Baby's Away play seat.

By Aimee Grove

How is it that I was able to spend a blissful week in Maui with my husband and 8-month-old son, Tavish (pictured), armed with only a single modest-size suitcase for the three of us? Two words: Baby's Away. After we made one phone call, this miracle service delivered an ExerSaucer, a crib, a high chair, a beach umbrella, and a bucket of clean, gently used toys to our Kapalua condo—and hauled it all away when we left.

With more than 70 locations in 29 states, Baby's Away has operators (mostly parents and grandparents themselves) in major ski and beach resort areas, from Jackson, Wyo., to San Diego. By calling ahead and placing an order, you can rent cribs, strollers, swings, Pack 'n Plays, gates, rockers, high chairs, monitors, bed rails, and, yes, toys. Everything is sanitized and in good condition. Prices vary by location, item, rental time, and delivery fee. We paid about $180, but that included a $75 delivery fee to reach the west side of the island. And it was worth every penny. (800) 571-0077, www.babysaway.com.