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  5. 8 Items for Your New Dad Survival Kit

8 Items for Your New Dad Survival Kit

By Nicole Harris
Updated October 07, 2019
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Are you becoming a dad for the first time? These eight items will help ease the transition into fatherhood.
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Diaper Bag

Credit: Amazon

Diaper bags aren’t just for moms. Nowadays many brands manufacture backpacks, tote bags, and carry-alls that are equally fitting for fathers. A masculine diaper bag also makes a great first-time dad gift.

  • RELATED: 9 Cool Diaper Bags for Dads
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A First-Time Dad Book

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If you’re a new dad, you’ll probably feel lost and confused during the first few weeks of parenthood. Books with thoughtful advice and helpful first-time dad tips might come in handy; check out our top picks here.

  • RELATED: The 14 Best Books for Dad
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Hand Sanitizer

Credit: Shaynepplstockphoto/Shutterstock

When dealing with babies, you’ll probably come in contact with vast amounts of bodily fluids. Always try washing with soap and water, but when that’s not available, hand sanitizer is a great alternative. 

  • RELATED: How to Be a Good Dad

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Headache Medication

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Your baby’s crying will likely spark some headaches. Fight off the tension with a bottle of Tylenol, Advil, or other pain-relieving medications. 

  • RELATED: The 17 Best Dad Quotes from Celebrities

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“Me Time” Activities

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Most guys need a little time to space out. But once you're a dad, you have to be creative to get this time back in your life. Consider downloading podcasts or audiobooks to “zone out” while commuting to work, and find a TV show to watch or books to read in those few quiet moments while Baby naps.  

  • RELATED: Your Ultimate Dad-to-Be Cheat Sheet

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Earplugs

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Sure, dads-to-be should help their wives with middle-of-the-night feedings and crying fiascos. But when you need some shut-eye before a big event, earplugs might be the key to sleeping through the night. 

  • RELATED: Your Ultimate Dad-to-Be Cheat Sheet

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Coffee and Candy

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It’s time to stock up on coffee grounds and candy. Restless nights will definitely lead to some java and/or sugar cravings. 

  • RELATED: 12 Ways for Dad to Bond with Baby
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Baby Wipes

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Not only do baby wipes clean up after dirty diapers, they can also wipe away messes on your child’s hands and body. Always keep a box on hand. 

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1 of 8 Diaper Bag
2 of 8 A First-Time Dad Book
3 of 8 Hand Sanitizer
4 of 8 Headache Medication
5 of 8 “Me Time” Activities
6 of 8 Earplugs
7 of 8 Coffee and Candy
8 of 8 Baby Wipes

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8 Items for Your New Dad Survival Kit
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