How to set up for a baby when you're on a budget

A buggy is regarded as an essential by many, however a good, ergonomic baby carrier is just as good and a lot more cost effective. Carriers still allow you to get out for a walk, especially in the bush or beach where many buggies can’t go, and they allow you to be hands-free wherever you are. The other option is to look for a second hand buggy, but do check it thoroughly to ensure the brakes are working and there’s no mould in the padding/seating.

A newborn suitable car seat is a must to organise before your baby arrives. When it comes to car seats, a more expensive seat is not necessarily better. You can look for an option that lasts from birth onwards to save money over the long term or you could rent a baby capsule for the first 6 months and then buy a bigger seat which will last longer once your baby is out of the capsule. Capsule’s are generally used only for the first 6 months, so renting can be much more cost effective (and it’s one less thing to have sitting around your house!). Ask for an install check from a qualified car seat technician - some Plunkets offer this service.

One of the best ways to save money on baby items is by purchasing second-hand items. Many parents sell or give away their gently used baby items, such as clothes, toys, and furniture. You can find second hand baby clothes in op shops, online marketplaces like Trade Me or selected Plunket locations.  

You may find friends or family will give you a lot of clothes for the first few months (new or hand-me-downs), so it’s a good idea to hold off buying newborn and smaller items for as long as you can. We also recommend only buying a few newborn size items and some 0-3m items as there’s no guarantee what size your baby will be when they’re born!   You can always buy more newborn clothing if you need it. If you are buying second hand items make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitise them and also check they’re in good working order.

You’ll often find that friends around the same age group tend to have babies at similar times in their lives, so you may be able to borrow certain items from friends (or siblings) who have already had their babies. Things like bassinets, baby bouncers or prams can be passed around between each other as your baby grows. Just take care of checking the safety aspects - ensuring mattresses are still firm and flat, ensuring there’s no mould on any items and that things like prams have working brakes etc.  

For toys, join a toy library when your baby is older. When they’re newborn they’ll sleep a lot, but also be happy just looking around and watching your face. Join the toy library as they start to explore more, it will save you money on buying expensive toys and also means you can swap them out every few weeks, so there’s no boredom!

Whilst stocking up during sales and clearance is great if you have some spare cash, there’s absolutely no need to. Buying things for your baby as you need them is absolutely fine. For example, baby won’t start solids until around 6 months, so save buying the high chair and feeding items until then.

Breastfeeding is the most budget-friendly way to feed a baby. But if you’re struggling to establish breastfeeding it can become frustrating for you and lead to an unsettled baby. Get support early and quickly to establish a good latch and ensure bubs is getting what they need. Look to your Lead Maternity Carer, Plunket or Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand as your first port of call for assistance.

These are just some ideas to help you save money when having a baby. It’s hard, but try not to think about all the things you “could” have or others say you “need”. The most important things are a safe place to sleep, something to keep them warm and nappies. By looking and asking around you can continue to save money once your baby arrives. Do you have any budget saving tips to share? Let us know in our community!