Must "look-ats" in store vs. online?

[Mopey]

The hubby and I are going to register next week. Neither one of us can stand the stores for a long time so I'd like to be super efficient during our visit.

Besides testing out strollers for ourselves (all I can think of) what would you all suggest are things we should absolutely look at in person?

I plan to do most registering online with BB and other lists.

Many thanks for your input! I know it's a crazy busy time so I appreciate it

[Melaine]

I just bought one sight unseen but I'd say try on carriers if you get the chance.

[mikala]

Yeah, carriers are good in person but you want a local baby store with trained staff instead of a big box store for them.

Nursery furniture is another thing to check in stores to see the quality before buying.

I think you can do most other things online.

Eta: as far as strollers go I'd stick to a snap n go infant frame initially. You'll have a better idea of what you need after baby arrives. My kid really disliked strollers and I'm glad we waited and got an Ergo with part of our stroller money.

[legaleagle]

Definitely furniture and car seats (preferably try them in your car as well).

[daisymommy]

Furniture
Strollers
Carseats
Maybe clothes at some point...

Everything else is just so basic, it really doesn't matter, IMO.

[Mopey]

Thanks for the suggestions. Keep 'em coming please!

[Melaine]

I say, beyond that, just read reviews (or better yet ask here or do a search). I find the opinions of those who have BTDT much more useful than my impressions on products just from looking at them.

[amldaley]

If you haven't bought the Baby Bargains Book yet - buy it! It is a highky valueable resouce when sorting through what to register for!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Mopey]

This book is the only one I have so far - and that is why I found these boards. I was hoping for all the good advice and everyone has been great so far

I have my list from going through the book but as we are not willing to wander the store for hours I posted this to really understand what to actually look at (and then I will have a ball finishing up online!).

The stroller is important as we are city dwellers (no car so will just get the recommended SnugRide) as well as a few things I want to see to understand the volume of space they will take up in my teeny apartment. The carrier sounds like a good idea too.

Thanks so much everyone - I truly do appreciate it! And please keep them coming

[Simon]

Chair(s), if you are getting one whether a rocker or glider. Those are very important to test out in person (says the person who has been through about 6 different models over the years).

If you are city folks, then a Snap and Go may be less useful than a full recline stroller. The folks on the stroller board can help you there. My first also *hated* strollers AND car seats for over a year, so the SnG was useless.