[tonika]

I recently posted in my due date club asking what items one really needs, with the caveats of hot climate and living in a developing country. I got a couple of good replies but thought this group would be the best place to ask!

In addition to wanting to limit what we really need to buy in the US as it all has to fit airline weight restrictions to get down to Nicaragua, we also expect to move back to the US when baby's about 8 months old, so we are focused on what we'll need in those first months. While you can get Kraft mac n cheese and Stove Top at most stores here, all the fancy or organic baby gear brands are pretty much unavailable. What is available is very expensive. Most people here can't afford and don't need big items like car seats and fancy changing tables.

So, we're trying to figure out what we really need, and what we really need to bring from the US.

Advice for hot weather baby wearing and diapering is also appreciated!

 

[rightkindofme]

I would get a lightweight woven wrap. It doesn't need to be much more complicated than a strip of muslin cloth--which I have used extensively. Pre-folds are probably going to be the easiest cloth option given the other restrictions. They are by far the easiest to wash and deal with.

To really deal with a baby you need a carrier (I like wraps or Ergo type buckle carriers), diapers (figure out what your budget can handle), and your boobs. Everything else is gravy. Maybe a couple of blankets to wrap them in like a burrito. Even clothes are pretty optional the first year.

 

[sewgirl]

I would get a lightweight woven wrap. It doesn't need to be much more complicated than a strip of muslin cloth--which I have used extensively. Pre-folds are probably going to be the easiest cloth option given the other restrictions. They are by far the easiest to wash and deal with.

To really deal with a baby you need a carrier (I like wraps or Ergo type buckle carriers), diapers (figure out what your budget can handle), and your boobs. Everything else is gravy. Maybe a couple of blankets to wrap them in like a burrito. Even clothes are pretty optional the first year.

I'd go for a ring sling in terms of heat and versatility.
Also, considering the probably limited washing machine options (here in Brazil they are a glorified bucket of water) I would consider disposables.
Also a changing mat (in case you don't get a table).

Otherwise totally agree with the previous poster - as long as breastfeeding is going well all you really need is your boobs (but be prepared for things like pumps, nipple shields and lactation consultants to be in short supply if you need them!)