A hospital bag checklist for support person is essential for anyone assisting a laboring mother—whether it’s a partner, friend, doula, or family member. A support person stays alert, comforting, organized, and ready to help throughout labor. Having the right items ensures you can focus on emotional and physical support without worrying about comfort or missing essentials.
Quick Summary: What a Support Person Should Pack
| Category | Essentials |
|---|---|
| Support Tools | Massage roller, counterpressure tools, water bottle |
| Comfort | Pillow, blanket, comfy clothes, socks |
| Food | Snacks, drinks, protein bars |
| Tech Items | Long charger, power bank, headphones |
| Documents | ID, insurance info, birth plan copy |
Why a Support Person Needs a Hospital Bag
Labor can last many hours or even days. A support person often cannot leave once active labor begins. Having a prepared bag ensures:
- They stay comfortable and alert
- They can assist the mother without distractions
- They have food and basic essentials during long nights
- They avoid unnecessary stress from missing items
When Should a Support Person Pack Their Bag?
- Start preparing: Week 34
- Fully packed: Week 36
- If high-risk pregnancy: Pack by Week 32
Hospital Bag Checklist for Support Person
1. Clothing Essentials
- 2–3 comfortable shirts
- Sweatpants or joggers
- Warm hoodie or zip-up jacket
- Extra socks (hospitals are cold)
- Comfortable slip-on shoes
- Change of underwear
2. Toiletries for Support Person
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Face wash
- Hairbrush
- Shampoo and body wash
- Lip balm (hospital air is dry)
3. Food & Drinks
- Protein bars
- Nuts, trail mix, or dried fruit
- Electrolyte drinks
- Granola bars
- Instant coffee or tea
- Snacks for mom after delivery
4. Labor Support Tools
- Massage roller or tennis ball
- Cooling towel or mini fan
- Water bottle with straw
- Aromatherapy items (if allowed)
- Breathing guide or support script
- Handheld back massager
5. Comfort Items
- Pillow in a dark pillowcase
- Light blanket
- Eye mask
- Earplugs
- Small travel pillow for overnight stays
6. Tech Essentials
- Phone
- Long charging cable (6–10 ft)
- Power bank
- Headphones
- Camera (optional)
- Tablet or e-reader for downtime
7. Important Documents
- Support person’s ID
- Insurance card (if needed)
- Birth plan copy to reference
- Hospital paperwork
8. Money & Essentials
- Cash for vending machines
- Coins for parking meters
- Snacks money
- List of emergency contacts
9. Items to Support Mom Emotionally
- Playlist or calming music
- Positive affirmation cards
- Chapstick for mom
- Extra hair ties
- Warm blanket or shawl for mom
What Support Persons Should NOT Pack
- Strong fragrances or colognes
- Large suitcases
- Expensive items or jewelry
- Too many electronics
- Work that will distract you
Common Mistakes Support Persons Make
- Forgetting snacks and drinks
- Bringing only one change of clothes
- Not preparing comfort items for long labor
- Assuming mom will handle all the essentials
- Failing to bring a long charging cable
Support Person Packing Timeline
Week 34
- Prepare toiletries
- Start gathering snacks
Week 35–36
- Pack clothes and comfort items
- Add tech essentials
Week 37–40
- Double-check the bag
- Confirm documents and contacts
Expert Tips for Support Persons
- Pack your bag separately from the mom’s for easy access.
- Learn basic labor comfort techniques (breathing, counterpressure).
- Stay hydrated and nourished to support effectively.
- Be ready to advocate for the mom when she’s exhausted.
- Keep your phone charged and available for updates or emergencies.
Conclusion
This complete hospital bag checklist for support person ensures that anyone assisting during labor is comfortable, prepared, and fully able to support the mom throughout the entire birth process. With the right tools and essentials, you’ll be able to stay focused, calm, and effective every step of the way. For more labor and delivery support guides, visit this related article, including our detailed Hospital Bag Checklist for Partner.
FAQ
1. Why does a support person need a hospital bag?
Labor can last many hours; having essentials helps the support person stay comfortable and focused.
2. Do support persons need more than one change of clothes?
Yes—labor can be long, and fresh clothes help you stay comfortable.
3. Should the support person bring snacks?
Absolutely. Food options may be limited at night or during long labor.
4. What support tools are most helpful during labor?
Massage rollers, cooling towels, and breathing guides are especially useful.
5. Should a support person bring a blanket or pillow?
Yes, because hospital accommodations for support persons are often minimal.
