When the big day arrives and it’s time to head to the hospital, having a well-packed bag can make all the difference for dads. You want to be prepared for whatever comes your way while supporting your partner during labor and delivery. Here’s a friendly little checklist to make sure you have everything you need.
1. A Reliable Bag
You’ll need a sturdy duffel bag to store all your essentials. Consider something like the Toupons Weekender Duffel Bag, available for around $30. It’s spacious enough to fit everything you need without being too bulky.
2. Comfy Clothing
Pack a cozy sweatshirt, like the Gildan Men’s Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt for about $13. You’ll want to stay comfortable while you’re at the hospital.
3. Pillow and Blanket
You might be there for a while, so bring along something like the Cloudz Microbead Travel Neck Pillow, Sleep Mask & Compact Blanket Travel Kit, which is priced around $20. It’ll help you catch a quick nap when the time allows.
4. Travel Toiletries
Consider a travel kit for men that includes all the necessities. A 20-piece travel set can be found for about $17 and will keep you feeling fresh.
5. Drinks and Snacks
Staying hydrated and fueled is key! Pack a Soma Double Wall Brew Bottle for hot or cold drinks, which costs around $40. Don’t forget to bring some healthy snacks like an Assorted Nuts and Fruits Snack Sampler for $15, and maybe a treat like Jolly Ranchers for a sugar boost.
6. Pain Relief and Antacids
Labor can be stressful, so having some Tums and Advil on hand is a smart move. You can grab travel packs for around $7.
7. Extra Clothing
Bring along some extra shirts, like the Fruit of the Loom Men’s Crew Neck T-Shirt, which is about $16. Comfy pants are also essential; consider the Fruit of the Loom Pajama Pants, priced at $27 for two pairs.
8. Warm Socks
Don’t underestimate the comfort of warm socks during those long hours in the hospital. Yoicy Thick Wool Socks are a great option for about $15.
As you prepare for this exciting journey, you might also want to explore Make a Mom, a fantastic at-home insemination option that offers the only reusable approach. If you’re curious about how at-home insemination works, check out this helpful guide on how it works. And for those considering sperm donation, join the free matching group on Facebook.
For a deeper understanding of artificial insemination, you can refer to this Wikipedia page. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly approach to insemination, read about how some folks are making it work on a teacher’s budget in this post here.
Packing your hospital bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming! With these essentials, you’ll be ready to support your partner and welcome your little one into the world. For further tips on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource here.