XPost from BMB
Planning our registry list and been mostly going by Lucie's list and Baby Bargains. I had a few questions on what is really used/useful though, just because I feel like there are a lot of "bigger" items to register for.
Some note - we will be traveling with baby fairly early. At least one wedding at 3.5 months, possibly another at 2 months, and probably a family trip ~6 months. So would like to get things convenient for that as well. Also, we've been loaned a bassinet and a Bjorn carrier already.
Baby holder things -
Do we really want/need (obviously most of these aren't real necessities, but just seems like the number of different things for the same age period is a lot?) A bouncer (and/or rock n play), swing, temporary crib (pack n play), exersaucer (assume we can leave this for later - but maybe its worth registering for?). ETA: Oh yeah, what about walker/jumpers
Also on the carrier, I'm kind of liking the sling type holders for baby when he's newborn (sidenote - I"m terrible at tying anything!). Wonder if we should just try out the Bjorn we have loaned before registering for something else?
And on Strollers...I assume we will want a simple base for the traveling. Should we also get a regular stroller as well? I do like walking and was hoping to keep doing that once I am able after birth.
Just wanted to get some guidance from your experience and opinions! Thanks!
Re: More Registering Questions - XPost
-Baby holder things: I would pick either a swing, bouncer chair, or rock and play (maybe 2 if you have 2 floors in your house) so that you have a place to set the baby down. If you have pets or older kids, the rock n play is nice because it's higher off the ground than a bouncer chair and easier to move around than a swing.
Pack and play: most hotels have generic PNPs or cribs, but since you're doing a lot of traveling while baby is still really young, I would absolutely get one that has the higher level bassinet option- I wouldn't want to put such a tiny baby on the bottom of a pack and play.
Walker/Jumper: walkers aren't recommended because of safety issues and delaying walking skills and over-the-door jumpers also have safety issues. I'd get either an exersaucer or stationary jumper, leaning more towards exersaucer. You won't need it until closer to 5-6 months, but you could certainly register for it.
Baby Slings: I really liked having a carrier for DS while going through the airport. I would start with the bjorn to see if you like it, and if not, look into a sling. I really loved my Ergo once DS was about 4+ months, but they're not great for smaller infants without the pricey insert or shoving some blankets in the bottom.
Stroller: if you go for walks frequently, a good all-terrain stroller is great. We have the Bob and love it. It's really nice to have a snap n go type stroller for travelling and quick trips to the store, though. The big strollers are a PITA to constantly get in/out of car, take up a lot of trunk space, and I'd be worried about damaging an expensive stroller by gate checking it at the airport.
Baby holder things -
Do we really want/need (obviously most of these aren't real necessities, but just seems like the number of different things for the same age period is a lot?) A bouncer (and/or rock n play), swing, temporary crib (pack n play), exersaucer (assume we can leave this for later - but maybe its worth registering for?). ETA: Oh yeah, what about walker/jumpers
If I had to do it over again I'd get the Graco combo bouncer/swing. I never had a rock & play & didn't see the point with the other things (plus our cradle rocked). My other recommendation is the Evenflo ExerSaucer triple Fun Jungle. It starts as a playmat you can use from the start, and then the ExerSaucer (DS loved it & the toys), and then it transforms into an activity table. One of the few early items we used a lot (& still use). Worth every penny. Pack-n-play: Graco Tot Block or Delta Fun Time, both are full size & easy to pack & play. I have both (one at my mom's and one for me)-they will last you longer than the other kind (that I have as well).
Also on the carrier, I'm kind of liking the sling type holders for baby when he's newborn (sidenote - I"m terrible at tying anything!). Wonder if we should just try out the Bjorn we have loaned before registering for something else?
I never did this with DS...I'm looking into it now for 2 under 2.
And on Strollers...I assume we will want a simple base for the traveling. Should we also get a regular stroller as well? I do like walking and was hoping to keep doing that once I am able after birth.
We had the Safety 1st Clic It Frame stroller (which I loved it had a great parent tray-2cup holders & a place for the iPhone, as well as a huge basket) that will works with most popular carseats & the Uppababy G-Luxe umbrella stroller. I loved my G-luxe for traveling (easy open, wipes clean, & great UV shade) as well as everyday in the neighborhood-when it's not snowing. We used it in airports & gate checked it with no problem (fit into a regular umbrella check bag too). A side note-DS wanted to look around, so I got the G-luxe for him at 3 months old & we've used it ever since.
I think one that's important in a stroller is to get something that is easy to use & won't take FOREVER to set up. I've seen way too many moms in a parking lot struggling with a stroller & I just don't think it's all that safe. Both of the strollers I've used were super easy & lightweight. (I'm a little sad I'll have to get something bigger for 2 now.)
Just wanted to get some guidance from your experience and opinions! Thanks!