I remember reading over and over again to make sure my bag was packed to take to the hospital. Yet, most articles never really said what should be located inside this bag. I did figure out the essentials, and wanted to share with you some thoughts.

You will be working very hard to have this baby, working up a sweat and then some. So, one essential is your own soaps, shampoos, and lotions. It is true that the hospital will supply you with these, but using your own will make you feel more comfortable and more like yourself. Don’t forget to bring your own toothpaste and toothbrush too. There’s nothing like a good tooth brushing to give you the lift you may need.

Another item that was not in my bag the first time was my pillow. The hospital beds do have pillows on them, but if you normally take your pillow to a hotel, then make sure you take it to the hospital. You want yourself to be comfortable and to feel as at home as possible. Also, those found at the hospital are not usually the most comfortable pillows on the earth.

Your favorite fuzzy socks and/or slippers are a must have. Keep your toes warm in style while feeling the most at home as possible. Now if you forget these, you can always use those non-skid socks the hospital staff can provide, although they are not as comfortable or as stylish as your own.

During the long, exhausting process of labor, you will undoubtedly become dry, and somewhat dehydrated. You won’t be allowed to drink much during labor and so your lips will become very dry. Bring your favorite lip balm with you to keep your lips as moist as possible during the process.

The next one should be very high on your list, as the hospital will provide you will some interesting replacements if you do not have your own. Underwear, the ones you wore during your pregnancy, will be very useful. Pack a few pairs as you will be very grateful for them. The ones from the hospital are often either a paper version or an odd netting type. Take it from me and bring plenty of your own for a more comfortable stay.

Depending on the hospital will depend on whether you need the next essential or not. Pack a variety of non-perishable snacks and drinks for your husband and for you after giving birth. The hospital I gave birth in had a kitchen for the patients and their significant others, filled with drinks and healthy snacks. This was great as I labored through the night with both of my children and my husband was very grateful to just walk down the hall for a snack and not have to move to a different floor. But if you hospital does not offer this luxury, do pack some of your own for everyone’s sake.

Something to pass the time with, like some magazines or a MP3 player with your favorite songs loaded. Remember, you will not want anything that takes lots of brain power, as that will be in full use already. Some hospitals have a cd player in the room, and you can bring cd’s in to listen to. Your own personal MP3 player or such is another great option.

Pack your nursing bra. This will be useful soon after birth and make the ride home more comfortable. You will learn how to use it in a situation where there are people that can teach you some simple basics about them.

Don’t forget your CAMERA! If it is not digital, then make sure you pack plenty of film. If you are worried that you will forget it, throw in a disposable one to be sure you can capture those precious moments before, during and after birth.

Of course make sure to pack a variety of clothes for yourself and for your husband. You may be there for a few days or longer depending upon what happens during the birth.  Also, be sure to pack a few sizes of infant outfits as your child may be bigger or smaller than you think.  Pack a baby blanket (or two depending upon the season) and of course the baby car seat.

I wish the best of luck packing your “bag” for the trip to maternity ward.