Reddit mentions: The best baby safety car seat accessories

I'm glad I didn't buy much before the baby was born. This was mostly due to laziness than planning though. The only criteria I had were related to saving money, making my life easier, and avoid things I would use for a couple of months only.

For the first 6 months you basically need to worry about sleep, carry, and play.

1. Sleep. Here you can save some serious money, depending on how you thing you'll organise your new sleeping arrangements. Do you want to cosleep? Will the baby room with you? If yes, for how long. My first child is almost two, and is still sleeping with us on the first crib I bought. It's a crib, with a removable side so that it attaches to our bed, but also works as a standalone bed. I was planning on having her sleep there until she was 4 years old, but this new arrival means I'll have to get her another bed now. If you find something like this on sale, and you skip basinettes and other, in my opinion, short term solutions, you're set for three years at least, while still being flexible. Just remember to get rid of all the fancy things that come with it, like crib guards and blankets, since they are actually not safe, and create more work for you (more frills, more washing and dusting). Swaddles you can easily find second hand, and the same goes for sleeping sacks. We live in a small apartment, so baby phones weren't needed. The entire building could hear her waking up, and she didn't sleep much alone at any rate. White noise machines and other fancy equipment I didn't even know were a thing, so I cannot recommend one way or another.
   
   
2. Carry. You live in a city, so you probably will be looking for a compact pram. It's safer to buy the car seat new, since they are only effective if they've never been dropped. That being said, you can decide on a model and then find a compatible pram second hand. This can potentially save you a lot of money. For winter you will need something to keep baby warm. There are many options, and I'm sure you'll be able to find many second hand. Look for things that are easy to wash though. Also consider investing in a good baby carrier, not just for going out, but also to keep your hands free around the house. I bought my ergobaby on sale. It's not the prettiest (the cool colours are never on sale, apparently) but works just as well, can be used with newborns, and is safe for baby girls' hips. Also a place to drop your baby is a wise investment. There are tons of chairs, swings, some more fancy then others. In keeping with the spirit of not buying things that would only last me a couple of months, I got a babybjörn baby rocker second hand. It's still in use in her play area, since it supports children up to 3 years old, and it's apparently fun to test how fast it can rock even after two years. It's also easy to clean and doesn't take up much space. But try to find it second hand, as new it can be quite pricey. Then you'll have to think about how you'll carry baby paraphernalia around. I'm not a bag person, so I got a backpack. I've used it for just a year or so, but it did make going out easier, if only because it was a bag I would only use for that purpose, so it was easy to keep organised. I also cannot recommend enough to sew (If you can) or buy a diaper clutch bag. A friend of mine made it for me, and I'm still using it. You can fit in 4-5 diapers, wet wipes, cream and other baby products. I always keep it stocked and ready to go, so when we're in a rush (which is always) I just need to grab it and I know that I'm covered. Plus I have everything on hand when changing my octopus daughter in close quarters.
   
   
3. Play. I'm grouping clothes on this as well. Onesie are the most cost effective items you can invest on. They can sleep in them, and they leave them free to explore and play as well. You can find some cutesy outfits for outings, but don't overbuy... they change sizes so fast, it's not worth it. Plus, in my experience, clothes in 0-6 sizes make the bulk of presents you'll receive, so it makes sense to wait until you see what you get. Buy some white short armed bodies thought. Since those are boring, nobody gifts them to you. But they are the one thing you're sure you use. In terms of play proper, I had a very active baby, so a baby gym was a godsend. I didn't think to buy one, so we received a pretty basic set as a gift. But, essentially, a soft mat and some hanging toys will do the trick.
   
   That's all for big buys. We didn't have a nursery, we used an old desk in our guest room with a changing mat from Ikea to change her. I'm thinking of buying a dresser to replace the desk now that baby#2 is on the way, but mostly because I only have a tiny wardrobe in that room for my daughter's clothes, so it's more about space than anything else. I didn't want to buy furniture that I would use just for the baby, it seemed like a waste to me.
   
   As for breastfeeding, I found that a breastfeeding pillow on the sofa worked fine for me, but that's really personal... wait until you know if you will breastfeed, and which position works for you and your child. Some muslin cloth for spit up won't go amiss. You can save money by skipping the cutesy print ones, and just buy a bulk of the white ones.
   
   One last thing, someplace to wash the baby. Out bathroom is really small, and we only have a shower. Since, as mentioned, I was too lazy to plan things beforehand, I had resolved to wash the baby in a plastic tub that doubles as clothes hamper. But my mother came up with this foldable tub with a hole in the bottom. I can set it up on my kitchen counter, and I don't break my back or make a mess when cleaning up. Plus I can store it on the top cabinets. I cannot find the exact model, but it looks like this. To make my life easier when she was still a small baby, I got a her a support-thing. This I only used for about six months, but it did make my life easier.
   
   For everything wise, I would recommend waiting. You don't know what or who will come up with a bag of second hand clothes, or some toys, or some brand new extravagant but brilliant thing. Once you've covered the basics, you can approach everything else on an as-needed basis. Good luck, and congratulations!
   
   Edit. I forgot, pregnancy care tips. It really depends on how you pregnancy develops. And every pregnancy is different. My first trimester seems to be cursed with morning (and afternoon and evening) sickness. I tried more fibers, no fibers, only fibers, no fat, no dairy, all possible combinations. Eventually I decided to go with my gut. Eat what feels like you might be able to keep down, keep hydrated, and take your vitamins. In a pinch, ginger can help. Also, when you're further along, but still able to move around, consider going on a short vacation with your partner. It would be the last time with just the two of you, and it's a nice treat before labour and taking care of a baby.

My LO was born june of '17 and we live in the northern midwest. It gets really cold here but we usually have pretty mild winter in November. These are the things we used/did.

We used a jolly jumper artic cover for his carseat. It kept him warm when going to the car from inside and vice-versa. He used his bucket carseat until May. We didn't have to mess with the logistics of keeping him warm in a convertible seat.

His daycare would take him outside if it was over 20° so we got him a Columbia fleece suit to wear outdoors. Similar to this one. https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-Snowtop-Bunting-Punch-Critters/dp/B01N900W7I/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1539299239&sr=8-11&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=columbia+fleece+bunting+for+baby
Hats and mittens were instantly torn off so the hood and hand covers were perfect.

He pretty much lived in carter's fleece sleep and plays. They kept him warm and comfortable. Some people don't recommend fleece because it isn't breathable. We never had an issue with overheating and we used a fleece sleep sack too.

Last year's flu season was terrible. He couldn't get his flu shot until December and the first year they get two shots a month apart. We basically were hermits last winter. My husband and I both got our flu shots in October to try to give him as much protection as possible. We didn't get the flu but dang he brought some bad colds home from daycare. That was definitely something I didn't prepare for. Get a coolmist humidifier, a nose frieda, saline spray and boogie wipes.

Edit: We had hand me down jj cole carseat cover. It added warmth but it was pretty much just a loose blanket that didn't secure to anything. I had horrible anxiety about loose blankets. The jolly jumper cover secured open above his head so I didn't have to worry. https://www.amazon.com/Jolly-Jumper-CarSeat-Attached-Weatherproof/dp/B005LVNS4S/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1539301045&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=jolly+jumper+artic+car+seat+cover

Here you go!

http://smile.amazon.com/Skip-Hop-Stroller-Saddlebag-Black/dp/B00SHYEJ58?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
http://smile.amazon.com/Jolly-Jumper-727-Stroller-Caddy/dp/B000JQ4B3C?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
http://smile.amazon.com/Munchkin-Backseat-Organizer-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B00FROCX7W?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
http://smile.amazon.com/Sight-Magical-Firefly-Mirror-Safety/dp/B00B7M7CMO?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
http://smile.amazon.com/Boon-Whale-Drain-Storage-Scoop/dp/B007D1NWD6?ie=UTF8&keywords=boon%20whale&qid=1463974909&ref_=sr_1_1_a_it&sr=8-1
http://smile.amazon.com/Diono-Travel-Pal-Car-Storage/dp/B005NMP6IG?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
http://smile.amazon.com/Britax-Seat-Saver-Waterproof-Liner/dp/B00E1ABYSC?ie=UTF8&keywords=britax%20liner&qid=1463974959&ref_=sr_1_1_a_it&sr=8-1
http://smile.amazon.com/Diono-Travel-Pal-Car-Storage/dp/B005NMP6IG?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

Few other things I found while digging in my Amazon orders:

• Trunk organizer. I keep wipes, sunscreen, first aid, emergency food, etc. in this. I have a Prius so there isn't much room, this has helped keep all the random stuff put. I had a bin in back for ages but it just took up too much of my precious space!
  http://smile.amazon.com/BackSeat-Trunk-Organizer-Lebogner-Multipurpose/dp/B014PZWK44?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
  
  Trashcan/tissue holder. I'm this mom now, god damnit.
  http://smile.amazon.com/High-Road-PuffnStuff-Trash-Organizer/dp/B000HZT89C?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
  
  Various babyproofing things. I had these cool door stoppers that hook into the hinge, but as it turns out my kid loves trying to jam the door shut even more and actually stripped the holes with the screws. I had to put super glue in the holes while shoving the doors back into place while it dried. I use these now and he hasn't ripped any doors off yet.
  
  http://smile.amazon.com/Safety-1st-Finger-Pinch-Guard/dp/B0035RQF7M?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00
  
  Baby gates. I like this one. We have 3.
  
  http://smile.amazon.com/Regalo-Easy-White-spaces-between/dp/B001OC5UMQ?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01
  
  Little knick knack type toys that are really nostalgic for me. I didn't buy many of these things, but I could NOT resist the Mister Rogers trolley. So redeemed, my kid is obsessed with it now.
  
  http://smile.amazon.com/Wooden-Neighborhood-Toy-Trolley-Limited/dp/B004U3TXZG?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00
  
  Books! I had done so much of the essentials (sounds like you have) that I ended up putting a fair amount of books on my registry. People were more than happy to buy those.
  
  

1.) [Something that is grey.] (http://www.amazon.com/PetFusion-SmartGrip-Litter-Gray-Twist/dp/B007SQFRMU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=35DW5BWHD972D&coliid=I38TYTP3QO3VYV)

2.) [Something reminiscent of rain.] (http://www.amazon.com/Musical-MP-200-8-Inch-Rainmaker-Shaker/dp/B000CBURPU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I3SD8BF3BVM32F)

3.) [Something food related that is unusual.] (http://www.amazon.com/Nut-Milk-Bag-New-Improved/dp/B00158U8DU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3S72V8PR4PYO1&coliid=I2AH1R1GSQ52JT)

4.) [Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!)] (http://www.amazon.com/Mommys-Helper-Car-Seat-Shade/dp/B00125NZSQ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I1TXQG28XXBC0I) For my daughter, so she doesn't melt in the car.

5.) [A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it!] (http://www.amazon.com/The-Girl-Left-Behind-ebook/dp/B00BSY6U6K/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=ZJTYBG9S817P&coliid=I13JIN1E80H7G) Well, I haven't read this one yet, but I read her last book, Me Before You, a few months ago and LOVED it.


6.) [An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related!] (http://www.amazon.com/Home/dp/B002G690B6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=LVUGPBTDLHFS&coliid=I2V27LFTC98I6K)

7.) [Something related to cats.] (http://www.amazon.com/Da-Bird-Cat-Toy-Store/dp/B000F9JJJE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=35DW5BWHD972D&coliid=I32WEJ4UV0RR)

8.) [Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it.] (http://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Colorful-Rainbow-Synthetic-Costume/dp/B00966CIAO/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=VF4I3JWXLPHE&coliid=I3J6CNZ64SMNW5)

9.) [A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why?]
(http://www.amazon.com/Pride-Prejudice-Restored-Edition-Colin/dp/B00364K6YW/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=ZJTYBG9S817P&coliid=I2JAGS8BIXE6M9) Because Colin Firth.

10.) [Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain.] (http://www.amazon.com/Lodge-L10SK3-12-Inch-Pre-Seasoned-Skillet/dp/B00006JSUB/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3S72V8PR4PYO1&coliid=I14266M2SVKSXM) Well, if I had to survive on my WL items alone, I would surely die. BUT, I figure this could at least come in handy to cook over open fires and it is the most weapon-like thing on my list.

11.) [Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals.] (http://www.amazon.com/Reebok-Kettlebell-10-Pounds-Lime-Green/dp/B008R5HY54/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=39MD4F4AQ4MXM&coliid=I2XGPU1DE4SJW5&psc=1) Gotta get off the baby weight!

12.) [One of those pesky Add-On items.] (http://www.amazon.com/Kotobuki-Plastic-Egg-Mold-Fish/dp/B002TZ04JG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=LVUGPBTDLHFS&coliid=I2PHEI57WW2PIY)

13.) [The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why?] (http://www.amazon.com/Burley-Encore-2013-Bike-Trailer/dp/B00AVUHUEI/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I15NA2PJZUXBY4&psc=1) Maybe not my dream item, but the most expensive for sure. My husband and I love biking, but right now I'm sidelined since we have a 1 year old. This would let us all go!

14.) [Something bigger than a bread box.] (http://www.amazon.com/Tree-Condo-Furniture-Scratch-House/dp/B003XLIVZ4/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=35DW5BWHD972D&coliid=I33YA670HLM8GP)

15.) [Something smaller than a golf ball.] (http://www.amazon.com/Yellow-Gold-Peridot-Dangle-Earrings/dp/B001H54K4O/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=24R3M5GIPRKSE&coliid=I25YHXC05Q9VTT)

16.) [Something that smells wonderful.] (http://www.amazon.com/Tea-Forte-Loose-Leaf-Canister/dp/B006TZFOVU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=28JN11TB2DHP4&coliid=I3P4PBFBU5HWL6)

17.) [A (SFW) toy.] (http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Little-People-Friends-Exclusive/dp/B008ZUGOAW/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=IIMNWL3OA8808)

18.) [Something that would be helpful for going back to school.] (http://www.amazon.com/Wilton-2109-0309-Ultimate-Professional-Decorating/dp/B008GXE7P2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=29KYW0DBB8ME2&coliid=INH34JY48VH4F) If you are going to school to become a baker.

19.) [Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be.] (http://www.amazon.com/Blendtec-40-620-54-Twister-Jar/dp/B0087Q1T1S/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=29KYW0DBB8ME2&coliid=I394DCB2QJ4RAZ) Making my own sprouted nut butters!!

20.) [Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand.]
(http://www.amazon.com/Fisher-Price-Little-People-Friends-Wheelies/dp/B00650F5SG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2YFT1UP19UC6T&coliid=I3RS9BP4QYQAC7) Because tiny Super Friends in cars are awesome for raising a baby nerd. (On a related note, this question made me realize that I am boring and practical.)


fear cuts deeper than swords

Something like this shade. Just picked at random so not a recommendation. Search for car bug screen. They have ones that have little awnings and some that are pretty plain. They basically slip over the window frame. I've heard of people just getting a screen at Lowes and sticking it on with magnets. Napier makes kits that fit completely over the back hatch. Some people like them as it gives you a bit more room, but not very stealthy and at that point you might as well just pitch a tent.

Exped makes nice mats, but size will probably be an issue. Your best bet is to hit a hardware store and get some bulk memory foam that you can cut to fit.

Two people in a Vibe is going to be cozy. Remember you have to put all your stuff somewhere while you are stretched out. You can pick up a regular old Insta-tent for less than $100 at Walmart and throw in a nice double air mattress or cots and call it a day. If it's raining or you want to stay a bit somewhere it will be loads more comfortable. The insta-tents go up and down really quick.

We just flew Delta with my son last week. They were great with our luggage, but I'd still recommend putting your checked items in a bag. There's just so much... crap... and debris... and elements on the plane.

For our umbrella stroller (Summer Infant 3D Lite) I used this check bag and it worked great. We wheeled my son around the airport in the stroller once we got through TSA and right up to the gate - stuffed it in the bag and left it at the door. It was waiting there for us when we got off the plane.

Sounds like you're taking a full sized stroller/travel system? I'd go with this bag for the stroller, and then this one for the bucket seat.

The bags are super thin, so they're not going to protect your items if they get tossed around - but they will save the fabric from grease/oil/gunk.

God yes, the rock and play saved us because we could just plop him in there. He napped there for a few months because it was super easy to sneak him in there (as it was on an incline, warm, cozy) v the crib because I think he thought he was still being held.

If it's winter where you are get this carseat cover: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077C2GL53?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

This chair thing is awesome because baby can sleep here or play here and it's convenient and a safe place: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A4B34IA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_Fv5ELGH4J1eDq

I have a contraption that runs the AC flow to the back seat for my toddler. It's so hot and humid out lately that AC is a must and it ends up significantly chilling my camera below the dew point. I've been running medium-warm air through this and I set this up to blow over my camera/bag for a few minutes before I start my night sessionsand it has helped immensely. Allowing the rig to acclimate can help, but it gets tricky when the ambient temperature is already closer to the dew point, and at that point hand warmers are a better option to ensure your camera stays warmer than the air temp.

Check your local weather service office at http://weather.gov for the latest forecasts and tools to find this info for your intended location. Most offices have a great Facebook and Twitter presence and include that info in forecast graphics that they post several times a day.

We got a seat cover that I really like. I usually tuck a blanket in there too because of drool and extra warmth. But I love not having to mess with making sure everything is tucked in.

JJ Cole Car Seat Cover, Black Tri Stitch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077C2GL53/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_M9PYDbYNH14Q4

For quick transition between places: Fleece onesie, hat

For walks outside: Long sleeve onesie, pants, fleece hoodie, hat, hood over hat

Zando Baby Winter Hats (fits my 4 month old great, lots of room to grow) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HGW9GY5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_5.PYDbP5SY6VH

Still looking for good gloves.

I agree with everyone saying leave the seat at home, since she'll be traveling as a lap infant, there's really no need for the extra weight and handling necessary. However, if you decide to fly again in the next 3 or 4 years, once she'll need a real ticket, I'd highly recommend using the carseat in the airline seat for tons of added comfort and a bit of parental sanity. It's a burden to lug it through the airport though so if you do decide to bring a car seat, might I recommend one of these

GO-GO BABYZ TRAVELMATE Car Seat Travel Stroller for Toddler Car Seats

I have the older model and it's pretty awesome. I keep it strapped to the seat the entire flight, including wheeling my kid around the airport and down the plane aisle like Cleopatra on her lectica. Can't wait to use it again this trip, it saved headaches with both kids ready to bolt through the airport at inopportune moments - we're considering a second one, though I think the almost 5 year old might just maybe be able to handle herself....maybe not.


As for strollers, we rent from one of the local businesses that deliver to your resort when you arrive and you leave it with the bell cap when you depart. It's $75 for the week, for a double city mini (or your choice of similar), and I wouldn't dream of bringing our good strollers to fend for themselves with airline handlers, at least when traveling to Disney, because of the amenities they have (magical express, room on busses, etc)

We've had good luck with the Meeno Baby Carseat Liner. It seems to keep him from being completely sweaty. He still feels moist, but not wet. I also really like my stroller fan. In the car, we use these cling shades from Britax.

Otherwise, use the oldies, but goodies... Cool wash cloth to wipe down face and neck. Go early/late when it's cooler. You could also use those neck cooling things (the ones that expand when you soak them).

Remember to take care of you, too. Lots of water and cool clothing. Take breaks and don't overdo it.

A good car vacuum and Tesla All Weather Floor Mats would be good. You can use kick mats to help protect the back of your seats from being kicked. Microfiber towels and window cleaner would be good to have to wipe all the tiny fingerprints off the window too. Good luck!

These are pretty effective for ventilation while keeping insects out:

https://www.amazon.com/Protection-Universal-Adjustable-Breathable-Curtains/dp/B07C23GC63/

The weathertech rain guards work well when the issue is rain rather than bugs. With these installed you'll be able to crack all your windows even in the rain. In combination with a fan or two to promote air circulation and you'll be in decent shape:

https://www.weathertech.com/side-window-deflectors/

Also, having recently done a similar build out in the back of a subaru outback, consider as an option simply sleeping on the floor of the vehicle. 2/3rds of the floor get reserved for your mattress, while the remaining 1/3 is used for cargo (along with all foot wells, the passenger seat, and also a cargo box on the roof). I originally considered the raised sleeping platform with storage underneath, but in a crossover every inch you raise your sleeping platform is an inch of headroom you lose. I found it worth the trade-off of letting go of a little cargo space to make my sleeping space more comfortable. With a cargo box on the roof you should have plenty of room.

If you haven't already run across it, the YouTube channel "SUV RVing" has a lot of great info for suv and crossover build outs.

Let me suggest these :) for the kickmats though, I had to create my own tie downs for the bottom

Car Seat Protector (2-Pack) by Drive Auto Products - Best Protection for Child & Baby Cars Seats, Dog Mat - Ultimate Cover Pad Protects Automotive Vehicle Leather or Cloth Upholstery https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F8F605U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_JIyhzbCBECK9H

Best Kick Mats with Backseat Organizer Pocket Storage – 100% Waterproof – 2 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KY7X2JO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xJyhzbBXT1J50

I'm in MA as well. I found this car seat cover really helpful with my son (note: it fits great over a Chicco Keyfit 30). https://www.amazon.com/Jolly-Jumper-CarSeat-Attached-Weatherproof/dp/B005LVNS4S/ref=sr_1_30?srs=2594464011&ie=UTF8&qid=1500959227&sr=8-30

My house often gets warm late at night, so we did use a decent number of short sleeved onesies in the winter. My son also had some issues with heat rash/temperature regulation. Therefore, my best advice is to always layer your little one, even in the winter.

So, here's what we did when we potty trained our older toddler.

The rewards he stopped asking for after a while, and when he was older we let him pick something from the "surprise bucket" at the end of the day if he'd been dry and went without complaining all day.

Nap time/night we tried with and without nappies, went with nappies until he was consistently dry for a few weeks as he was too stressed otherwise.

We had a few hiccups with toilets out, but it was mostly ok. We did get a folding toilet seat/potty and it's been very useful a handful of times. I'd do it if it makes it easier for your kid. Toilet training is more psychology than physical imho.

For the car we got a little seat protector that fits around the seatbelt. Like this.

These booster seats fit perfectly in the back of my 128, so they'll definitely fit in an M3. I also bought 2 of these seat protectors to go under them. I take my kids to school everyday and they love my car.

Myself and a number of other owners have opted for this cover that goes under the car seat. That said, the white seats are super easy to take care of - I don't consider this a must-have and not all car seats are designed to work on top of a seat cover.

I do think some sort of cover for the seat backs (protecting the back of the diver's seat) is a must. Perhaps something like this

We had this for a car seat cover and loved it-

Jolly Jumper Arctic Sneak-A-Peek Infant CarSeat Cover With Attached Blanket, Weatherproof - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005LVNS4S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_HptHDbGBSK70B

Also Halo makes nice warm fleece Velcro swaddles. We also had a small thermometer in baby’s room to make sure it didn’t get too cold.

Got my X this year as well, and for the safety of the car, and my sanity, i got the seat protectors below as well as the floor mats to keep things clean. They have both held up great to my 6 year old and 2 year old.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F8F605U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N5POES9/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Got my Ascent (Limited 8P) last month and I’m interested to see what people mention here. I’m particularly interested in keeping the cargo area organized and not rolling around.

I got some Brica seatback kick mats to protect the back of my seat from my daughter’s shoes. I recommend them - they’re fairly sturdy, they do their job, and they can be easily moved from car to car.

(https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B7M7CLA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share)

Yeeeppp... Some of the yogurt in my fridge is due after I am, haha :)

I've heard "put baby in whatever you're wearing plus an extra layer" about 1000000x since getting pregnant.

Having a car seat cover is also a good idea. We're getting this one: http://www.amazon.com/Jolly-Jumper-Arctic-Sneak-Infant/dp/B005LVNS4S - it has really good reviews.

We bought these to gate or baggage check our carseats. They don't actually work too well for baggage check but do a great job for gate checking to protect against dirt. (They're soft-sided, though, so don't expect them to protect against anything more than dirt).

Also agree about the baby wearing! If you're wearing baby, they'll ask you to go through the metal detector instead of the X-ray. They tested my hands on both flights too after the metal detector. I didn't have to take baby off or anything. Just my shoes. I wasn't wearing a jacket, so I'm not sure if you'd have to take that off or not.

We checked in our car seat with the luggage. Southwest let's you check in a stroller and car seat for no charge, and it doesn't count against your baggage limits. I think most of the other major airlines do too. We bought the JL Childress padded car seat bag here and that thing is dang awesome. It's padded, so your expensive car seat doesn't get banged up. It has straps so my husband could wear the car seat while I wore baby and we each had hands to roll one suitcase. It's also huuuuge. It fit our infant car seat and the base, and we had room to shove some diaper and wipes packages into the empty car seat. It's nice bc we'll be able to still use it when we switch to a convertible car seat.

Nursing during takeoff and landing helps. Our baby ended up sleeping during the landing. If your flight isn't full, you could lay baby on a travel neck pillow or nursing pillow to give your arms a break. Or wear baby.

Most planes nowadays have a foldout changing table in one of the lavatories. They're not always marked though, so I'd ask the flight attendant which one it's in when you get on so you're not trying to carry baby up and down the aisle during turbulence.

-Old Englishman - Diapers! Because I'm old and I probs pee my pants

-Never be seen in public with - This camera for watching the baby when it's born. It's creepy to video tape people.

-Phallic? HARRY POTTER'S WAND!

...

-Geeky - HARRY POTTER'S WAND!

-Achieve a goal - Keep my baby boy safe on car rides.

-Deserted Island - Baby wrap so I don't drop my child

Thanks. =)

I used this and LOVED LOVED LOVED it!
http://www.amazon.com/JJ-Cole-Seat-Cover-Graphite/dp/B00511J6BM/ref=sr_1_9?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1382622016&sr=1-9&keywords=car+seat+covers
(I have no idea how to do links)
BTW, I took a state certified car seat class and they said it was fine to use. Its the covers that go under the baby that are not ok to use
EDIT: Nevermind, it linked itself!

No thick layers between baby and the car seat straps. And no aftermarket products that claim they are ok underneath baby either unless it's from the car seat manufacturer itself.

Thick fleece foot pjs are great, plus a hat and mitts. Blankets on top of the straps, including winter car seat covers are fine, we have this one and it works great because you can cover the whole thing while you're actually outside (especially handy when it's windy).

https://www.amazon.ca/JJ-Cole-Baby-Cover-Herringbone/dp/B00P1BDGEU/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=jj+cole+baby+car+seat+cover&qid=1573863555&sprefix=jj+c&sr=8-3

A good alternative for warmth are the covers that go over top the car seats. I had one with my daughter. It is a soft material inside and a swooshy material out with elastic around the edges to just cover over her with a little face hole in the middle. I would just use it for when we were outside between the car/inside and then take it off!

Something like this

JJ Cole Car Seat Cover for Infants, Graphite https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00511J6BM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_yovSBbCN6WBGW

We are as far north that we are practically in Canadian. For our kid we have her wear baby hats to keep her head warm and a car seat cover does well. They do have snow suits for babies 0-3 months and up if you are going to play outside. Just don't put them in the car seat with a jacket on it compromise the safety by not allowing the seat belts to be as snug around the baby. Since my baby is only 2 months we just have her in long sleeve outfits with pants, socks and hat. And we then have the cover over the car seat which keeps the wind and cold out when going from outdoors to indoors.

Car seat cover: https://www.amazon.com/JJ-Cole-Weather-Resistant-Herringbone/dp/B00P1BDGEU/ref=sr_1_13?keywords=car+seat+cover&qid=1550857902&s=gateway&sr=8-13

Snow suit: https://www.amazon.com/Carters-Child-Hooded-Puffer-Snowsuit/dp/B07N98XZTW/ref=cts_ap_4_vtp?th=1&psc=1

​

We don't bring our base, but we use this bag and check the car seat. If you want to bring your base, it can fit the base in it! Plus I always put diapers or coats on top of the car seat (since it flies for free...might as well use up that space!).

https://www.amazon.com/J-L-Childress-Ultimate-Backpack-Padded/dp/B0009RNXNA/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1543333462&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=jl+childress+car+seat+bag&psc=1

>My baby car seat base unit slides a little bit.

I bought one of these to protect the leather on my A4. This way I don't get hung up on damaging the leather, and I can get the car seat base straps really tight. It's crazy what you have to do to really get them to not slide around. I ended up sort of kneeling on mine and applying a lot of my body weight as a I pulled the straps tight. Even after that, a family member who works for child protective services checked it and said it wasn't tight enough :P. My advice would be get something like the protective mat I have, and go to town getting your seat base in there as tightly as you can. Then check it a few days later and tighten again if you can.

Glad you're digging the car, the A4 is super nice!

I've done long road trips and we took our 4 month old from charlotte to newark on the plane in November.

Air: Be prepared to act like a sherpa, security is going to take a while. There are often family lines that allow you to skip the main junk so someone can help with all of the extra stuff like a stroller, and car seat, etc. There are red gate check bags that are worth buying because they make it easy to spot and we noticed our stuff came out first & unharmed.

Try to get a bottle going right before the flight, my kid passed out right after and stayed asleep for most of the flight. Bring things you can use as suckers to help with the ear popping.

Car: Make frequent pit stops, every hour and a half worked for us. Sometimes her mom had to sit in the back to soothe her. That probably won't work for you, so stopping often will help everyone. It'll just take a while to get places. Sucks, but you gotta do it.

These window shades are a cheap gift idea, and I'm complimented on them all the time by people I fly with. They stick to the plane windows, can be moved around to match the position of the sun, and work amazingly for the price (on the ground of course).

My other favorite airline pilot thing is this incredibly expensive spork. I used the cheap plastic ones for years and constantly broke them in my bag. Finally I bought the titanium one and now I've had the same one for about 5 years and it looks like new. Every pilot needs one of these in their bag.

I picked up this one at a second hand shop and love it - http://www.amazon.com/Diono-Easy-View-Mirror-Black/dp/B005PK1EQ4/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1370283097&sr=8-13&keywords=baby+car+mirror

Something like this is a safe way to have your child covered in a carseat. General rule is don't have them in heavy snowsuit or too many layers under the carseat straps. Too much compressible fabric is unsafe!

https://www.amazon.com/JJ-Cole-Cover-Infants-Graphite/dp/B00511J6BM

So this one that goes around (not under) the carseat will be good. Depending on where you are for winter you can also tuck a blanket over the straps and under the cover.

We did a fair amount of baby wearing in the winter, where he would be inside my jacket (I had a zipper extender) inside the Ergo.

How are you traveling with your kiddo? Car, walking (babywearing), walking in a stroller, public transit? All of these could require different layers.

Warm weather resident here. I've never heard of anyone removing the car seats for weather reasons BUT it is common to protect the car seats from getting too hot for the baby's sake.

Passenger sun shades and blankets over the car seat prevent baby from getting burned on the exposed plastic and harness. I've seen this type of cover a few times during the summer heat waves as well.

Edit: changed link to amazon, in case you wanted to buy it

I've used THIS CAR SEAT COVER for traveling with my pack and have been very pleased with the result. Slide your pack in, cinch it up, and you're done. TSA recognizes them so they don't freak out and tear things apart. PLus at under $11 with Prime, they're pretty cheap

Middle =)
In our case, the hospital nurse installed it for us. They even gave us the car seat, actually.
And get one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Brica-Baby-In-Sight-Mirror-Gray/dp/B004L2JJAK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344662053&sr=8-1&keywords=baby+car+mirror
they are lifesaver

Can check the car seat for free. They sell gate check bags online that can help protect the seat. If you take your stroller, I would get gate check bag for it. When I flew with our stroller they just threw it down a shoot onto the ground. It got pretty messed up.

The Noggle - Making the Backseat Cool Again - Vehicle Air Conditioning System to Keep Your Baby / Children Cool and Comfortable When Traveling in the Car - Works with Most Vehicles - 8ft, Black Ice https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LXT23RA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ra5DDb9SGD5T7

We have one like this and it works great, the kids can even sit on the seat while you roll it. http://www.amazon.com/GO-GO-TRAVELMATE-Travel-Stroller-Toddler/dp/B000JJK9EY

That's awesome!

Since its $500 though, I will add on a suggestion that would be not quite as cool, but much cheaper. You can buy car seat travel carts, like this, this, or this, and use them with the car seat you already have.

One thing on my "to get" list that friends have highly recommended was a car seat cover, and NOT the kind that interferes with the harness. I am getting one that is kind of a shower cap that goes over the car seat, I read this is better because jackets / snow suits / blankets that go under car seat straps can reduce the effectiveness of the car seat in an accident. Plus, if it gets warm in the car, it should be easier to pull the cover off.

This is the one I am planning to get:
http://amzn.com/B005LVNS4S

Yikes, I'm glad you posted this. That's the one I had on my registry! I just switched it out for this one, which doesn't look as nice but seems far safer.

Also, if you want to keep the carseat for the plane (or gate-check it), you can get something like this which turns it into a roller-board / stroller. We used to wheel our toddler around, strapped into her car seat, with one of these.

Of course, using the Uber X car seat option is also good.

Got these from Amazon for my Model X front seat backs: Brica Deluxe Kick Mats, 2 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B7M7CLA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_y2t5AbKXYQYCX

$16 for two. Fits and works great since I have the glossy seat backs.

If she is considering taking a car seat these are awesome!


https://www.amazon.com/GO-GO-TRAVELMATE-Travel-Stroller-Toddler/dp/B000JJK9EY

Uppababy sells travel bags specifically for their car seats and strollers, so that’s what we have. But something like this should also be helpful:

https://www.amazon.com/J-L-Childress-Ultimate-Backpack-Padded/dp/B0009RNXNA

I use a carabiner-style seatbelt for my dog and don't do this, but I have seen a seatbelt cover for sale at places like Amazon, or you can make one yourself using a plastic cup.

Seatbelt lock


Premium Safety Seatbelt Secure Buckle Cover by Wididi (1 Pack and 2 Pack) (Red, 1-Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y56N2DW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_pEX5Cb77SV447

Yep, we have this cover and it helps a lot! It's only $4. You could also just use any towel or blanket, really, so any metal bits aren't directly in the sun.

You're doing the Lords work.

Similarly for baby showers: I always get car seat sun covers. Here in Phoenix nobody realizes what a joy it is to put your kid in the car and not scald them. $8 and I still use mine near daily 4 years after my kid was born.

Do you have a front-facing backseat mirror? My son became so much more relaxed in the car after we installed one. We have this one -- <$10 shipped with Prime.

For our winter baby, we got a warm carseat cover like this one (there are cheaper ones out there too). Makes things easier when transitioning through the cold.

It's like a shower cap that goes on over top of the car seat and zips up just where you put baby in. Prevents any drafts from getting in without putting any bulk on or behind baby. We get temps down to -40 and snow, so I wanted baby covered... But nothing that would interfer with the straps. I think this is the brand of one I got

I have 2 little ones. I have a 6 year old and a 10 month old. One of my first purchases with my car was seat protectors and kick mats over a year ago. Would highly recommend.

Brica Seat Guardian Car Seat... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B7M7BKW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Brica Deluxe Kick Mats, 2 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B7M7CLA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Our LO screamed in the car!

Two things helped, and I'm not sure which was most effective because we did both at the same time:

• Adjusted the straps. Turns out they were insanely tight around her sides and we were measuring mostly around her shoulders.
  
  
• Bought a Cool Mee insert. She was always super sweaty and I think the material in our Baby Trend was irritating her skin.
  
  http://www.amazon.com/Infant-Bucket-Seat-Liner-Color/dp/B004RVGPUC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407109029&sr=8-1&keywords=Cool+mee
  
  Now she hardly ever cries!

I use something like this although I don't remember the exact brand and honestly I haven't taken the car seat off to check the condition of the seats.

Some places say it makes the car seat less safe, but I'm not sure how that's possible, it's still anchored firmly.

I live in the northeast. We haven't done any outdoor activities, so the most baby is outside is to and from the car in his seat or stroller. We got a fleecy carseat cover like this and baby wears a little fleece bunting suit that has a hood, mitten, and footie covers. No bulky snowsuits because those are unsafe to strap baby in the seat with! I add a little blanket over him too before zipping the carseat cover. He is toasty but not sweating in there, and you can always open the carseat cover or remove the blanket if baby seems too hot.

​

I see a lot of people around here wearing baby in carriers, and baby is often wearing a fleece bunting or a coat and a warm hat.

We traveled a few times with our twins... We used these and it made our life way easy. Check your stroller when you check your bags. Just use those with your carseats to get them to the gate. They will let you board first cause you "need more time and help" so you can get them strapped into the plane. If you take a stroller you have to put it through the xray machine... Pain in the ass!! Car seats are easier. Just take your baby out, put carseat through xray... then put baby back!

My kid was born in September, and she spent the entire first winter dressed in fleece footed pajamas basically all the time. Kept her plenty warm and it eliminated dealing with keeping socks on. Once or twice I got a comment about how she was "not dressed" since she wasn't in pants and a shirt I guess, but I had no fucks to give about that.

As far as going in the car, if you're using a bucket car seat, I cannot sing the praises of this style of car seat cover enough. It's 100% safe because nothing goes behind the baby or under any straps, and it's constructed like a winter coat so it's very warm. And it's basically effortless to use. If it's extremely cold you can even tuck an extra blanket underneath it.

Oh, in that case, look into an A/C extender or maybe a couple car fans. Stay cool!

I had a January baby in DC and he never wore his coat. I recommend a car seat cover though... this was the one we used: car seat cover

We bought something like this because here in Texas it gets dang hot.

This one is rugged and padded, we have used it for two years - https://www.amazon.com/Childress-Ultimate-Backpack-Padded-Travel/dp/B0009RNXNA. I use it whether we gate check or normal check the seat. It also is just big enough to fit the small convertible car seat we bought for travel for my now almost 2 year old.

We were given this one as a gift. Lasted four months before the suction cup devices broke in half during a car ride and freaked out the baby.


We now have these in our car and they are working out pretty well. It has been hot here and they are still sticking up with no problem at all. You get three in one pack, which is real nice.

Window baby shade

Blasting AC for a few minutes before loading LO into car

Place large ice pack in baby seat when baby ISN'T in there

Reflective seat cover $4

The last one is highly dependent on your car setup but it's the Noggle $47 hose to extend from the vent to the car seat.

I have used this one and it worked well. J.L. Childress Ultimate Backpack Padded Car Seat Travel Bag, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009RNXNA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_uJcWDbANR28VF

I bought mine on amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Mommys-Helper-Car-Seat-Shade/dp/B00125NZSQ/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1465688478&sr=8-1&keywords=mommys+helper+car+seat+sun+shade

- Portable chargers

- Extra phone cables

- Sunglasses

- Bluetooth Headset

- Extra AA Batteries

- Sun Screens

-Small Lint roller

They make dollies for car seats that might be what you're looking for! Here's one, there are others.

https://www.amazon.com/Jolly-Jumper-CarSeat-Attached-Weatherproof/dp/B005LVNS4S

And footie PJs. All the footie PJs.

Piddle Pad

Just get one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Jolly-Jumper-Arctic-Sneak-Infant/dp/B005LVNS4S. Then you never have to think about this again.

https://www.amazon.com/J-L-Childress-Ultimate-Backpack-Padded/dp/B0009RNXNA

Or one of these?

This thing?

When I lived in GA and NC I saw these a lot: http://www.amazon.com/Mommys-Helper-Car-Seat-Shade/dp/B00125NZSQ

I have a 60L pack and this car seat cover gets the job done. JL Childress Gate Check Bag for Car Seats, Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000RRD7UG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FBCACb28W6K70

These work:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZOKJVAG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6RtSBbENJE4YC

We had a similar problem and found that this one ( Brica Baby In-Sight Mirror, Gray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004L2JJAK) works for us. It has several options including tether but as part of that it has a moldable wire and fabric adjustment for the angle.

A lightweight mirror can fix this. $12, it won't hurt the child in a crash even if it detaches, and you can see the child in the carseat. http://www.amazon.com/Brica-Baby-In-Sight-Mirror-Gray/dp/B004L2JJAK

Had the wrong brand, here is the link!

Brica Deluxe Kick Mats, 2 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B7M7CLA?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I got one of These

Either way if you don't bag it up somehow it will prob get dirty. I didn't want to have to worry about cleaning the seat after arriving.

Always ask the gate agent about booked flights. I wasn't allowed to use my seat on the plane but always get my own row. I just tell them I'm worried about the baby disturbing people. They also carry the car seat and stroller for me when I check them if I ask for help.