You've probably filled a Pinterest board full of lists entitled "What to pack in your birth bag." You've glanced at them, but you can't help but wonder if you're missing something important. Of course, you're going to pack your basic toiletries and whatnot, but there are a few items that are often not on the typical Baby Blog lists that can be of great use.

After a great number of birth stories, and a few of my own hospital stays...I've learned a few useful things that most birth bag checklists leave out.

You can thank my clients for a few of these tips and tricks; I always make note of something new and smart that is brought along to help future birth photography clients.

Ready? Links included for easy Amazon shopping for a few of these, and as always, I don’t get paid if you purchase. These are just my picks!

Lotion, Facial moisturizer, and eye cream

The air in hospitals is super dry! I'm not exaggerating - it's actually scientifically researched and low humidity is needed to prevent the spread of infection in hospitals.

Unfortunately, our skin feels it, especially after a long stay. So pack your favorite creams, including eye cream. The lack of sleep with vitals checks makes for puffy eyes in the morning.

Your favorite water jug

Once upon a time, hospitals used to send you home with the best jug ever. These days, to cut costs, you may just get a Styrofoam cup. So pack your hydro-flask to keep you well hydrated throughout your birth and after. *Bonus - by not using the Styrofoam, you'll be watching out for mother earth, too!

Limp Balm

Between the dry air and the deep breathing for contractions, your lips dry out fast. Don't skip the balm for your birth!

Snacks! For you & your partner

Pack a little more satiating than just some chips and crackers, and pack more than you’ll think you’ll need. You could be there for a while (i.e. a few days).

Don’t forget to pack snacks for nausea,too. Click here for my ultimate nausea snack list.

Post-birth PJs

Because no one wants to hang out in that hospital gown with their hiney hanging out longer than they need to.

A portable speaker

Music helps your mood, whether you want to be elevated or relaxed.

A book, cards, or something else to pass the time

As I said above with the snacks, you might be there a while! Pack something small that you can occupy your time with should you get bored.

A Contraction Timer App

This is a must if you plan on having a birth photographer so you know when to call and they don’t miss your birth!

I love Contraction Timer by Cuberob because it’s simple to use and you can share a summary of your contraction times with your birth team OR …they can live stream your contraction feed as you time them. It’s available for both Android and IOS and…it’s FREE!!

Hair brush, Hair Ties, & Bobby Pins

I also keep a stash of new bobby pins and hair ties in my camera bag, because rarely do laboring mothers think about them but often do they need them. Imagine doing good, sweat-pumping workout in with your hair down. Yeah, it's like that. So pack all the things to tame your tresses.

An extra-long cell phone charging cord

For some reason, the outlets are always sooo far away. Always.

Depends underwear

They work great for keeping the amniotic fluid from making a mess and also work better than pads for post-birth bleeding.

Ice roller ball massager

Birth can make you sore, and not just down there. Lower back pain is common and an ice ball roller can feel wonderful during a hot flash and back contractions, or just on your neck when you feel like you're about to toss your cookies. And it's much less messy than an ice pack. Buy Here

Hot Hands

My doula friends' favorite trick - the opposite of cold for sore muscles and achy backs. Hot hands warm up quickly and stay hot to help give you the relief you crave. Buy Here

Have any other great suggestions for what to include in your hospital bag? Add them in the comments below!