Hospital bag for dad, a partner, or a support person
A small bag for the person who comes with you.
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Ask about overnight stays
Ask your hospital or birth center whether a support person can stay overnight, and what the room has for them.
The MedlinePlus list
For your support person, MedlinePlus includes food and drink, a phone, and the names and numbers of people to tell about the birth.
A change of clothes
If the support person may stay overnight, some people choose to pack a change of clothes and a toothbrush and toothpaste for them.
Phone power
A phone may be the main way to reach family. Ready.gov lists a cell phone with chargers and a backup battery in its emergency supply kit.
Parking and the drive home
MedlinePlus lists money for parking among its other items. If the support person drives home after a birth, see our car seat page.
FAQ
General information only, not medical advice. We are not a hospital, birth center, or health care provider, and we cannot tell you what your hospital provides, allows, or requires. Ask your clinician and your hospital or birth center what to bring and what to expect. For car seats, follow the seat maker's instructions and your vehicle owner's manual, and see NHTSA's car seat guidance. If you think you have a medical emergency, call 911.
Next: labor and delivery bag
Your bag for a birth stay.
