I started throwing stuff in my bag yesterday, and I threw in a small bag of sample size toiletries, such as toothpaste, shampoo, lotion, mouthwash, etc. I know everyone said that the hospital provides a lot of stuff, but do they provide those? Are you guys going to bring your own anyway? They are pretty small and I always buy samples of the brands I like to use on vacations and such.
Also, do I seriously have to go out and buy breast pads or will the hospital give me those?

Re: some Q's about hospital bags...
ICK!
I guess I need to start a bag too. Sheesh.
Not sure if they provide or not since it takes a bit for your milk to come in, I don't know if you'll need them that early on. You will need them regardless so why not just buy them ahead of time? I have some on my registry & have already gotten 2 packs.
At my birthing class a question came up about what to pack. This is what our nurse/teacher said:
Small toiletry bag (as they do not have them)
Tums
A comfy outfit for ourselves
A baby coming home outfit
Any meds for DH or whomever your coach is
Snacks
Cell phone/charger
and then of course you can add what you want, but those are really all you need.
I have to provide pretty much everything, so my list is different. These are the essentials:
Small toiletry bag and towel
sanitary towels
camera etc
PJs for mommy
a coming-home outfit for ourselves
all of baby's clothes and diapers
snacks
I have heard from others that the breast pads provided by the hospital aren't great and it is better just to bring a some of your own. I will bring my own personal toiletry bag. I have most things already packed because I have been getting travel sized items. I've also included chapstick because I have read multiple places it is needed after a long birthing process. I love the thought of having a labor bag and then a hospital stay bag. I won't need much when I am in labor so it may make the process easier.
Another thing that I have read and witnessed is that you may want to take your own bath towel that you don't mind tossing after use. The hospital provided towels are tiny and like many you have said sometimes it is the small comforts of home that help you feel better. I haven't decided if I am going to take one yet. I am going to see how much room I have in my bag first.
I've been thinking about doing this, too!!
I have a really random, stupid question.. what kind of pajamas and snacks are people bringing. I mean.. around the house I just wear sweats and a tshirt. should I splurge on some nice jammies or a gown or something? and as for snacks, it says the hospital provides lots of snacks.. should I still bring my own? what kind is everybody packing? I want details people!!!