When we think about packing hospital bags for delivery, we are often so wrapped up in packing for mom (and baby!) that it's easy to forget that dads and partners also need go bags! Aside from the basics, we have a simple checklist of who should bring what to the hospital and why.

 

• At least a couple of weeks before the due date, you must pack your hospital bag and place it somewhere easily accessible.

• Include the basics such as healthy snacks, comfy clothes, own toiletries, and spare money.

• Don’t forget important documents like insurance card and birth plan.

• Provide some entertainment, especially after your partner’s delivery, by bringing card games, portable speakers for music, and books.

 

First and foremost, it's essential to pack your go bag well before the due date — because babies run on their own schedules. The last thing you want is to pack last-minute. Dad or partner, make sure your bag is stocked up with baby’s stuff. Plus, the extras you’re in charge of and you’ll be all set for delivery day!

Below we’ve outlined our complete checklist of what dads or support partners should have in their bags. Let’s break down what you should consider when packing for a hospital stay.

Partner or Dad’s Hospital Bag Checklist

Here is our full checklist of what to pack:

• Change of clothes: comfy clothes recommended, such as sweatpants, t-shirts, and pajamas
• 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
• Eyewear: glasses, contact lenses, and contact solution, if needed
• Healthy snacks: pack things like trail mix, fruits, veggies, and more
• Reusable water bottle: remember, this is a marathon, not a race, so staying hydrated is key
• Coins: loose change for the vending machines (for when you need a break from the healthy snacks!)
• Cell phone and phone charger: aside from making calls, most smartphones nowadays have decent cameras to capture baby’s special day
• Speaker for music: even better if you and mom put together a Spotify playlist or two beforehand!
• Massage oil: packing a bottle of massage oil and using it on mom will help keep her relaxed
• Birth plan: easily communicate what you want the birthing experience to be with the midwife or doctor by having it written down
• Insurance card: insurance information and other relevant paperwork
• Car seat: you can’t take your little bundle of joy home without a car seat, so we recommend putting this on both your checklist and mom’s
• Push present: whether you got mom jewelry, loungewear, a tech gadget, or something else, you'll want to have this gift in hand for the right moment

Hospital Bag Essential Items

Below we’ve added details on some of the most important items you’ll need to have on your packing list.

Basics

Just like mom-to-be, you should plan to bring a couple of outfits, pajamas, and toiletries for your stay at the hospital. Unlike mom, who will be spending most of the time resting, bottle or breastfeeding, and snuggling with baby, you might actually be going out in public (and getting your partner some takeout sushi, perhaps?). Keep this in mind when packing your clothes!

Hospital Room Comforts

Each hospital is going to have a very different setup for you in the delivery room. Some have a full pullout couch, others expect you to sleep on a recliner chair. When you take your hospital tour before baby’s arrival, make sure you get a clear idea of the space you will be given to sleep. This way you’ll know if you should bring a few things from home to make yourself more comfortable on the big day (travel pillow, blanket, slippers, etc.).

Electronics

Dads and partners are usually in charge of electronics, so pack cell phones, phone chargers, a speaker for music, and whatever other devices you both might want. Your partner will have enough in her bag without having to worry about these things! Bring backup chargers too, just in case.

Paperwork

While every labor is different, one thing is certain. Mom will be busy, so it’s a good idea for you to be in charge of the paperwork you’ll need for the hospital, like insurance information and registration papers.

Snacks, Change & More

Many hospitals do not provide food for non-patients, and even if they do, it’s always a good idea to bring along easy healthy snacks. You never know if hunger will strike in the middle of the night when the hospital kitchen’s closed (nobody really gets a full night’s sleep while they’re in the hospital).

You should also be sure to pack small bills and change for parking and/or vending machines and a water bottle you can keep filled. If your partner doesn’t have a doula and you will be her main labor partner, it might be a good idea for you to pack things that could be helpful in the event of a long labor, like massage aids and oils and a handheld fan (to help cool your partner down). 

Regardless of how you decide to divide the packing list, we do recommend that you and your partner sit down ahead of time and make sure you have all of your bases covered and your diaper bag organized. Everything moves a little smoother when it is clear who is in charge of packing what. You want to make this experience as easy as possible for everyone, more so for momma – especially if it’s her first time giving birth.

You can print out this post to use the checklist above, and we also recommended checking out our hospital checklist for mom and baby.

Looking for the perfect bag? Itzy Ritzy offers many unisex options that dads would be proud to carry. Take a look at our hospital bags as well as our popular diaper bag backpacks.

 

FAQs

What should a dad put in the hospital bag? 

Here are the things dad should put in his hospital bag:

 

• Comfortable clothes: You may need to change clothes frequently during your stay in the hospital so make sure they're easy to put on and take off.
• Toiletries: Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, wipes case, hand sanitizer, and your own soap.
• Healthy snacks: Pack some nuts, fruits, and some granola bars
• Cash and important documents: Have some extra cash on hand and bring your insurance card, birth plan, and other pregnancy medical files.
• Entertainment: Bring a book, card games, and speakers for music to keep you and your partner occupied.
• Electronic devices: Capture special moments with your new baby by bringing a camera or a phone.

 

What week should I pack my hospital bag?

Nobody knows exactly what time or day your baby will arrive (unless you have an induction date, and even then you never know!) so to be safe, pack your hospital bag between weeks 32 and 35 of your pregnancy in case you delivery comes earlier than expected.

Consider trying the Dream WeekenderTM Hospital & Travel Bag. This lightweight weekender bag is multipurpose to support you as your life changes. From a hospital bag to a roomy overnight tote, this extra large travel bag is great for any parent on the move!

 

Does a dad need a hospital bag?

Yes, he does. Dads are not just there for moral support, they also have to make sure their partners are comfortable, eating/staying hydrated, and supported.

 

How can dads prepare for the unexpected when packing their hospital bag?

Besides your partner’s potential early labor, you also need to prepare for the things and events you have no control over, such as an extending stay in the hospital, weather conditions, and unforseen life events. 

You can absolutely manage through these unexpected situations by allocating extra money for hospital bills, securing your go bags from any weather, and bringing necessary items with you.

 

What food is best for a hospital bag?

You should only bring healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, granola bars, and some homemade sandwiches. Keep it light and easy for transport and easy eating. No need to bring a full meal as you can always grab something on the go or while waiting to deliver. 

Consider packing those snacks in a Snack Happens Reusable Snack and Everything Bag – made with food-safe, FDA-approved, BPA-free lining. These bags are also lead free, phthalate free, PVC free, and CPSIA certified. 

 

Should dads pack any items to help them relax or stay calm during the birth?

Yes, dads are encouraged to bring any kind of entertainment like card games, books, an iPad, and speakers or headphones for music. Ultimately, bring anything that is calming and could potentially keep your interest while waiting. 

 

What kind of clothing should dads pack in their hospital bag?

Dads should only pack comfortable clothes. This will help them change quickly, without any hassle. No need to pack anything you don’t mind sitting in for a while. Think about things that won’t wrinkle and don’t take up a lot of space. 

However, with a bag like the Boss Plus Backpack Diaper Bag you have 17 felt-lined, water-resistant valuables pockets to protect contents. It also includes a removable easy-wipe diaper changing pad and rubber bag feet (inspired by driving moccasin soles to help keep the bag clean). 

 

What kind of toiletries should dads pack in their hospital bag?

Dad’s toiletries must include at least a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Consider packing this all in a Travel Happens Reusable Sealed Wet Bag to prevent leaks from getting out. 

 

What kind of bag should dads pack for the hospital?

Dad’s ideal hospital bag features many pockets and compartments for better organization and easier accessibility. The bag can come with either a comfy shoulder strap or a handle with good grip. 

Backpacks are also great hospital bags as they are easier to carry and have a bigger room for more essentials. Check out the Boss Plus Backpack Diaper Bag today!