OK - this is a great topic!

When I had Allegra, I guess I was lucky that I didnt have to bring too much with me. As I was in a private hospital the towels were nice, the toilet paper soft so I didnt have to worry about bring any of those supplies with me (thank goodness, I would have had to pack as if I were going to europe!)

I found the best things I bought with me to the hospital were (keeping in mind I had a caesar so didnt have a labour bag as such):

1. My GHD hair straightener. The day after Allegra was born I washed my hair and gave it a quick run over with the straightener. It made me feel human again and I also dont cringe at the photos!!

2. My Diary. Everytime we were sent flowers or had a visitor, I wrote down when they came and what gift we recieved so I was able to write detailed thank you notes.

3. I used to slim maternity pads and found them great. Although I am lucky that I didnt bleed too heavy.

4. Champagne flutes and champagne. I guess it depends on your hospital. My room had a bar fridge, so DH filled it with Champagne, mineral water and beer so when we had visitors they were able to all have a toast to the baby. The mineral water was a godsend as I found that I was always thirsy and always at the times when the drinks trolley is on another floor!

5. Nice personal products - pack nice shower gels etc. You really do feel like a million bucks afterwards.. and a shower cap. I always use one, expecially good if you dont want your hair wet!!

6. Clothing. During the day (outside of visiting hours) I wore my yoga pants and singlets which were comfortable and easy for feeding etc but I made sure I packed a few nice skirts (elastic waist) and some pretty singlets for when we had visitors. I just felt more human changing into something pretty for when we had visitors. I got these singlets from Country Road which were silk and this silk gypsy style skirt and I felt great when people came around!!

OK - Im kind of vain... in case you didnt notice.

7. Even though everything was provided for bubs by the hospital, I bought along her own clothing which was a nice touch.