It is a good idea to pack for your hospital stay when you enter into your 8th month of pregnancy.  Some babies want to make their grand enterance a little earlier so it's wise to be prepared ahead of time.  The last thing you want is to be experiencing active labor contractions and running all over the house trying to pack your luggage!  Your bound to forget some essentials that way.

Here's a list of items that should be packed for both mom and baby while away -

For Mom - Before and After Delivery:

• Camera / Video Recorder!!  You want to make sure you've got all of those memorable shots on camera or video.
• Extra batteries for your camera and video recorder
• Relaxation music
• Hair clips, pony tail holders, etc. 
• Lip balm or moisturizer
• Additional bed pillows
• A photo or something to use as a focal point
• A list of phone numbers to call after the baby is born
• Calling cards for any international family members or friends that you wish to notify
• Tennis balls or any other items that you can squeeze through contractions
• Under garments
• Nursing bras if you will be nursing
• Slippers or comfortable shoes
• Pajamas - Comfy and loose
• Toiletries
• Lounge wear - sweatpants, loose T-Shirts, etc.
• Maternity Clothing - Keep in mind that after the delivery you will still need maternity clothing for some time.  Your body will be that of a five or six month pregnant woman the first few days following birth.
• A change of clothing for your partner, along with some snacks or change for the vending machines

For Baby:

• Outfit for pictures taken in the hospital
• "Going Home" outfit
• Socks
• Baby hat
• Hand scratch mittens
• Memory book / Baby book to write down important birth information and to place photos and foot card inside of
• Baby blanket - Blankets are supplied during your hospital stay, but you will need one to bring the baby home with
• Infant car seat!!  - You must have an infant car seat in the center of your back seat, facing rear view.  IT'S THE LAW!  Don't be ashamed to ride along in the back seat next to your newborn while someone else drives. 

The hospital will supply you with newborn diapers and baby wipes during your stay and usually some extras to go home with.  Formula will also be supplied to formula-fed babies.  

The Diaper Baker wishes you a wonderful birthing experience and congratulates you on your family expansion!