Getting from point A to point B with a baby can be an adventure, especially if you're going a long distance. I didn't leave the house for 11 days after Robert was born partly because I was terrified of being unprepared for some unknown catastrophe. (Fortunately, our inaugural trip to the pediatrician was uneventful so I dared to venture out again. However, I have had my share of blow outs, melt downs, and other unexplainable and unpredictable experiences since that trip.) Having the right gear can make a huge difference. We tried several infant car seats before we found one that didn't result in a slumpy baby. And a functional diaper bag is a must! Below are some of my favorite items:
1. BabyBjörn Travel Crib - In lieu of the ever popular Pack-n-Play, we use this travel crib. I love that it is rectangular and narrow - perfect for squeezing into tight spaces in hotel rooms. It is also incredibly light weight and easy to collapse and pack up. (Seriously - even I can figure it out.)
2. Bob Jogger Revolution - I was hesitant to make this purchase, but my husband really wanted a jogging stroller. I have to admit, we use this one all the time. It is perfect for trips to the dog park and down the paths at town lake.
3. Uppababy GLuxe - This is the best umbrella stroller ever. It collapses and opens up with one hand. While collapsed, it will balance upright so you don't have to lean down to get it later on. And it reclines!
4. Wet Happened Zippered Wet Bag - Shit happens. When it does, it is best to contain it.
5. Brica Car Mirror - It is awfully nice to be able to glance back and see that all is well during car rides. It is even more fun to make silly faces at stop lights!
6. Kate Spade Diaper Bag - This bag is a workhorse. It has lots of pockets and dividers inside, and all of the lining is bright red so I can actually see what is in the bag. Plus, it doesn't look like an obnoxious diaper bag. It could almost pass as a regular (though large) purse.
7. Ergo Baby Carrier - This is the perfect carrier for little ones. The infant insert was wonderful to use when Robert was little. He'd snuggle up in his little cocoon, and I could have a peaceful grocery store trip. It's also perfect for going through security at the airport - if you're wearing a baby, you automatically go through the metal detector, not the body scanner.
8. Finn & Emma Stroller Buddies - We looped the bears on Robert's carseat and he just loved batting the Peruvian toys around.
9. Bella Tunno Fabric Loop Binker - These are made in the US and come in a variety of colors and patterns!
10. UppaBaby Vista with Mesa Carseat - Oh Uppababy, how I love thee. The Vista is incredibly versatile and comfortable. For the littlest infants, you can connect a carseat or the bassinet. Robert slept in the bassinet for his first three months before we moved him to his crib! The Mesa is the best carseat we've found. It was the only one that kept Robert's head from bending uncomfortably when he nodded off, and the safety ratings are stellar! My favorite feature of this carseat is the one-button release. It is right on the top of the handle. Why doesn't every carseat have this?