We tried to buy things that we will use after the babies no longer need them. For example instead of a nappy bag we bought a crumpler. These bags are extremely well made, look fantastic and will be used long after we have finished with a pram.

We also borrowed a lot of stuff, and currently have quite a bit out on loan to friends. We have never bought a baby bath etc. all on loan.

If someone offers to buy you a gift, vouchers are great. We got a coles one that we split between Coles and Baby Target (and Myer when they were still in on the deal). This way we used it for equipment and nappies etc as we needed them.