Baby

When you're shopping for a new baby, it may seem that you need one of everything. To start off, you'll need a bassinet or crib, a car seat, and a stroller. For a full list of essential baby gear, new parents can review our Baby Checklist at www.halfvalue.com.

When setting up the nursery, you first need to consider where the baby will be sleeping. If you plan on keeping your baby with you for the first few months, a bassinet or a cradle in your bedroom may make the most sense. If you plan on putting baby in the nursery from the beginning, you may want to go ahead and invest in a crib.

Also, your new baby is going to need a car seat to ride home from the hospital in, and infants are required to ride in car seats or Boosters until they weigh close to 80 lbs. When picking a car seat, be aware that all car seats must meet federal safety guidelines in order to be sold. Also, there are different models for babies of different ages and weights, so be sure to buy the appropriate size for your newborn and upgrade as needed.

Car rides are not the only way your baby will be getting around--travelling systems that feature compatible car seats and strollers make the transition easy. There's also a huge variety of standard strollers out there to choose from, so you can travel in style. On the higher end, Bugaboo offers some of most popular models on the market today. While the Bugaboo Frog is the classic option, the Gecko is simple and lighter-weight, while the rugged Chameleon offers adjustable suspension and an array of customization options. Another option is Stokke's Xplory stroller, which is the equivalent of an infant SUV. This hip, accessory-loaded stroller keeps Baby facing you, while lifting them a few feet above the ground for a better view and keeping them away from car exhaust. Plus, these models can convert from a pram to a more vertical stroller for an older infant, making them a solid investment.

Keep in mind that with a standard stroller, your baby needs to be horizontal in the stroller for at least the first three months, until they can support their own head. If you're worried about sun exposure, you might look into an umbrella model, but be sure to compare canopy sizes before buying. A pram, on the other hand, allows you to face your baby, making it a great option for parents who prefer face time. Finally, consider investing in a jogging stroller in addition to a standard model. With one of these active strollers, you can keep an eye on your waist and your baby at the same time!