How to Save Money on Baby Registry Gifts

The cost of baby gear and parenting products can add up fast for both parents-to-be and gift givers. If you have an expectant parent in your life and want to get them a gift without blowing up your budget, we’ve got you covered. There are simple and easy ways to save a few bucks on the gift you give the parent-to-be in your life without skimping on the quality or straying from their registry. 

Here are some tips you can use and keep in mind while you’re browsing the baby aisle and your loved one’s baby registry. 

Stay on Top of Sales and Deals

Did you know there are certain times of the year when you can buy a car seat at a discount? Or that a ton of baby and parenting brands hold quiet sales and deals all throughout the year? We’re experts in saving on the most popular registry items, and we share our best tips with you throughout the year.

Every week, we find and share deals over on our Sales and Deals guide (plus, we have exclusive discount codes with top brands, too). And when major sales events like Black Friday and Prime Day come around, we have separate guides to cover those sales, too (along with other sale holidays like Memorial Day and Presidents’ Day, as well as Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale). Basically, if there’s a worthwhile markdown, we’ll sniff it out—so before you click buy on a gift, check out our sales pages to see if you can save a few bucks first.

Sort a Registry by Price

As much as the expectant parent needs a car seat and stroller, there are a ton of other items that they’ll register for at various price points. To easily weed through all of the products they’ve registered for, you can sort this list by price and scroll to the price point that works for you. 

Use the Price Comparison Tool

The Babylist registry has a built-in price comparison tool that clearly lists all of the different retailers that carry a particular item. This way, you’ll be able to easily find the best price and the most convenient retailer to shop with—all within the registry. 

Team Up for a Group Gift

If you have your heart set on buying a larger, pricey item (like a crib or luxury bassinet), you can collab with a few other friends or family members and make it a group gift. This way, instead of paying the full price for a more expensive item, you can pay a portion of the price and still stay within your budget (while gifting a big-ticket item they’ll appreciate). 

Bundle Up the Basics

While we don’t usually suggest going off-registry, there are some things that every expectant parent will need to care for their baby. Inexpensive items like diapers, wipes, burp cloths and bottle nipples will go a long way and they’ll be glad they have extras. Need some inspiration? Check out our favorite baby products under $25.  

Consider Gifting a Favor

Babylist allows users to register for help and favors, so instead of a physical gift, you can commit to helping them clean up around the house, bring over some home-cooked meals and even walk their dog. These gifts have a flexible price point and are just as precious and useful as other items they’ll register for. 

Check for Secondhand

The expectant parent can mark some of their registered items as Open to Secondhand, letting their friends and family know they’re happy to receive certain products as gently used. You can choose to gift one of those items and even if you don’t already own it, there are several places to buy gently used secondhand baby items. Oftentimes, they’re deeply discounted and can save you big bucks.