A camera or video camera with batteries, charger, and memory card. Someone has to document the big event! Some hospitals don't allow videotaping of the birth itself, but there's usually no rule against filming during labor or after the birth. If you plan on using your phone to take photos or video, make sure it's fully charged and pack your charger. Note: Not all hospitals let you use plugs in the delivery room, so you might want to bring a battery-powered charger or another way to charge your devices that doesn’t require a plug.
Toiletries
Comfortableshoes and a few changes of comfortableclothes
Snacks and something to read or watch
Money (or a credit card) for parking and change for vending machines
A bathing suit. If you want to take a bath or shower during labor, you may want your partner to get in with you to support you or rub your back.
ADVICE from mothers/fathers:
"For the drive to the hospital, you may want to bring a towel you don't care about and a garbage sack. Put the garbage sack down on your seat and then the towel. That way, if your water breaks on the way to the hospital, you don't have to worry about cleaning the car when you get home." – Anonymous
"Bring the baby book. They will need to get footprints and while they are doing it for the birth certificate they can use the rest of the ink and make prints for your book!" – Anonymous
"Pee pads. If you have a dog or puppy you may have these around. Use them to protect your bed, car seat, etc from your partner's water breaking." - Anonymous
My Experience:
Your midwife or OB will have a list of things suggested for your partner to bring to the hospital and you will have your own list.
Here's the list of things I've packed in my bag for the big day to the hospital. I packed my swim gear as our initial plan is water birth and I want to join Monica in the birth pool. I also packed my toothbrush, a pair of sandals, pajamas pants, a pair of underwear and extra tshirt/sweater. In terms of accessories, I packed my watch with a second hand to time her contractions, a go-pro to film, digital camera as well as battery chargers for all my gadgets (eg. mobile phone, camera, ipod, etc). I am also packing some snacks and drinks incase Monica gets hungry or dehydrated. Plus, I want to stay in the room with her as much as possible. Other stuff that I would suggest doing is setting up the infant car seat beforehand (bring at least 4 receiving blankets to wedge baby's head in, they won't let you leave unless baby is secure in the car seat) and two going home outfits for baby (in case one is too small).