one year old baby, Willow, and Bernese Mountain Dog, Bear. I previously held multiple VP of Marketing roles at tech startups before deciding to take the leap to build New Modern Mom full time in an effort to find fulfillment and flexibility in my life. I also was a fitness instructor in an earlier life. I created this space to curate the best products and real advice on pregnancy, motherhood, cooking, travel and more to make doing it all for ambitious moms like me a whole lot easier.

See author's posts

You may also like...

Hospital Bag Checklist: A Minimalistic ApproachWhat is a Night Nurse?The Best Core Exercises for the Second Trimester and BeyondAre Essential Oils Safe During Pregnancy? An Expert Weighs In

Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

FAQs

Best Hospital Bag Checklist for Dad: The Ultimate Guide? ›

Partner or Dad's Hospital Bag Checklist

Cozy footwear: comfortable shoes such as sneakers, Crocs, or other slip-ons. Sleep accessories: your own pillow and blankets from home. Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and more.

What to pack in a hospital bag for a father? ›

18 hospital bag essentials for expecting moms and dads
  • Toiletries. Expect to be at the hospital for several hours, and even overnight (or several days, in some cases). ...
  • Snacks. ...
  • Medication. ...
  • Cash. ...
  • Electronics. ...
  • Chargers. ...
  • A change of clothes. ...
  • Reusable bottles.

What should my husband pack in his hospital bag? ›

Partner or Dad's Hospital Bag Checklist

Cozy footwear: comfortable shoes such as sneakers, Crocs, or other slip-ons. Sleep accessories: your own pillow and blankets from home. Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, and more.

What are the must haves in my hospital bag? ›

Personal items:

Pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, lip balm, deodorant, a brush and comb, hair ties, and makeup (if you're planning to use it). Hospitals usually provide soap, shampoo, and lotion, but you might prefer your own.

What should dad wear in a delivery room? ›

Clothing. Fresh underwear, a clean shirt, and a pair of socks should be sufficient to keep you feeling clean and ready for anything. It also might be wise to include a warm sweatshirt in case the room is a little cool. Parents in labor often feel warm and may turn the thermostat down in order to keep cool.

What does a partner need in a hospital bag? ›

A few suggestions for your birth partner
  • a change of clothes.
  • toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant.
  • phone and charger.
  • camera or camcorder.
  • snacks and drinks.
  • swimwear if they'll be getting in a birth pool.
  • any medicines they're taking.
  • spare glasses or contact lenses if they wear them.

What snacks are good for labor? ›

Some of the best snacks for labour include:

Wholegrain toast, biscuits and crackers. Energy bars (be sure to check the sugar content). Breadsticks. Dried fruits and nuts.

What should dad wear to a C-section? ›

During a c-section

You can usually stay with your partner during a planned or emergency c-section unless they need a general anaesthetic. The midwife or operating assistant will give you a top, trousers and hat to wear in the operating theatre. This is for hygiene reasons.

What should a husband wear to the hospital for birth? ›

So, pack at least one change of clothes in your bag to have something clean and comfortable to wear when welcoming your new baby. Comfortable shoes. Make sure to bring supportive, comfortable shoes, too, so you can handle hours of standing and walking without aching feet. Pillow and blanket.

When to start packing a hospital bag? ›

But if you're a planner like me and want to be ready for your little one's arrival, I'd suggest having your hospital bag packed between 36 and 38 weeks. If you are considered a high-risk pregnancy, for example, if you're having multiples (congrats!), you probably want to have your bag packed around 35 weeks.

How many outfits to bring to the hospital for a baby? ›

Here's what not to bring to the hospital when you're ready to deliver: Too much clothing for you or the baby. Choose one outfit each and leave the rest at home.

What to wear in labor? ›

Something cool and loose to wear during labour such as a cotton nighty or a large t-shirt, including something to wear in the birthing pool (the hospital can provide a gown if you would prefer this) Dressing gown, slippers and nightwear. Support bra to wear while breastfeeding.

Do fathers wear scrubs in the delivery room? ›

And scrubs are likely not in your future if you're the expectant father, or if you're filling in for that role. Unless there's a C-section. No one will stop you if you really want to wear them, though. The worst that can happen is that you'll be really comfortable.

Why are fathers not allowed in delivery room? ›

Starting in the early 1960s, fathers were let into the labor rooms, but not yet into the case rooms. Medical belief was that men might panic, faint, or increase infection rates and even malpractice suits. In many hospitals, the father's presence at the birth was first permitted in the late 1960s.

How long do you stay in hospital after birth? ›

How long do you stay in the hospital after birth? Most healthy newborns can leave the hospital after two or three days. If you or your baby experiences any complications or has any medical issues, you may need to stay in the hospital longer.

Should dad have a diaper bag? ›

Absolutely! A dad's diaper bag should be just as well-stocked and organized as a mom's, and having one of his own allows him to be prepared for any situation.

What should parents pack when going to the hospital to have a baby? ›

You'll want your hairbrush, regular or dry shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm, body lotion, extra hair ties and face wipes (Babylist parents recommend these in case you're not up to showering right away). Remember extra contact lenses (plus contact lens solution) and/or glasses, if you wear them.

What to bring to hospital for mom and dad? ›

Consider packing some snacks and water, as well as change for the hospital vending machines. Phone, camera and/or video camera, plus chargers and batteries. Don't forget to pack a phone to stay in contact with loved ones, and for some entertainment during downtimes.

What week to pack a hospital bag? ›

It's a good idea to have your hospital bag packed and ready from around 35 weeks of pregnancy. See what to pack here. To avoid a mad rush following your first contraction, it's a good idea to pack your hospital bag at around 35 weeks.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Ray Christiansen

Last Updated:

Views: 6323

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (69 voted)

Reviews: 84% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Ray Christiansen

Birthday: 1998-05-04

Address: Apt. 814 34339 Sauer Islands, Hirtheville, GA 02446-8771

Phone: +337636892828

Job: Lead Hospitality Designer

Hobby: Urban exploration, Tai chi, Lockpicking, Fashion, Gunsmithing, Pottery, Geocaching

Introduction: My name is Ray Christiansen, I am a fair, good, cute, gentle, vast, glamorous, excited person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.