While a baby registry can save money on the baby essentials, a little planning can add to your savings.
Ask for the long-term baby expenses that are the most expensive -- diapers and wipes. "You can also request that friends and family give you gift cards to club and warehouse stores where diapers and wipes are cheaper," says Carly Kirsch, owner of Newly Nested, a Connecticut-based baby-planning service. Don't forget to choose some smaller items you'll need down the road such as feeding accessories, bowls, spoons and sippy cups.
Another tip when choosing pricier baby gear is to find those that do double duty, says Joanie Demer, co-founder of TheKrazyCouponLady.com, a couponing and shopping advice site. Her suggestions: Instead of a registering for a bassinet and a playpen, go for a play yard that has a bassinet insert. Instead of registering for the traditional highchair and the portable highchair, choose a "space-saving highchair that can be attached to a kitchen chair and toted along to Grandma's house."