What do I need for my hospital bag?

[Tyluki11]

I was so so grateful for the cotton pajama pants I brought. I actually liked the hospital gowns for up top - very easy for nursing & comfy. I ended up in the hospital 4 days pp & was glad to not have to be showing off my stubbly swollen legs or worrying about the gown flying open.

lotion, lip balm, deodorant and snacks are good ideas too.

And don't forget to bring a fresh outfit (photo-worthy) to go home in!

[yellowdog]

These are great suggestions! I'm *only* 34 weeks but have started to think about what I should pack for me and baby while in the hospital.

[CarolinaMama]

I second the make up idea. You are going to be immortalized forever in photos, you may as well not look like you just went through the wringer I also brought my blow dryer and flat iron. I always feel better if I look better. I loved having cozy items like nice pj's and slippers. This time around I am bringing mama cloth and buying big ol' cotton boy short panties. It is a good time to pamper your bits, they did a lot of work for you Toss everything in one big bag so dh is loaded down like pack mule when you are finally able to leave. I was ok on food but maybe because I had dd in a southern hospital they feed me SO WELL. I got biscuits, gravy, eggs - the works for breakfast and they brought snacks and it always seemed like I just finished eating when they were bring more

Oh and mind what you eat, I had broccoli pasta my dh made me and my little 6 pound girl could clear the room, kwim?

[nrsenadenos]

I pack light personally. A going home outfit for the baby and myself. While we are there, we just use the hospital's gown and slipper socks and baby clothing, blankets, etc. Toiletries, camera, extra batteries, cell phone and charger. Some small bills for the vending machine for DH. Our hospital doesn't do the footprints anymore, so you'd have to bring your own ink and such if you wanted to do that. Also an extra bag to bring home any goodies - everything on the cart that the bassinet is on is yours to take, I always take extra of the giant hospital pads (better than ruining your panties IMO), and people may bring you gifts if they come to visit. And make sure that the carseat is in the car and ready to go so DH can just bring it up to you at discharge.

ETA: and if you bring any of your own clothing/pillows/etc. make sure that it is something that you are ok with getting ruined. Birth (and after) can be MESSY.