I’m a first-time expectant mother with very little knowledge of what is to come :). Help with baby gear?
When it comes to strollers, car seats, carriers and the like, Im very lost. Im not sure where to start. Is it a good idea to purchase the “convertible” items? And what are the best brands that stand out?Im on a mid-range budget (no $900 strollers) 
Thank you for all your help!!
a 20 dollar umbrella stroller works for me, I had a bassinet for the first few weeks, he loved it, I have really used my high chair yet, but pretty soon I will, I had a big travel system (car seat and matching stroller) that I rarely use now, I take the big stroller when we go to the zoo,the mall etc. I LOVE my 50$ carseat from Walmart, it does its job without the drama lol.
Stock up on diapers and formula (or set the money aside from it) My kiddo uses Luvs, they are my favorite, you’ll need size 3,4,5 the most! And wipes wipes wipes of any kind
I had an all in one car seat/stroller set with my first child. Wasn’t too expensive, I think it cost about $90. I loved it because you can get the baby into her car seat before you head outside and just pop it into place. And you don’t have to wake the baby up to put her into the stroller or bring her back in the house. Of course those car seats are only intended to be used until the baby turns one. I still use the stroller but had to buy a toddler car seat. There are also car seats that grow with your child. they go from a rear facing newborn seat all the way up to a toddler booster seat. It all depends on what you think would be easier for you.
For the stroller, I highly recommend getting an infant carrier and a Snap N Go stroller for new moms. I would even look for a second hand Snap N Go stroller on Craigslist. It is inexpensive and so light weight and easy to use.
Then after the baby is 9 months old or so you will really know what kind of stroller you will need and you can get the right one that will last you for years.
For your infant carrier, the Chicco Keyfit is the best rated car seat right now. I had the Combi and liked it a lot. The Graco infant carriers are good too. I would look for the lightest one possible that is still padded enough so your baby will be comfortable.
For car seats (after the infant carrier) I would go for a Britax. I have a few different brands but the Britax models are above and beyond in quality and ease of use! They also make an infant carrier that I have seen ones and it looks nice too.
Good Luck with the new baby!
Julie
http://www.stroller-obsession.com/