You're in your third trimester; it's almost time to welcome your new baby into the world. Like most moms, you're wondering what to pack in your hospital bag. Moms have so much to worry about when they are getting ready to welcome their new baby into the world. As a San Clemente Birth Photographer, I wanted to try and ease some of that stress by making sure moms knew some essentials to put in their hospital bag. I've asked Nicole, of Nicole Thorpe Photography, for her Top 5 Items to Have in Your Hospital Bag.

You have to get the baby's room ready, buy some clothes for them to wear so they aren't naked all the time. You need diapers. Maybe bottles. Baby soap. Baby shampoo... there's a LOT that you already need to worry about, not to mention the actual baby who will be arriving any moment now. So my hope is that having this small list of must-haves will help you out, even if it's just a little bit!

So here we go:
TOP 5 ITEMS TO HAVE IN YOUR HOSPITAL BAG:

1. Phone Charger: This one seems like a no-brainer, but in the moment when it's time to go, it's easy to forget your charger plugged into the wall. Getting one to keep in your hospital bag will ensure you are covered.

2. Lip Balm: There's something about the air in the hospital that dries lips out. Combined with deep breathing through contractions, you'll want something to keep your lips soft and moisturized. My favorite lip balm to keep my lips baby kissing soft is Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm in mint flavor.

3. Comfortable Pajamas or Lounge Wear: After delivery, you'll have some time in the hospital before you can be released to go home. Hospital gowns aren't really the most comfortable so I like to switch into my own clothes shortly after being moved into the recovery ward. Soma's sleepwear is the most comfortable thing to wear postpartum. The fabric is buttery soft, which is perfect for cuddling your tender baby. The elastic band on the pants does not feel restrictive like some brands, which is perfect for any type of birth, including c-section.

4. Hair Ties: Whether you have long hair or short hair, it's nice to have an extra hair tie close by to keep the strays out of your face while in labor and after while you're recovering.

5. Non-skid Socks: Hospital floors are cold and slippery. I find the ones supplied by the hospital can be hit or miss. Mine were kind of itchy and not very soft. Next time, I'll bring my own like THESE ones.

Aren't these some great tips? Things I know I certainly wouldn't have thought about, especially while dealing with contractions and heading out the door. It's such a good idea to prep your hospital bag well in advance of your due date. As we all know, when it comes to babies, they make the rules and we just get to play by them.

Are there other items you've been told are "must haves" for your hospital bag? Comment below and let us know what they are! Also, if you found this list helpful, be sure to pin it and share it with your friends!

If you or someone you know is looking for a San Clemente Birth Photographer or a Fresh 48 in Hospital Newborn Photographer, I would love for you to CONTACT ME! These moments only come around once and they deserve to be captured and remembered.