[jibbers]

I just found out a little over 2 weeks ago that I am pregnant. I am currently 24-25 weeks along so this was a big shock and very unplanned. Now that DH & I are over the shock and know that the little guy is healthy and has not suffered from a lack of prenatal care we are getting down to the planning.

My other child is almost 14 so it has been a long time since I looked at baby stuff.

I about had a heart attack when I saw the prices on car seats. I know they much improved from 14 years ago but holy-moly on the price!

Any hints on how to get a good deal on one?

[arupe001]

From time to time they will have them on clearance at Target. Toys-r-us also has coupons in their Sunday ads for carseats. You can get safety reviews online to help you choose the safest one and your local police and fire depts will help you install it correctly. Congrats on your new little bundle of joy!

[jfoody76]

Sometimes Buy Buy Baby has some "clearanced" ones.....the styles of the fabrics change more than the actual carseat. I'm sure that other strores do the same.

Congratulations & Good luck!

[emmielou83]

I would check Amazon frequently- they are always having deals on baby items off and on.

And congrats on your pregnancy! ; )

[christinadeals]

First off, congrats on the baby! You found out when you were halfway through, at least your wait won't be so long to meet the sweet baby!

I would ask people you know, first! I know people say do not buy a used seat, but there are certain circumstances when I think it's alright! I went out and bought a gorgeous eddie bauer infant seat for my son when I was pregnant, not realizing I'd have to upgrade seats. My baby ended up being tall, we had to put him in an upgraded seat at 6 months!!! I'm saving it for my next baby since it was so expensive. Used 6 months, now in storage. I wouldn't pick one up at the thrift shop unless it looked IMPECCABLE because you don't know where it came from.

If that isn't an option, watch your sales! My cousin saved her coupons/bucks/etc and when her seat of choice was on sale on amazon, she stacked her savings and got the seat for a great price! Babies R Us also puts out $15 off coupons now and then.

If all else fails and you have a shower, tack it on your registry and you can either 1) trade items in for it or 2) buy it yourself with the 10% discount for "registry leftovers".

[catzkids]

Just be aware if you buy a used car seat that they say not to use one thats been in a wreak, even if it looks undamaged.

[sar1]

Wow - that would be a shock! Congratulations!