You’ve meticulously gone through the hospital bag checklist for mom and baby—but don’t forget about packing a bag for your partner! Since you’ll both likely be spending a night or two (or more; hello c-section) in the maternity ward, gather up some overnight essentials—plus a few things to keep your partner occupied (labor can last for a good long while!)
Parent Essentials for the Hospital Stay
Essentials
Cell phone and charger
Clothing
A change of clothes
Toiletries
Toothbrush, deodorant, face wash, shampoo, contact lens case and solution
Snacks & Hydration
Snacks (you don’t want your partner eating all of yours!)
Entertainment
Entertainment, whether it’s something to read, listen to or watch
Camera Gear
Camera with batteries, charger and an extra memory card (if you prefer something more professional than your phone)
Medications
Any daily prescription medication—for both parents!
A birth partner should bring basic essentials like a phone, charger, change of clothes, toiletries, snacks, and any required medications to stay comfortable and prepared during labor and delivery.
Yes. Items like toothbrushes, deodorant, face wash, shampoo, and contact lens supplies ensure the partner can freshen up, especially during long labor hours.
Absolutely. Labor can last many hours, so partners should bring books, headphones, podcasts, or a tablet to help pass the time while staying supportive.
While a phone works for most, some families prefer camera gear with extra batteries and memory cards to capture high-quality birth moments and early newborn photos.