We mistakenly purchased a jogging pram prior to the birth. Whilst second hand, it still cost us $125, which, for the two uses we have gotten from it thus far, is just not worth it (we use a baby carrier for going out). Although having a pram on hand in case you need it is good, we would suggest holding off on spending thousands until you know you are going to use it and know what functions you will want from it!

Also hold off on moving to a bigger house/extending to add a baby room. For the first few months to a year, baby will be in your room anyway and their stuff doesn't take up much space. Don't make our mistake of moving into a larger house six months before birth and setting up the nursery. Realistically we could have stayed in our old house for another year and not have had the stress of moving whilst pregnant!

Suggest gifts from friends and family: When a baby is on the way, you will get a lot of gifts. This is great; however, you will often receive many more items of the one thing than you would ever need. People want to buy cute gifts for the cute new baby. It is not uncommon for the baby to grow out of things without even wearing them. Ask people to give you ‘older’ clothes that your baby can grow into.



In the list below, we highlight items that are common gifts as they are presented and suggest that you hold off from buying them. The main ones include: very small clothes (0000 & 000), hats, socks, muslin wraps, blankets, and toys.



Look to rent or borrow: Some local councils, businesses or groups may offer some equipment to hire. We have seen prams, car seats, breast pumps and toys available from a variety of places. Speak to new mums, Google search or ask your hospital for suggestions on where to find them. This is a great way to try before you buy. Family and friends also often have baby items that are in storage, no longer being used.



Compare 'baby' and 'non baby' options: Like weddings, stuff that is ‘made for babies’ often comes with a massive mark up (or mark down). Products like cloth nappy inserts, nappy bags and diaper waste bags are exactly the same in terms of functionality as their adult alternatives, yet they are often double or triple the cost. Where possible, avoid the ‘baby branding’ mark up. In the list below we mention 'non baby' options where applicable.