Taking a baby out of the house requires quite a bit of gear. Betty's narrowed down to the bare essentials you'll want to consider, but choosing the right one takes a lot of consideration, and varies very much by the lifestyle you live and how you get around. Luckily Betty's written a few buying guides to help you make the best choice for you. Links included in each section.
Stroller
Probably one of your biggest purchases, it’s really important to think through when and how you’re going to use a stroller. There are so many types and options, and depending on how you plan on using the stroller, you might not need the one with all the extra features. Check out Betty’s Guide for Strollers for more information on strollers and how to pick the right one for you.
Car Seat
An absolute must if you’re traveling in a car. There many options to choose from and requirements change as your LO gets older. Depending on the one you get, you may need to buy multiple to support your LO from infant until they no longer need a car seat. Betty’s Guide for Car Seats has more information that can help you choose the right one. It’s also important to install your car seat a few weeks before your LO is due just in case they come early, and to get it checked by a professional to make sure it’s installed correctly. Local police or fire stations might offer this service for free.
Carrier
Babywearing has a lot of benefits. Outside of freeing up your hands, it’s also a great way to bond with your little one. You can babywear around the house or out and about when you don’t want to whip out the stroller. But if you don’t see yourself wanting to babywear, then this is a totally optional item. This is also a category that has so many types and options it’s hard to figure out which one makes sense for you. That’s why Betty created a Buying Guide for Carriers too!
Diaper Bag
You’ll need a bag or backpack to carry all your baby supplies like diapers, wipes, bottles, toys, extra clothes, and anything else you want to have on hand. Some moms opt for using one of their old totes. Others want a bag with more compartments to organize everything. Whatever works for you, works.
Travel Changing Pad
If you opted to use a travel changing pad at home, you can reuse the same one when you go out. But, if you want one less thing to pack and remember, it might be worth buying a travel changing pad just to keep in your diaper bag at all times. Sometimes diaper bags come with a travel changing pad, so check for that first.