I had an emergency section with DS three years ago and will have an elective one in November with baby No2. My first one went really well and I recovered quickly. I think the key is to start getting up and walking as soon as possible but obviously within reason.
You will bleed but it will be lighter than if you had a vaginal birth. A midwife told me that one of the signs that I was overdoing things was if my bleeding seemed to get heavier, even just slightly. Once I got home I tried to rest as much as possible and kept an eye on things down below. It was a good guide for me.
I definitely recommend taking a small pillow or cushion into the hospital with you. You can use it to hold over your stomach when you stand up, laugh, cough, etc. It just holds everything in place and helps you stay comfortable.
Definitely big pants! I had under the belly disposable maternity pants and had to borrow a pair of scissors from the nurses to cut the waistband which rested right on my scar.
I also second doing your bikini line yourself before going in. They shaved about the two inched from the top of mine and the ingrown hairs were the most uncomfortable part of the following few weeks. I would recommend using a wax or cream since the hairs won't come back as quickly or stubbly that way.
Best of luck! I hope you have a very positive experience. It is disappointing when you have to have an unwanted C-section, I cried when they first told me with DS, but it can be wonderful too.