best travel cots infant

First Year Products

The best travel cot for babies and toddlers

Venture UK Airpod Baby and Toddler Travel Cot

Graco FoldLite

Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Graco Contour Electra

Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper

Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

BabyDan Travel Cot

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

When you're thinking of essentials for your little one, you probably already have a cosy cot picked out, but what about a travel cot if you love travelling? In addition to packing your baby's travel system and gathering all the necessities before heading off on holiday with your family, a travel cot will help your little one to sleep as soundly as possible, even when you're away from home.

You probably did a lot of research on the best cot and bedside crib for your baby but may not have considered investing in a travel cot yet. Put simply, a travel cot is a portable, lightweight option designed to fold away compactly. Its collapsible sides and storage bag are some of the features that make it the perfect solution for trips away. Like a travel stroller , it's another one of those holiday essentials that you'll want to invest in when travelling with children under 5 years old.

You most likely won't need a travel cot for the first few months, especially if you already have a Moses basket , a portable crib or a carrycot suitable for overnight sleeping. If you don't go away very often, then you might be better off borrowing a cot from a friend, as it can be an expensive purchase if you're only going to be using it once a year.

A lot of hotels and holiday cottages may provide travel cots and other baby equipment, so check with them before you travel. If you are away from home often, then a travel cot is a good purchase, as it will last well past the newborn months and will prove extremely useful at other times, too. For example, for your baby's daytime naps when you're visiting friends or staying over with grandparents overnight. We've enlisted the help of expert mum testers to put the best travel cots through their paces, taking into account the weight, size, price, assembly, age suitability and stability. Our annual Mother&Baby Awards also help us bring you the best advice about current products on the market.

The best travel cot at a glance

• Best travel cot overall : Venture UK Airpod Baby & Toddler Travel Cot - £109.99

• Best travel cot for compact fold : Graco FoldLite - £73

• Best compact travel cot : Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot - £168.75

• Best budget travel cot : Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot - £60

• Best stylish travel cot : Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper - £74.99

The best travel cot 2024

1. venture uk airpod baby and toddler travel cot, best travel cot overall, description.

Silver winner for Best Travel Product Over £30 in the M&B Awards 2023 Designed to provide little ones with a place to rest and play no matter where you are, the Airpod is assembled in just three easy steps with no tools required meaning it's ready to go in less than a minute. The Airpod weighs just 6kg and can be folded into a bag no larger than a big shopping bag.

One M&B awards tester said: "I really liked how small it folded and how light it was. Super portable and barely took space in the car boot. This meant we were able to pack all our other luggage without worrying about space. Also not too heavy so easy to lug around upstairs when we stayed in hotels without lifts."

Read our full review of the Venture UK Airpod Travel Cot .

Lightweight
Comfortable for baby
No raised bassinet

2. Graco FoldLite

Best travel cot for compact fold.

Bronze winner for Best Travel Product Over £30 in the M&B Awards 2023

Suitable from birth to approximately three years old, the FoldLite was hailed by parents for its lightweight frame, but it has also won a prestigious Mother&Baby Awards 2023 Bronze award. Collapsing to only 26cm wide, the FoldLite has a mesh lining and two wheels for easy manoeuvrability, plus it comes with a mattress included. Testers loved the Home Fold feature to help fold away quickly and clear space within seconds.

M&B mum tester Sarah said: "The Foldlite travel cot has been most useful to us for quick and easy use around the house with a mobile baby. It genuinely is two clicks to put up or down and the house fold setting means I can quickly pop it out from next to the sofa if I need to iron or nip to the toilet and pop it back in a few seconds so it's not taking over the room. It would be invaluable for this in a holiday cottage which is less baby-proofed too! It seems both comfy and robust for my very mobile ten-month-old and he'll play happily in it with some toys thrown in for a while. When folded down for travel it's small and neat and doesn't take up too much valuable boot space when you're already contending with buggies and suitcases. The grandparents popped it up without instructions and my ten-month-old slept happily in it."

Read our full review of the Graco FoldLite.

Folds two ways
Convenient carry bag
Assembly not totally straightforward

3. Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

Best compact travel cot.

www.bugaboo.com

If you're looking for a travel cot that's a doddle to set up and folds away in seconds, this is it – no more grappling with unwieldy parts when you arrive at your destination with a tired baby. We love the clever design, which gives a seamless experience on the go.

Convenient for carrying around your home, it comes with a zip-in carrycot insert, an all-around mesh panel for airflow and a lovely firm and comfortable mattress. The suspended base will protect your little ones from draughts. But, if this happens to be a bit pricey for you, then you can opt for the Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot instead.

Mum Meg said: "Very sturdy, easy to pack and unpack, folds up reasonably small, carrying handle makes it easy to transport. Seems comfortable - the newborn bassinet is super convenient for little ones and my babe settled immediately in it."

Parent Matt said: "We bought this for the ease of it 'popping up and down' but also because we could raise the height of the mattress when our baby was very little. There don't seem to be many travel cots that have that design, we used it as much at home for naps as we did on the road. It's a great bit of kit."

Includes carrycot insert and mattress
Easy to assemble
Compact to fold
Mattress doesn't include a waterproof cover

4. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Best budget travel cot.

www.argos.co.uk

Shortlisted for Best Travel Product Over £25 in the M&B Awards 2019

This deluxe travel cot has a bassinet attachment that clicks easily onto the top, perfect for changing nappies; it has wheels, so it's easy to move around, and setting up and folding away takes just seconds.

Tested by mum Tori: "I would definitely recommend this product to other mums. It's so easy to put up and down and transport with its handy bag. It folds up thin and small fitting in our boot along with the double pram and a few bags! My little one slept perfectly."

Tested by mum Sarah: "If you're looking for an inexpensive no-nonsense travel cot then I would recommend this. It was lightweight so I could easily carry it around. It was also compact making it small enough to pack into the car alongside everything else you need when going away with a little one! Once I'd done the initial set up of the cot, it was easy to put together and to take apart too."

Read our full review of the Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Easy to transport with wheels
Easy fold down into storage bag
Low to the ground

5. Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Best lightweight travel cot.

Rrp: £ 219.90

Shortlisted for Best Travel Product over £25 at the M&B Awards 2015

This travel cot is a real doddle to assemble – just slip it out of its travel bag, and it practically unfolds automatically, so there's no grappling with poles or fiddling with extra accessories. It's also easy to fold away and really light and portable.

It's also easy to move around your home, making it convenient to take with you on trips or overnight visits away. We love that the fabric can be removed and popped in the washing machine – a real bonus if you have a baby with reflux. The materials of this travel cot meet the requirements of OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Class 1 for baby products, which essentially means kind to your baby's sensitive skin.

Tested by mum Nicola: "This is the easiest travel cot to carry as it's amazingly light, but it's less robust than others – Amelia can push it around by herself. It's really practical, taking seconds to pop up. It's less attractive than others in terms of design appeal, but Amelia slept well in it and seemed very comfortable. It also comes with a nice carry bag, which makes it easy to transport."

Read our full review of the BabyBjörn Light Travel Cot

Easy assemble
Machine washable fabric
Made with sensitive skin in mind
Harder to dry

6. Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Best newborn travel cot.

www.very.co.uk

This versatile travel cot comes with lots of extra accessories, so it's great value for money. There's a full-size bassinet, which snaps easily on and off as required, as well as a change unit and portable bouncing seat. It folds compactly and comes with its own travel storage bag.

There are lots of sound and light features, including a soothing sound vibration, plus five classical lullabies and nature sounds. The two integrated wheels make it easy to move from room to room, and there's also a nightlight with three brightness settings.

Tested by mum Kathryn: "This was quite difficult to assemble – I had to enlist my husband's help. It's sturdy and almost as big as a normal cot. The wheels make it easy to move. Olly is too old for the extra accessories, but they'd be fantastic for a newborn. Olly likes the sounds, and the light is great for night changes without fully waking him. A real investment that will grow with your baby.

Tested by mum Nicola: "The mesh sides enabled me to check on Amelia without getting out of bed, and she liked being able to see us when she woke up. The mattress seems very comfortable, and the colours and pattern of this travel cot are really appealing. The extra accessories aren't suitable past 12 months, and this travel cot is quite heavy – I would struggle to move it from room to room without help."

Extra accessories
Great value for money
Sound, vibration and nightlight settings

7. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Best travel cot mattress.

www.johnlewis.com

Shortlisted for Best Travel Product over £25 at the M&B Awards 2018

This stylish, contemporary travel cot takes seconds to put together and is reasonably quick and easy to fold, even with a baby in your arms. We love the bassinet accessory, which makes this brilliant for use from birth. It has a sturdy aluminium frame and a triple-layered mattress.

Doubling up as a play space, this travel cot has padded edges to prevent pinched fingers, and it also comes with an organic cotton sheet included and its own bag to store and transport it in.

Tested by mum Kirsty: "This is reasonably straightforward to set up but it doesn't fold very neatly, and packing it away is fiddly. It's sturdy but feels heavy and it takes up lots of space in our small car boot. The bassinet makes it easy to lift Rikku in and out, but I found it fiddly to detach. I like that this comes with a machine-washable sheet, which stays in place with velcro."

Tested by mum Nicola: "I really like this travel cot because it's so sturdy. It also looks very stylish. Amelia slept really well in this. It's simple to assemble and comes with a lovely, thick mattress plus a machine-washable sheet. The only disadvantage is that it's quite heavy. I think I would struggle to get this from one place to another by myself."

Read our full review of the Nuna Sena Aire

Padded edges
Triple-layered mattress
Comes with its own storage bag
Not as lightweight as other options

8. Graco Contour Electra

Best value travel cot.

www.boots.com

The Graco Contour is a good-value travel cot with lots of extra features. It comes with a toy bar and a handy removable changing table. It has a nightlight and musical feature, as well as the option to set the mattress to vibrate to help soothe your baby. There are four mesh sides so you can keep an eye on your little one, and also great for ventilation. It's heavy, but the wheels make it easy to manoeuvre, and it comes with its own carry bag.

Tested by mum Nicola: "This is quick and easy to assemble. It seems compact and fits really well in a smaller room without taking up lots of space. The mattress is very thin, and Amelia didn't sleep very well. The cream colour looks lovely, but I imagine it could get dirty very quickly. The changing unit is a great idea, but it's only suitable for use up to 12 months."

Tested by mum Kathryn: "One of the heaviest travel cots we tested, but it's a good size for an older baby – almost the same size as our normal cot. It's easy to assemble and put away and I like the neutral colour. The wheels make it very easy to move around, but you have to bend low to reach your baby. This would have been great for daytime naps when Olly was younger. Great value, too."

Read our full review of the Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

Compact fold
Has wheels for easy transporting
Removable changing table
Some reviewers struggled to assemble it

9. Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper

Best bassinet-style travel cot.

www.ebay.co.uk

We love the innovative way this travel cot converts between two different modes, with a bassinet level for younger babies to cot, and the fact that you can use it in either fixed or rocking mode. This travel cot is worth considering if you're really short on luggage space, as it's particularly compact once folded and one of the lightest travel cots we found. This is another top pick for newborns, so be aware you won't be able to use it much beyond six months old.

Mum, Eileen, reviewed: "This was the best purchase we made for our baby. We can't fit a cot in our bedroom and needed something that would last longer than the moses basket. Our little boy sleeps so well in it and it's so easy to pick it up and carry downstairs. We have travelled with it too and it folds down neatly."

Folds into storage bag
Legs can adjust to fix in position or allow for gentle rocking motion
Extremely lightweight
Only able to use until 6 months

10. Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

Best carrycot travel cot.

This is a really clever invention; it looks like a really spacious changing bag, but then off you pop for your overnight stay, take everything out of the bag, and it changes into a travel crib. It doesn't take long to assemble and comes with a padded mattress. It isn't as long-lasting as the other travel cots on our list, as it's really only suitable until baby is four to six months old or when they start rolling; it's the smallest travel cot but the most compact and easy to carry.

Tested by mum Jennifer: "The design is stylish and the item is extremely easy to use. The travel cot section folds out in a few seconds and the rods are easily inserted to make it very sturdy. This means a new mum (who has little time on her hands) can easily erect this in minutes. It is easily transported and takes up no more than a bag's room in the car or walking, so it can be taken anywhere. I have only used this at friends/ families homes but definitely would take it on weekends away or on holiday. It means I don't have to buy a big travel cot. It is also lightweight so don't have to worry about carrying something heavy."

Tested by mum Esther: "Designed as a travel sleeping pod, for nighttime and daytime naps, and a changing bag. It's intended to be quick to assemble and easy to use. I assembled it in a couple of minutes, it weighs as much as a bag or two of sugar and the bag would easily fit in amongst other items in a packed car. When assembled, the sleeping pod is a reasonable size, probably usable up to 4-6 months (unless your baby is rolling lots). We used the pod whilst away for the weekend and found it very useful, as we already had a travel cot packed for our older child and couldn't have fitted a second in the car."

Read our full review of the Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

Includes mosquito net
Can be used as a changing bag
Extremely compact and lightweight to carry
Long dispatch time currently

11. BabyDan Travel Cot

Best long-lasting travel cot.

This travel cot represents good value for money, especially because it can be used from birth up to approximately three years of age. It's also very sturdy, which means it doubles up as a playpen for smaller babies. And although fairly large, it features wheels and a brake to make it easier to transport. The cot also comes with a small toy bag attached, which could be useful for storing nappies or other baby essentials when you're on the move and away from home.

Reviewer Sophie said: "This is an excellent travel cot. The cot is incredibly easy for one person to put up and can be fully set up and usable within minutes. Folding the cot away is just as simple; and it folds down into such a compact size which is then stored in a carry case that it is easy to stow away. I would recommend this cot for a number of reasons: It is lightweight, compact, it is a full size cot, can be used as a playpen, it is simple to errect and dismantle, it is very strong and sturdy, my baby loves to be in it, it has a useful storage pouch at one end. I intially set the cot up in the sitting room as a play pen/nap time cot. It is a full size cot so does take up some room but it means that the cot will last for several years before the baby outgrows it."

Read our full review of the Baby Dan Travel Cot

Includes a small bag
Sturdy and secure with brake
Heavier than others

12. Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Best simple travel cot.

direct.asda.com

The Sleeptight Travel Cot is an award-winning sleep solution from Red Kite. Stored in a carry bag, the Sleeptight Travel Cot is lightweight and compact folding. It is the perfect choice for holidays, visiting friends and family or for your own home.

Mum Kat said: "Having now used this multiple times, I'm really impressed with it - it's good quality and not too bulky when folded so fits easily into my small car boot along with all the other baby paraphernalia needed for a night away! It's really easy to put up and take down and it's so helpful that the instructions are printed onto the underside of the mattress - what a great idea (these sleep-deprived parents are very grateful for this design feature!) You must put it up/take it down in the right order or you will struggle to get it folded correctly. My baby has always slept well in it on various nights and weeks away. We use a waterproof sheet and cot sheet on top of the mattress, job done! For the price paid, it's exceptionally good value. 10/10!"

Central locking base for extra safety
Easy to fold and store in the storage bag
See-through mesh sides
Mattress is very thin

13. Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Best 4 in 1 travel cot.

Rrp: £ 139.99

A practical trade cot which also doubles as a playpen, cradle and everyday cot, the SOFI is a great purchase. It is suitable for babies and toddlers from birth to 15kg and it's lightweight and wash to fold, plus it includes a storage bag which makes it easy to carry when travelling. The SOFI has mesh sides to ensure you can see your little one and for good airflow. It also comes with a mattress and cover and the frame can be used as a rocking frame too.

One reviewer said: "Slightly narrower than some travel cots, but that was what we needed as it is going to be the cot for when our new grandson stays with us and it needed to fit in the spare room. I love that it is on 2 levels so suitable for a new born as well as a toddler, though not sure if grandson will fit past the age of 2. It is so easy to fold and put up and comes in a cover so can be stored under another bed. Also great that while you use the top level, things can be stored underneath. It looks very stylish too. Only slight problem is the fitting of sheets. It is fiddly and you need to lift the mattress to be able to fit the sheet and tuck it in. But it is doable, so very happy with purchase."

Can be used with or without rocking function
Mattress can be used at two different levels
Looks stylish
Slightly narrower than standard travel cots

Travel cots – All you need to know:

Choosing the right travel cot for you and your child.

Think about where and when you'll use a travel cot. If you are throwing it in the car boot when you're going to Granny's, check how bulky it is when folded and make sure it fits along with your pushchair and still leaves enough room for your luggage. If you're buying for your holiday and you'll be travelling to your destination by plane, boat or other public transport, choose one that folds very compactly to make it easier to pack. Consider, too, where you'll keep it at home when it's not in use.

Unpacking your travel cot after a long journey with a tired baby can be stressful, so choose something quick and easy to set up. Some travel cots can be assembled and folded with one hand, which is a lifesaver if you're holding your baby.

Some travel cots are designed to double as playpens , creating somewhere safe for your baby to play when she's awake. This is useful when you're away from home, especially if you're staying somewhere that's less baby-friendly, without any baby-proofing products , than your normal environment. This type of travel cot has added value as you can get more use out of it than a standard travel cot but check the manufacturer's guidelines before you buy to ensure it's safe to use as a playpen.

Features to consider before purchasing a travel cot

Here are some travel cot features to look out for when deciding on which travel cot is best for you and your baby.

Travel cots come with a mattress supplied, but some are comfier than others. Check how thick it is and whether it provides enough support for a good night's sleep. If not, thicker travel cot mattresses can be purchased separately – but that's an extra expense and something else to pack!

Fold mechanism

As well as checking how simple it is to assemble the travel cot, make sure you can fold it away again easily. Could you do it in a hurry if you're dashing to the airport? If you have older children, make sure inquisitive little fingers can't access the mechanism for folding the travel cot when it's in use.

Most travel cots have mesh sides to encourage airflow and enable you to see your baby easily when they're sleeping. Check the quality of the fabric and how easy it is to wipe clean.

If you want to move the cot elsewhere in the house for daytime naps or playpen use, choose one with wheels for easy manoeuvrability.

Standard cot bedding may not fit your travel cot, so check what size bedding is required and factor in any extra expense. Make sure the bedding fits the mattress securely with no loose fabric.

Choose a travel cot with side panels that zip open and closed if you'd like to be able to reach your baby without bending low over the side of the cot. If it doubles as a playpen, a 'window' to crawl through can add to the fun.

If you plan to travel with your baby to a climate where mosquitoes might bother them, choose a travel cot with an insect net, and check it fits the travel cot securely.

What age are travel cots advised for?

Travel cots come in a variety of sizes and styles, and they all have different upper age and/or weight limits. Consider how old your child will be when using the travel cot, and choose one suitable for their age. Most of the travel cots in our list above can be used from birth until your baby weighs 15kg, which is approximately three years old. Keep in mind that once your baby makes the transition from sleeping in a cot to a bed, they'll probably prefer a bed to a travel cot when away from home overnight.

Can I travel on a plane with a travel cot?

Yes! Although all airlines will have their own rules on luggage allowances, but if you are flying with a baby then typically parents of infants are allowed to take at least two items - e.g. travel cot, buggy or car seat - at no extra cost.

If you're buying a travel cot to take on holiday and are travelling by plane, boat or train, choose one that folds as compactly as possible to make it easier to transport. If you're driving, make sure it fits in your car boot and still leaves enough room for the rest of your luggage.

Think about where you'll keep the travel cot when it's not in use, too. If space is not an issue, you could look into the larger options available.

All travel cots are designed to be light enough to carry, but some are heavier than others, and there's generally a pay-off between how light it is and how durable it is.

If you'll be carrying it a lot on your journey, such as through an airport, then weight may take priority, but if you've got a cruising toddler, and throwing the cot in a big boot is about the extent of your lugging it around, then a sturdier, perhaps heavier, cot would be better.

How to assemble a travel cot

Wrestling with an unwieldy travel cot and a tired baby after a long journey is stress you really don't need in your life, so choose one that doesn't require an engineering degree to set up. While how to put up a travel cot differs depending on the brand, some can be assembled and folded away within seconds, even with one hand– and that's a really helpful feature if you're going to be assembling it with your baby or other children in tow.

Where can I buy a travel cot?

Whether you need one pronto or want to spend your time researching the perfect travel cot, there are plenty of places where you can pick one. We'd recommend these trusted retailers that offer great products and plenty of reviews so you can make sure you're buying the right one for your little one:

John Le wis

Mamas & Papas

Supermarkets also hold baby events where you can often pick up travel cots and other accessories for a great price. These include:

Can I buy a travel cot second-hand?

If you're looking to buy a second-hand travel cot, there are a few things to check before you make your purchase:

• Check that it assembles and folds down correctly

• Make sure it's sturdy

• Make sure the seller provides you with the original instruction booklet

It's also worth purchasing a new mattress for the travel cot

How to clean your travel cot

If your travel cot has been tucked away in the loft for a few years and it smells a bit musty, or your child has turned it into a bit of a mess, a good tip for cleaning is to use warm soapy water and a sponge.

Make sure to leave it out in the fresh air and sunlight to dry.

Travel cot safety

There are a number of safety aspects to check on your travel cot for your peace of mind.

Stability: Be sure to use the mattress that comes with the cot, as changing it could affect the stability of the cot and could make it easier to tip.

Escaping: Swapping for a thicker mattress could give your tot more height and make it easier for them to escape.

Corners: Be wary of how smooth corners are - make sure there is no chance of your baby's clothes getting caught on them to avoid any chance of strangulation.

Flexible sides: Pop-up-style tents may be easy to erect and dismantle; however, the flexible sides mean that if you were to stumble onto the cot, there would be no ridged sides to stop your fall.

Zips: Make sure you check all zips are secure, as any loose zips that become unattached could potentially become choking hazards.

Wheels: The wheels must be able to securely lock into place or have two wheels and two legs for sturdiness.

Test it out: Make sure you try it out before you travel to check all of the above safety aspects.

Safe sleeping in a travel cot

The general consensus is that you need to be following the same sleeping guidance for your baby in a travel cot as you would at home.

Here's what The Lullaby Trust have to say:

"The same 'safer sleep' rules apply to a travel cot, which should have a rigid frame and base, and a firm, flat mattress, covered in a waterproof material. Travel cot mattresses are often thinner and feel harder than those in a permanent cot, but don't be tempted to place folded blankets or a quilt under the baby to make them 'more comfortable'. If you are very tight for space, you may have to consider re-arranging the furniture in the room to ensure that the travel cot isn't against a radiator, in direct sunlight, and is out of reach of blind cords and hazards."

How we tested and chose these travel cots

Every year, our panel of real mums tests and reviews parenting products such as travel cots for the annual Mother&Baby Awards.

Our list of the best car seats for travel cots comes recommended by like-minded parents – who have experienced these car seats personally.

The Mother&Baby Awards parent testers are provided with some guidelines while testing, so that they take into consideration four key areas: usability, design, quality and value for money. We ask them to score each of these out of 10, as well as give their overall impression of the product.

Find out more about how we test and what considerations we take into account in our testing process.

A number of the travel cots in our list are also previous Mother&Baby Awards shortlisters and winners.

E mily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

UK Politics
News Videos
Paris 2024 Olympics
Rugby Union
Sport Videos
John Rentoul
Mary Dejevsky
Andrew Grice
Sean O’Grady
Photography
Theatre & Dance
Culture Videos
Food & Drink
Health & Families
Royal Family
Electric Vehicles
Car Insurance deals
Lifestyle Videos
UK Hotel Reviews
News & Advice
Simon Calder
Australia & New Zealand
South America
C. America & Caribbean
Middle East
Politics Explained
News Analysis
Today’s Edition
Home & Garden
Broadband deals
Fashion & Beauty
Travel & Outdoors
Sports & Fitness
Sustainable Living
Climate Videos
Solar Panels
Behind The Headlines
On The Ground
Decomplicated
You Ask The Questions
Binge Watch
Travel Smart
Watch on your TV
Crosswords & Puzzles
Most Commented
Newsletters
Ask Me Anything
Virtual Events
Betting Sites
Online Casinos
Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?

11 best travel cots for hassle-free holidays and overnight stays

Help little ones (and yourself) get some shut-eye with these best-rated snug and secure travel cots, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

All of the travel cots in this round-up meet the European Standards for safety – your first consideration when buying a travel bed

Sign up to our free weekly newsletter for insider tips and product reviews from our shopping experts

Babies don’t travel light. But if you’re planning a relaxing trip, whether it’s a UK staycation or something more exotic , you can’t skimp on the travel cot.

While some hotels and Airbnbs promise to provide travel cots for the tiniest members of the family, you’ve no idea how many children have slept on them before your little darlings, or predict what that means for how comfortable and sturdy they are. Taking a baby out of their usual safe, strong cot with a supportive mattress and putting them in a shaky cage with a rock-hard or spiky mattress is a fast way to ensure nobody in the family gets much shut-eye.

Different travel cots have different age and weight limits, so, before buying one, consider how many years of use you want to get from your cot. Size is another key factor when looking at travel cots, as those with a larger surface area can double up as a playpen in the day. Also, if you’re in unfamiliar territory and are travelling with a mini-escape artist, a travel cot with high mesh sides means you can see your child and they can see out, but they’re perfectly safe at all times.

However, size should not come at the expense of portability. Remember, you’re going to have a lot of other things to carry as well as the cot, and every extra kilo counts. Plus, heavier cots tend to be more effort to erect and collapse, and you don’t want to waste precious moments of your holiday in a sweaty mess trying to put up your travel cot.

All products in this round-up meet the European Standards for safety, which should always be your first consideration when buying a travel cot. Christina Rolles from safe sleep charity The Lullaby Trust says: “A travel cot should have a rigid frame and base, and a firm, flat mattress, covered in a waterproof material. Travel cot mattresses are often thinner and feel harder than those in a permanent cot, but don’t be tempted to place folded blankets or a quilt under the baby to make them more comfortable, as this could cause injury, suffocation or overheating.”

The best travel cots for 2024 are:

Best travel cot overall – Graco foldlite: £80, Amazon.co.uk
Best budget travel cot – Red Kite sleep tight travel cot: £27, Asda.com
Best travel cot for entertaining baby – Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce: £190, Boots.com
Best lightweight travel cot – BabyBjörn travel cot light: £219.90, Amazon.co.uk
Best travel cot for breathability – Nuna sena aire: £250, Nunababy.eu.uk

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

Graco foldlite travel cot

Best : Travel cot overall
Dimensions : L 119cm x W 63.5cm x H 68cm
Weight : 6.78kg
Age limit : Suitable from birth to 15kg (approximately three years old)
Lightweight
Easy to erect and collapse
Strong base

The foldlite from Graco is up to 30 per cent lighter than most other cots, which we definitely noticed and appreciated – you can easily lift it one-handed. You might even find it lighter than your nappy bag, which is a win if you’re carrying a lot of other luggage for your trip.

Erecting this cot was a joy – taking less than 30 seconds. All you need to do is unwrap the mattress, push up the sides, put the mattress in the bottom and it’s ready to go. Collapsing it is just as simple – it folds up super thin, too. We also liked the sturdy material and strong base. It’s a great price at £80 and it’s made to last.

Red Kite sleep tight travel cot

Best : Budget travel cot
Dimensions : L101cm x W72cm x H71cm
Weight : 7.1kg
Age limit : Suitable from birth to 15kg
Budget-friendly
Mattress quite stiff

This is the cheapest travel cot we tried but it’s perfectly functional. It’s safety-tested, comes with a carry bag, is easy to assemble and has mesh sides, to give you a clear view of your child as they rest or sleep.

It doesn’t win any prizes for design, as there are no frills – it’s simply a place to sleep. Plus, the mattress is a tad on the stiff side, so you may want to spend some of the money you’ve saved on the cost of the cot on a plumper mattress. However, it’s still a very good choice if you’re only going to use it now and then throughout the year.

Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce

Best : For entertaining baby
Dimensions : L106cm x W70.5cm x H80cm
Weight : 14.8kg
Excellent value for money

This is a travel cot, changing table and bouncer in one, so you can create a home from home for your baby when you travel. The bouncer is a decent size, providing a place to relax and play for babies too young to sit up. It even has cuddly toys for little ones to reach and grab.

The starry print, which is exclusive to Mamas & Papas, gives the smallest babies something to look at to help them make sense of the world, and this also helps older kids relax. We suggest counting the stars on the mattress to encourage early numeracy skills in a fun way.

This cot is taller than most others we tried, which is great if you have a mini Houdini. It makes for an excellent play and sleep solution to keep at grandparents’ house and works out at excellent value for money, when you consider it’s three useful items in one.

BabyBjörn travel cot light

Best : Lightweight cot
Dimenions : L 112cm x W 82cm x H 64cm
Weight : 6kg
Age limit : Suitable from birth to three years
Easy to set-up
Kind to sensitive skin

This gets top marks for ease of setup. There’s no need to bend down or fiddle with anything on the floor – all you need to do is shake it out and then secure the sides. There’s a handy YouTube video showing how to put it up in just 25 seconds, and the presenter demonstrates it isn’t even going at top speed.

Weighing just 6kg, including the carry bag, your back will thank you when you’re taking it in and out of cars or planes. Our toddler tester approved of the mattress, which makes for a cosy sleeping place. But what we liked most about this cot is knowing that its fabric is OEKO-TEX-approved, which means all materials coming into contact with your baby’s skin are kind to sensitive skin.

Nuna sena aire

Best : For breathability
Dimenions : L107cm x W73.5cm x H74.5cm
Weight : 12.26kg
Soft and sturdy

If you’re all sharing a bedroom when you travel, it may get stuffy very quickly, especially if it isn’t an air-conditioned room. We like how the Nuna sena aire addresses this issue with its mesh sides, floor and mattress providing 360 degrees of ventilation, for ultimate airflow. The better a child can breathe, the deeper they sleep, giving everyone a more relaxing trip.

We were really impressed by the feel of the triple-layered mattress, which is designed to pull away heat and humidity, and will come in useful if you’re jetting off to tropical climes.

Its clever zigzag leg design pops open easily into a soft, sturdy dreamland and it’s one of the easiest to collapse – we found we could do it one-handed.

Silver Cross slumber carbon travel cot

Best : For style
Dimensions : L 112cm x W 80cm x H 67cm
Weight : 6.25kg
Newborn inserts

The first thing to note is this comes with a premium duffle bag carry case, so you’ll look stylish when you arrive at your destination. Open the cot – with ease, as it weighs just 6.25kg – and you’ll notice the material on the top and sides feels very high-quality. The decently padded mattress caused our two-year-old to exclaim, “I like ’dis one!”

We really liked the newborn insert, which raises very young babies to typical bed height, so you don’t have to break your back lifting them in and out of the cot. It also makes it easier to nurse a baby and transfer them back to a cot. If you’re using this as a playpen, you’ll also appreciate that one of the sides unzips, so tots can crawl in and out.

Kinderkraft lovi 3-in-1 baby crib

Best : For fussy babies
Dimensions : L 88cm x W 61cm x H 85cm
Weight : 5kg
Age limit : Suitable from birth to 9kg
Rocking motion
Time-consuming to set-up
Newborns will outgrow it

While it takes a bit of time to erect this travel cot and rocker, there’s a very good YouTube video to show you the process. You can access it via a QR code on the instruction leaflet included, and it’s very simple to follow along.

The rocking motion is brilliant for little ones that need movement to settle, mimicking the gentle swaying motion of the womb. Babies are at a higher level in this cot, too, so you can pick them up and settle them down without pulling a muscle.

The only slight downside to this cot is that a baby will outgrow it within the year. That said, our youngest tester loved playing with the toy bar and three adorable hanging toys that come with it, so, while their time in it may be short, it will also be very sweet.

Bugaboo stardust travel cot

Best : Two-in-one cot and playpen
Dimensions : L 64cm x W 98cm x H 85cm
Weight : 6.7kg
Age limit : Suitable from birth to two years old
Keep its shape well
Newborn insert
Mattress is a little fir

Setting up this pop-up travel cot was a total breeze, despite how tall and strudy it is once erected. We were surprised by how much the mattress kept it’s solid shape, with no crease or fold from being flat-packed within the cot and travel bag.

Mums will be grateful for the newborn insert, which raises babies to bed level. The breathable mesh is ideal for all seasons to keep baby’s temperature regulated.

The mattress is nicely padded for playtime but feels a little firm for bedtime. When topped with a matrress protector and Bugaboo’s breathable fitted sheet (£27.95, Bugaboo.com ), we nailed baby’s recquirements for a peaceful snooze. You really do get more bang for your buck with this travel cot, as it doubles up as a playpen and lasts until your little one is two years old.

Halo flex portable bassinet

Best : Portable bedside crib
Dimensions : L75cm x W100.3cm x H108.6cm
Age limit : Suitable from birth to five months

A lightweight and portable bedside crib is hard to come by, so, we were very grateful Halo’s offering ticked a lot of boxes for parents to get that reassuring ‘home away from home’ feeling when on the move.

It can be a daunting experience taking a little one away for the first time, especially when they are used to co-sleeping at home. We were delighted that this bassinet meant babies could feel just as close to their parents as they do at home. The mattress is extra soft when wrapped in Halo’s 100 per cent cotton fitted sheet (£16.64, Halosleep.co.uk ), and the cot is surrounded by breathable lining to suit all temperatures, and enable parents to keep a 360 view of baby.

We have to admit, we did use this more at home than on our travels, as it was so easy to adjust the height of the crib for when you’re sitting on the sofa during the day or when you’re sleeping at night and want to comfort your baby quickly. The side of the crib lowers easily, with no need to stand up or hunch over. This is particularly helpful for mums recovering from C-section delivery as well as for night feeds.

An over-the-shoulder carry bag comes included but it is less sturdy than other holdalls we’ve tested, and one side is partially open, due to its drawstring closing, which didn’t feel as secure. The packing away was a simple enough four-step process.

Fisher-Price on the go travel baby dome

Best : For on-the-go parents
Dimensions : L80cm x W76cm x H71cm
Weight : 2.5kg
Age limit : Suitable from birth to five months (until babies can sit unaided)

This travel cot combines the perfect solution for on-the-go parents and tired babies. It’s lightweight, easy to set up and allows babies to nap or play wherever they are.

We love that this cot can be used indoors and outdoors, to encourage the whole family to get more vitamin D. The canopy keeps your little one protected from the sun as well as keeping out creepy crawlies.

As it folds up flat, we found it easy to keep it stored in the car for spontaneous day trips and overnight stays with the grandparents. However, it doesn’t come with a carry bag, which would have made it easier to keep clean and compact. Two overhead linking toys are included, to keep your baby entertained and relaxed.

ergoPouch easy sleep portable crib

Best : For summer use
Dimensions : L80cm x W49cm x H27cm
Weight : 2.2kg
Age limit : Suitable from birth to 9kg (or when baby starts rolling over)
Ideal for summer
Short-lived usage

You can’t get any more portable than this lightweight pop-up cot that folds up as a small rucksack and weighs just 2.2kg. The mosquito net is ideal for summer babies, if you want to get some fresh air and let them have a safe daytime nap outdoors.

If you are travelling with a baby less than three months old on a flight, we recommend taking this one for sleeping on-the-go, if you get the luxury of seats with extra leg room. The backpack will fit neatly under your seat or in the overhead lockers.

The only downfall is this bassinet is only suitable until your baby shows signs of rolling over, so it’s quite a hefty price for short-lived use.

Travel cot FAQs

What age is a travel cot for.

This will depend on the cot you buy – bassinets are designed for newborns up to three months old, while larger options are available for children up to five years old.

Can a baby sleep in a travel cot every night?

It’s not recommended to use a travel cot regularly for a long period of time, as they’re not designed to support your baby’s development. Instead, limit their use for short trips away and daytime naps.

What to look for when buying a travel cot

You already have enough to think about while travelling with your baby, so the best cots are hassle-free. They should be easy to assemble, collapse and store, while the addition of wheels and a carry bag should make cots easier to transport from A to B. If you’re shopping for a newborn up to three months old, a bassinet is the way to go – these are raised, to give you a clearer view of your little one during the night, while you can lift them up without the risk of throwing out your back.

Do travel cots need a mattress?

Yes – the cots themselves are thin and hard, so a mattress is essential, though most of our top picks come with a mattress included.

The verdict: Travel cots

The Graco foldlite is excellent value for a lightweight cot that’s easy to erect and collapse, and we felt both our seven-month-old and two-year-old testers were safe in there. It will grow with your child, and provide a secure place to sleep and play for up to three years.

The BabyBjörn travel cot light also deserves praise for ease of setup and for the comfort of its mattress, while the Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot solves three of a baby’s needs – sleep, play and hygiene – in one neat package.

Provide extra comfort by investing in the best cot mattresses

Voucher Codes

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

My Independent Premium
Account details
Help centre

12 of the best travel cots 2024 for babies and toddlers

Our pick of the best cot and bassinet options to provide your baby or toddler with a portable sleeping space for travel, put to the test by parents

Janet Martin
Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on pinterest
Share on whatsapp
Share on reddit
Share on tumblr

Travel cots are portable, safe places for babies and toddlers to sleep when away from home. They’re lightweight, have collapsible sides and fold into a portable format with a carry handle, making them great for holidays, breaks and overnight stays.

We’ve analysed the travel cot market and rigorously tested a range of different models to find the best ones for your family. Whether you're looking for something safe for a newborn, or a roomy cot for an older toddler, you'll find it here. Some travel cots can also be used as playpens for a baby, although, if you're looking specifically for a playpen check out our best playpens for babies and toddlers . For cosy bedding inspiration, take a look at our list – tried and tested by real parents and their kids. If you're traveling somewhere hot with your little ones, take a look at our selection of the best pram fans .

Why do I need a travel cot?

One of the main benefits of travel cots are their portability. Regular cots are often made of wood and to disassemble and put in a car or suitcase would be quite a task! With a travel cot disassembly is usually a matter of a few minutes (or even seconds) and some of the travel cots on our list fold small enough to fit in a suitcase or overhead locker alongside the stroller.

Travel cots are an on-the-go sleeping option that means you won’t have to rely on sleeping arrangements at your destination. For frequent travellers they can be as familiar to little ones as their regular bed; helping to aid sleep in a different environment.

Best travel cots at a glance

Best travel cot for easy assembly: Bugaboo Stardust, £168.75
Best lightweight travel cot for a good mattress: Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £109.99
Best multi-use travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Cot, £150
Best travel cot for added extras: Graco Contour Electra, £115.99
Best budget buy travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £35
Best travel cot for versatile features: Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot, £79.95
Best travel cot for occasional use: Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £65
Best travel cot for newborns: Joie Kubbie Sleep, £99
Best budget travel cot for co-sleeping: Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £65
Best travel cot for versatile newborn co-sleeping: Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £159.20
Best travel cot for no upper weight limit: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £187
Best stylish travel cot: Tutti Bambini CoZee Go 3-in-1 Bassinet, Travel Cot & Playpen, £129

What to look for when buying a travel cot

Portability — Travel cots have lighter-weight components and are designed to be easily carried and stored. But they're still cots, so none of them are going to fold into a truly tiny package. They fold into different shapes so look for the folded style that suits your needs. Some of the travel cots on our list fold into a long rectangular shape more suited to public transport, others fold flat to fit in a car boot.

More like this

Weight — Travel cots vary significantly in weight - we found some that are under 7kg and others that weigh in at a hefty 11kg. Think about how often you’re going to use it, and if you’ll be lifting it up and down stairs or in and out of a car. If you want frequent use, a super lightweight travel cot may suit you best. Of course, a heavier cot is likely to feel more sturdy and offer more functionality.

Ease of assembly/disassembly — Once you have the knack, putting a travel cot up and down should be a very quick process - a matter of minutes, if not seconds. Do read the instructions though, many have a knack and have parts that need to be put together in a very specific order.

Sign up to receive our Most Wanted newsletter

By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy . You can unsubscribe at any time.

Age suitability — Age suitability really varies for travel cots. Most can be used from birth – we’ve specified the manufacturer’s instructions – but the travel cots that have a built-in bassinet offer a cosier, elevated sleep environment for newborns. Some even have drop-down sides to allow them to be used as a bedside crib. Some cots can only be used for a few months while others are suitable up to around 3.5 years.

Mattress — Travel cot mattresses tend to be thinner and harder than normal cot mattresses. This is partly to enable a compact fold and easy storage, and is why travel cots are usually not recommended for permanent overnight sleep. But remember, a firm mattress is important for safe sleep for your baby, and doesn’t mean your child won’t be comfortable. Most manufacturers will state that you shouldn't add an extra mattress to a travel cot.

Extra functions — Some travel cots can serve as a handy playpen once babies can sit up. Some also have a changing station, which could be useful if you’re frequently travelling with a baby.

How, when and where will you use your travel cot?

Do you plan to use the travel cot frequently during the year, or do you need it for a particular holiday? The frequency and location of where you’ll use it will help when considering weight, functionality and budget. For example, if the travel cot will be used for overnight stays at relatives or friends every month, you won’t need to worry too much about weight and the ease of assembly – especially if it can remain constructed.

For holidays in hot climates, a breathable mattress and all-around mesh panel are factors to consider. These help with air circulation and will provide a more comfortable environment for your child to sleep. Some travel cots include or offer the option of an insect net and sun protection.

For travel involving flights, it’s worth investigating your airline’s baggage allowances. A light, compact-folding model with easy assembly could be your best solution.

How much does a travel cot cost?

Our list covers travel cot prices ranging from £30 up to £200 - so quite a wide scope. For items at all price points, we expect a safe, comfortable and stable sleeping environment.

When looking at budget options, our reviewers found that they certainly did the trick and functioned well as a travel cot but were quite basic with limited added extras. For example, you shouldn’t expect a changing station included on a lower priced travel cot.

When considering more high-end travel cots we still expect good value (not overpriced), premium components and extra thought on a design that will make traveling with kids a breeze. Also, the more often you travel, the easier it is to get your money’s worth out of a more expensive travel cot.

The mid-range options on our list – priced under £100 include many great benefits and may tick quite a few boxes but without some of the lush extras of more expensive models.

Here are the best travel cots for 2024

1. bugaboo stardust, £168.75, – best for easy assembly.

Suitable from: birth (with newborn insert) to 2 years| Travel cot weight: 6.7kg | Unfolded dimensions: L64cm x W98cm x H85cm| Folded dimensions: L 65cm x W14cm x H85cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

Forget tricky folds, the pop-up style mechanism of the Bugaboo Stardust takes just seconds: simply pull the cot open from flat by pulling both sides. It’s perfect for a hassle-free bedtime when you’re not in the comfort of your own home.

It conveniently folds back down in the same amount of time, too, although it is worth noting this model folds down to a large flat shape, like a suitcase, making better suited to sliding into a car boot or under a bed than taking on public transport.

Along with the ease of assembly, the built-in mattress is what you pay for with this model: it's not only comfortable but can be adjusted to two height positions (with the newborn insert) making it easier to lift out newborns and babies not yet sitting up unaided. This is particularly handy if you’re prone to back problems or have just had a C-section. The mattress can be folded down inside the cot, meaning no extra assembly is required.

Although one of the priciest travel cots on our list, the Stardust can still deliver great value if you’re using your travel cot regularly with your baby. MFM home tester Rovenna, who tried it with her 4-month-old, said, "The fact it has both a raised zip in baby bassinet or a deep bed for toddlers – as well as a comfortable and generously filled built in mattress – is fantastic. It’s compact and lightweight, meaning it can be easily moved from room to room and transported in its handy carry bag.”

Pros : Quickest to assemble, two mattress height positions Cons : Quite large when folded

Available from: Bugaboo , Boots and John Lewis

2. Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £109.99

– best for lightweight with good mattress.

Suitable from: birth to 3 years | Travel cot weight: 6kg | Unfolded dimensions: L85cm x W55cm x H66cm| Folded dimensions: 60cm x 15cm x 50cm | Newborn bassinet: No

This travel cot is very lightweight, comfortable and easy to carry. It's available in a number of colours and features mesh panels on all sides. The mesh means that you can get a great view of your baby or toddler, while also ensuring good air circulation at night time.

Travel cot mattresses are often the feature that parents are least satisfied with, as they are often thin and flimsy. However, the Airpod travel cot has a better quality, more luxurious mattress than you might expect. Although the Cuggl Deluxe is very similar and quite a bit cheaper in price, we found that the mattress in this travel cot was of much higher quality.

Although this cot doesn't have an all-in-one pop-up assembly, it's still easy to put up and down, so much so that some of our home tester parents didn’t need the instructions. “It was very easy to remove from the carry case and put the cot together.” said MFM home tester Sarah. “It was also easy to take apart and put back into the travel case. No fiddling or spare parts. The easiest baby item I have actually put together.”

The Airpod Travel Cot is suitable from birth, but it doesn't come with a bassinet, something that you might prefer for a newborn. Offering a good amount of room, the travel cot can also be used as a play pen, and offers a comfy night's sleep for babies and toddlers.

Pros : Easy to build and collapse, mesh design, good mattress Cons : No newborn bassinet, can’t be used as playpen

Available from: Amazon and Venture

3. Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1, £150

– best multi-function travel cot.

Suitable from: birth (with newborn insert) to approx. 3 years (up to 9kg) | Travel cot weight: 7.65kg | Unfolded dimensions: 112 x 80 x 67cm| Newborn bassinet: Included

If you're looking for a multi-use travel cot that will grow with your child from birth, then the Silver Cross Slumber is a stylish design that offers 3-in-1 functionality in one portable package. Made of breathable mesh with a padded mattress included, the Slumber has three distinct uses as a bedside co-sleeper, travel cot and playpen.

Zip in the newborn insert to create a bedside crib suitable from birth until approximately 6 months old. The newborn insert sits at the top of the cot, meaning your baby will be at the height of your bed - although these is no option to drop the side in this mode as with some bedside cribs.

As your baby grows, you can use the Slumber as lightweight travel cot, using the same mattress. A waterproof carry case is included to allow for easy portability on the go. You can also use the Slumber as a secure play pen, and there's a zip-open door your toddler can crawl in and out when they are older.

At 7.65kg it’s a lightweight design that can be transported easily and stored away when not in use. The Slumber also has an easy fold function meaning it can pop up and fold down quickly. For eco-conscious parents, Slumber features quilted material crafted using a yarn made from recycled plastic bottles that would have otherwise been sent to landfill. It looks good too, with an attractive, minimalistic design. This is a useful product that will grow with your child and a stylish option from a trusted brand.

The Silver Cross Slumber is available in two different colourways, carbon and stone.

Pros: 3-in-1 functionality, lightweight, will grow with your child, sustainable fabric, stylish minimal design Cons: Additional functionality if you just need a single-use travel cot, not the smallest when assembled

Available from: John Lewis

4. Graco Contour Electra, £89.99

– best for added extras.

Suitable from: birth to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 10kg | Unfolded dimensions: H:91cm W:73cm D:104cm| Folded dimensions: H:85cm D:23cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

If you're looking for a travel cot that will do double or even triple duty, this could be the product for you. The Graco Contour Electra comes bursting with added extras, including practical additions like a cot-top changing unit, and fun ones like the mobile and battery-operated unit that plays tunes and vibrates the cot.

MFM home tester Jessica said, “ The Graco Electra travel cot has proven to be a lovely cot for my 5 month old son. It folds up to an easily transportable, small travel bag and has lovely extras such as the hanging toy bar and night light which are well thought out."

There's a newborn bassinet that fastens in to keep tiny babies close, and the whole unit is on wheels so it can be moved easily. It's definitely not the lightest product on our list, but remove any accessories you're not using (such as the changer or bassinet) and this significantly reduces the weight to make it easier to move or carry.

Pros : Lots of accessories, good newborn bassinet Cons : Heavy, can be difficult to transport

Read our full MadeForMums Graco Contour Electra review

Available from: Smyths and Graco

5. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £35

– best budget buy.

The cheapest cot on our list, the Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable but sturdy option. The mattress, as you'd expect, is quite thin, so if you do look to buy an additional one, take note of the dimensions and ensure anything you buy is the correct size. It must be a snug fit with no gaps around the edges.

Where this travel cot does excel is the ease of assembly. “Once you have pulled up the handle in the bottom and un-assembled the cot, it is very easy to fold shut and put into the carry-bag,” stated our MFM reviewer Jessica, who called it “hassle-free and very quick.” Travel cots of this type usually have an order in which each section has to be assembled (or taken down), so pay close attention to the instructions.

This cot's purse-friendly price point doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality – you’ll find plenty of useful design features like a full padded top rail and mesh sides to provide visibility and air flow. Our MFM reviewer and parent testers also found it felt robust once built. One parent tester said, “It feels secure, with the side bars locking in place, and is sturdy enough to accommodate a lively toddler.”

Pros : Affordable, easy to assemble Cons : Mattress may need replacing

Read our full MadeForMums review of the Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot

Available from: Amazon and Halfords

6. Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot, £79.95

– best for versatile features.

Suitable from: birth to 15kg (approx 3.5 years) | Travel cot weight: 8.5kg | Unfolded dimensions: L125cm x W68.5cm x H82cm| Folded dimensions: L22cm x W21cm x H76.5cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

The Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot has all the bells and whistles for under £100. This includes a changing mat that can stay attached but out of the way, high and low sleeping positions (reducing back strain), a zip-down side panel for a fun playpen adventure (crawl in – crawl out) and a fun design with pops of colour.

For ease of moving about, it also has two wheels when folded up that means you can pull it along like a suitcase – genius!

With an extremely impressive 4.5 stars out of over 7000 reviews on Amazon, it’s safe to say the German brand has come out on top. Customer reviews repeatedly mention good value and great quality. “It is quite heavy but that gives it the stability, we also purchased the extra mattress for when we need to use it for a bed,” said one parent review on Amazon. The heavier weight and insufficient mattress were echoed by other reviewers too.

Bargain hunters will be happy to hear that despite the £79.95 RRP, we’ve seen online deals for less than £60 - which would make this option a superb return on investment.

Pros : Changing table included, can wheel along when folded Cons : Needs an additional mattress

Available from: Boots , Amazon and Online4Baby

7. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £65

– best for occasional use.

Suitable from: birth to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 6kg | Unfolded dimensions: L85 cm x W56cm x H86m| Folded dimensions: L50cm x W61cm x H15cm| Newborn bassinet: No

Coming in at only 6kg, this is one of the lightest travel cots on our list, and also one of the most affordable. If you're looking for an all-rounder for occasional use during the first couple of years of your child's life, it's a good value option that performs well. It can be constructed in minutes and folds up to a suitcase size, although it's sadly not quite small enough to take as hand luggage on a plane.

The built-in mattress is 2.5cm deep, putting it on a par with most travel cot mattresses but perhaps not up there with the likes of the Bugaboo Stardust. Overall, the cot is smaller in size than some other options, but that means it folds up smaller too. The weight limit of 15kg means most toddlers will have grown out of it by about 2.5 years old. If you're looking for longevity beyond that, the Venture TravelPod and the Micralite Sleep 'n' Go have a slightly longer lifespan, but will cost you a little more.

Pros : Lightweight, folds up small, easy to assemble, affordable Cons : Mattress isn't the best, small footprint, low weight limit

Available from: Argos

8. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot, £99

– best for newborns.

For parents who want a travel cot from birth – perhaps to keep at a family member or caregiver's house – the Joie Kubbie Sleep combines the functionality of a travel cot with that of a bedside crib, with a drop-down side operated by a button that allows easier access to a newborn while in bassinet mode. It does sit quite high up so the exact functionality will differ depending on the type of bed you have, but in those early days when mum is healing it could be a lifesaver.

"One of the great features of the Joie Kubbie Sleep travel cot is that it can be used beside the bed once its straps are attached to the bed, and its side is dropped," said MFM reviewer Dominic, who tested this with his newborn daughter. He was also impressed with the durability, saying, "I’m really impressed with the quality of the build, despite the ‘sticky’ mechanics. Once assembled, it feels sturdy enough to last a number of years, which will be helpful for when our daughter can start using it as a playpen."

Once your baby is old enough, you simply put up the side, drop the mattress down to the base of the cot, and it becomes a generously-sized travel cot and playpen that'll last until the child weighs 15kg. The pull-and-click functionality takes a few minutes to master, and like others of this style there's an order you need to memorise in order to get it to go up and down smoothly, but Joie has a great instructional video to help .

Pros : Simple drop-side, grows with baby Cons : Not very lightweight, can be tricky to put up and down

Read our full MadeForMums Joie Kubbie travel cot review

Available from: Very and Argos

9. Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £62

– best budget travel cot for co-sleeping.

Suitable from: birth (with bassinet) to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 7.6kg | Unfolded dimensions: L99cm x W57cm x H76cm| Folded dimensions: L27cm x W71cm x H26m| Newborn bassinet: Yes

Like the Joie Kubbie sleep, the Red Kite Dreamer offers the perfect travel option for families with newborns that use a bedside crib at home, as it has the same drop-side functionality built into a more portable travel cot. However, unlike the Joie Kubbie Sleep, which has a button-operated drop-side, this one is fastened with buckles, making it more suited to those who want to keep the cot fastened to their bed with the side dropped permanently down, for a safe way to cosleep with a newborn.

Once the baby is older, it becomes a travel cot that's almost a metre in length, offering lots of space for a growing toddler and a mattress that our parent testers really rated. "As travel cots go this is one of the comfiest mattresses I’ve seen. It feels nice and padded and had a solid firm base underneath to secure into the cot," said home tester Bridget, who tested this with her 4 month old.

Our testers did find the basinette insert for newborns a little flimsy, but fine given that's only used for the first few months before moving to the full travel cot. It's also lightweight to carry and one of the smaller folds on this list.

Pros : Permanent drop-side option, good mattress Cons : Flimsy newborn insert

Read our full MadeForMums Red Kite Dreamer beside travel cot review

Available from: Argos and Red Kite

10. Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £159.20

— best travel cot for versatile newborn co-sleeping.

The PopUp is the latest offering from the Chicco Next2Me range and is a great option for parents who will be travelling with their young baby a lot in the first 6 months. The Red Kite Dreamer and Joie Kubbie Sleep also offer co-sleeping but, unlike these, the PopUp has a range of features that make it a really great choice for newborns.

We love that the crib has 6 adjustable heights to better help it align the barrier of the crib to the parents' mattress — this is particularly useful if you're travelling and staying in different places. Also, thanks to its foldable feet, it is suitable for use with beds with storage compartments. It also comes with straps that allow the crib to conveniently attach to different beds. It can be used as a standalone or bedside crib and transforms easily between both. It also has 2 wheels that make it easy to move from room to room around the house.

There is an ergonomically designed mattress included and the crib itself has mesh panelling on all 4 sides, providing great visibility and air ventilation as your baby sleeps.

MFM reviewer Helen who tested the Chicco Next2Me Pop Up with her 1-month-old son Alessio said, "The Pop Up works very well as a crib for the early months of a baby’s life, especially for people who will be travelling a lot with a young baby, because it is so easy to put up and down. It would certainly be a practical buy if you are going to be driving to stay away from home several times in the first 6 months of your baby’s life."

The crib has an impressively quick and easy 3-second fold that Helen thought was one of the standout features of the travel cot: "The ease of putting the cot up and down with the 3-second fold, and without the need to dissemble anything, is the main selling point and for good reason. It easily folds up into one piece and is easy to insert into the travel bag included." However, at 10kg, the PopUp (along with the Graco Contour Electa) is the heaviest option on our list and is quite bulky when folded. Whilst compact and able to fit under some beds while not in use, it does have a large footprint and therefore takes up quite a lot of car boot space and may not fit into the boot of smaller cars.

Pros: 6 height positions, quick and easy fold, mesh design Cons: Heavy, shorter life span than other options, can be difficult to transport

Read our full MadeForMums Chicco Next2Me Pop Up travel cot review

Available from: John Lewis , Amazon and Boots

11. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £22o

– best for no upper weight limit.

Suitable from: 0-3 years | Travel cot weight: 6kg (including travel bag) | Unfolded dimensions: L112cm x W64cm x 82cm | Folded dimensions: L49cm x W60cm x H14cm | Newborn bassinet: No

This lightweight, easy-to-use travel cot impressed our parent tester for a number of reasons – as you'd expect for one of the most expensive option on our list.

The brand known for stylish baby products won't disappoint parents on the go, with a sleek silhouette, premium-feeling fabrics and excellent functionality. It's impressively easy to set up and fold down – a true highlight compared to trickier styles such as the Joie Kubbie Sleep. Simply pull out each leg, click it into place on the top frame, then place the mattress inside and secure with poppers.

MFM Consumer and Reviews Editor Christy commented: "It's so easy to set up, which is really useful if you forget how between holidays, or are asking a grandparent to help. I had no worries about sleepily packing it up at the airport hotel before we took a flight."

The mattress is extra thick, an essential luxury as the base rests on the floor. This design means there's no weight limit, a real plus point for parents with heavier-than-average toddler.

Christy, who tested the cot with her tall 2 year old, says: "I loved the fact that the BabyBjorn has no weight limit. With a heavy toddler who is not ready for a bed, it's perfect. He slept very well, even though we tested it on a hard tiled floor."

The cleverly designed shape, with the sides inclining towards the top, also makes it harder for little ones to climb out of, and the mesh walls give great visibility from any angle.

The cot folds up into a flat rectangle shape, stored in a carry bag. Christy adds: "We took it as hold luggage out our TUI flight, and could even have fitted it inside our large family suitcase to avoid dropping it off at the 'oversized luggage' desk."

Pros: Lightweight, no upper weight limit, easy to set up, premium feel, extra thick mattress, comes with a carry bag Cons: One of the most expensive option

Available from: John Lewis and BabyBjörn

12. Tutti Bambini CoZee Go 3-in-1 Bassinet, Travel Cot & Playpen, £129

— best stylish travel cot.

Suitable from birth and adapting to a toddler travel cot and playpen, this Scandi-style cot impressed our testers with its appealing, stylish design and ease of use.

It's a breeze to initially put together and then fold away and, at 6.5kg, it is one of the more lightweight options on our list. It's suitable from birth with the included newborn bassinet and foldable mattress. As your baby gets older, the mattress can be unfolded to be used as a floor-level travel cot. Then you can zip open the mesh window and you've turned it into a playpen.

The mesh fabric all around the cot provides great visibility and airflow and, available separately, is the Day & Night Shade which can help your baby switch off and sleep in bright or unfamiliar places. We also love that there is a carry case included for storage or travelling. It's not the most compact travel cot when it's assembled and is still quite large when it's folded — it's wide and square, which may be awkward to transport in smaller car boots. Our testers also found that fitting everything in the carry case and zipping it back up again could be difficult.

Parent tester Cali, who tested the CoZee Go with her 13-month-old son Teddy, really loved the style and quality of the travel cot: "There are cheaper travel cot and playpen options out there but they don't look as stylish or high quality. I absolutely love the minimalist look, it's stylish and neutral. All of the materials feel extremely good quality — this is definitely one of the comfier travel cots that we've used."

Cali also praised its different elements, "The CoZee Go makes a great playpen, the zip opening was especially good for giving my son the freedom to come and go as he pleases. As a travel cot, its a really good size so should last well into toddlerhood."

Parent tester Claire, who tested this with her 3-month-old son Zach also praised the design of the cot, "It is a high-end, stylish travel cot that’s built to last and worth its price tag. It also packs up compactly for ease of transport and has a very comfortable mattress that I think little ones will sleep well in."

Pros: Stylish, multi-functional, premium feel, quick to put together, mattress included Cons: Quite large, can be difficult to transport, pricey

Available from: Kiddies Kingdom , Natural Baby Shower and Tutti Bambini

How did we choose our 12 of the Best?

When testing travel cots, we considered size and weight limits, mattress quality, effectiveness, ease of build/fold, ease of transportation, any extra features or additions, and value the money.

Our 10 of the Best lists are compiled by qualified and experienced parenting journalists. They rely on a number of sources, including our independent reviews, testing undertaken during the MadeForMums Awards, and feedback from our home testing panel and Top Testers Club. Each year thousands of products are put through their paces by hundreds of parents across the country on behalf of MadeForMums, to ensure we’re bringing you honest and true reviews and recommendations.

Our list is not an ordered ranking from 1-10, instead it is a carefully selected group of tried-and-tested products, each ofwhich we believe is best for a different situation or requirement. We don’t just tell you what is best, we help you discover what is best for your family .

About the author

How NatPat's wellness patches may help your family

NatPat's range of wellness patches and stickers aim to tackle everything from allergies to lack of focus. We take a closer look at the range.

Advertisement feature with NatPat

To help us provide you with free impartial advice, we may earn a commission if you buy through links on our site. Learn more

Baby & kids

Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers

Catherine Hufton
Chris Martin

Travelling with your baby? Ensure everyone enjoys a good night’s sleep with the best travel cots

If you’ve recently had a baby, then the thrilling thought of travelling anywhere, let alone abroad, is precisely why you began your search for the best travel cot. Buy the right one, and you’ll be journeying once more, on UK holidays or overseas, visiting relatives overnight, or dropping off your baby to a friend while you and your partner enjoy a much-needed date night. For all those scenarios, a good-quality travel cot guarantees that your baby gets a comfortable night’s sleep.

Investing in a good-quality travel cot needn’t cost a fortune, however. How much you spend will depend on your requirements: do you need an all-singing, all-dancing cot; or a simple pop-up model that’s easy to use?

These days, many hotels and holiday homes supply cots; but buying your own means you can be confident in its quality, and your baby will be comfortable and relaxed in their own familiar cot, even when they’re in new surroundings.

You’ll find our top picks in the At a glance list below followed by a handy explanation of all the key features to look out for in our buying guide. If you want a little more information before buying, then you’ll find a wider selection of bite-size reviews a little further down the page.

Best travel cot: At a glance

Best lightweight travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber | £165
Best travel cot for value for money: Joie Excursion | £190
Best luxury travel cot: BabyBjörn Travel Cot | £249
Best budget travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot | £37

How to choose the best travel cot for your child

There are some key questions to consider when buying a travel cot. Obviously, it needs to be appropriate for the age and size of your child, but you’ll also want to take note of how portable it is, how quickly it can be assembled – and how much you want to spend.

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

Most travel cots will be just fine for newborn infants, but you may prefer to get a smaller bassinet that’s specifically designed for young babies. This is because it’s easier to put down a baby in a higher bassinet – babies develop what’s known as the Moro reflex, which causes their arms to jump if they think they’re being dropped; this could be felt if placing them lower down into a travel cot. In addition, a bassinet feels more enclosed and cosy.

You can also now pick up bedside cribs that can double up as travel cots. As you’d imagine, these will be more expensive, but it does mean you’re buying just one item rather than two.

Can a travel cot double as a playpen?

Indeed. Spending a little more on a travel cot that doubles as a playpen will increase its use, delivering value for money. Look for models that have four, rather than two, mesh sides to give you and your baby a better view. A travel cot can also function as somewhere safe to put your crawling, or walking, whirlwind while you grab a snack or go to the loo.

What else do I need to consider?

Make sure you have all the necessary accoutrements. All the travel cots on our list are supplied with a mattress, but sheets aren’t included. You could use a pillowcase, but you may prefer a fitted sheet, and this may be available as an optional extra.

How we test travel cots

At Expert Reviews, we know that not all products are created equal, nor can they be judged on price and brand alone. This is the reason we test every product we recommend, so we can get first-hand experience of how it performs in real life. To put together this roundup of the best travel cots, each model has been assembled by the reviews, and out through its paces with their own children. As well as considering the age and size of child for which each cot is suitable, we consider how portable it is, how quickly and easily it can be assembled, and how much it costs. We also judge the comfort of each mattress by considering how well a child has slept on them, along with the overall design. At the end of each review, you’ll find a quick-view set of details including the age range for which a cot is suitable, its weight, assembly time and cleaning instructions.

The best travel cots you can buy in 2023

1. bugaboo stardust: best travel cot for comfort and convenience.

Renowned, and highly regarded, for its range of car seats and stylish strollers (you can read more about these in our best pushchair guide ), Bugaboo recently branched out with its first travel cot: the Bugaboo Stardust. It’s pricey, just like the rest of the Bugaboo range, but that’s the only negative. It tops our list of the best travel cots because it combines style, function, and comfort in ways we haven’t seen before.

First – and this is a gamechanger – it “pops” open, in the same way that a pop-up tent would, and similarly folds down in seconds at the touch of a button. It can also be folded and unfolded without removing the mattress, and the buttons are sensibly and safely positioned out of reach of your child.

While many travel cots either come without a mattress or ship with a thin, uncomfortable bit of material, the Bugaboo Stardust comes with a built-in, multi-layered mattress that’s lightweight and comfortable. It can be raised via a zip-in bed insert, and this transforms the cot into a bassinet that’s perfect for newborns or younger babies.

The pop-up design means that there’s no fiddly assembly required. There are no special techniques to master, nor do you have to rely on separate sections all clipping and locking into place. It folds down into one piece that’s carried in a Velcro-closing bag that’s also included in the box.

Factor in all of its features, and the included extras, and the £225 price doesn’t seem quite so extortionate. In fact, we don’t think you can really put a price on just how easy and quick the Stardust is to use.

Key features – Age range: 0-24 months; Weight: 6.7kg; Cleaning: Hand-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 1 second

Check price at Boots

2. Silver Cross Slumber: Best lightweight travel cot

Price when reviewed: £165 | Check price at Silver Cross

Silver Cross’s Slumber travel cot is contemporary and lightweight, with a pop-up design that can be assembled in seconds. It now comes with the newborn insert that sits at bed height and can be used with or without. This cot looks great, so we had no issue having it out in our living room for downstairs naps through a period of some noisy building work being carried out. Plus, it also doubles up as a great playpen, featuring a padded top rail and zip-down side.

Let’s be honest, babies don’t always sleep particularly well in travel cots, but we were pleasantly surprised during testing, as baby enjoyed a restful couple of nights on a recent trip to the grandparents. The Silver Cross Slumber is lightweight, too, so would be ideal for taking on holiday to create somewhere safe for baby to play in a villa or hotel room.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 7.7kg; Cleaning: Sponge clean; Time to assemble: 5 minutes

Check price at Silver Cross

3. Tutti Bambini CoZee: Best travel cot for style

The Cozee Luxe is the latest update on Tutti Bambini’s Cozee bedside crib . Slightly bigger, it comes with more premium finishings than the original. It’s beautifully made, featuring soft quilted sides, a cotton lining, and sheer mesh sides that will keep baby visible at all times. It also has gold-tone-tipped walnut legs that add to its luxury finish.

The side can be easily zipped down so you can lift baby in and out of the bed for feeds during the night, or zipped up during nap times. The lining can also be removed and washed in the machine, which is always handy with a newborn baby.

Assembly proved quick and easy: it probably took us no more time than the 60 seconds suggested by the brand. This feels like a quality cot that we would be more than happy to have as a permanent by-the-side bed; it doesn’t feel at all flimsy in the way some travel cots do. If your baby regularly stay at the grandparents or a friend’s house, this would be a lovely option to keep out permanently.

Key features – Age range: 0-6 months; Weight: 11.4kg; Cleaning: Inner lining and mattress cover are machine washable; Time to assemble: 60 seconds

Tutti Bambini CoZee® Bedside Crib/Co-Sleeper with Breathable Mesh Window, Travel Bag and Easy Fold (Oak and Charcoal)

4. nuna sena aire: best travel cot/playpen hybrid.

Nuna’s solution is more expensive and heavier, but comes with plenty of great features and more spacious dimensions of 103 x 76 x 73cm (LWH) – which means there’s more room to sleep and play.

The zigzag leg-folding design is super easy to use; folding it up is particularly satisfying, requiring a simple lifting of the strap in the centre of the cot. Like magic, it folds up into a very compact size, although you do have to wrap the mattress around the outside before putting it all in the carry bag.

The stylish cot is available in two colours, Charcoal (pictured) or Frost, and features an “Advanced air design”, including mesh sides to ensure airflow is optimal and safe. It’s sturdier than most, with skid-proof feet and padded edges.

Suitable from birth, the raised bassinet mode is super useful and can be quickly unzipped when you want to move the mattress to a lower position. The mattress itself sports a triple-layered mesh design and the internal boards are removable, so that the cover can be machine-washed and dried.

Key details – Age range: Birth to 15kg; Weight: 12.3kg; Cleaning: Spot-clean, air-dry mattress cover is both washing machine and dryer safe; Time to assemble: 1 second fold/unfold

5. Joie Excursion: Best travel cot for value for money

It isn’t the most compact, lightweight or easy to put together model in this list, but the Joie Excursion Change & Bounce gets a special shout-out for offering great value for money. In addition to the sturdy, well-built travel cot itself, this good-looking setup comes with a full-size bassinet (that clips on and off easily), a changing table and a bouncer, all included in the price. What’s more, the bouncer can be used either on top of the cot or standalone, as can the changing mat.

As with all of Joie’s baby products, the Excursion Change & Bounce is highly practical. Although a little fiddly to set up and use, once you’ve mastered it, you’ll wonder how you ever did without the added extras. The travel cot itself sports an ultra-secure frame with exposed tubing, plus two built-in wheels to help you easily move it around a room. A mesh lining on all four sides means the Change & Bounce can double up as a playpen, plus it has an elevated, draught-resistant base, and comes with a carry bag for storage.

On the side of the cot is a sound and light attachment that vibrates. It plays five classical lullabies and five nature sounds, plus there’s a nightlight that offers three brightness settings. The bouncer adds a toy bar with two soft toys and a five-point harness. We’ve found ourselves using the BabyBjörn for the odd night away and this fantastic travel cot for longer holidays.

Key features – Age range: 0-4 years; Weight: 16.49kg; Cleaning: Hand-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 5 minutes

6. BabyBjörn Travel Cot: Best luxury travel cot

BabyBjörn gear isn’t cheap, and the fitted organic sheet adds an extra £20 to this already pricey travel cot. But if you’re willing to pay, it won’t disappoint. The travel cot takes mere seconds to assemble: the legs drop and lock as you open it, after which the mattress drops in.

The mattress is thick and soft, it’s fully washable and it looks good, too. Available in two colours, the mesh sides ensure good ventilation for baby and all-round visibility for parents. We bought this travel cot on the premise that once our little one started roaming around, it would make a safe playpen for him, too. The angle of the legs deliver good stability, even if your toddler leans on the travel cot’s sides as he grows.

One slight downside is the length of the drop when placing your baby into the cot at bedtime. It isn’t a huge problem, but note that this travel cot doesn’t come with a bassinet attachment – so, if you’re short, placing a 10kg child down into it can prove tricky. This isn’t a reason not to buy this travel cot, just something to consider.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 6kg; Cleaning: Machine-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 15 seconds

Check price at BabyBjörn

7. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot: Best budget travel cot

This may not be the lightest or most attractive travel cot here, but it does the job for a fraction of the cost of other models. It does come with its own mattress, although some parents may prefer to buy an additional mattress (around £20) since the one included is quite thin. Setting the cot up and packing it away again can be a bit of a challenge – make sure you follow the instructions carefully – but the sturdy, steel-framed design is reassuringly stable once erected.

There are no bells and whistles here; just the cot, a mattress and a bag. You’ll need to pick up a sheet for the mattress, too, which is available to buy for around £13. If you’re not someone who will be travelling too often with baby, or are on a tight budget, this cot will serve its purpose.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 8.5kg; Cleaning: Sponge clean; Time to assemble: 1 minute

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

The best travel cots to buy in 2024 all tried and tested by parents

Our no-nonsense guide to the best travel cots — rated on the ease of assembly to how much space it'll take up in the boot

A collage of the seven best travel cots tried and tested by mums and babies for this buying guide

Best travel cots 2023 at-a-glance

The best travel cots - tried and tested, how to choose the best travel cot, are travel cots safe for babies, at what age can babies sleep in travel cots, can babies sleep in a travel cot every night, can i change the travel cot mattress.

The best travel cots should be three things: lightweight, compact and easy to assemble.

If you're heading away on holiday, staying overnight at a friend's house or visiting family far, far away, the best travel cots offer a safe and secure place for your baby to sleep in comfortably, when you're away from home.

Unlike the best bedside cots , a travel cot is made to be portable. Therefore, many of today's travel cots are lightweight and very quick to assemble so when you reach your destination, you can construct it in minutes. The best travel cots enable you to do this with just one hand. Let's face it: after all that travelling — be it by train, car or plane — a long journey is bound to take it out of you. So your baby will most probably be tired (and so might you)!

Along with being easy to pop up, these handy sleep solutions will also be easy to disassemble and can be packed down neatly into their own storage bag so you can carry them easily to the car or stow them as luggage. To find out what we believe to be the best travel cots keep scrolling. We've included a range of the top options all tried and tested by parents and their little ones.

Best travel cot overall: Joie Kubbie Sleep, £99.99 | Very
Best travel cot for assembly: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £220 | Amazon
Best budget travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £36 | Amazon
Best travel cot for camping: Little Life Arc 2, £119.99 | LittleLife
Best travel cot for a plush mattress: Nuna Sena Aire, £249.99 | Very
Best travel cot for entertainment: Graco Contour Electra, £114.99 | Amazon
Best travel cot for co-sleeping: Micralite Sleep & Go, £120 | Micralite

1. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

What we thought: The Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot gets our vote as the best travel cot to buy. 'Not only is it excellent value for money at just under £100,' says our Deputy Editor (and mum of three), Heidi Scrimgeour , 'but we also love that it comes with a newborn insert that zips into place inside the travel cot so that you don't have to bend all the way down to the ground to lift your baby in and out.'

What our tester thought: ‘Having a tiny baby positioned up higher feels much safer than travel cots that place them on the ground, plus, it’s much easier on mums like me who’ve had a C-section,’ says our mum tester, Charlotte Clarke, who reviewed this travel cot with her 20-month-old daughter, Adelaide.

In co-sleeping mode, the cot sides drop down with a few simple clicks and the cot can be attached to a bed with straps, which are provided. But the innovation doesn’t stop there; the Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot also converts into a playpen with a zippable entrance so that toddlers can roam freely in and out.

Overall verdict: No matter how you’re using this travel cot, it’s easy to assemble. ‘I like that this has been designed with common sense in mind,’ adds Charlotte. ‘There’s nothing too complicated or hi-tech about it, so it's perfect for sleep-deprived parents.’ Her daughter seemed to agree and slept well in the Joie Kubbie Sleep.

Read our full Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

What we thought: BabyBjörn's take on a travel cot is an easy-to-assemble design with mesh sides and a surprisingly soft and thick mattress. Our tester Hollie was able to put up this travel cot one-handed while holding a baby and without reading any of the instructions - a pretty impressive feat. The is the best travel cot to buy if quick and easy assembly is your number one priority.

What our tester thought: Mum Hollie Bond and her 10-month-old daughter Margot, aged ten months, reviewed this travel cot for Goodto. Margot slept well in the cot and had ‘enough space to move around in her sleep,’ but Hollie doesn't think it will be big enough for her to sleep in up to the age of three, as the brand claims. Hollie also had some reservations about using this travel cot as she found the base very low to the ground. ‘I wouldn't want to have the cot positioned anywhere that might be draughty or cold as I felt that Margot was a little vulnerable being so low to the ground.’ However, the low base does mean that the cot is multi-functional and can be used as a playpen at home or on holiday.

Overall verdict: When the holiday is over, everything can then be folded up and put into the handy bag that’s included. ‘When packed up the bag definitely feels sturdy enough to withstand any rough handling in transit,’ adds Hollie. ‘It'll make my holiday less stressful too because it's so easy to assemble. And I can use it as Margot's playpen to keep her safe if we're near a swimming pool.’

Read our full BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light review

3. Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot

What we thought: The Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot is a classic, stylish design with supporting legs that are easy to assemble. Its mesh sides are fully padded to avoid injury but also allow babies to see out easily.

What our tester thought: Mum Darryl Baker put this travel cot to the test with her 10-month-old daughter, Cole. Darryl tells us she couldn’t get over how easy this travel cot was to put together. In the past, she has struggled with travel cots borrowed from friends. ‘Kneeling on them, pushing them, and mostly pleading with them to just PLEASE fold down,' she says. But there were no such dramas with this. ‘The knack for putting up and down a travel cot can be tricky, but it's not an issue with the Red Kite Sleep Tight travel cot,’ she says. In terms of comfort, Darryl's daughter Cole slept well, waking just once and settling easily after a feed.

Overall verdict: Weighing just over 7kg, this is a relatively lightweight option, so it's one of the best travel cots to buy if you're looking for something super portable but also sturdy enough for older babies to sleep in. At just £36 (yes, we've double-checked the price), this is definitely the best travel cot to choose if you're looking for a good quality budget buy.

Read our full Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot review

4. Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot

What we thought: The Little Life Arc 2 is not your average travel cot. It’s one of the lightest in our buying guide, coming in at just 2.5kg, so it's hands down the best travel cot to buy if you're keen to take your baby with you on camping adventures. It's probably not right for you if you're not a fan of the great outdoors, however.

What our tester thought: ‘It comes in a neat, portable rucksack which it is easy to pack the cot in and out of,’ says our mum reviewer Charlotte Clarke, who put this to the test with her 19-month-old daughter Adelaide.

The Little Life is more of a tent than a travel cot and has to be put together with poles and a single specially-designed sheet. Once the poles and sheet have been bent into position, you insert a surprisingly thick, waterproof mattress into the cot via Velcro strips.

‘This wasn’t the easiest cot to assemble but I think you’d get quicker with practice,’ adds Charlotte. Her daughter tested the cot during one of her naps and after initially finding the mesh sides fun to pull and push, she settled down on the mattress and snoozed for a decent period of time.

Overall verdict: This isn’t really a travel cot for a weekend away – its features include a ventilated, anti-insect mesh, ground pegs for outdoor use, and zip-down panels. ‘This would be perfect if you're travelling in a hot country, attending a summer festival, or going on a UK camping trip,’ said our tester. ‘But for indoor use, you need to attach it to a suitable piece of furniture, which we found a bit difficult to find.’ It's good value for such a niche item - but you’ll probably still need a standard travel cot for indoor overnight trips.

Read our full Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot review

5. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

What we thought: Once you’ve got this travel cot up, you’ll see why it justifies its £200-plus price tag. Firstly, it comes with a newborn insert that sits up high and saves your back from extra bending – especially good if you’ve had a C-section. And when your baby has outgrown this stage, the insert can be removed and the baby sleeps on a luxuriously thick, padded mattress over a cushioned base. There are lots of other noteworthy stand-out features too such as skid-proof feet, an organic cotton sheet to pop over the mattress, and soft, padded edges.

What our tester thought: The Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot has a unique assembly system which our tester Darryl - who reviewed it with her 10-month-old daughter Cole - found a cinch to use. ‘I’ve read up on it and it’s to do with a zig-zag leg design, which means it pretty much just pushes into place and can be folded away with one hand,’ she says. Easy!

Overall verdict: The Aire doubles up as a playpen, which is always handy, but our tester did find it quite bulky - something that you’d need to think about if you plan to regularly move it around. ‘The only downside is how big it is but if space isn’t a problem in the car, then this can’t be faulted,’ she adds. At 10kg, this isn’t a light travel cot but the design is more focused on the baby’s comfort than on portability. As the most expensive travel cot in our lineup, this will appeal to anyone willing to pay extra for the plushest travel cot mattress we've ever seen.

Read our full Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot review

6. Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

What we thought: This travel cot isn't especially portable as it's large and robust - but that does allow your baby lots of space to move around, plus it doubles as a playpen. It comes with a newborn insert, a changing mat, a nightlight with music and vibrating features, and a toy bar so there’s lots to keep your little one entertained and to (hopefully) help send them off to sleep.

What our tester thought: ‘Other than it being heavy and a bit bulky to store and travel with, I think the Graco Contour Electra is an excellent travel cot that has some fabulous features,’ says our tester Hollie, who reviewed it with her ten-month-old daughter, Margot. ‘It folds out really easily into a full-size cot.’

Hollie found this a doddle to assemble and says she didn’t even have to read the instructions. ‘I love that two of the legs are on wheels so, although it was big, I could easily move it around the room to put it in the place I wanted without trying to pick it up and carry it.’

Overall verdict: The Graco Contour Electra is a mid-priced travel cot, well suited for trips around the UK rather than holidays abroad as it’s difficult to carry on and off a plane. ‘I wouldn't want to carry this far or have to pick it up off the airport conveyor belt by myself,’ adds Hollie. ‘And people with small cars might want to consider a travel cot that is more compact.’ It's a brilliant choice if you have other children and need somewhere to pop your baby, knowing they'll be safe and occupied while you fix snacks or oversee bathroom visits.

Read our full Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot review

7. Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot

What we thought: This is a multifunctional travel cot that can also be used as a playpen and co-sleeper (the latter when the newborn insert is added). It’s extremely easy to put up (and down) with a couple of clicks and zips. Our tester Amelia, who's expecting her second baby, described this as absolutely game-changing.

What our tester thought: 'This is a very good-looking travel cot with hardy, dark-coloured fabric that looks stylish and neutral and shouldn’t show wear and tear readily,' says our reviewer, Amelia. ‘It’s easy on the eye, and on the back - even when you’re pregnant - and it's even easy on the pocket since you can use it from the day your baby is born right up until they're three years old.

Overall verdict: One obvious plus point is that it includes a high-quality, ‘very firm’ and wipe-clean mattress, which, when disassembled, folds neatly inside the bag along with the frame. This travel cot only weighs 7kg but Amelia found it a bit bulky, mainly because it comes with such a good-quality mattress included. In terms of value for money, we recommend spending the extra £25 for the newborn insert as it transforms this product, giving you more functionality and sleeping options. A superb choice if you're used to co-sleeping and want to continue doing so safely while away from home.

Read our full Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot review

When picking the best travel cot for your needs, consider where and how frequently you're likely to use it. If you frequently travel with your baby, the weight and portability of the travel cot are the main priorities. But if you just need it for occasional overnight use, then a comfortable mattress and sturdy construction are more important than the travel cot's dimensions. Alternatively, if you'll be using a travel cot for a newborn, it's well worth choosing one with a newborn insert and an integrated changing station to help make nights away from home a little easier.

Here's what to consider when choosing a travel cot:

Age - Most travel cots can be used from birth, and many come with an in-built bassinet to make things a little cosier for very small babies. Travel cots can usually be used up till the age of three or until the child is able to climb out - at which point it's no longer safe to use.
Portability - A travel cot should be easy to carry and compact enough to stow in small places. Some cots are small enough to fit in an aircraft's overhead locker or in a small car boot.
Weight - While lighter than a traditional cot, travel cots vary in weight. The lightest come in at around 3kg, while the heaviest ones weigh as much as 11kg. These extremes offer different benefits depending on how you’re planning to use your cot. A lighter cot is more practical for travelling, but a heavier model will likely be sturdier and longer-lasting.
Assembly - Putting a travel cot together and taking it down should take a matter of seconds. If it’s taking longer or isn’t staying up, make sure you re-read the instructions before putting your baby to sleep in it to make sure you’ve done everything correctly.
Mattress comfort - Don’t be surprised at the thickness of a travel cot mattress – they’re much thinner and less plush than the cot mattress you have at home in order to keep the travel cot light and portable. But just because the mattress is harder, doesn’t mean that your baby won’t have a good night’s sleep. Baby mattresses are meant to be firm and younger babies, in particular, can benefit from sleeping on a harder mattress surface. 'To comply with safety regulations you should avoid switching the mattress to ensure that the size is exact and there are no gaps around the edges,' says Baby Sleep Trainer Vickie Bowles of The Baby Academy.
Extra features - Many travel cots have additional extras such as an in-built changing station for easy nappy changes and the option to use it as a playpen for daytime use. They might also have soothing musical features or a newborn insert to boost comfort for younger babies. Consider which of these features are worth paying extra for, and which ones you can do without. It's a bonus if you can get the extra functionality you want without paying more!

Yes - all travel cots on sale must adhere to British safety standard BS EN 716. The Lullaby Trust advises that parents use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that is in good condition. In addition, a baby’s sleeping space should be kept clear, with no loose bedding. As with a normal cot, babies should be placed in the ‘feet-to-foot’ position so they can’t wriggle down under any blankets.

For young babies under one year old, avoid placing all duvets, soft toys, and pillows inside the cot. When deciding where to put your travel cot, don’t put it near to a radiator, draughty window, or blinds with cords that might pose a strangulation risk.

If your travel cot comes with wheels, make sure they are locked in place before putting your little one down.

Travel cots are extremely safe for babies but Vickie Bowles flags that they should not be used for long periods outside of travel / occasional use: ‘It is always good to remember that travel cots do not offer the same amount of support and comfort for your baby and therefore are not designed for regular sleep over an extended period.’

Most travel cots are suitable for babies to sleep in from birth. If you wish to use a travel cot for a newborn, choose one with a newborn insert. This offers younger babies a smaller space to sleep in than the full-sized travel cot and it's elevated off the ground to save parents’ backs as you don’t have to bend down to floor level to reach your child.

‘If you have a young baby, I highly recommend using a travel cot with a newborn insert which makes life much easier to settle your baby while travelling,’ says Vickie Bowles.

A sturdy travel cot will suit an active toddler and most can be used up until the age of three but check the manufacturer's instructions for the upper age or weight restrictions.

No, a travel cot is not suitable for your baby to sleep in every night. Designed for use when you're away from home such as on holiday or visiting friends or family overnight, travel cots are much lighter than standard cots so they're not robust enough for permanent use. The mattress supplied with a travel cot is thinner than a standard cot mattress because it's designed to fold compactly for travelling, so it's unlikely to provide sufficient support for a baby to sleep on every night.

No, this is not recommended. Use the mattress supplied with the travel cot at the time of purchase. Replacing the mattress is dangerous because it could make the structure less sturdy and create a safety risk if the mattress does not fit the travel cot frame exactly.

How we tested the best travel cots

Why you can trust GoodtoKnow. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.

We only include products in our buying guides that we have thoroughly tested and reviewed. We use a robust and consistent testing methodology to review all the products, and we use a pool of parent reviewers to ensure all items are appropriately tested by a child of the relevant age.

Read more about how we test and review the products in our buying guides

Heidi Scrimgeour joined GoodTo after a 16-year freelance career as a parenting and lifestyle journalist. She has written features for various publications including The Guardian, Telegraph, Daily Mail, Red, Psychologies and Stylist. She was a parenting columnist for AOL’s Parentdish and baby gear editor of Mother & Baby magazine for six years. Heidi has taken part in various parenting debates on This Morning, The One Show and BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. She has a degree in English & Media Arts and gained a Masters with Distinction from the University of Westminster. Find out more

Planning a holiday with your little one? You might also be interested in our buying guide on the best travel strollers or, if you prefer to leave the buggy at home and travel light, our guide to choosing the best baby carriers is worth a read.

GoodtoKnow Newsletter

Parenting advice, hot topics, best buys and family finance tips delivered straight to your inbox.

Charlotte Duck is an award-winning lifestyle and parenting journalist who writes who regularly writes for Tatler, the Evening Standard, Yahoo, and Hello Magazine about everything from royal hairstyles to fixed-rate mortgages. She was previously Kidswear Editor at M&S and worked in-house at Boden but, while she loves writing about beautiful children's clothes, she has three children who refuse to wear them.

Heidi Scrimgeour Deputy Editor

Brother and sister playing on floor at home

It's not all fun and games - play is a crucial part of childhood....

By Dr Amanda Gummer Published 13 April 24

A close up of a pregnant woman's midsection as she hold her stomach

Though the effects might not be as dramatic for older mothers...

By Ellie Hutchings Published 13 April 24

The Ickle Bubba Altima travel system pictured with our tester's baby

Beautifully designed and made from high-quality materials, the Ickle Bubba Altima travel system exceeded our expectations.

By Kathryn Williams Published 5 April 24

Want to get on the Tonies train? Now's the perfect time, with these starter bundle offers

By Sarah Handley Published 3 April 24

Beast Lab Shark Beast Creator set - save 50 per cent

We gave Beast Labs four stars in our review, and right now, it's got a five-star discount at both Amazon and John Lewis

By Sarah Handley Published 2 April 24

We review the Beast Lab Shark Beast Creator set - see how we got on, and if it might be the toy for a child in your life

By Sarah Handley Published 28 March 24

The best mix and make toys combine creativity, mystery and a touch of magic for an engaging play experience that is guaranteed to spark any child's imagination

By Sarah Handley Published 26 March 24

As Tonies launches new Blippi character, we share our 6 favourite Tonies for preschoolers

By Sarah Handley Published 25 March 24

The Ickle Bubba Sleep Bag is a high quality sleeping bag with a stylish pattern suitable for babies aged 6-18 months.

By Heidi Scrimgeour Published 24 March 24

An image of the Bizzi Growin POD Baby Travel Crib Changing Bag

The Bizzy Growin Pod is a baby changing bag that converts into a travel cot for daytime naps.

By Kathryn Williams Published 23 March 24

GoodtoKnow is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

Travel Guides
Top Destinations
Inspiration & Ideas
Booking Tips
Packing Guide
Where to stay
At The Airport
How-to Guides
First Times
Travel Community
World Flavours
Travel Products

10 best travel cots in 2022

Are you planning on travelling with your baby? Travelling as a parent comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to sleeping. Baby travel cots are perfect for parents who want to carry their little one on a plane, bus, or even train. They’re lightweight and can be folded up and stored away easily once travelling is over.

But what are the best travel cots in 2022? We have listed the best travel cots for you to use and what features each has so that you can choose which one is right for you.

Why do we need travel cots?

As a parent, you pretty much have your hands full, so it doesn’t make sense to drag a crib around and a travel bag. Additionally, airport security tends to frown on cribs. Whether it’s a few days away for a weekend break or a week-long holiday, baby travel cots can offer those precious few moments of rest and relaxation before or after an important journey.

READ MORE : We select the 8 best travel kettles in 2022

All babies are different. In fact, many parents will tell you their child is unique; it is not just something they say but the truth. Each baby has a distinctive personality and particular ways of reacting to stimuli.

These reactions can cause problems during travelling times if not catered for properly. How can we stop this? Baby travel cots have been designed to make carrying your baby easier and safer for you and your baby.

It isn’t just for long trips

With so many travel cots available in the market, it is only fitting to ask who uses baby travel cots and what they are used for. Travel cots are used for the safety of the baby or toddler when sleeping away from home.

The portability makes them ideal to use on holiday, on weekends, or to have on a boat. They are also useful for people with limited space at home or whose home is not suitable for overnight stays.

Here are our top 10 travel cots for smart travellers

Milliard portable toddler bumper bed, chicco lullago travel bed, pack and play, ounuo 2 in 1 portable playard, babybjorn travel crib light.

Pamo Babe 2 in 1 Bassinet Quick Foldable Travel Crib

SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Travel Crib

Baby delight go with me, tectake travel cot, regalo my cot, guava family lotus travel crib, what to look for when purchasing a travel cot.

Travel cots are available in various sizes, from cots for when your baby is very young to larger sizes suitable for toddlers. When looking for a travel cot, it is really important to know what you are looking for. There are many different types and sizes available on the market, so make sure to compare before you go out and buy one of those quite expensive products!

Make sure you look for these things when purchasing a travel cot:

Safety (it should have a suspension system)
Lightweight and easy to carry
A durable frame (should also be comfortable)
Foldability (compact and takes up less space)
Unfolding way and dimensions
Weight and size

Also, keep in mind that the mattress must be made of high-quality materials and body-safe to avoid chemical burns, allergies or rashes from using the product. This will protect both the baby and the mother’s health.

The top 10 travel cots in 2022

Travel cot, Milliard Portable Toddler Bumper Bed

The Milliard Travel Crib is a portable, bassinet-style travel bed that allows you to keep your newborn close as you get some well-deserved rest while travelling. The adjustable carry bag makes storage and transport easy.

Features include: – Portable Crib – Built-in sleeping bag – Machine washable cover – Teething rail for chewing relief – 5 point safety harness – Made from soft plastic crib sheets material.

The Chicco Lullago Travel Bed is the next generation of travel cots and is suitable for home, hotel or car. It draws heavily on traditional travel cot designs but with a modern twist.

Ingeniously designed to be used both as a travel bed and a cot at home, this versatile product has been rigorously crash tested to ensure baby’s safety every step of the way.

Baby travel cot, Pack and Play, OUNUO 2 in 1 Portable Playard

UNUO’s 2 in1 Portable Playard is the only portable play-yard providing sleep and safety. The first and only convertible travel cot can be changed from a playpen to a portable bed and used at any time.

The air mattress has a blower, making it easy to inflate and deflate, with the valve having an auto-lock function for quick deflation. The mattress is made of clear PVC material, thus can be washed by water or wet wipes.

The removable cover is made of waterproof material, so you do not have to worry about your baby being wet throughout the day or night.

Best travel cot, BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light folds to a small and easy-to-carry size, making it perfect for parents who travel with their babies.

Made from breathable mesh, this travel cot provides the same comfort and safety as a regular crib but with adjustable height so you can always make sure your baby has a clear view of your face.

The cot can be used by children up to six months old at the highest sleeping setting.

Pamo Babe 2 in 1 Bassinet Quick Foldable Travel Crib

Pamo Babe is the travel bed that makes it easy to take your baby on an adventure.

Compact and lightweight, the travel bed folds into a flat pack for storage and transport. Once unpacked, it simply unfolds into a cot, no tools required.

Its adjustable height legs ensure you can set up in virtually any space, and its waterproof mattress keeps the cot dry through the rain as well as long naps.

Travel cots, SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Travel Crib

SnoozeShade™ is a revolutionary, patented travel crib that helps create the perfect environment for your child, allowing them to sleep soundly and peacefully while you travel.

Made of extra-thick padding and a motion-activated light sensor, SnoozeShade™ enables babies to sleep at the ideal temperature as they are shielded from light and noise. Your baby will sleep longer, and you will have more time to enjoy your limited vacation time.

Best travel cot, Baby Delight Go with Me

The Baby Delight Go with Me Bungalow Deluxe Portable Travel Cot is an innovative hard-wearing travel cot that is both lightweight and compact.

Made with a padded mattress, carry handle, and detachable mosquito net, this travel cot is suitable for children up to 15 months old.

Although ideal for babies, it can also be used as a bedside crib or extra bedroom in the house during its life.

The Travel Cot from TecTake is a premium quality product that can be used for every stage of your baby’s life.

It allows you to keep your baby close while getting a good night’s sleep. This travel cot has a double layer of mattress – at the top, there is a little pillow which always contains the child and at the same time ensures safety.

The Regalo My Cot is a lightweight, portable and compact travel cot made from a breathable mesh fabric ideal for babies, toddlers and children aged 12 months or older.

The convenient size allows it to be taken on excursions and trips as a comfortable place to nap, rest or play.

Travel cots, Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib

The Lotus Travel Crib from Guava Family is a safe and supportive travel bed that follows you wherever you go.

It features a washable cotton mattress, easy folding, and small folding size so that it can be stored in the car on the way to the cabin or on top of your luggage.

The cot meets industry safety standards for infant travel beds and is safe for children up to 20 lbs (9.07 kg).

Whether it’s a day trip or a week-long vacation, when you are bringing your child along, be sure to check out the best travel cots in 2022.

Travel wanderlust presents: the traveller christmas gift guide 2023, be smart travellers: how quality accessories make all the difference, travel wanderlust reviews grams28 154 city pack, latest articles, embracing sustainable travel: a guide to eco-friendly journeys and green tourism, the best canned alcoholic drinks when you’re on the go, how to prepare for a flight with pets, how to prepare for a flight with a child: essential tips for flying with children, most popular, the 5 most visited tourist attractions around the world, what are the seven wonders of the world, 10 places to visit before you die, the 5 best islands in thailand.

Best Travel Cots For Babies And Toddlers

Traveling with little ones in your family often means having a few must-haves for families immediately accessible and travel-ready everywhere you go at a moment’s notice, including a portable cot. Nap time or sleep can strike at any moment, and having a safe place for your baby to sleep is a requirement. These portable cots are easy to carry, set up, collapse, and store, making them helpful for setting up your baby’s sleeping spot on vacation.

Portable travel cots are perfect for when your little one needs a break to sleep or calm down after an exhausting day. Portable travel cots also help your little ones stay safe during sleep (they won’t have to share a bed with you or someone else) and provide a germ-free environment to play, rest, and sleep. On day trips, cabin stays, or other excursions, portable travel cots are a true lifesaver for families packing for a baby . These reviews cover some of the best travel cots on the market, creating the best option for families and babies everywhere.

Table of Contents

Best Portable Cots For Traveling With A Baby Or A Toddler – Our Picks + Reviews

Lotus comfortable travel crib.

This popular travel cot is a favorite pick for the best travel cots by parents everywhere. This multipurpose travel cot is sturdy and certified baby-safe, offering a comfortable play-yard and mattress that is lightweight and backpack portable. Each crib is a safe and non-toxic certified rest and play place that features full-height mesh with best, breathable airflow to cool off your baby.

The Lotus Travel Crib is designed to withstand all kinds of travel. It fits into a compact, light backpack carrying case and set up takes less than fifteen seconds to complete. Featuring an innovative quiet side zipper door that you can use to lay down your baby without waking them up. The easy-to-adjust mattress folds and is full of thick, soft foam that’s been approved for newborns and infants to sleep in safely. At $209, this is a fairly priced crib that will last you and your baby a lifetime.

4Moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard

This all-in-one care station is designed to set up with one hand as a portable playard with removable bassinet and changing station that’s the perfect solution to moms and dads’ needs. This easily accessible and collapsible design creates instant comfort and sleep as well as a place to take care of all of your baby’s needs. The playard is easily transportable and packs into a travel bag for carrying and packing in cars, airplanes or other stowaway containers.

Your baby can sleep, play, or bounce around in this sturdy portable playard that sets up anywhere. Drop them off at a caretaker, bring it on vacation, or set it up in the living room to hold your kiddo while you do your chores. Made from strong, durable polyester and heavy-duty support beams, this is the best travel crib for flying with, as it packs up conveniently for travel and set up. Priced at $600, this is an extremely expensive option, but its durability and flexibility as well as its removable bassinet and changing table make it a good investment.

BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light

Made for simple and busy parents on the move, the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is designed to be adventure-ready and convenient to set up and collapse at a moment’s notice. Made of soft and sturdy polyester fabric, the lightweight, water resistant fabric of the BABYBJORN Travel Crib light can handle any kind of spills or stains and makes the crib perfect for any kind of restless baby. Designed with travel in mind, the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is definitely the most comfortable travel crib there is.

The BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is a multifunctional and versatile baby play pen that’s a game changer for parents of active babies. Your baby can play, rest, stand, toss, and turn within the safe and comfortable confines of this travel crib that packs up into a light bag that transports safely everywhere. Ergonomic and stable, the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is designed to provide comfortable support and supervision of your baby from wherever you’re traveling. The BABYBJRON Travel Crib Light has a price of $300, a fairly midrange price for the durable and reliable crib you’re getting.

Flisko 2 in 1 Travel Crib & Bassinet

Known as the baby play yard that does it all, the Bassinet and Travel Crib is constructed with a supportive structure and solid frame that keeps your baby safe at all times. Built with high-quality rugged materials that prevent collapsing or folding and completely non-toxic. This lightweight and easily portable crib has a comfortable lifting weight and small size that’s perfect for when you’re on the go. A sleek design and foldable build are perfectly sized to fit anywhere.

The crib doesn’t require extensive setup and can be set up or disassembled in just a few minutes. It folds into a simple bag and can double as a bassinet and a full-sized playpen or crib, making it a 2 in 1 travel set that’s great for flexible and versatile families. Super soft and comfortable, the travel basset is lined with soft fabric that pads and protects your baby, as well as a plush, insulated foam mattress pad and sheet. For just $110, this is a great bargain on a versatile and multifunctional travel cot that’s the best travel crib for 2-year-olds or other children as they age.

Graco Pack and Play on the Go with Bassinet

The Graco Pack and Play on the Go is designed to function everywhere with flexible and durable use around the clock. With dual-function sleep and play as well as an insertable bassinet for holding younger children or changing diapers, the Graco Pack and Play is a useful and multipurpose construction that works well for every family. If you are traveling, you might also want to invest in a good portable diaper changing kit to make things easier and change your baby on-the-go wherever you are. Travel has never been simpler than with the Graco Pack and Play, which is extremely affordable at a price of just $75.

The Graco provides comfort and support for all your baby with sturdy mattress pads that support firm sleep and rest. Breathable mesh side panels let you supervise your baby’s play from a distance allowing for you to get some work done while still keeping an eye on your little one. Your baby can fall asleep gently and comfortably in this padded and supported playpen that provides levels of comfort, changing, and sleep for best results for you and your baby, making it one of the most comfortable travel cribs on the market.

Funny Supply 3 in 1 Pack and Play Travel Cot

Funny Supply 3 in 1 Pack'n'Play Travel Cot

This Funny Supply 3 in 1 Pack and Play is convertible, functional, and designed to grow with your baby. Converting from baby bassinet to playpen and play tunnel, children of all ages can enjoy and use this fun pack and play. Each travel pen can be assembled in less than 15 seconds without any tools, creating an easy fold inside a carrying case you can haul with you anywhere. It also features comfortable and ergonomic carrying options and can tuck into trunks or stowaway containers, making it one of the best travel cots for flying.

The Funny Supply Pack and Play creates hands-free convenient baby support that will let you take baby along on vacations or set them up while you run errands without having to worry about cradling or protecting your baby at every moment. Set them down for a nap in the bassinet as a baby and once they grow out of it, set it in a larger play pen. As toddlers, unfold the wall to create a play tunnel you can crawl through or use as a fort. Create opportunities for bonding and developmental benefits at all times with this adjustable and magical play pen that will engage your baby at all times.

Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard

Promising multifunction, user-friendly, and flexible sleeping and play spaces for babies and caregivers, the Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard is a comfortable and actively designed travel crib made with soft mesh and a thick and comfortable foam mattress pad. Simple to set up and easy to disassemble, the travel crib creates a comfortable and soft place for your baby to rest, play, and sleep. Safe and useful for newborns and toddlers alike, the Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard is a versatile and convertible space for sleeping and playing alike.

Made to last through the childhood of active and growing babies, the Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard converts into a bassinet for smaller babies, a playard, and a crib. A shaded hood allows for easy sleep and hanging mobiles for baby’s entertainment. A removable sun and insect canopy means you can even set this playpen up in your yard or outside. Your pen packs up neatly and is a great travel cot for toddlers for a very affordable price.

Pamo Babe Lightweight Portable Travel Cot

Comfortable, functional, and built for versatile use by parents and babies alike, the Pamo Babe Lightweight Portable Travel Cot creates a comfortable rest and play space for wearer and baby. Offering a comfortable mattress pad for additional support while your baby sleeps, your cot is a restful and relaxing place for your little one. You can also convert it into a trampoline for diverse and exciting entertainment. Four supporting feet at the bottom of your crib maintain balance and stability while your baby moves around and prevents the crib from tipping over.

Equipped with a movable mattress to provide the most comfortable sleeping environment for the baby, your mattress can also be easily removed and washed depending on stains or damages. The breathable mesh allows your baby to breathe easily and lets you keep an eye on your baby from afar. Adjustable, comfortable, supportive, and versatile, the Pamo Babe is a budget choice and all yours for a very affordable price, a portable and convenient travel cot for babies and parents.

Skip Hop Portable Playard And Travel Cot

This gentle and comfortable baby cot is designed to swaddle and cradle your baby to sleep with a gentle mattress pad and comfortable space for sleep or play on their own. This soft and sturdy travel cot offers airy mesh fabric sides for visibility and ventilation and expands from a travel crib to a play yard in mere seconds. You can also tuck this cot into its travel bag and carry it with you anywhere for additional on the go sleep support for you and your baby.

The expanding base grows as your little one does, expanding from small to large based on the size of your child and the space they need to sleep or play. Because the travel cot is so portable it’s easy to swap between caregivers or other people looking after your little one. Easy to maintain and machine washable, the Skip Hop is also washable, stain-treatable, and packs tightly into a storage pouch to sit in your car. At $100, this is a sturdy and trustworthy purchase your baby will feel safe in at all times.

BABY JOY Baby Foldable Travel Crib

Gentle, soft, and comfortable, the BABY JOY Foldable Travel Crib features simple and spacious sleeping and playing space for babies from newborns to three years. The mattress is protected with a soft and thick mattress pad that allows your baby to sleep comfortably. Machine washable fabric and sheets keeps your baby warm, swaddled, and comfortable while also easily treatable for spills, and other stains that naturally accumulate over time. The travel crib is designed with full-height mesh cloth that allows full visibility, breathability, and protection for your baby.

The comfortable and firm structure is built with sturdy aluminum and iron tubes that are safety certified. The four feet are evenly balanced to prevent your playard from tilting or tipping while your little one is in it. With a comfortable and cooling design and a secure base for support, your baby will rest easy as you go about your day thanks to this affordably priced $80 BABY JOY foldable crib.

A Buyer’s Guide to the Best Baby Travel Cots

Purchasing a travel cot is a great way to secure your little one no matter where you’re visiting, but there’s a few different things you’ll want to keep an eye on as you shop around for the perfect fit. Your baby needs to be able to sleep and play in a secure and safe environment so make sure your cot meets all of these important requirements to be a good fit!

Flexibility and Versatility

Babies are an exciting but expensive addition to your family, so a flexible and versatile travel cot that will last you through your baby’s initial growth spurt, their changing sleep and play needs, and even a few different babies is a great choice. Look for a cot that converts from bassinet to play pen to larger sleeping pen for the best value!

Stain-Resistant yet Soft

Babies are messy, and accidents happen. A cot that can withstand quite a few accidents from your baby is a great choice. Look for a mattress pad that can be removed or washed and a polyester material that wipes down easily. A cot that can comfortably handle the outdoors, stains, sweat, rain, and more will be a versatile and functional part of your family routine, but you’ll also want to make sure it’s still soft enough that your baby can rest comfortably inside.

Travel cots for babies are a big part of ensuring your baby is comfortable sleeping and at play r while you go about your day whether you’re at home or traveling. Picking a sturdy, soft, secure, and reliable travel cot that lasts your child a long time is key to easing your transition into new parenthood and ensuring a happy and healthy sleep and play balance in your baby’s life.

I'm Angela Corrias, an Italian journalist, photographer, and travel writer located in the heart of Italy's capital. Welcome to my website, your comprehensive source for your travels and expert guidance for crafting your dream travel experience.

Best Portable Bottle Warmers To Easily Feed Your Baby Wherever You Are

What to pack for a yoga retreat in india – great tips from a yoga teacher, leave a comment cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Best travel cot 2023: lightweight cots for travel

Attempting travel with a baby? The best travel cot will make sure you’re suitably armed, and they’re suitably snuggly

Two toddlers playing in a blue travel cot – one of the best travel cots you can buy

The best travel cot? Be honest, it’s something you didn’t even know existed until you became a parent and had to take a trip. Do you have to travel with a bed for your baby? Well, yes, you do, they're just as essential as the best car seats and best suitcases , and luckily there are so many incredible new designs that hitting the road with your littlest is that little bit easier.

We give you the travel cot, the portable crib, and the basket bed … here are all the latest and the best products on the market which allow you to travel light even though you’re now packing an extra person.

How to buy the best travel cot

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

First off, you might be surprised to find out that travel cots aren’t just for travel. If you’re stuck for space at home, regularly splitting time between two places, want a safe place to keep them corralled while you pop off for a second (see above), or like to have a spare for friends’ babies when they pop round for a coffee (the friend, that is, not the baby), a travel cot is a sensible solution.

But when it does come to travel, having your own portable cot means that you needn’t worry about whether that Airbnb has all the necessaries or that hotel webpage is up to date, and it also gives baby a familiar place to sleep, eliminating one more reason for them to get lairy while you’re on the road.

And it’s what you’ll be using it for that’ll mostly dictate the type of travel crib you want.

Compact foldable cots or bassinets are best for chucking in a suitcase or luggage locker on the plane, while trips by car simply call for something that can fit in the boot. The more lightweight they are, the more you might question the fact that they’re deemed suitably sturdy for a human child, but between rigorous manufacturer testing and great reviews across the board, you can rest assured each of our picks will keep them safe as houses, even if you’re a long way away from yours.

You might be wondering if travel cots are safe to sleep in? The answer is yes, as long as you buy the right one and your child doesn't sleep in it all the time. Read our guide linked above for more information on travel cot safety.

Finally, for maximum mileage when it comes to the initial spend, look for a model that comes with an included mattress, adjustable levels for rapidly growing babes, and more.

The best travel cots you can buy today:

Graphite/Black Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot

1. Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Sleep&Go Travel Cot is a well-designed piece of kit that hopes to make travelling with little ones a breeze. It sets itself apart from rivals by being adaptable: it's a travel cot one minute, playpen the next, and can even transform into a newborn co-sleeper. Perhaps best of all, it's able to transform between these functions in seconds thanks to its innovative all-in-one frame.

It lets itself down slightly with the lack of colour options, and the fact that it's not the smallest when folded.

With an RRP of £150, it sits firmly in the upper-mid-range price category, but it's durable materials, solid build, and innovative features mean it more than earns its place at the top of our list.

Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjorn Travel Cot Light

Praise be to Björn Jakobson, granddaddy of all things baby-related — his brainchild BabyBjorn still leads the pack when it comes to travel cots, with this one getting our second spot for its practical, paediatrician-approved design. The foldable travel cot packs down into a neat carry case with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt for easy transportation, and we love how compact it is, not to mention easy to set up, which is a real bonus when there’s unpacking to be done.

The mattress has been designed in conjunction with paediatric specialists to provide the best support possible, but the only problem is that it’s at floor level, so if you have shorter arms, bear in mind it might take some effort, or the help of a taller family member.

3. Nuna SENA Aire

The thing about parenthood is that you always have your hands full, and when it comes to travelling with kids, that goes double. So welcome the SENA Aire, a thoughtfully designed travel cot from premium baby gear brand Nuna that can be set-up not only quickly, but with one hand. Its zigzag legs pop-up instantly, and come with padded edges so you cannot trap you finger in a hinge while you’re seeing it up.

However, the SENA Aire’s main USP is what its name suggests; an advanced air design delivers maximum airflow that will give its inhabitant deeper sleeps. That’s the theory. Elsewhere, the SENA Aire gives the travelling parents everything they need, including a mattress, sheets, an insect net and even cotton sheets. Best of all, it’s all machine washable, and goes neatly into a travel bag.

4. Inovi Cocoon Folding Moses

Here’s one for youngsters taking their first flights. Suitable for the under six months crowd, this simple crib won’t be with you for long, but it’s sure to impress any parent thinking of taking a flight to show-off their new addition. A simple and nice-looking crib that could easily be used at home, the Cocoon is compact and lightweight enough for travel, even complying with international aviation standards (IATA) so it can be taken on a plane as hand luggage, and stowed in overhead locker compartments (minus junior, we hope).

It also includes a mesh canopy that protects baby from the outside world – including insects, pets and curious passers-by – while being itself constructed atom transparent, breathable mesh panels. The Cocoon is also easy to set-up, with four locking joints on its fold-out base for maximum stability.

5. Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Cot

Like the BabyBjorn travel cot, this Phil & Teds option is suitable for use from birth to three years, making it a good option if you’re after a longer-term solution. The big difference between the two is that this little number is more suited to long-haul travel, with a weight of just 3.2 kilograms and an ultra-compact design that’s formulated to fit in a suitcase, luggage locker, or even the storage space of your buggy.

Reviewers found it was a bit awkward to set up, but that it was light, sturdy and comfy enough to make up for it, so we reckon it sounds just fine if you’re setting up camp for a while.

6. SpaceCot Travel Cot

If the combination of quick setup and sturdiness is the holy grail of travel cots, then call us Indiana Jones, because we seem to have found it in the SpaceCot Travel Cot. The makers say it opens and closes in just three seconds — a big boast, but reviewers vouch for its veracity.

They found it super easy to set up, and loved the included detachable crib levels and mattress that let it work as a cot up to six months, and a playpen up to 30 months. If you frequently find yourself with your hands too full for faffing around, all signs point to this easy-up cot being a good buy.

7. LittleLife Arc 2

OK, it’s a tent. Get over it. Kids love camping! Seriously though, the tent-style Arc 2 has a lot going for it, especially if you travel a lot because (and this is a stroke of genius) the Arc 2 packs-up into a small lightweight backpack. A pop-up tent weighing a mere 2.5kg, it uses colour-coded, lightweight aluminium poles and comes with a Velcro-attached foam mattress and washable cotton cover.

Although it can be used indoors perfectly well, as its design suggests, the Arc 2 can also be used outdoors, and be secured with tent pegs. It works as a bed, a playpen, and just as a place to keep a child out of the sun. If you’re an outdoorsy kind of a family, the Arc 2 is a no-brainer.

8. Pop Up Bassinet Koo-Di

Designed for use in the house or out in the garden, at the beach or for trips somewhere rather sunnier, the Koo-Di Sun and Sleep Travel Bassinet looks to be a versatile option for keeping the smallest member of your group happy, cool, and out of the sun.

The mesh sides are intended for ventilation and peace of mind, allowing you to check on them as they (hopefully) snooze, while the integrated zip-up mosquito net keeps nibbles at bay, and the blackout blind claims to block 93 percent of all harmful rays. That’s all pretty high tech for a travel cot, making it our best bet for travel abroad and hot summer days at home.

9. Chicco Lullago Zip Crib

This expandable travel crib gives the option for different depths as they grow, giving it more lasting power than some of our smaller picks, and making it, according to happy reviewers, a great transitional cot. Users loved that it was sturdy and easy to put together, but found it a bit heavy to carry — although, while the travel bag is a bit more cumbersome than its BabyBjorn equivalent, some might appreciate that it looks more like your average minimal tote bag rather than a baby-specific behemoth.

Overall, it’s agreed that the quality is top-notch and the setup simple, but if you have to travel a long way, you might be better placed going for something like Phil & Ted’s travel cot.

Joie Excursion Travel Cot with detachable changing mat and rocker

10. Joie Excursion Change & Rock Travel Cot0

Trying to get them off to sleep isn’t the only thing that can prove tricky on the road - there’s also the small matter of changing to attend to. Luckily, some clever clogs at Joie has made a travel cot that doubles up as a changing table. Actually, make that triples up, because it also packs in a soothing rocker with soft toys. And it has wheels!

With a draught-resistant base and mesh lining for a comfortable sleep, a rocker/bassinet for soothing and naps, and a changing table for you-know-what, reviewers agree this is a great portable option for when you want to streamline your stuff. Just be aware that it’s very large and very heavy, so it’s not the best for small cars and certainly won’t fit in a suitcase, but gosh darn is it versatile.

Get the T3 newsletter!

All the best features, news, tips and great deals to help you live a better life through technology

As the Style and Travel Editor at T3, Spencer covers everything from clothes to cars and watches to hotels. Everything that's cool, stylish, and interesting, basically. He's been a part of T3 for over seven years, and in that time covered every industry event known to man, from CES and MWC to the Geneva Motorshow and Baselworld. When he's driving up and down the country in search of the greatest driving roads, he can be found messing around on an electric scooter, playing with luxury watches, or testing the latest fragrances.

Carys Lowry-Carter

T3’s favourite sex toy from LELO now comes in a convenient travel size

By Emily Cox Published 13 April 24

Woman doing a rowing machine workout as an alternative to running

Because we don't all need to be pro runners

By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published 13 April 24

The best travel backpacks for everything from weekends away and business trips to backpacking and hiking

By Jamie Carter Last updated 20 December 23

A man plugging his phone into one of the best power banks, the BioLite Charge PD 80

Whether you’re travelling, commuting or in the office, the best power banks keep your smartphone, laptop and everything recharged and ready to use

By Jamie Carter Last updated 15 March 24

A man swimming underwater in diving gear, taking a picture of a turtle with one of the best underwater cameras

T3’s roundup of the best underwater cameras available to buy right now

By Amy Davies Last updated 2 January 24

Man walking along sand dunes, looking out to sea, with one of the best travel tripods on his shoulder

These are the best travel tripods – compact and lightweight enough to squeeze into a backpack, suitcase or even a pocket

By Jamie Carter Last updated 2 January 24

best electric scooter: Person riding a Pure Advance Flex electric scooter on street

The best electric scooter can make getting around more fun

By Matt Kollat Last updated 25 January 24

A little blonde girl on a beach taking a picture with one of the best camera for kids

Easy to use and difficult to break – choose the best camera for kids with our handy guide

By Gavin Stoker Last updated 29 February 24

A woman sitting on a wall in a city, wearing a pair of the best headphones for travel – Beats

It's time to grab a pair of the best headphones for travel, for long flights, train journeys, and car rides

By Spencer Hart Last updated 2 January 24

The best suitcases! A collection of pastel coloured suitcases and luggage against a pastel blue backdrop

Pack everything, including the kitchen sink, with the best suitcase and luggage at your disposal

By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Last updated 22 March 24

Skip to main content
Skip to main navigation
Skip to search

Our writers test and research products independently. When you buy through a link on our site we may earn a commission but this never affects our product choices.

Best travel cots: tried and tested

Whether used at home, at the grandparents' or as a playpen, a travel cot can be a familiar place for your baby to sleep, wherever they are. After rigorous research and testing, we reveal the best travel cots to buy in 2024.

By Poppy O'Neill | Last updated Mar 26, 2024

While you may have dedicated a lot of time to finding the best crib , moses basket or cot bed for your child, we tend to give less thought to which travel cot to buy. But getting the best sleep possible is just as important while you're away from home, so we've put some of the best travel cots on the market through their paces.

While they're mainly used for overnight stays at a grandparent's house, or longer holidays, travel cots can also be used instead of a traditional crib or playpen for both babies and toddlers. They are portable, easy to carry, fit in your car boot and should be fairly lightweight too. Pack your travel cot along with a baby monitor and your little one's best baby blanket and you're good to go.

Our parent tester, Ruth, and her 18-month-old put some of the UK's top-rated travel cots through their paces. We also turned to the Mumsnet forums - home of the UK's largest network of parents - to seek out authentic recommendations and honest reviews of the travel cots they'd used with their own children. Referring to expert review sites for extra information, we collated all the information to bring you our top picks, of the best travel cots 2024.

The best travel cots 2024: editor's picks

Joie kubbie Bassinet Travel Cot

Red Kite Travel Cot

Graco FoldLite LX Travel Cot

Joie kubbie™ sleep travel cot.

Lift and lower side panel means baby can be picked up and placed down without hassle

Compact frame that packs down into a travel bag

Mesh panels on all four sides

Padded top rail

Too small to be used as a playpen

Material isn't machine-washable

Price on writing: From £100 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (15kg) | Weight: 8.79kg

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full Joie kubbie™ Sleep review

The Joie kubbie™ Sleep is a real steal and a brilliant choice for new parents who want something that covers all bases - that's why we've named it our best travel cot overall for 2024. Versatile in style and cocoon-like in the way it nurtures and grows with newborns, the kubbie™ Sleep also comes with a bassinet that can easily be attached and detached.

A unique feature of the kubbie™ Sleep that our tester was impressed by is that when your baby is in the bassinet, you can tuck the cot close to your bed and adjust the height of the crib so that it acts like a co-sleeper. It's a lovely feature if you're travelling with a tiny baby, it provides extra peace of mind and easy access for changing and breastfeeding .

Great for parents who

Have a newborn

Like the idea of a co-sleeper and want to keep their baby close during the night

Want a cot that can last up to three years old

Read next: The best changing bags Mumsnetters swear by

Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot

Lightweight and folds down compactly into a travel bag

Quick to assemble and fold away

Easy to clean

Mesh sides make it easy to see baby

The mattress is thinner than some other baby travel cot mattresses on the market, such as the Joie kubbie™ Sleep

Doesn't have wheels

Price on writing: £35 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (or able to climb out) | Weight: 7kg

Tried and tested by Mumsnet : Read our full Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot review .

Robust and simple in design, the Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot is a basic, practical travel cot that you'll be glad to have for the odd night away from home with your little one. With breathable mesh on four sides, a carry bag and padding over the poles and edges, it's got everything you need for a safe night's sleep - or a handy play pen.

Mumsnetters say the mattress could be thicker and better quality, which is often the case with cheaper travel cots. If you're looking for a separate mattress, this one from Mother Nurture fits the Red Kite perfectly and folds up for extra practicality while on-the-go.

Need a bed for short trips or as a secondary for the grandparents' house

Are on a tight budget

Read next: The best cabin bags to buy for your next family holiday

Lightweight and easy to fold up and down

Collapses to just 26 cm wide

Comes with a removable infant bassinet

2 wheels for easy manoeuvring

The mattress could be thicker

Price on writing: £80 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (or able to climb out) | Weight: 6.78 kg

With two ways to fold, the Graco FoldLite LX is a brilliant cot for frequent use. The quick fold is designed for speed, while 'Home Fold' is ultra-thin at just 26cm wide - perfect for storing away at home.

We love the two-wheel design that makes the cot easy to drag around, and it's not bad to look at either. The base is one of the lowest to the ground on our list, making it a good option for using as a playpen. It also comes with a removable infant bassinet for smaller babies.

Graco are well-loved by Mumsnetters thanks to their good-quality, affordable baby gear, and this travel cot is no exception.

Want a cot that can be put up and down frequently without too much hassle

Have limited space for storage

Read next: The best nursing chairs to buy, as recommended by mums

LittleLife Arc 2

Insect-proof mesh for hot weather and the outdoors

Has a front panel with a safety toggle that can be zipped open or closed, making it a great option to use as an outdoor playpen

Colour-coded poles make assembly simple

Lightweight option

Thin mattress

Sunshade must be bought separately

Price on writing: £110 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (15kg), but we'd recommend it for toddlers | Weight: 2.5kg

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full LittleLife Arc 2 review

The LittleLife Arc 2 is extremely lightweight (practically featherweight, really, at just 2.5kg), is designed just like a tent and can be folded down compactly to fit into a backpack, which comes with it. This makes it perfect for use on public transport, holidays and camping.

It works just as well outdoors as it does indoors and is great for those grab-and-go moments. Our tester really liked its tent-like design - close to the floor means there's no risk of kids falling out and the cosier sleeping space makes it ideal for younger babies. She was also impressed by the mosquito net - perfect for travel wherever you're headed.

Use public transport when travelling

Want something that could double up as a playpen

Read next: The best baby carriers, tried and tested

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

Durable construction

Very comfy mattress

Mattress and fabric is removable and machine-washable

Mattress is fairly close to the floor – one side can be unzipped for easy access though

It’s one of the more expensive cots around

Price on writing: £220 | Suitable from: Birth to three years | Weight: 6kg (including carry bag)

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full BabyBjorn Light review

If you have a little extra to spend, then the luxury and comfort of BabyBjörn's Light will make sleepovers fuss-free no matter where you go. Our tester found it sturdy, simple to set-up and really easy to transport. The mattress is considerably more comfy than those you'll find in cheaper travel cots, and all the fabric parts are removable and machine washable.

The main drawback is the price tag, but if you have the means, then this cot won't let you down.

Need a small portable crib that can be taken on short or long trips

Want to invest in a travel bed that can stand heavy use

Related: The best teddy bears and soft toys for kids of all ages

Joie Commuter Change

Two wheels make this cot easy to move around

Easy to fold and unfold

Bassinet and changing unit don’t fit into carry bag

Side of the cot can’t be pulled down like the new Joie kubbie™ Sleep

Price on writing: £100 | Suitable from: Birth to 15kg | Weight: 12.3kg

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full Joie Commuter Change review

Winner of the Mumsnet Best Travel Cot 2018 award, the Joie Commuter Change didn’t quite make our top five this year, but it’s still a great product and definitely worth considering.

Our tester loved all the added extras that come with the Commuter Change. Not only is there a full-size bassinet, which will save your back when reaching down to your child, but the cot also comes with a changing table which handily clips onto the top.

Read next: The best cot mattresses for a safe night's sleep

Bugaboo Stardust

Great quality mattress

Takes just one second to unfold and three seconds to fold

Can be folded with the mattress left in

Carrycot insert for newborns

On the expensive side

Only suitable up to 2 years

Price on writing: £225 | Suitable from: Birth to two years | Weight: 6.7kg

For those considering a travel cot to use from birth, the Bugaboo Stardust is a great option. It comes with a carrycot insert which means the cot can be used as a bedside crib - perfect for co-sleeping away from home.

It has a height-adjustable mattress and an incredibly easy fold up and down. When folded up, the travel cot is nice and slim, making for easy storage. The mattress is great quality and thicker than the others on our list. At just over £200, it's on the premium end of the spectrum, and the manufacturer recommends only using it up to 2 years, so it doesn't have quite the longevity of most other travel cots, which generally can be used until the age of three.

Want to co-sleep safely away from home

Are expecting to use the cot frequently for sleeping

Related: The best breast pumps, as recommended by Mumsnetters

Travel cots: our pick of the best of the rest

Sturdy but pricey.

We have the Nuna Sena and its amazing, the most hassle-free assembling I've seen having watched BIL trying to get his cheap and cheerful one up! You just push the ring in the middle. It looks great and my kids have both slept great in it when we're away. Also sturdy enough to double as a temporary living room playpen for a while too! Has definitely been one of my highly recommended baby items.

lightningpeach

Nuna Sena Aire

Best travel cot for use as a playpen

Quite a while ago now we bought a BabyDan one from John Lewis which is the same dimensions as a standard cot (not cot bed). Extra handy as we could also use the actual cot mattress in it for extra comfort if we had space in the car, or latterly when we had got rid of the cot but had friends or relatives to stay

DiddlySquatty

BabyDan Travel Cot

Best travel cot for air travel

I've been to many different countries on different planes, trains and automobiles and the Phil & Teds is the only one which works across various check in requirements and ages of children ...100% [would recommend] the P&T one if you actually intend travelling with it, as opposed to staying at Granny's place every now and again.

mynamechangemyrules

Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Crib

What age is a travel cot for?

This type of cot is usually used from the newborn stage up until toddlerhood – or until the little wriggler can climb out by themselves.

Do I actually need a one?

The short answer is: no, not necessarily, but that depends entirely on your lifestyle.

Portable beds can be expensive and can take up unnecessary space in an otherwise baby-filled home, so if you think you'll only get use out of one for two weeks of the year, then you could probably do without.

If you already have a co-sleeper, Moses basket or carrycot that you use with a travel system , you might be able to use that when you're away from home with a smaller baby.

If, however, you tend to travel often or think your little one will have regular sleepovers with the grandparents, then a travel cot is a great solution.

It'll not only be easier to cart around, but it'll offer a familiar and comforting environment for your child no matter where they rest their head.

Are travel cots safe?

Safety is crucial when buying a travel bed for your little one so, while all products should have some sort of testing certification, be sure to check the safety features out yourself.

If you plan to buy in-store, ask to see it being assembled

Check how sturdy it is – could it withstand being knocked into?

Look for safety locks on wheels if there are any – can they also be tucked away when not in use?

Choking hazards are also something to look out for so make sure that small parts, like zips, are well covered

Check for sharp corners and padded rails

Assess whether your child would be able to climb out easily – check that the side panels are high enough

Safe sleeping and travel cot mattresses

The Lullaby Trust says that all cots need to comply with British Standards Institution (BSI) safety standards regardless of how old they are. If there is no safety standard number visible then you shouldn't buy it.

When it comes to safe sleeping, they also insist that the bed's original mattress needs to be firm, entirely flat and waterproof with no soft or cushioned areas, particularly around the baby's head. Babies should be placed on their backs with their feet at the foot of the cot.

Soft mattresses are known to increase the risk of SIDS as they make it harder for babies to lose body heat, which can cause them to become too hot.

Sleep positioners and pillows must not be used and there should also be no loose or bulky bedding inside the crib as this can cause a baby to overheat.

Even if the mattress feels thin, don't be tempted to place folded blankets underneath your child. Go for a baby sleeping bag or a well-fitted swaddle instead.

The Lullaby Trust also advise that portable cribs aren’t placed against radiators and remain out of reach of blind cords.

How much does a travel cot cost?

Prices range from £20 to over £200, and your budget will probably depend entirely on how much you think you'll use it.

As with anything, the most expensive option won't necessarily be best suited to you and your child. Some cheaper models may do just the trick and will last well into the toddler years too.

Can I buy one secondhand?

Yes, you can, but make sure you always follow the manufacturer's instructions before using.

Make sure it isn’t damaged or broken, that the frame is intact and that there aren’t any sharp edges that could cause injury. If possible, ask to assemble and fold it down before you buy to check it works as it should.

Secondhand travel cots can go from anywhere between £10 and £80.

Other things to consider when buying a travel cot

1. portability.

Check the size and weight. Can it be folded down compactly? Is it likely to fit into the boot of your car?

If you tend to travel by public transport, you'll want a bed that's lightweight and easy to carry. For planes, some small cots may even be able to fit into an overhead locker.

2. Assembly and storage

By nature, travel beds are usually easy to put up and fold down. Pop-ups are, of course, the easiest, but check to see if your chosen product is quick to assemble, fold and pack away.

When it comes to storage, the amount of space you have at home will influence your decision.

Some models have mattresses that fold with the frame before they go into a bag, and most will fit into the back of a cupboard or under a bed when stored away.

3. How to clean

Babies create mess – and a lot of it too. Look for a removable mattress that comes with a fitted sheet, which you will be able to stick in the washing machine.

Some cots have removable side panels, but if they don’t then you can always wipe them clean with warm water.

4. Extra features

Many larger models double up as a playpen which is great for keeping your child safe at all times no matter where they are. Some even come with changing tables, mobiles and bassinets for newborns.

You’ll find that the added extras will usually need to be carried separately once the frame is folded down. Brands that offer attachments like these include Joie (the Joie Commuter Change won Mumsnet Best Travel Cot 2018), BabyBjorn and Graco.

Some, like the Arc 2, also come with added extras like built-in mosquito nets for camping.

What's the best travel cot to buy?

The Joie kubbie Sleep is the best travel cot to buy in 2024. Mumsnetters love that it doubles as a co-sleeper, making it a versatile, useful and great value buy. The compact design makes it easy to transport and set up, while the bedside feature allows for easy access to your baby during the night. Overall, the Joie Baby Kubbie Sleep Bedside Travel Cot is a great choice for parents looking for a safe and comfortable sleep solution for their little one.

How we tested and why you should trust us

For continuity, we try to get one tester to test all the products in a single category. This reduces any potential variables during the testing process and ensures that our results are based on like-for-like comparisons. After approximately 24 hours of research, our tester, Ruth, produced a shortlist of 14 cots to put to the test. The list included the most highly recommended cots by Mumsnet users and other review sites, plus a wide range of designs and price tags, from nifty pop-ups to more studier models akin to traditional cribs.

Each product was tested in rooms with both carpet and laminate flooring, then scored on six key areas:

Safety and stability

Comfort and day-to-day use, cleanliness, value for money.

Five products were then awarded a Mumsnet Best badge – these are the products that we feel offer the absolute best value for most parents. We also gave honourable mentions to four others.

Ruth scored each product based on each criteria below, with the highest scoring coming out on top as the overall winner. Honourable mentions were then given to nine other top-performing beds.

We looked at a number of factors including:

Durability and materials – how well was each product made and finished?

Safety features – did the product have padded rails, lockable wheels, mesh ventilation, firm bedding, a locking system etc? And could a baby's fingers become trapped? Ruth studied everything from the frame to the mattress

Choking hazards – were there any parts that could come loose?

Sturdiness – she walked into it, knocked it against furniture and dropped it when assembled and packed away. Could each cot withstand the weight of both an adult and child if accidentally fallen into?

Safety standards – she also looked for the appropriate safety labels

Height of side panels – could a child climb out easily?

Assembly and folding

How straightforward was it to assemble and fold?

Were written or visual instructions clear and precise? Could the instructions also be accessed online and were there video tutorials to guide you through?

Each cot was assembled and taken down 20 times – this was also timed to see how long it would take

We also wanted to see which products might cause difficulty for people with mobility issues and which were the easiest to assemble and take down

Ruth also considered how easy it would be to access spare parts and whether each cot came with a warranty

Ruth looked at how much space the cot took up in a room – did it slot in easily, and was it more suited to indoors or outdoors?

Could it be moved around easily, particularly through doorways, from one room to another, and up and down the stairs? Did it have to be folded in order to do so?

How easy was it to place the child inside? Could the side panels be lowered?

When inside, was the little one comfy? Did they like it and was there enough room to sleep and to play?

Was it heavy to carry and did it fit comfortably in the boot of an average-sized family car? Could it be taken on public transport easily?

Ruth analysed looks, including colours, fabrics and overall design

Did the bed fit in with the décor? Was the design attractive and user-friendly?

Were there different colours to choose from?

The likes of mud, sand, peanut butter, milk and orange juice were smeared and spilled onto the interior and exterior to see how easy stains were to remove

Ruth also checked for removable bedding that could easily be thrown into the washing machine

We tested products with a variety of price tags and compared the more expensive models to those that were cheaper

If pricey, was it worth the price tag?

And were there any extras included to make the investment more justified?

How real-life comparative testing makes Mumsnet Reviews unique

We commissioned Ruth Lumley to write about and test a variety of toddler and baby travel cots. Ruth is a journalist who has used a number of baby beds with her three young children – from the newborn stage right through to toddlerhood and while holidaying abroad and visiting relatives in the UK.

During the research process, she looked at the types of products available, scoured the Mumsnet forums for recommendations and spoke to baby sleep experts from The Lullaby Trust , an organisation that provides advice on safer sleep for babies.Ruth tried out each bed with her youngest child, who was 18 months old at the time of testing. She tested each for at least three nights, both at home and at the grandparents' house, which meant that all the models were subject to the same environmental factors and held a child of the same age and weight.

About the author

Poppy O'Neill is a Content Editor at Mumsnet and a mother of two. She's been researching and reviewing baby and child products for 2 years, with a particular focus on baby essentials, toys and books for toddlers and outdoor play equipment. From potties to paddling pools and bunk beds to bedtime stories, she loves to deep-dive into research and find the best products out there.

Poppy is also an award-winning, best-selling children's and parenting author of books such as Don't Worry, Be Happy , The Extraordinary Book That Makes You Feel Happy and Mother Power . She specialises in children's mental health and her books are used by therapists, teachers and SENCOs across the UK. She won a The Week Junior Book Award in 2023, her books have been translated into several languages and she's been featured in The Guardian, The Sunday Times and The Sun.

After earning a BA in Creative Writing from the University of Leeds and a PGCert in Fashion and Lifestyle Journalism from University of the Arts London, she worked in fashion for most of her 20s. When her children were young, she undertook an MA in Creative Writing from the University of Chichester and re-trained as an author and freelance writer.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Read our full commerce guidelines here .

7 best travel cots for babies and toddlers in 2022 – with reviews

Looking for the best travel cot here’s everything you need to know.

If you’ve got any kind of overnight stay planned and you have a baby or toddler in the family, you’re going to need a travel cot .

RELATED: 19 best holidays to go on with babies and toddlers

Travel cots provide your little one with a portable, safe place to sleep while you’re away from home. They’re a baby travel essential – lightweight, with collapsable sides, they fold into a portable package which usually has a carry handle.

You’re definitely going to want to invest in one of these for family holidays , breaks and overnight stays – buying one means you won’t have to worry about sleeping arrangements at your chosen destination. They also provide a familiar – and safe - sleeping environment for your little one, meaning that everyone sleeps better.

If you’re wondering which is the best travel cot for your child’s needs, we’ve got all the info for you – keep reading!

LOVE SHOPPING? Sign up to the HELLO! Edit Newsletter

A travel cot is a baby travel essential you'll want to invest in

What do I need to look for in a travel cot?

When choosing the best travel cot for your baby or toddler, there are several factors to consider. Firstly – age suitability is important. Most travel cots are suitable from birth – but you should check the manufacturer's recommendations carefully. We’ve included details in our list to make it easier for you.

You also need to look at the weight of the travel cot – they vary from 6kg to 11kg – and consider how this fits with your needs. For example, if you’re throwing it in the back of a car, the weight is going to be less of an issue than a travel cot you’ll be carrying on a train or even plane. Check our list for the weights of each option to find the best travel cot for you.

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

The majority of travel cots are indeed suitable to be used from birth, but you should check the manufacturers' instructions carefully. Some even have a built-in bassinet which provides an elevated sleep environment for newborns.

Are travel cots suitable for toddlers?

Travel cots are just as appropriate for toddlers as they are for newborns and very young babies. But of course, you need to check the age appropriateness of each particular model. Some travel cots are suitable to use until age three and a half.

Best travel cots for 2022 at a glance

Best travel cot for newborns – Joie Kubbie sleep compact travel cot

Best travel cot for toddlers – Maxi-Cosi Iris 2-in-1 travel cot

Best travel cot for flying – Deryan travel cot

Best travel cot budget option – Red Kite black sleep-tight travel cot

Best travel cot for easy assembly – Bugaboo Stardust

Best pyramid-style travel cot - Micralite Premium travel cot

Best travel cot for newborns

Joie Kubbie Sleep Compact Travel Cot, £115, Argos

Weight: 8.79 kg

Suitable: from birth till 15kg

The drop-down side on this model makes it popular with new parents looking for the best travel cot for newborns. It also features a bassinet, which are recommended for newborns. Once you’re out of the newborn stage, the mattress can be lowered so it becomes a good-sized travel cot and playpen for an older baby / toddler.

Top review: “Bought this for grandchild so daughter can stay over at night with new baby. Adjustable height very useful to allow baby to be by the bedside. Easy to erect and fold away. Very pleased.”

Best travel cot for toddlers

Maxi Cosi Iris 2 in 1 travel cot, £158, Amazon

Weight: 5.6 kg

Suitable from: birth to approx 3.6 years old

The big advantage of this travel cot is the fact that when it’s set on the floor it has no weight limit, and it’s high sides mean it’s difficult for a toddler to climb out. At 5.6kg it’s one of the lightest on the market and easy to transport, folding down into a super compact travel bag. There’s also a newborn setting, with the matress raised higher – so you can put younger babies down for a nap without bending low to the floor.

Top review: “This travel cot is great - assembles easily in minutes, straightforward to switch between the two heights. The cot doesn't look like a travel model and feels (and looks) high quality, with wooden legs and a well padded grey bumper. The mattress is lovely and thick and seems comfortable for our 7 week old; it also seems like it'll be water repellent if there are leaks or accidents. I was also pleasantly surprised by how roomy this bed is, and am confident it'll last well into toddlerhood.”

RELATED: Game-changer gifts for new mums and expectant parents

MORE: 8 of the best bedside cribs for safe sleeping alongside your baby

Best travel cot budget option

Red Kite Black sleep tight travel cot, £45.95, Amazon

Weight: 6.99 kg

Suitable from: birth until 15kg

This travel cot is a great budget option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s sturdy and features a padded top rail and breathable mesh sides. It’s also very easy to assemble and put down and put away. However the mattress is quite thin, so you may want to consider buying an additional one if it’s going to be used for an extended period of time.

Top review: “Having now used this multiple times, I’m really impressed with it - it’s good quality and not too bulky when folded so fits easily into my small car boot along with all the other baby paraphernalia needed for a night away!

“It’s really easy to put up and take down and it’s so helpful that the instructions are printed onto the underside of the mattress - what a great idea (these sleep-deprived parents are very grateful for this design feature!) You must put it up/take it down in the right order or you will struggle to get it folded correctly.”

Best pyramid-style travel cot

Micralite Premium travel cot, was £150 now £124.99, Amazon

Weight: 6.74 kg

From: Newborn (with insert, sold separately) to 15kg

Some parents prefer a pyramid-style travel cot because it encourages little ones to stay in the lower part of the cot and discourages them from trying to climb out. This cot scores top marks for its portability and ease to put up and down. The black colourway is also a godsend to avoid stains being a problem

Top review: "We really like the fact that you can unzip one end so the baby can call in and out if it is not being used as a cot and we find that the baby really likes this and takes her toys into it. The structure itself is incredibly strong and stable and again because of the pyramid-style design, it will be impossible for it to topple.

"It is really easy to fold up and put away and when in its bag incredibly compact ideal for taking to grandparents or friends if you are having a night away."

Best travel cot for easy assembly

Bugaboo stardust travel cot, £225, John Lewis

Weight: 6.7kg

One second to unfold, three seconds to fold – when it comes to easy assembly this wins the best travel cot badge, hands down. The mattress is firm and comfortable and the additional zip-in carry cot makes it suitable from birth.

Top review: Very quick and easy to assemble (it really is a matter of seconds) and feels sturdy once assembled. Bulkier to store than some other travel cots, but does fold fairly flat and comes with a useful carry case. The mattress is better than any other travel cots we have tried and doesn't need extra padding like the concertina-style mattresses other cots have. Our 10-month-old sleeps happily in this.”

Best travel cot for flying

Deryan travel cot, £68.38, Amazon

Weight: 1.8kg

Suitable from: birth to two years

If you’re looking for the best travel cot you can take as hand luggage, this model is a great option. It’s a pop-up beach tent style with a slef inflating mattress which features a breathable zip up mesh cover which protects against insects and mosquitos. The reviews do mention that the matress is a thin one, so this cot is better suited to occasional short trips when taking a more sturdy travel cot isn’t possible.

Top review: “I bought this travel cot mainly due to the small size and portability as were flying to visit family. It is light weight, compact and easily fitted in our suitcase without taking up too much room. If you didn't need to pack it away, it can be easily carried using the strap.

“The cot itself it so easy to assemble - it's basically a pop up cot. The self inflate mattress then fits inside and you zip the cover sheet over the top with a velcro tab to secure the zip fastens. Simple! It has mesh sides providing good ventilation and this feature also gives you a good view of your child.”

MORE: How to babyproof your home: 10 must-have products for mums and dads

RELATED: Everything you need to throw the perfect baby shower: food, decoration, drinks and more

Like this story? Sign up to our HELLO! Edit newsletter to get other shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox.

HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page .

More Parenting

Our baby was born without eyes but Guide Dogs gave us a 'sense of hope'

I'm a midwife and these are the signs your baby has tongue tie

Lady Kitty Spencer secretly gives birth to daughter with surprise reveal on Mother's Day

Carrie Johnson's birth stories with sons Wilfred, Frank and her rainbow baby Romy

Exclusive: Oti Mabuse on motherhood, breastfeeding and sleepless nights

'I'm a birth expert – these are the 5 chats to have with your partner before baby arrives'

The royal hospital rule Princess Diana changed for Princess Kate

Kourtney Kardashian's Pilates studio at $9m mansion with Travis Barker is better than a private gym

The genius baby weaning sets and ideas mrs hinch, lucy mecklenburgh and more celebrities swear by, everything you need to host the perfect baby shower – food, decorations, drinks and more, 21 best sensory toys for babies and toddlers, game-changer gifts for new mums and expectant parents.

10 Best Child Travel Cots – List of the Best Portable Baby Bed for Travel

Traveling with a baby is a bit of a hassle. But not if you have a travel cot! In this article, we provided you the best travel cots for traveling.

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby

While traveling with a baby, for both near or far trips, comfort is a parent’s top priority. One of the most needed to support a baby’s comfort is a place to sleep. There are various types of cots that parents can choose for their babies. But before deciding to buy, it’s good to know the important aspect of the cot.

Description

Travel cots are babies’ places to sleep and sometimes play. It can be easily operated by traveler parents. The cot must be easy to fold, does not require a lot of space, and easy to pack. Generally, travel cots are made of high-quality plastic or metal and surrounded by nets that can make a child comfortable while in it. All in all, the bed is mostly equipped with a removable soft mattress.

The exact duration used to determine the level of comfort of the baby. As the baby keeps growing, the time of using the cot has to be adjusted as well. For example, the bassinette type is only suited for newborns, and the infant or toddler shouldn’t use it.

Weight and Dimension

It is essential for parents who have high mobility, whether by car, train, airplane, even if just for a walk. As for airplanes, for example, the amount of luggage in a cabin or baggage is limited. You shouldn’t bring a heavy travel cot, because it will add costs if it exceeds the limits specified by the airline.

Also, if you have high mobility, a heavy and big travel cot will be adding the burden for parents. It’s best to use a lightweight and foldable cot, so it doesn’t take place and burdening.

There are many types of travel cots that are not only used as baby cots but also as a playpen. In fact, some travel cots are equipped with wheels to facilitate their mobility, and some others do not have wheels.

Easy to Setup and Pack

A travel cot that is easy to install and fold can save your time while traveling. To get used to installing and folding the travel cot, you have to practice before taking it. Practicing is also to ensure that each component of the travel cot can function perfectly.

Accessories

Some types of accessories that usually included in the travel cot package include:

First, mattress. You have to consider the comfort level of the mattress. Some manufacturers provide mattresses that are sometimes too thin or too hard;
Carry-on-bag;
Lastly, the net. Net is important for those of you who will be traveling to places with high humidity that have a lot of insects.

After knowing a few important points for choosing the best quality travel cots, you now have an idea of what to buy.

Table of Contents

Here are some of our recommendations that can be your reference

Pro’s and con’s of each travel cots, 1. graco – graco pack’n play on the go playard, pasadena.

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 1

Lightweight.
Easy to set up and equipped with wheels.
Maximum circulation.
It also includes a user manual.
Maximum weight only 30 pounds.
It’s also not suitable to install in a small room, it has to be in a wide space area.

2. Guava Family – Lotus Travel Crib | Easy to Pack Play-Yard

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 2

Easy to pack and setup.
It includes a mattress as well as a bag.
Airplane friendly.
It’s not suitable to install in a small room, it has to be in a wide space area.
It’s not dishwasher safe product.

3. EvenFlo – Evenflo Portable BabySuite Classic

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 3

Lightweight (14.9 pounds).
Easy to storage.
Wide space bassinet.
It contains a mattress, toys as well as carry-on-bag.
It also includes a user guide.
The maximum weight is 30 pounds only.

4. BabyBjorn – BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light – Silver + Fitted Sheet Bundle Pack

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 4

Lightweight (6 Kgs).
Easy to install and has a wide space for kids.
It also includes soft mattresses, box net cloth as well as carry-on-bag.

5. BabyTrend – Baby Trend Nursery Center, Tanzania

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 5

Inexpensive.
Easy to install.
It also includes a manual instruction, carry-on-bag, toys, as well as diaper cases.
Quite heavy to carry on, since it has 23.3 pounds weight.
It doesn’t include the mattress.

6. Graco – Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages, Manor

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 6

Can be used for newborn babies up to young toddler.
Portable box height can be adjusted to the baby’s height.
Can be converted to a portable Playard.
It doesn’t need much space.
It also includes an installation guide, carry-on-bag, canopy, as well as toys.
Quite heavy with 19 pounds weight.
It doesn’t include sheets.

7. MiClassic – MiClassic 2in1 Stationary & Rock Bassinet One-Second Fold Travel Crib

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 7

Portable and easy to storage.
It includes carry-on-bag.
Equipped with rock mode.
Sturdy and spacious.
Quite heavy with 18.35 pounds weight.
Sheets are not included.

8. Flisko – Flisko 2 in 1 Travel Crib & Bassinet

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 8

Easy to install, sturdy, and lightweight.
It includes soft mattresses, bedsheets, and box nets.
Wide space.
Multifunctional.
Constant circulation.
The mattress is quite thin.

9. KidCo – KidCo Peapod Infant Travel Bed

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 9

Lightweight (2.5 pounds).
It includes a mattress and storage bag.
It also includes UV protection as well as anchor rope.
Easy to install, fold, and carried.
Great air-flow circulation.
Bassinet doesn’t have wide space for your active baby.
Under 3 years old only.

10. Munchkin – Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby 10

Lightweight (< 3 pound).
Easy to install, fold, and storage.
It includes a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
It also includes an instruction manual and user guide.
It’s not recommended to store in a higher place.
The maximum weight is 15 pounds.

Written by Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor

Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

48 Hours in Tokyo – Exploring Japan’s Vibrant Capital

How to find the best hotels in new york, top california destinations for families to enjoy, scuba diving and snorkeling in the philippines, what are the benefits of booking flight tickets in advance, related posts, list of the best luxury hotels in vanuatu, working full time in the philippines 7 ways to save for your travels, how foreigners can work in the philippines: alien employment permit, universal studios orlando for adults– 2 parks and a magic wand @universalorl #universalmoments, previous post, how to teach english in south korea – tefl teaching jobs in sokor, airport to airport: what to do when you are an inadmissible passenger, subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive tips on how you can live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle!

First Name *
Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

The Best Travel Cots and Cribs for Your Baby’s Comfort and Safety

Travel cots and cribs are essential to allowing parents to travel with their little one. Check out our top picks to make your travel stress free!

Michael Scott

When you travel with a baby, it is important to have a safe and comfortable place for them to sleep. That's why it's important to choose the best travel cot or crib for your needs.

There are many different options on the market, so it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of different travel cots and cribs, and help you choose the perfect one for your family!

How We Found the Best Travel Cots

You're looking for a travel cot for your upcoming trip, but you don't have time to read through all the reviews yourself.

It can be hard to know which travel cot is right for you. With so many different options available, how can you be sure that you're making the best decision?

We've done the hard work for you. We've read through thousands of reviews to find you the best travel cots on the market. Whether you're looking for a compact cot or one that can accommodate your little one up to 4 years old, we've got you covered.

Maxi-Cosi Swift Lightweight Portable Playard

How it made the pick.

Getting baby to sleep when you're on the road can be a real challenge. But with this travel cot, you can be sure that your little one will get a good night's sleep no matter where you are. The lightning-fast fold means that it only takes a few seconds to set up or take down, and the lightweight design means that you can easily carry it with you wherever you go.

Plus, the comfortable mattress and stylish fabric will make your child feel right at home. So whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, this travel cot is the perfect solution for making sure your baby has a safe and comfortable place to sleep.

What Makes it Worthy

Looking for a travel cot that's both lightweight and comfortable? Look no further than the Maxi-Cosi Swift Lightweight Portable Playard. This cot features a thick mattress and two levels, making it perfect for newborns and toddlers.

The ultra-lightweight but sturdy frame is perfect for traveling, and the included travel bag makes it easy to take with you on the go. Plus, the premium fabrics and all-around mesh make this cot breathable and comfortable for your little one.

Lotus Travel Crib - Backpack Portable

When you're planning a trip with young children, it's important to have a reliable travel cot that will be easy to set up and take down. This travel cot has a convenient side zipper that makes it quick and easy to set up and take down. It is also very portable, so you can easily pack it up and take it with you when you're on the go.

The cot is made from durable materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of travel, and it comes with a carrying case for easy transport. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a business trip, this travel cot is a great choice for providing a safe and comfortable place for your child to sleep.

The Lotus Travel Crib was designed with adventure in mind. It's the perfect solution for travel, whether you're taking a quick trip or spending extended time away from home. The carry case doubles as a backpack, so it's easy to take with you on the go. And at only 13 pounds, it's extremely portable.

This travel cot sets up in just seconds, so you can have a safe and comfortable place for your little one to sleep no matter where you are. The breathable mesh sides provide ample ventilation and visibility, while the padded mattress ensures a restful night's sleep. When it's time to pack up, the Lotus Travel Crib folds down easily into the carry case for convenient storage and transport.

Whether you're exploring the world or your own backyard, the Lotus Travel Crib is the ideal way to ensure your child has a safe and comfortable place to sleep.

Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet-Folding Portable Bassinet

Bassinets are a great option for newborns since they offer a safe and comfortable sleeping environment that is smaller than a crib. They are also portable, making them easy to move from room to room or to take with you when traveling. This particular bassinet meets all safety regulations for the assembly of side and horizontal cradle with clear instructions.

It also comes with a mattress and bedding, so it's ready to use right out of the box. The bassinet also features a storage basket underneath, perfect for storing blankets, toys, or diapers. Whether you're looking for a safe and stylish place for your baby to sleep or simply need a portable option for travel, this bassinet is a great choice.

Looking for a bassinet that you can easily take with you when you travel? Look no further than the Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet! This bassinet is incredibly lightweight and portable, making it perfect for taking with you on the go.

Plus, it's easy to set up and take down, and can even be folded up when you're not using it, so it won't take up valuable space in your home. And if there are any spills or messes, no worries - this bassinet is easily washable. Your little one will love sleeping in this comfortable bassinet, and you'll love being able to take it with you wherever you go!

Most Commonly Asked Questions About Travel Cots

When traveling with a baby, you need to bring along a travel cot, but what are the rules and regulations for these cots?

It can be hard to figure out the safety requirements for travel cots. Do you need to bring your own or can you borrow one from a friend or family member? How do you know if it's safe?

We've got all of the answers for you right here. Our comprehensive guide covers everything from what size cot to bring to how to set it up safely. Plus, we've got tips on packing your child's clothes and toys so that your trip is as stress-free as possible.

What is a travel cot?

A travel cot is a small, lightweight crib that is perfect for taking on trips with your baby. It folds up easily and can be transported in a carrying case or backpack, making it ideal for air travel or visiting friends and family. Some travel cots also come with a built-in bassinet, which is great for newborns.

Can you use a travel cot long term?

Yes, you can use a travel cot long term. A travel cot is a great option for a baby's first bed because it is lightweight and easy to move around. It can also be used as a playpen or for nap time.

Some parents choose to use a travel cot long term instead of buying a crib. This can be economical if you plan to have more children in the future. A travel cot is also a good choice for parents who like to take their baby with them on trips.

Be sure to select a model that meets safety standards and is durable enough for long-term use.

Do travel cots need a mattress?

Yes, a travel cot needs a mattress. A travel cot is simply a frame with mesh sides that can be set up to create a small crib-like space for your baby to sleep in. Most travel cots come with a mattress. The mattress provides your baby with the comfort and support they need to sleep safely and soundly. There are many different types of mattresses available on the market, so you can choose one that best fits your needs and budget.

Are travel cots easy to store away?

Yes, travel cots are typically easy to store away. They usually collapse down to a small size and can be stored in a closet or under a bed. Some even come with their own carrying case for easy transport.

The Best Travel Cot for You

After hours of research, we’ve come up with a list of the best travel cots for your consideration. We hope you find the perfect one for your family! We hope you have found this article helpful as they researched their options for a travel cot

If you liked this content check out our related articles below:

Are Cots Good or Bad for Your Back?

Sign up for more like this.

Best Travel Cribs

The best travel cribs are super portable to make your job as carrier-of-all-the-stuff a tad easier., by jen labracio.

Traveling with babies and kids can be so rewarding, but there’s one thing you need when you get going: gear. To make things easier, you may want to have a travel stroller (or maybe your usual travel system will work just fine) and a travel car seat , but no matter how lightly you want to pack, your little one will need a safe place to rest. The best travel cribs are super portable to make your job as the baby gear schlepper a tad easier.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Cribs

Best Lightweight: Babybjörn Travel Crib Light
Best Affordable Lightweight: Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard
Best for Flying: Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard
Best Affordable: Graco Pack ‘n Play Portable Playard
Best for Toddlers: Newton Baby Travel Crib and Play Yard
Most Versatile: UPPAbaby REMI Travel Crib & Playard
Most Portable: Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot
Best for Small Spaces: Bugaboo Stardust Playard
Best for Car Travel: Maxi-Cosi Swift Playard

What Is a Travel Crib?

Do you need a travel crib, what to look for in a travel crib, babylist’s picks for the best travel cribs, best lightweight travel crib.

Babybjörn Travel Crib & Organic Sheet Bundle - Dark Green

Why we love it.

Weighing in at just 13 pounds, the Babybjörn Travel Crib is one of the lightest travel cribs on the market, making it especially ideal if you’re a family who’s routinely on the go. Top features include an incredibly easy setup (it unfolds and breaks down in one motion, and there are no loose parts to worry about), breathable mesh sides and a firm but ultra-comfy mattress that parents rave about. The mattress and the fabric frame are both machine washable, so it’s easy to clean. And when the crib is folded in its carrying case, it will fit within any airline baggage compartment. Wheels up, with baby in tow!

Keep in Mind

You’ll want to stop using this travel crib around three years old or until your little one is able to climb out of it. But unlike many other travel cribs, there’s no weight limit for the Babybjörn, since the crib’s mattress rests on ground. This means you’ll get more time out of this travel crib than most.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Very happy with this travel crib – lightweight, packable, set up is incredibly easy, and it’s simple to disassemble for cleaning. The thing that set this crib apart for other similar travel-appropriate pack-and-plays for us was the thicker mattress – our 9 month old slept just as well in this travel crib as she does at home. Great product, we would highly recommend!” -BH

Additional Specs

Best Affordable Lightweight Travel Crib

Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard - Dove

A lightweight travel crib is a sound investment if you’re a family who’s frequently on the go or if you plan on using it for multiple children, but many cost upwards of $300, especially after you add on accessories like sheets. Chicco’s Alfa Lite is a stellar lightweight travel crib but is about half the price of other similar options. And don’t worry—you won’t be sacrificing on features or quality. It weighs 13 pounds, is easy to open and close, folds down into a zippered carrying bag (with a large shoulder strap) and even has a zip-down side for easy access to your little one.

The Alfa Lite is Greenguard Gold Certified. Some parents mention that the mattress is on the thinner side.

“This travel playard is perfect. The design is sleek and the safely measures are advanced. The side opening zipper is buckled to the leg so no little hands can magically unzip themselves. The mattress pad also gets buckled in place. It took seconds to set up and take down. The travel playard makes your life so much easier while traveling and doesn’t take up much of any space in the car. 100/10 recommend buying!!!” -Sophia K.

Best Travel Crib for Flying

Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard

If you’ve ever traveled with kids, especially via plane, you know the value of having one less thing to tote around. Meet the Lotus: the travel-crib-turned-backpack that no traveling family should leave home without. This ultra-lightweight crib folds seamlessly into a compact, backpack-style carrying case, leaving your hands free to deal with the other 142 things they’ll be tasked with for attempting to leave the house with your littles in tow. (This feature comes in especially handy in airports.) We also love the unique zip-down “door” feature of the crib’s mesh side—it makes getting down on baby’s level for cuddles, feeding or play super easy, then quietly zips back up and locks into place.

Like the Babybjörn Travel Crib, the Guava’s mattress is flush to the ground, meaning there’s no weight limit usage recommendations here, either. Some parents report that the mattress is fairly thin, however.

“The Lotus crib is one of the best products we have. It is lightweight, folds and assembles in just a few snaps, and has mesh sides. The fabric comes completely off and is machine washable.” -Kristin

Best Affordable Travel Crib

Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard - Reign

If you’re looking for simple, sturdy travel crib that will stand the test of time but won’t break the bank, this Pack ‘n Play from Graco fits the bill. Although it’s basic, the features are anything but—there are a ton of things that you (and your little one) will love. We especially appreciate the sturdy frame, the roomy area for play and sleep and the push-button fold for quick and easy breakdown. And at around $70, this travel crib is perfect for using as an extra playard around the house and for keeping at the grandparents’ house or anywhere else you know you’ll be visiting on a regular basis.

You can’t attach any extras to this travel crib, like a bassinet or changing table. And some parents complain that the mattress is on the thin side, so that may be something to consider if you’re planning on using it for more than just the occasional weekend away. It’s also fairly heavy, so you won’t want to use it if you’re traveling by plane or anywhere else where you’ll need to carry it around frequently.

Best Travel Crib for Toddlers

Newton Baby Travel Crib and Play Yard - Grey

As your baby grows into a toddler , many parents still need the safety that the confines of a crib provide—especially while traveling. But what happens when your toddler is too big for their travel crib but too little for a bed? Enter the Newton. The mattress is about two times larger than most travel cribs, making it ideal for an older toddler who may be sized out of a smaller playard. It’s also 100 percent breathable and washable, made with the same Wovenaire technology used in the brand’s much-loved crib mattress. It’s flush to the ground, so there’s no weight limit, and it’s super comfy and GREENGAURD Gold Certified.

The playard weighs in at about 17 pounds, so while it’s not the lightest on the market, it’s still fairly easy to travel with and the weight is for a good cause. Assembly and breakdown are easy and the crib comes with a travel bag for easy storage. And it’s not just for the toddler years; there’s a bassinet insert for use from day one. Oh, and when you are ready to graduate your toddler from the travel crib, check out these great toddler travel beds .

Because of the Newton’s larger sleep space, it’s a bit bulkier than some of the other travel cribs on our list. The travel bag only has a handle, not a shoulder strap or backpack straps. And the crib is too large to store in the overhead compartment of an airplane

“I despise traditional pack n play style things. Newton’s playard is innovative and will definitely grow with a child from infancy through the preschool years! My 4.5 year old can still sleep in it comfortably with plenty of space. I really appreciate the thought that went into this product.” -Mona

Most Versatile Travel Crib

UPPAbaby REMI Travel Crib & Playard - Charlie

And speaking of multifunctional products, the Remi from UPPAbaby is the best choice if you’re looking for an all-in-one travel crib and playard to use both at home and when you’re on the go. There’s a ton of functionality built in to this smartly designed (and beautiful) playard. It’s Greenguard Gold Certified and includes a removable bassinet, a zip-down side panel, a triple layer air mesh mattress and a smooth, simple fold that takes one hand and only a few seconds. There are also lots of accessories to add on. A few of our favorites include the changing station , organizer and canopy .

The Remi is expensive, and even moreso when you start adding on accessories. It’s also fairly heavy, weighing in at about 20 pounds. This isn’t a big deal if you’re planning to use it mostly at home and for the occasional overnight trip, but if your family travels frequently and you need to bring along a place for your baby to sleep, it may not be your best option.

“Incredibly easy to set up. Our baby just started crawling and we don’t have a good play yard set up yet, so this was great to put him in a for the meantime. We purchased it instead of a Graco pack and play because of the zipper access and mattress quality. Love it!!!” -Rachel

Most Portable Travel Crib

Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot - White Sand

Pop-up tent meets travel crib in the Aeromoov. This 11-pound playard works just as well for a day at the beach or the park as it does for an overnight at grandma’s and is our top pick if you’re looking for one piece of gear you can use both indoors and out. The origami-style fold takes about two seconds (literally), and once it’s folded down, the whole thing slips into a bag and is less than five inches wide. It’s easy to stash for travel or throw over your shoulder and carry if you need to bring it along for an outdoor adventure. (There are also lots of useful accessories available like a sunshade and a mosquito net.) Another feature we love: there are two levels, one upper level bassinet-style for newborns up to about two months and a the main lower level for older babies and toddlers.

If you’re using the crib indoors and your little one moves around a lot, the fabric makes a “swishing” sound that’s a bit loud.

Best Travel Cribs for Small Spaces

Bugaboo stardust playard - grey melange.

Simple, streamlined and seamless. The Bugaboo Stardust is one of the smaller travel crib + playards on our list, but it packs a big punch. Unlike most travel cribs that open from the center of the base and feature fold-out legs, the standout feature here is the accordion-style fold. It makes it quick and easy to open and close by either pushing or pulling each side. You can even fold the Stardust with the mattress still inside—a pretty big deal and a huge time-saving (and sanity-saving) feature.

The Stardust weighs about 14 pounds and has a compact design that’s ideal for spaces that can’t handle a giant playard, either at home or when you’re on the go. There’s also a bassinet attachment for younger babies, a really comfortable mattress and all-around mesh panels.

The maximum weight limit for the Stardust is similar to the other travel cribs on our list, but because of smaller size, your little one may outgrow it in height sooner than they would with other playards. It’s also on the pricier side.

“I’m a first time mom and it feels like I have tried all the baby products out there. We were in the market for a new pack n’ play so I recently purchased this for my 5.5 month old and it is a game changer when it comes to portability and ease. I’ve found other products like this are bulky and difficult to store, but the Stardust is slender, lightweight and unfolds in one second. (No exaggeration.) I would highly recommend this product for travel, sleeping or playtime - in fact, we’re looking forward to traveling with it over the holidays!” -AlexT

Best Travel Crib for Car Travel

Maxi-cosi swift play yard - classic graphite.

Weighing in at just over 18 pounds, the Maxi-Cosi Swift is too heavy and bulky for regular air travel. But it’s also quite a bit lighter than many of the standard playards on the market, so we still wanted to consider it for our best-of list. That’s why think it’s an ideal choice if you’re a family who travels frequently by car. While you won’t want to lug it around on the regular, it’s easy enough to load and unload from any vehicle. And the setup and breakdown? It’s an actual dream, especially during travel when you have 14 other things to do after you set up your little one’s sleep space. Parents rave about how easy it is—it actually folds in one step using only one hand. Other pros to love include a super sturdy design, a comfortable mattress and a bassinet attachment that comes included at no extra cost.

As noted above, the Swift weighs about 18 pounds, so it’s not the lightest travel crib of the bunch, but isn’t the heaviest, either.

“We have tried a handful of play yards and the difficulty of putting them down and back up is what always frustrates us. The swift is truly like no other. It takes less than 5 seconds to set it up and less than five seconds to break it down. Not only is it so easy but it’s also so aesthetically pleasing!!” -Momof3

We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel cribs.
We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

A travel crib is a portable crib you can use for sleep or play when you’re away from home with your baby or toddler. While you can use most playards for the same purpose, travel cribs are specifically designed with travel in mind; they’re lighter, more compact and easier to set up and break down than your average playard. Travel cribs generally accommodate newborns to toddlers about three years old.

Whether or not you need a travel crib depends on how often you travel and where you’re heading on your next adventure.

Many hotels and even some rental homes may supply a travel crib. Using a baby gear rental company is an option, too. But if you’re staying somewhere that doesn’t supply a crib, you don’t want to rent or you simply prefer to be in control of what your baby sleeps in while you’re away, investing in a travel crib is probably a good idea.

Besides being a place to rest, travel cribs are also a safe place for your little one to play, especially when you’re away from your usual surroundings and potentially dealing with a non- babyproofed space. (We’re looking at you, sharp table corners and exposed electrical sockets.) You can even use some travel cribs as a napping spot on days spent at the beach or park.

Travel cribs can be expensive. A travel crib is also something you’ll use for years, especially if your family travels frequently. Think through these features before you buy.

Weight. This is one of the most important features to look for in a travel crib. A lightweight travel crib is easier to lift and carry than a heavier option. To figure out if this is important to you or not, think through how often you’ll be traveling and which modes of transport you generally use. Do you travel infrequently and often by car? Plan to use your travel crib only for a trip to the grandparents’ once a year? Then your travel crib’s weight may not be hugely important to you. Are you planning several trips by plane where you’ll need to bring your travel crib along? Then the weight of the travel crib you choose should jump to the top of your priority list.
Size and portability. Similar to weight, the size and overall portability of your travel crib are important features, but also dependent on how often you travel and how you get wherever you’re going. If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll want a travel crib that’s not only lightweight but portable, too. Look for a compact crib and something that has either backpack straps or another easy way to carry it through someplace like an airport or train station. If not, however, a slightly larger travel crib or one that doesn’t come with built-in carry straps may be just fine.
Longevity. How long you’ll be able to use your travel crib is a big factor to consider while shopping. One thing to consider is the crib’s design. Although not outwardly labeled this way, there are two basic types of travel cribs: cribs with raised mattresses and cribs where the mattress lies flush with the floor. Most travel cribs with raised mattresses have weight maximums. This means that if you have a larger, heavier child, they may exceed the travel crib’s weight long before you feel comfortable letting them sleep in a regular bed or even a toddler travel bed while you’re away from home. Travel cribs where the mattress sits directly on the floor, however, often do not have weight maximums. While your little one still may outgrow the crib by height, these types of travel cribs often can be used for a longer period of time.
Ease of breakdown and setup. Travel with babies and toddlers is no easy feat. Look for a travel crib that sets up and breaks down quickly and easily so you can spend less time grappling with gear and more time enjoying your vacation.
Materials and breathability. Look for a travel crib with a breathable mattress, breathable mesh sides and one that’s made from soft, comfortable materials. If it’s important to you, you may prefer a travel crib that’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified or uses organic materials. Removable and machine washable sides and covers are also nice-to-have features in case of a mess.
Budget. Travel cribs can get pricey, especially if you want one that’s extremely lightweight and portable. Thinking through how often you’ll be traveling and what types of features will make the most sense to you can help you determine your budget.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best travel cots according to cool GLAMOUR mums, so your little one can snooze on your exotic holiday

By Sophie Cockett

Image may contain Furniture Human Person Cradle and Crib

Travel cots are a holiday must-have for any new parent. While light loading of your baby changing bag is near-on impossible with the number of baby essentials on your “to pack” list, knowing where your little one will lay their head on your weekend break needn't be cause for stress .

The best travel cots for babies and toddlers are safe spaces for your bundle of joy to sleep when you're away from home (perhaps the Maldives ? Or New York ? We can dream). They're portable and collapsible, folding down into an easy-to-carry bundle that shouldn't be too strenuous to move. Perfect for weekends at the grandparents' or even on a plane.

The best travel cots come with genuinely comfortable mattresses (nowhere near as lumpy as they once were) for your baby girl or baby boy to get a killer night's kip, and they double up as playpens for during the day/when you're getting ready for dinner with thanks to the high mesh sides.

And forget what you thought you knew: today's travel cots aren't as ugly and clunky as they once used to be. In fact, with thanks to chic Scandi baby brands like BabyBjörn, they're designed with as many style credentials as the remaining contents of your suitcase . Think: tonal hues and sleek, modern frames. Here's everything you need to know.

Image may contain: Clothing, Pants, Footwear, Shoe, Accessories, Bag, Handbag, Adult, Person, Jeans, Car, and Transportation

By Sophie Cockett and Mayola Fernandes

Do I need a travel cot ?

Lugging a travel cot around with you may feel like a faff you don't need, but if you're staying in a hotel or staying with friends, finding a quiet spot for your baby to sleep isn't always easy. Travel cots will enable you to stick to your baby's bedtime routine and become a safe and familiar place for your little one to rest – even if you're not ready to hit the hay.

What age can a baby sleep in a travel cot?

“Your baby can use the travel cot well into their third year, so it is worth the investment,” Motherhood Coach and Baby Expert Millie Poppins told us. Your travel cot will serve a purpose until your toddler is too big or old enough to climb out.

Are travel cots safe?

“A travel cot purchased in the UK would need to meet the European Safety Standards,” Millie told us. “You should follow all safe sleep guidance set by The Lullaby Trust (similar to cots and bassinets that you would use at home). A firm, flat and waterproof mattress is essential. It is also important not to add anything into your baby’s sleep space such as comforters, bumpers, loose bedding, pillows etc. A clear cot is the safest cot."

What to look for in a good travel cot

There are a few things to consider when shopping for a new travel cot. Firstly, consider the travel cot's age suitability . Different travel cots have different age and weight limits, so consider how many years' worth of use you want to get from your cot before purchase.

Next, consider its ease of use . Are you after a traditional travel cot comprising a frame and fabric cot, or a pop-up travel cot (which might be lighter but less sturdy)? Is your travel cot compact and easy to fold away? Will it take long to assemble? The travel cots listed in this edit have all been selected for their ease of use.

“For younger babies, who aren’t yet standing, I love a travel cot that has two adjustable heights,” Millie said. Look for travel cots with bassinet attachments: they're great for newborns and create a crib across the top of the cot for your little one to sleep in. “This is so helpful if you are getting them in and out throughout the night. Your back will thank you!”

Once you've got that nailed, take a look at the mattress. “Make sure the travel cot you purchase actually includes a mattress as sometimes these can be sold separately,” Millie said. Generally speaking, travel cot mattresses tend to be harder and thinner than normal cot mattresses to make them easier to transport. You'll definitely want something with a waterproof or machine washable cover, because accidents happen and hygiene is key.

You should also consider additional features, like travel bags and mesh windows.

I wouldn’t take no for an answer. I know my body, and I knew something was very wrong.

By Kari Colmans

After more mum and baby content? We've got nursing pillows , nipple shields for breastfeeding and nipple cream for breastfeeding . Head over here for breastfeeding tops , nursing bras and maternity knickers , and in this direction for baby shower gifts , maternity swimwear , maternity dresses and maternity leggings . Heading to a wedding? We've got maternity wedding dresses , maternity bridesmaid dresses and maternity wedding guest dresses for your perusal.

For more from Glamour UK Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett , follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx .

Image may contain Furniture Tent and Cradle

Best travel cot overall

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £220, John Lewis

Why we love it: This travel cot might be one of the more expensive in this edit, but it's worth every penny if you have a little more money to spend. It's from the luxe baby essentials brand BabyBjörn, assembling in seconds, folding down to a briefcase shape incredibly light in weight. It comes with a carry bag, and you can literally lift the cot out and assemble it in one movement. The mattress is just the right thickness, and the full mesh sides allow you to see what your baby is getting up to all night long.

Dimensions : 82 x 112 x 64 cm Folded size : 49 x 60 x 14 cm Weight : 6kg (including carry bag)

Save when you shop for the best travel cots with these John Lewis discount codes .

Best travel cot Amazon

Dooky - Portable Travel Cot Grey, £36.88, Amazon

Why we love it: This portable travel cot is one of the lightest travel cots in this edit – in fact, it's one of the lightest on the market right now. It doesn't have particularly high sides, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It makes it perfect for newborns who can't yet stand up, and it makes it perfect for laying down almost anywhere. Read: on a flight, on the spare side of your bed , or on a sofa .

Dimensions : 75 x 41cm Folded size : 41 x 26cm Weight : 1.2kg

Save when you shop for the best travel cots with these Amazon promo codes .

Best bedside travel cot: Joie travel cot

Joie Baby Roomie Glide Sleep Bedside Travel Cot, Foggy Grey, £169, John Lewis

Why we love it: Joie travel cots are among some of the best on the market, and the Roomie Glide Co-Sleeper is our favourite for allowing your little one to sleep by your side – wherever in the world you are. On one side, there's a high mesh wall, and on the other, a single-hand sliding panel which prevents any separation between yourself and baby. The single-hand glide function allows you to rock your newborn to sleep without leaving your own bed, and the one-touch glide lock lets you secure Roomie Glide in place when you're done rocking.

The sliding panel can be lifted and lowered with one hand, and the 11 height adjustment options mean you can fit this travel cot to almost any height/style of bed frame or sofa bed .

As for its portability? This travel cot has four lockable wheels so you can easily move it around your space, and it assembles and disassembles with speed. It also comes with a handy travel bag so you can take it on overnight stays or weekend breaks.

Dimensions: H68.5 x W81 x D98.5cm Weight: 11.94kg

Best travel cot for holiday

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot, £230, John Lewis

Why we love it: It might be a little more expensive – and a tad heavier – than some of the other travel cots in this edit, but if increased air flow and visibility of your baby are priorities, it's certainly one to consider. It has 360-degree mesh lined air flow on the crib and bassinet, and the mesh mattress has two levels of airflow thanks to ventilating padding. Basically, your baby will get plenty of fresh air when they're kicking back for the night.

As for practicality, it has a centralised pulley system which makes it easy to assemble even with one hand, plus skid-proof feet and a raised base. It also comes with a certified organic cotton sheet, setting it apart from cheaper options on the market. Have a little more to spend? You can purchase a matching changing unit and insect nest for more exotic destinations.

Dimensions: L73.5cm x W107cm x H74.5cm Folded dimensions: L24cm x W28cm x H86cm Weight: 10kg

J.K. Rowling hints Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson can ‘save their apologies’ for defending trans people

By Abby Gardner

Here's when Mercury is in retrograde in 2024 and how it will affect you

By Lian Brooks

9 spring 2024 fashion trends we'll all be wearing now that the sun is (sort of) here

By Charlie Teather

Best travel cot for changing

Joie Commuter Travel Cot, £165, Mamas & Papas

Why we love it: The best travel cot for changing is this portable crib by – no surprises here – Joie. It comes with a removable bassinet and a vibrating bouncer and a toy bar to keep your little one entertained. It has mesh sides for airflow and visibility, and integrated wheels so that you can move your baby closer to you during nap times. The only downside? It is a little bulkier – and therefore less portable – than some of the other models in this edit, making it better suited for UK holidays over long-haul flights.

Dimensions : 106 x 70.5 x 80cm Folded size : 79 x w 25 x h 21cm Weight : 12.3kg

Best travel cots for long term use

Micralite Sleep and Go, £150, Amazon

Why we love it: The best travel cot for long term use is the Micralite Sleep and Go. It can be used as a newborn crib (with thanks to the detachable bassinet), infant travel cot and playpen for toddlers. It's lightweight, easy to move around, and though not as compact as some of the others on this list, it easily fits into a car boot when folded. It can be assembled in just two minutes.

The only downside? When you're using it in the early days of your baby's life, it doesn't fit snug against the side of the bed due to the sloped sides. That said, this gives a toddler more space to play further down the line… swings and roundabouts.

Dimensions: L112cm x W80cm x H67cm Folded dimensions: L88cm x W34cm x H17cm Weight: 7kg

Best travel cot for easy storage

Maxi-Cosi Iris Travel Cot, Graphite, £159, John Lewis

Why we love it: Not only is this one of the chicest travel cots in appearance (check out those wooden legs!), but it's perfect for both newborns and infants. It comes with a bassinet option for newborn babies, which can be lowered when they get a little older. It has a machine washable lining, a comfortable mattress and it's easy enough to assemble in just one click.

Dimensions : 690 x 670 x 115cm Folded size : 570 x 540 x 150cm Weight : 6 kg

Best travel cot for twins

LITTLELIFE ARC 2 TRAVEL COT GREY, £149.99, Jojo Maman Bebe

Why we love it: Unique in design, this travel cot is suitable for use from birth through to toddlers. It's one of the lightest and most compact travel cots we've tried, acting a bit like a pop up tent and complete with a comfy foam mattress. It has mesh panels for insect protection, visibility and ventilation, and comes with a travel bag for easy transportation. Perfect for UK camping holidays and longer-haul trips alike.

Dimensions: 33 x 85 x 72 cm Folded size: 42 x 31 x 20 cm Weight: 2.5 kg

Save when you shop for the best travel cot with these Jojo Maman Bebe discount codes .

Image may contain Furniture and Electronics

Best travel cot with thick mattress

Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £87.99, Amazon

Why we love it: One of the best travel cots under £100 is the Venture Airpod Travel Cot, which scores top points for its thick mattress of excellent quality. It's really easy to assemble, lightweight and also comes complete with a strong storage bag when in transport.

Dimensions : 85 x 55 x 66cm Folded size : 60 x 15 x 50cm Weight : 6kg

35 best baby-changing bags that have the GLAMOUR mum stamp of approval

By Mayola Fernandes

These chic suitcases are as stylish as their contents, according to frequent travellers

About the Blogger
About the Globetrotters
Community Groups
Privacy Policy
PR & Media Inquiries
Guest Opportunities
Giveaways & Offers

Best Destinations
Explore My City
Australia & Oceania
Middle East
Pregnancy Travel
Baby Travel
Toddler Travel
Tween & Teen Travel
Theme Park Travel
Travel Health
Travel Photography
Flying with Kids
Beach Vacation
Camping, Hiking & Outdoor Adventures
Travel Toys
Baby Travel Gear
Toddler Travel Gear
Outdoor Gear
Airline Reviews
Accommodation Reviews
Attraction Reviews
Book Reviews
Travel Gifts
Packing Lists
Expat Life Blog
Expat Money Matters
Global Parenting Interviews
Expat Entrepreneurs
Family Life in Abu Dhabi
Booking Tools

Product Reviews

Best infant travel bassinets & portable cots for 2024.

We all know how important children being well-rested is to a happy family trip. But how do you ensure a good night’s sleep away from home for your baby or toddler without your normal bedding and familiar surroundings?

Do you rely on your accommodation providing you with a baby travel bed or do you always prefer to take your own?

If it’s a single destination trip, we always check that one is provided at the accommodation to save on luggage space .

However, more commonly we are making multi-stop trips that often involve staying with family and friends who may not have the right baby gear on hand. We find it so much easier and less strain on everyone if we travel with our own portable baby bed or travel bassinet.

Using our many years of experience traipsing the globe with infants (and learning the very hard way that there’s a huge difference between a pack n play and a proper, portable travel cot!) we have put together our top choices of modern, lightweight travel cots, bassinets and toddler beds that will make your travels easier.

On this page we will talk you through:

The key features to look for in travel cots and infant travel beds
Our top picks – best travel bassinets and baby travel beds
Extra infant sleeping items you will need to pack
Alternatives to taking a baby travel bed with you

This post is part of our travel product reviews series . Pop over to check out everything from kids comfort products to the best compact travel strollers .

Portable Travel Cot for baby or toddler - comparing the best infant travel bassinets on the market

Key features to look for in travel cots and infant travel beds

Portability – Undoubtedly the most important feature for our savvy family travellers. We are already carting everything but the kitchen sink with kids let’s not make it any more hard work! Ideally, a cot that can fit inside your existing luggage and weighs under 15lbs.

Ease of assembling – The last thing you want when arriving late at night to your destinations is to be battling instructions and constructing a rocket ship. Quick clear, easy folding mechanisms are a must.

The material – more specifically, can it be washed! When needs must, can you give is a quick sponge down or do parts easily come off to be washed?

Age range – Are you choosing something for a certain trip or stage of life or something that will last you for many years and children? Newborn models might be ultra sleek and compact but only last you for a few months. Larger models might be too much to carry for a baby but see you well into those toddler years.

Indoors or outdoors – Is this purchase for hotel and house stays only, or are you looking for something versatile that you can also take camping or out to the park with you as well? (We have a detailed review of our favourite baby beach tents here ).

Accessories – The key extra feature to check is does your cot comes with is a travel bag? If it is too large to fit in your suitcase and needs to be carried in as an extra item or gate-checked you will want something secure to transport the item in. (Note many airlines allow a portable travel bassinet as an extra item to your usual weight allowance, but please always check this with your airline.) Also, check whether a fitted sheet specific to the mattress is included or needs purchasing separately.

Cost – The sleek ultra-compact models don’t come cheap, but if you are a frequent traveller and plan on using for more than one child you can definitely see why the investment is worthwhile.

Our Top Picks – Best Portable Baby Bassinets & Toddler Cots

Let’s look at each of these travel beds and cots in a bit more detail.

Update March 2024 – since we first published this list there have been several new contenders in this market – and some discontinued lines we’ve removed. There are many new “sleep pods” or outdoor tents for baby. As our kids have now outgrown this phase we are just waiting for some friends and family to give us their feedback this summer then we will update our review to include these newer products.

phil&teds Traveller Crib

If you love their strollers you’re going to love the phil&teds portable travel cot too. Coming in a compact travel bag, it’s a full-size infant cot that will last you from newborn right through to the toddler years but at a fraction of the normal porta cot weight.

The phil&teds Traveller has breathable mesh sides that can zip down and you can also get a UV cover, ideal if you are using outside as a playpen as well. The mattress is self-inflating but in our opinion, not do with being a little thicker still.

You can read our detailed product review of the Phil & Teds Traveller here

Pros – One of the most versatile models for sleep and play and super light at 6lbs

Cons – It is a little complex to build. Easy once you get the hang of it but needs some practice at home with interconnecting parts, not just one hand unfold. And those feet really do stick out!

TODEFULL 2 in 1 Portable Playard

I know we said no more Pack & Plays! But this one is different. New, lean and mean the TODEFULL has some design features seriously worth considering as a long term baby travel cot investment.

TODEFULL Portable Travel Crib for Baby, 2 in 1 Folding Baby Travel Cribs and Playards with Mattress, Lightweight Playpen for Toddlers with Carry Bag, Pack and Play for Infants, Grey

It folds down seriously small for a playard to just 36″ x 30″ (91cm x 76cm) and weighs 8lbs (3.63kg). A little bulkier than the two above which we’d also call full-sized travel cots, but the Ounuo can also be used as a bassinet from newborn. The “One button” collapse model is a major win!

Pros – multiuse bassinet and playard – ideal for camping and a safe play area when you’re away from home

Cons – a little bulky but not many

Brica Munchkin Fold n’ Go Travel Bassinet

This is a brilliant portable choice for newborns. Contains a firm mattress with a fitted sheet with a sturdy outer frame. Once they are sitting upright though you will need to move on.

Pros – At only 2.4lbs its a super lightweight option that fits inside your suitcase or even your carry-on.

Cons – Only suitable for those first few months so isn’t a longer-term travel solution

Aila+Aiden Baby Nest

This is the best solution if you would like to place your infant safely on a bed without a full-sized cot. Good also for tummy time on the floor or using as a play space as well for younger tots. It is only 3.32lbs but you will need to fit it in with your luggage as no bag.

You can also get it in a larger size as your child grows.

Pros – Light and great for use on any flat surface. Use at home too when you’re entering that transition phase.

Cons – Despite the lightweight, it’s quite bulky and will take up suitcase space, pricey.

Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed

Once they have outgrown the Dock-A-Tot style of bed, this is the next step up. An inflatable bed it folds down to a small bundle and weighs in at 6.6lbs, ideal for your toddler who might not quite be ready for a big-kid bed but still prefers more freedom than a travel cot.

The Shrunks Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Safety Bumpers | Portable Toddler Bed for Kids | Toddler Air Mattress | Air Mattress with Bed Rails

The inflatable rails keep them snug and secure (or you can purchase just the inflatable rails separately -see below). The outside blown up dimensions are 60″ x 37″or inside dimensions 47″x 24″.

Pros – Super for use as an extra bed at home, camping, sleepovers and fits most standard cot sheets – our top pick for camping with toddlers

Extra infant sleeping items you will need

Don’t forget bedding to go with your cot!

Although most the products above might come with a fitted sheet, you will most likely need your own blankets and infant sleep bags.

Infant sleep bags are a superb travel accessory. If your child is already familiar with sleeping in one, they will find the travel transition much simpler. Think about the climate where you are travelling as they come in different “tog” ratings. Somewhere warm and summery you will only want a 0.5 tog or ski and snow trip you will want a 2.5 tog or more!

Mama Cheetah Baby Sleep Sack 0.5 TOG, Organic Cotton Baby Wearable Blanket with Two-Way Zipper, Swaddle Transition Baby Sleeping Bag for Newborn Infant Toddler Boy Girl, 6-12 Months

Camping with toddlers? Learn more here about camping sleeping bags for toddlers.

Alternatives to needing a baby travel bed

I won’t deny it, of all the baby gear we’ve lugged around the world, travel bassinets and cots are amongst the most cumbersome items and I am glad to finally see an end to them!

That said, they have over the years been essential. We all know what a huge difference it can make to have your kids sleep soundly, particularly in an unfamiliar environment. But do you always need to bring a travel cot?

If you are relying on your hotel or accommodation to provide the cot ALWAYS CALL TO CHECK AVAILABILITY. Do they have the bedding as well or will you need to pack some sheets and blankets? Would they pass modern safety standards?
For very young infants, are you taking a travel systems stroller that includes the flat bassinet? There is no harm in a young infant sleeping in this while you travel (our favourites over the years have been Mountain Buggy and City Select )
Is there a baby equipment hire company at your destination that could help? Do make sure you read reviews and that they are able to deliver at your specified dates to either you or the property owner.
Why not get a new cot delivered? If it’s too cumbersome to take back home with you see if your hosts will then buy it off you or discount your stay for leaving them some handy new equipment – you never know!
Will you need baby to sleep at the beach? Check out our portable sun tent options for baby .
If all else fails, can children co-sleep or create a make-shift bed out of existing bedding?

You can check out this guide for the best co-sleeping baby cribs .

See our road test of the Phil & Teds Traveller light weight travel cot| Product Review | OurGlobetrotters.Com

Looking for more baby & toddler travel advice?

We have travelled the world extensive with our three children since they were born for the past 10 years – and gathered A LOT of handy tips along the way!

We share them all here with you on the Globetrotters blog so you can become confident world travellers too.

Our baby packing list 0-12 months can be found here
Our best baby travel advice can be found here
Our best toddler travel advice can be found here
Our best pregnancy travel advice can be found here
Our coolest new family travel gear can be found here

Found this useful? Bookmark this page or save to Pinterest for later

Best Infant costs and travel beds as recommended by a frequent traveling family with 3 kids

You can continue the travel conversation in our group discussion on Facebook – Family Travel Inspiration and join up to our monthly family travel newsletter here .

Disclosures: This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything after clicking on one of our links we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We have personally tested several, but not all of the items listed. You can read our full disclosure policy here .

Like it? Share it!

The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds, Tested by Our Editors and Their Mini Explorers

With the right travel bed, your tot will sleep (almost) anywhere

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Verywell Family / Nick Kova

Traveling with toddlers isn't easy, but you can still have a wonderful time exploring new places with your family—you just need to be prepared. Toddler travel beds provide consistency and protected sleep space, resulting in a well-rested child and a smoother trip for everyone.

For some parents, portable toddler travel beds are must-haves to provide young children with a secure place to sleep while on vacation. “Simpler is always better, especially when thinking of traveling with toddlers . So, when it comes to a toddler travel bed, you don't need all the bells and whistles,” says Anjuli Gans, MD, a pediatrician at the Karabots Pediatric Care Center in West Philadelphia. “There are a lot of fancy ones out there on the market, but your baby really just needs a safe and comfortable place to sleep ."

We spent hours testing these products (20 total) in the lab and our homes by assembling and disassembling them—sometimes with one hand—and timing the whole process. We also studied the beds' features, how well they hold a toddler's weight, and how easy they are to clean. Our list shows the best toddler travel beds we’ve tested, which we’ll continue to update as we test new models.

Our Testing Process And Experts
Factors To Consider

Your Questions, Answered

Best overall, jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

Assembly 5 /5
Portability 5 /5
Ease of Use 5 /5

Why We Like It

If you plan to hit the road with your little one and need a toddler travel bed that is comfortable and easy to travel with, then the JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper Kids Inflatable Bed is our top pick for you. Designed for children ages 3 and up, this travel bed features side bumpers to keep your child from rolling onto the floor. There's also an air mesh cover to keep your child cool at night.

We loved this inflatable bed's unique design, which is very easy to fill up and took us only five minutes to put together and inflate, which is great when traveling with little kids. And since it's light and comes with a small bag with handles, so it's easy to move around. The mattress also has a removable and washable cover that can be spot-cleaned and dries quickly, so your little one can get back to bed.

When you’re done with it, deflate the mattress, pack it back into its packing cube, and you're good to go!

But Take Note

Setup is incredibly easy, thanks to an integrated pump that lets you inflate the mattress in minutes by using your hands or feet. It’s meant to lie on the floor, so there’s no additional assembly required. Although we noticed it can sound a bit noisy when a child moves on it. Otherwise, we didn't experience any additional issues.

The Details

Material: Nylon
Weight: 4.1 pounds
Size: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches inflated; 15 x 11 x 4 inches in travel bag
Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Ages 3 years and up; up to 68 pounds

Verywell Family / Vicky Wasik

Best Inflatable

Eltow inflatable toddler bed.

Amazon

Assembly 4.5 /5
Value 4.5 /5
Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed is portable and easy to set up, and it comes at a lower price than our top pick, the Stokke. Unlike other inflatables, the Eltow toddler travel bed consists of an outer section with bumpers on two sides and a mattress that fits snugly inside the outer shell. It's not sitting directly on the floor but is at floor level.

We love that it took us just five minutes to set up and is lightweight and portable . It comes with a high-speed pump, two patches in case of punctures, and a travel bag for storage. And thanks to a vinyl layer that protects against punctures, it's well-equipped to withstand wear and tear. Plus, it comes with a bag, so it's super portable. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a sheet, so you'll have to pack one in your luggage.

One flaw is that the mattress has a plastic smell that sticks around for a few hours once the mattress is removed from its packaging. (It should go away if you allow the product to air out for a day or two before use.) Assembly is straightforward, but removing the pump nozzle without losing air can be difficult when done alone, so we recommend getting a partner to help you out.

Material: Vinyl
Weight: 10.21 pounds
Size: 63 x 40 x 12 inches inflated
Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 310 pounds

Best With Pump

Hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

Ease of Setup 5 /5
Ease of Cleaning 4.5 /5

The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is ideal for parents who want their toddler close to the ground with bumpers on all sides of the bed. A removable mattress rests in a higher outer shell that ensures your little one cannot roll off. It's designed for kids making that transition between cribs and big-kid beds, and it's easy to deflate and pack into its carrying bag before moving to your next destination.

Setup is relatively quick once you get the hang of detaching the electric pump, and it's easy to move around with the handles. Another plus: It comes with a patch kit. The handles are not as easy to clean as the rest of the bed, but we do appreciate that the removable mattress comes in three different colors for kids who definitely have their design preferences.

The mattress has a faint chemical smell at first, but it's not as eye-watering as some of the other inflatables we tested. It's also very durable due to its thick vinyl material .

Weight: 8 pounds
Size: 62 x 39 x 12 inches inflated

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

Best for Camping

Enerplex kids inflatable travel bed.

This puncture-proof toddler travel bed can be used during trips or at home as a transitional bed for toddlers who are still in that in-between stage. A 120-volt electric pump (and three universal nozzles) is a game changer and makes inflating the bed a breeze. We love how quickly and easily this bed can be put together: It took us five minutes to blow up both parts of the bed and attach a fitted sheet. Best of all, we didn’t even need to glance at the instructions while doing so.

In case you worry about your toddler rolling off the mattress, the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed has bumpers along three sides. The removable coil-beam mattress rests snugly inside the outer shell and fits a standard crib sheet.

Even though the bed is bulky, it comes with a large carry bag that you can wear as a backpack, freeing your hands for luggage or a kid. We also like that the electric pump comes with an adapter for your car, making it ideal for camping. It can be wiped down and the crib sheet can be tossed in the laundry for cleanup. One downfall: It has a chemical smell.

Material: Not listed
Weight: 11.88 pounds
Size: 66 x 44 x 13 inches inflated
Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 36 months and up; up to 150 pounds

Best Pop-Up Crib

Babybjörn travel crib light.

Durability 5 /5
Portability 4.2 /5
Design 5 /5

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib is a great option for parents who prefer more of a crib design than an inflatable mattress. Toddlers who need more than bumpers to keep them safe in bed can benefit from this travel crib’s high mesh walls and a mattress that sits low to the floor—which means it's difficult to climb in and out of, let alone roll off of. You won’t need to worry about messes or nighttime accidents because the fabric can be wiped down quickly, and the exterior fabric can be removed from the frame and washed.

The BabyBjorn is a dream to assemble: Setup takes two minutes, and you can put a standard crib sheet on the bed without a struggle, even after attaching the mattress to the four corner safety latches. The mattress is comfortable and a standard crib size . It is also a good pick if you need a travel bed that isn't hard on your back. It is very light, it comes with a carrying case, and it fits into a car trunk. However, the mattress does lie low to the ground, so picking up your child may be tough on your back if they are lying down.

The main reason this crib isn't our top pick is that it's much more expensive than most of the other products on this list, but it's a worthwhile investment if you have the room in your budget.

Material: Polyester
Weight: 13 pounds
Size: Mattress 23.5 x 41 x 1.2 inches; assembled crib 32 x 44 x 24 inches; 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches in bag
Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until your toddler can climb out of this travel crib

Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Hugbino inflatable toddler bed.

Assembly 4 /5
Ease of Use 4 /5

The Hugbino provides a lot of the same features as other inflatable mattresses on this list, but at a lower price. The removable mattress is coated in soft velvet flocking to keep your little one comfortable while they snooze, and bumpers along all four sides of the outer shell keep them in bed. It's also a cinch to clean. We appreciate that the mattress can be spot-cleaned, and a sheet can go over the mattress for extra protection.

This inexpensive bed does come with an electric pump, but the setup is not as easy as with other travel beds we tested. We had to use two sets of hands to get the nozzle on before it started to deflate. However, it is light and easy to store and comes with a carrying bag .

Material : Polyvinyl chloride
Weight: 6.63 pounds
Size: 63.6 x 42.5 inches inflated
Recommended Age/Weight Limit : Not listed

Best Crib to Fly With

Guava family lotus travel crib.

Ease of Setup 4.5 /5
Portability 4 /5
Value 3.8 /5
Ease of Cleaning 4 /5

This crib can’t make traveling on a plane with a toddler less challenging, but it can simplify your life when you get to your destination. In terms of ease of use, this travel bed only took us five minutes to set up and didn't require too much prep work to understand how to put it together. The setup process isn't as straightforward as other travel beds we tested, but it's not difficult.

An access door makes it easier to get to your little one without leaning over the side. You can use the entrance to lay them on the padded, waterproof mattress inside the mesh enclosure or let them go in and out of the crib when they are awake. The mattress is easy enough to wipe, but the fabric around the top of the crib is so absorbent that it's tough to give it a good cleaning. You can also unzip the bed cover and throw it into the washer for a deep clean. This convenience does come at a higher price than a lot of competitors, however.

We like the travel crib's packaging, which comes with shoulder and backpack straps that make it easy to carry around in an airport. It is a tad heavy, however.

Material: Polyvinyl chloride
Weight: 13 pounds, 15 pounds with bag
Size: Mattress 41.5 x 23.5 x 1.4 inches; crib 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches; 24 x 12 x 8 in backpack
Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until child can climb out

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

Best for Naps

Milliard toddler nap mat.

The Milliard Toddler Nap Mat Tri Folding Mattress can be used for napping anywhere. Simply unfold it at the hotel, a relative's house, or a camping tent, and your little one is good to get their sleep on. It doesn't come with a carrying case, which may make it a pain to carry. But if your toddler spills a drink or has an accident on this mattress, the good news is that it's effortless to clean: It has a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed and a foam mattress that can be spot-cleaned. Plus, it's got a cozy, thick mattress that's comfortable for naptime.

This folding mattress doesn't require any assembly—just take it right out of the box. However, after unboxing, it takes 48 hours to reach the highest comfort level.

Material: Foam mattress, bamboo cover
Weight: 8.74 pounds
Size: 58 x 24 x 3 inches unfolded; 24 x 19 x 9 folded

Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress

Comfort 5 /5
Effectiveness 3 /5

The Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed is a good pick for families who want a larger travel bed without bumpers that’s a little higher off the floor (16.5 inches) than the toddler beds on this list. A built-in pump makes for easy assembly, since you just turn the panel to either inflate or deflate, and you’re done! When it needs a cleaning, just wipe down as needed.

The mattress comes with a duffel bag for storage and travel, but it's not the most compact, and the bag isn't as comfortable as others we tested. On the plus side, the bed has a built-in pillow rest , so you won’t have to pack an extra pillow for your kid when you travel.

Weight: 10.16 pounds
Size: 75 x 39 x 16.5 inches inflated
Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 300 pounds

Our Testing Process and Experts

To find the best toddler travel beds, we tested 20 beds in the Parents Testing Lab and in our own homes. We first tried to assemble the travel beds—with one hand, if possible. After that, we noted whether we needed to use both hands or had to get another adult to help. We also timed just how long the setup took for each bed. We then tested how well the toddler travel beds hold a toddler's weight using a 25-to-30-pound sandbag.

Next, we looked at how hard it would be to clean messes on the beds, examining hard-to-reach areas and taking note of the material and what it felt like to wipe it. We tested whether we could use a standard crib sheet as well, and then we tried to disassemble the beds one-handed. After breaking them down, we considered how long it took us and how difficult it was to place the beds inside their carry bags, if bags were included. Finally, we lifted the carrying bags to assess the beds’ portability.

In addition to lab and real-world testing, we spoke with medical experts to gather their input on how to choose a toddler travel bed. We spoke to the following experts:

Anjuli Gans , MD, a pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center, West Philadelphia
Lynelle Schneeberg , PsyD, a pediatric sleep psychologist and author

Factors to Consider in a Toddler Travel Bed

Comfort: As you’ve probably realized when getting a kid to sleep at home, comfort is key. Comfort for some toddlers may mean a favorite blanket, while others require a crib. Parents should consider various must-haves to make traveling easier and smoother when trekking across the country—or a few hours away—with your little one.
Safety: Dr. Gans recommends researching products on the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) website to determine their safety and ensure that they haven't been recalled. When purchasing a crib or bassinet, parents of babies should also practice the same safe sleeping rules they implement at home. "Every toddler travel bed has age and weight requirements, so I would definitely check those first and make sure it matches up (with your toddler's age and weight)," she explains. Then, stick to simple beds without all the added features. "The less they have, the better.” Once you've narrowed down your selection to simple beds, make sure there are no bumpers or parts that can potentially trap your baby, and check corner points and sharp corners. "Corner points are sometimes a place where kids can get clothing caught or get injured, so make sure it doesn't have sharp corners," explains Dr. Gans. "And remember that pillows and blankets are still recommended for toddlers age 2 and over."
Ease of Use: If you need a toddler travel bed that is easy to carry, quick to assemble, and doesn't require much work, then ease of use and portability must be considered when selecting a toddler travel bed. Some toddler travel beds can be assembled using one hand and only take minutes to assemble. That is very helpful if you arrive at a destination with a sleeping or cranky tot . You may want to look for bags that allow hands-free carrying. Another consideration is whether the bed is easy to put in those bags so you don’t find yourself fighting to pack it back in when it’s time to go home. If you are in a situation where you don't have a toddler travel bed, don't worry. "If you are staying somewhere, and they allow you to request a crib, you can pull out the mattress and just lay it on the floor," Dr. Gans adds. "If it's in a safe place for your toddler, then it is perfectly fine. Make sure it is somewhere they can have adult supervision at all times and within eye view, because you may not be able to safetyproof rooms the way you can at home."

How can I keep my toddler in bed while traveling?

A pack-and-play or travel bed with inflatable bumpers (which are not recommended for babies, of course!) can help keep a toddler from rolling onto the floor. You can also bring along some of their favorite items from home to help them want to stay in bed in a strange new place.

"The best thing to do when traveling is to bring along items from the child's home bedroom," recommends Dr. Schneeberg. "Parents can bring along the child's favorite pillow, 'bedtime buddy' (security object), and favorite books, for example. If the child is used to a certain night light or a sound machine , these can be brought along as well."

Can my 2-year-old sleep in a travel cot?

Certain travel cots are appropriate for 2-year-olds, but young 2-year-olds who haven't yet transitioned to a toddler bed may be more comfortable and safer in more crib-like pack-and-plays or travel beds with safety rails.

Can I put my 3-year-old in a toddler cot?

Unless a manufacturer suggests otherwise (usually based on a child's weight or height), most toddler travel cots are appropriate for 3-year-olds who have already transitioned from a crib to a bed.

How much is a toddler travel bed?

A high-quality travel toddler bed will generally cost between $60 and $100, although some can be cheaper, and certain models can cost upwards of $200. Pricier travel beds often come with more accessories and features, although not every family will need extra bells and whistles.

Ambrosia V. Brody is a California-based editor, journalist, and mother of three. She has worked as a professional journalist for more than 16 years. You can find her at the library, Starbucks, or the park with her kids when she isn't writing.

Login | Register
Your Details
Your Orders
Your Addresses
Your Registries
Return An Item
Out & About
Bath & Health
Home Safety
By Activity

All Prams & Strollers

Single Prams
Double Prams
Travel Prams
Pram + Capsule Bundles
Running & Jogging Prams
3 Wheel Prams
Compact Strollers
Lightweight Strollers

Stroller Accessories

All Nursery

Nursery Cot Packages

Cot Accessories
Bassinets & Cradles

Co Sleepers

Moses Baskets
Baby Dressers
Change Mats
Nursing Chairs
Cot Mattresses
Baby Bedding
Baby Blankets
Baby Pillows
Cot Canopies
Nursery Decor

Baby Nightlights

Baby Monitors
Travel Systems
Travel Cots

Baby Travel Bags

Travel Accessories
Pram Travel Bags
Baby Plane Travel
Baby Carriers

Travel Bundles

All Out & About

Baby Carrier Accessories

Baby Wraps & Slings

Toddler Backpacks
Toddler Harnesses
Baby Bike Seats

Baby Car Seat Accessories

Shop By Activities With Baby

All Car Seats

Baby Capsules

Newborn Car Seats

Toddler Car Seats

Booster Seats

High Chairs
Portable High Chairs

High Chair Accessories

Breast Pumps

Baby Bottles

Baby Bottle Warmers

Insulated Baby Bottle Bags

Baby Sterilisers

Baby Steamers

Food Storage Containers

Baby Dummies & Pacifiers

Baby Plates

Drink Bottles

Baby Placemats

Baby Utensils

Baby Bottle Cleaning

Teething Toys

Baby Milk Preparation

All Bath & Health

Baby Bath Stands

Baby Bath Accessories

Baby Bath Mats

Baby Towels

Baby Scales
Baby Thermometers

Baby Change Mats

Baby Potties

Step Stools
Baby Health Essentials
Toddler Essentials

Humidifers & Diffusers

All Playtime

Baby Activity Gyms

Baby Bouncers & Rockers

Baby Playmats

Baby Playpens

Baby Walkers

Kids Scooters

Kids Crafts
Kids Puzzles

Baby Comforters

Stroller Toys

All Home Safety

Baby Proofing

All For Mum

Pregnancy Pillows

Breastfeeding Pillows

Pregnancy Essentials
Nappy Wallets
Baby Backpacks
Breast Care
Maternity Wear

Skincare For Mum

Teething Necklaces
Parenting Books

Baby Hospital Bag

All Babywear

Baby Sleeping Bags

Baby Clothes

Baby Onesies

Baby Swimwear

Baby Sunglasses

Baby Gift Sets

Baby Record Books

Eco Friendly Baby Products

Shop By Baby Age

Shop Seasonal Baby Gifts

Walking With Baby

Running with Baby

Biking With Baby
Hiking With Baby
VILLAGE REWARDS

Top 25 Gifts
Gifts Under $25
Gifts Under $50
Gifts Under $100
Baby Shower
Summer Inspiration
Winter Inspiration
Mother’s Day

Create your own registry and share it with your closest friends and family.

Kepp track of items that catch your eye by saving them.

Find a loved one’s registry and purchase their registered items!

Best Selling Prams

Pram Accessories

Pram Bassinets
Pram Footmuffs
Toddler Board For Prams
Second Seats
Pram Cup Holders
Pram Liners
Pram Organisers
Pram Blankets
Pram Rain Covers
Pram Sun Covers
Bug Canopies
Pram Adaptors
Pram Clips & Hooks

POPULAR BRANDS

Video reviews

Capsules From Birth
Car Seats From Birth
Car Seats From 6 Months
Booster Seats 4 Years+
Car Safety Accessories

CAR SEAT ACCESSORIES

Baby Car Mirrors
Baby Car Shades
Baby Car Protectors
Baby Seat Harnesses
Capsule Bases Only

BRITAX CAR SEATS

Co-Sleepers
Change Tables
Nursery Packages

LINEN & DECOR

Baby Mobiles
Baby Night Lights

NURSERY CLEARANCE

Swaddles & Wraps
Sleep Bags & Suits
Hats & Mittens
Shoes & Socks
Sunglasses & Earmuffs

BABY CLOTHES

Baby Dresses
Baby Jackets & Vests
Baby Knitwear
Baby Pants & Shorts
Baby T-Shirts & Tops

GIFTS UNDER $50

BABY FEEDING

Breast Pump Accessories
Soothers & Dummies
Bottles & Teats
Sterilisers
Cleaning & Accessories
Insulated Bags

TODDLER FEEDING

Plates & Bowls
Storage Containers

STOKKE FEEDING

OUT & ABOUT

Wraps & Slings
Backpacks & Harnesses

ACTIVITIES WITH BABY

Running With Baby

TRAVEL COTS

BABY BATH TIME

Bath Supports
Bath Accessories
Towels & Washers
Nappy Bins & Liners
Pottys & Toilet Training

BABY HEALTH

Humidifiers & Diffusers

BATHS FOR BABY

BABY MONITORS

Video Baby Monitors
Audio Baby Monitors
Baby Movement Monitors
Baby Breathing Monitors
WiFi Baby Monitors
Digital Baby Monitors

BABY PROOFING

Baby Safety Gates
Baby Appliance Safety
Baby Bed Rails
Baby Furniture Safety
Baby Window & Door Safety
Child Safety Locks
Corner Protection
Outlet Plug Covers

baby playtime

Activity Gyms
Bouncers & Rockers
Activity Centres & Walkers

KIDS PLAYTIME

Scooters & Trikes
Electronic Toys
Musical Toys
Wooden Toys
Travel Toys
Baby Rattles

GIFTS UNDER $25

Breastfeeding Pillow
2nd Trimester
3rd Trimester
Preparing For Hospital
Newborn Essentials

mum essentials

Travel Gear

Travel Bags
out & about

Activities With Baby

6 Best Travel Cots of 2024

by Baby Village
04 January 2024

Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot

BabyBjorn Easy Go Travel Cot
Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot
ergoPouch Portable Bassinet
Koo-Di Pop Up Bassinet
Phil & Teds Traveller
shopping guides

While Travel Cots are great for holidays, their uses start much closer to home. If you've got a new Bub and you enjoy the outdoors, it's perfect for picnics or just spending time in the backyard. They're perfect for overnights with your parents, or even a secondary sleep setup in your own home, think day-naps or homes over split levels. Travel Cots are the perfect solution and one of the most essential items you need on your packing list.

Our Top 6 Travel Cots for 2024

1. Bugaboo Stardust - the pop up portacot!

2. BabyBjorn Easy Go Travel Cot - the popular easy-go must have!

3. Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot - the most versatile travel cot!

4. Phil & Teds Traveller - the lightest in the market!

5. ergoPouch Portable Bassinet - the best for newborn!

6. Bebe Care Zuri Timber Travel Cot - the best value travel cot!

Before we jump into the fantastic details of these Travel Cots, it’s important you know what you are looking for so we have come up with a list of must haves to help you figure what Travel Cot is best for you & why.

What are the Factors I need to consider when choosing a Travel Cot for my Baby?

Is it easy to assemble & is it stable.

Next factor to consider is how easy the cot’s assembly is. A cot that’s easy to assemble and disassemble is the most ideal when travelling, whether you’re staying in one place or going to different destinations. Especially if you arrive there late at night and your baby is already off to dreamland, you would want to have the cot set up in a snap. Once that cot is up; you have to consider its stability. You will have to get a cot that can withstand a baby that moves around a lot to avoid late night disasters.

What is the weight?

Next is the cot’s weight. A travel cot to be used on holiday vacations and trips need to be lightweight, so it’s a breeze for you to carry around. On the other hand, if you’re the type who loves spending time with relatives and wants their child to bond with their grandparents, then a heavier one would suffice since you’ll probably leave the cot at your parents’ house. It is also advisable to consider where you are going to be storing your travel cot. Although all Travel Cots fold quite compactly if you need to squeeze it into overhead storage on a plane in comparison to the relatively large boot of your car this might be another consideration at the time of purchase.

Is the Travel Cot the right size for me?

It’s also important to consider the size of the cot and what mode of transportation you are taking on your next adventure. If you’re travelling by plane, there are some cots that can be folded compactly and can fit in the overhead bins. There are others that do not fold as small as those types, but still do not take up a lot of storage.

What is the age limit?

It’s important to first consider who will be using the cot. Whether it is an infant or a toddler will impact your choice in Travel Cots as some cots are suitable from birth and others not. Some also have inbuilt bassinet functionality to assist with newborns allowing you to use from birth all the way to toddler years in one.

What is the cost?

And lastly is the cost. If you think you’ll be using a travel cot often, then it might be worth getting one at a higher cost because the money you spend will be well worth it. While most hotels do have portable cots available, they often charge for it. So, for families who love going on vacations, consider the cost of renting a cot and getting one of your own. However if you want it for ease of use around the house or for sitting outdoors with Bub then a cheaper option may be the better choice for you & your little one.

What complementary accessories can I purchase?

Some Travel Cots have extra accessories that you can purchase to increase your babies’ comfort while sleeping, or out & about. Some have matching fitted sheets while others have sun covers or travel bags & more. If you are looking for a Travel Cot that has it all then this is another important consideration in your shopping journey.

Top Travel Cots for 2024

Bugaboo stardust.

The Bugaboo Stardust is the newest Travel Cot to hit the market and it is a phenomenal addition. Taking only one second to unfold and three seconds to fold, the Bugaboo Stardust has been designed to offer you a quick and straightforward way to travel with your baby. Not only is it easy to fold but you can do it with the mattress in it!

The mattress has enough padding for your little one to sleep comfortably but is firm enough for regular use at home making it perfect for keeping Bub close by during your morning workout or keeping them safe during outdoor family bonding. The all-around mesh panels will ensure optimal airflow, always providing a safe and peaceful sleep. Weight: 7kgs Age Capacity: Newborn - Two Years

BabyBjorn Travel Cot

The BabyBjorn Travel Cot is one of the most popular travel cots on the market and makes parents' lives much easier when travelling with their little one. With a practical assembly that involves just a single movement and it’s lightweight frame, the BabyBjörn Travel Cot Easy Go combines the efficiency and function parents need when travelling with babies and small children. The easy-to-grip handles allowing parents to easily move it around and even check in at airports makes it an easy purchase choice for first time travel with Bub. Weight: 6kgs (including carry bag) Age Capacity: From newborn to approximately three years, or until your child can climb out of the travel cot.

The Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot is one of the most versatile travel Cots on the market and is perfect for parents who not only need a travel cot to jet set off on a holiday but also for an easy way to keep Baby close & safe for activities or naps at home. It also provides two levels when it comes to your Bub’s ultimate comfort when sleeping & growing up. An intermediate level has been provided for babies up to 2 months so you don't have to stretch too far to pick up your baby. When children can sit up straight the time has come to make the switch to the lowest level! Weight: < 5kgs Age Capacity: Intermediate Level (Newborn - Two months), Ground Level (suitable for use until your little one is old enough to climb out of bed on his/her own)

Phil & Teds Traveller

Weighing in at 2.8kg the Phil & Teds Traveller is one of the lightest travel cots on the market and is a fantastic option for parents looking for the most comfortable experience when travelling. This means no more lugging around a heavy travel cot for parents and no need to worry about oversized baggage at check in ~ it’s a dream for first time parents! The Traveller is also adaptable for indoors & outdoors, with an additional mesh top for shade. It is versatile and light while still maintaining the strength and breathability of other Travel Cots on the market. Weight: 2.8kg Age Capacity: Newborn to Three years old.

Ergopouch Portable Bassinet

Finding a versatile sleep option for your newborn that isn’t a heavy cot or bassinet can be challenging but ergoPouch has created a fantastic option for new parents who are looking for a lightweight and more portable sleep option for their little one. Perfect for naps around the house, on the go or overnight (either at home or away from home) it’s great for bedtime with baby. It is also a fantastic portable option when out & about for tummy time, play or simply gazing up at the trees while you get your workout in or read a book. Weight: 2.2kgs Age Capacity: Newborn babies who are not yet rolling / up to 9kgs

Bebe Care Zuri Timber Travel Cot

If you are out and about or at home the ZURI Timber Travel Cot is perfect cot for your little one! It is simple to set up abd fold up. It is light and convenient to carry. The ZURI Timber Travel Cot features fully ventilated mesh sides which helps you see your baby clearly. This travel cot also comes with soft and comfy mattress so you can sleep tight knowing that your little one is as cosy as they can be. Weight: 8kg Age Capacity: Birth - 13 kg

There are lots of fantastic benefits to purchasing a travel cot for all the adventures your little family are going to go on as well as the added bonus that in bringing your own, you’re assuring yourself that you’re placing your baby in a clean and safe cot. It’s also a great idea to ‘warm up’ your baby to the porta-cot prior to travel so that they become accustomed to it before you travel with them. This could be setting it up in their usual room, using it first for a day nap at home and then one or two nights. This will make your baby less fussy, unlike if they were in unfamiliar surroundings, and will allow them to rest peacefully. If you've got any questions leave us a comment below or email [email protected] .

With love, BVx

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Sweepstakes
Travel Products
Family Travel

The 7 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 20 toddler travel beds to find the most safe, secure, and comfortable options.

Our Testing Process

Tips for Buying
Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Traveling with kids is an incredible experience, but also a challenging one — for everyone involved. And sleep can be the most challenging aspect of the experience. New environments present toddlers with distractions, temptations to explore when they should be sleeping, and at worst, safety risks. Having the right sleep setup can make the whole experience more enjoyable, and for many parents, this means investing in a dedicated travel bed for your toddler.

The ideal one should be easy to set up and break down, comfortable to sleep on, and above all, safe. We tested 20 toddler beds in a range of styles for their ease of use, portability, ease of cleaning, and overall value, and will continue testing them over the next six months. Our top picks to suit any type of travel are here.

As you’re perusing our picks and choosing your own toddler travel bed, remember: the actual sleep surface is just one component of better sleep while traveling. Keeping [a] routine is important too, says Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatrician at Golisano Children’s Hospital at the University of Rochester Medical Center. “Trying to incorporate a regular bedtime routine can be helpful as maybe the exact sleep surface/surroundings will be different, the routine will be familiar,” says Dr. Murray. “Bath, brush, book, bed is a great routine (bath might not happen every night, and that is OK!).”

Keep in mind that the picks below are for toddlers and up (at least 1-3 years old). “All infants (up to one year) need to be in their own safe sleep space,” says Dr. Murray. “For travel purposes, this will be some type of crib/travel crib. Nothing inflatable.” Remember to consider the age and developmental needs of your individual child when selecting a travel bed, and to make sure any product you use adheres to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s safety standards .

Best Overall

Jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

Assembly 5 /5
Portability 5 /5
Ease of Use 5 /5

This bed’s built-in pump is unique and user-friendly, with no potentially dangerous loose parts.

The product is pared down by design for safety and portability, which means it doesn’t boast any luxury features for the higher price tag.

The JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper earned our top slot for its unique design and ease of use. While many travel toddler beds come with an external air pump, this one features a hidden pump built into the mattress that’s operated by hand or foot — ideal if you’re traveling somewhere without easy access to power outlets. Setup took a little longer during our testing than the one minute boasted by the brand, but we still had it inflated and ready to go in less than five minutes. The one-piece mattress has a removable and machine-washable cover and a water-repellent bottom, and we felt like the whole mattress would hold up well to spot-cleaning.

Stokke is known for its kid-friendly travel products; the brand’s ride-on suitcase and in-flight bed is the best we’ve seen. While the CloudSleeper isn’t designed to be used during air travel, it is small and light enough to fit inside your carry-on. This model is pricier than many options we tested, but its high-quality design and easy setup make it our top choice.

The Details: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches (open) | 15 x 11 x 4 inches (packed) | 3.1 pounds | Nylon mattress with polyester cover | Ages 3 years and up; up to 149.9 pounds

Best Inflatable

Eltow inflatable toddler bed.

Amazon

Assembly 4.5 /5
Value 4.5 /5
Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The mattress and bed frame inflate and deflate quickly and easily.

The bed gives off a strong plastic smell when it’s first unpacked.

Inflatable mattresses can be a headache to set up without a high-functioning pump, especially when you have a tired and cranky toddler waiting in the wings. The Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed comes with an effective pump, and had one of the easiest setups of all the models we tested. The mattress and the inflatable “bed frame” were both ready to go in less than five minutes, although we did note that a setup partner was helpful to keep the mattress from losing air after the pump nozzle was removed.

This model’s mattress and “frame” with bumpered sides are two separate pieces, which makes it easy to tuck a crib sheet around the mattress. The removable mattress piece also means it’s easy to access all corners of the vinyl frame to wipe it down after messes or before storing. We did notice a strong plastic odor when the bed was unpacked, so we recommend airing it out before using it for the first time.

The Details: 63 x 40 x 12 inches (open) | 10 pounds | Vinyl, velvet | Up to 310 pounds

Most Durable

Hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

Ease of Setup 5 /5
Ease of Cleaning 4.5 /5

The bed’s double plug and included patch kit make it extra resistant to leaks.

The secure double plug can also make it tricky to inflate.

One major disadvantage to inflatable mattresses? They have a tendency to puncture or lose air overnight. At best that leaves your toddler uncomfortable on a hard floor; at worst, it can be a safety risk if the mattress’s sides trap your child. This Hiccapop model impressed us with its durability and thoughtful features meant to prevent leaks. The bed has a secure double plug, which is very resistant to curious little fingers and unlikely to spring open on its own during the night. (Important to note: the secure plug also makes the bed trickier to set up than some.) It also comes with its own patch kit, so any punctures that do occur can be quickly sealed off.

This bed’s inflatable “frame” is thoughtfully designed, with bumpers on all four sides and a handle for moving it from room to room while inflated. The vinyl material is easily wipeable, and the plastic odor on first use is milder than many models we tested. Overall, this bed is a durable option and a great value.

The Details: 62 x 39 x 12 inches (open) | 8 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride | Up to 310 pounds

Best for Car Travel

Enerplex kids inflatable travel bed.

The high-speed pump with a car adaptor makes this bed a versatile choice for car travel.

When packed, this bed is heavier and bulkier than most models.

The EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed is our pick for car travel, when size and weight are less of a consideration but comfort is still key. Although this bed is bulkier and heavier than most when packed, it’s incredibly easy to set up, and easy to fold back up and pack into its included carry bag. The high-speed pump is a game-changer — we didn’t need the included directions for setup, and the bed inflated quickly. The pump also comes with a car adaptor, making it a great option for camping.

Like many inflatable mattresses, this bed has a plastic odor and needs to be off-gassed before use. The two-piece bed wipes down easily and the mattress is durable: the bed didn’t shift or deflate during our sandbag test. Because this mattress is on the heavy side when deflated, it’s best for older toddlers who are less likely to be pinned down if it unexpectedly loses air.

The Details: 66 x 44 x 13 inches | 12.3 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride | Ages 3 years and up; up to 150 pounds

Best Pop-up Crib

Babybjörn travel crib light.

Durability 5 /5
Portability 4.2 /5
Design 5 /5

We love this stylish travel crib for its easy setup and durability.

The price point may not be affordable for all families.

If you’re traveling with an infant or a younger toddler, or if keeping your child contained in a new space is your top priority, a travel crib is your best bet. We love the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light for its easy setup and durability. It took us less than two minutes to set up, and once set up, the bed is extremely secure and stable. The crib legs lock into place, and the mattress attaches to four corner straps to keep it from shifting.

Unlike some portable cribs, this one is very easy to clean. The exterior fabric and the mattress cover can be removed from the frame and machine-washed, and the rest of the bed is easily wipeable. Although this travel bed option isn’t as compact as an inflatable mattress, we found it surprisingly light. When packed into its included carrying case, it fits easily in a standard car trunk. This crib is significantly pricier than other similar options, but its durability means it can be used for multiple kids and handed down.

The Details: 32 x 44 x 24 inches (open) | 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches (packed) | 13 pounds | Polyester, polyether foam, painted steel | Ages 0-3

Best Lightweight

Hugbino inflatable toddler bed.

Assembly 4 /5
Ease of Use 4 /5

This mattress is extremely portable and light when packed.

Setup requires two people to keep the mattress from losing air before it’s sealed off.

Inflatable mattresses can feel bulky and unwieldy when deflated and packed, but at just over six pounds, this Hugbino portable mattress is lightweight and extremely portable. The mattress comes with its own pump, and is easy to assemble in less than five minutes. We did find that inflating the mattress was easiest with two people — otherwise it was a challenge to close the nozzle plug before air started escaping. Like many toddler beds, this one has bumpered sides to keep little ones from rolling off during the night; these bumpers are slightly lower than some models, so if you have an incredibly active sleeper, you may want to consider bolstering the sides with additional pillows or stuffed animals for security.

We also found it just as easy to store as it is to set up: the mattress packs easily into its included carry bag. This bed’s small footprint when packed and light weight make it a great option for stashing at a frequent travel destination like grandma’s house.

The Details: 63.6 x 42.5 inches (open) | 6.6 pounds | Vinyl, faux suede | Up to 100 pounds

Best Folding Mat

Milliard toddler nap mat.

Portability 4 /5

This memory foam mat is an extremely comfortable naptime option.

The case for this mat has to be purchased separately.

For a quick naptime solution, or for travel destinations where durability is key (like camping), a foldable mat is a great choice. This memory foam mat from Milliard is a light and comfortable option for toddler sleep. The mat comes with a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed, and the mat itself can be spot-cleaned as needed. It folds up easily and stacks nicely, but since it doesn’t deflate, it’s not as compact as an air mattress and does take up storage space. Milliard sells carrying cases for this mattress, but they need to be purchased separately.

Because this mat is memory foam, it needs 48 hours with all zippers open to reach its highest comfort level before using it for the first time. The process is worth the wait, however, as we found this to be one of the more comfortable options for naptime we’ve seen.

The Details: 58 x 24 x 3 inches (open) | 24 x 19 x 9 inches (packed) | 8.9 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride, CertiPur certified foam | Ages 3-6

Other Toddler Travel Beds We Liked

These toddler travel beds did not make our final list yet still stood out from the pack. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed : This bed is durable and comfortable, and the price is hard to beat. But because it’s built like a standard twin bed — it’s on the large side, with no bumper or sides — it’s better suited for older kids versus toddlers.

Guava Baby Lotus Travel Crib : We loved the Guava’s attractive and easy-to-use carry bag. However, it is heavy when packed, and we were torn on the usefulness of the zippered opening in the side, which makes the bed less secure for mobile toddlers. Ultimately we preferred the setup and breakdown on the similarly priced BabyBjorn model.

The team spent a day in our New York City lab, putting 20 toddler beds to the test. We tested for ease of use, portability, ease of cleaning, and overall value, rating each category on a scale of 1-5 and selecting top choices based on their scores.

To get a sense of how easy these products would be to use with a cranky toddler on hand, we practiced setting up each bed one-handed, watching a timer closely — then did the whole thing in reverse and broke each bed down. Testers laid down on the beds, weighted them down with sandbags, and evaluated their durability. They considered the hidden nooks and crannies on each bed that might become filled with crumbs or worse, and evaluated how easy it was to get each one spic and span again. Our testing is ongoing for an additional six months to ensure each bed stands the test of time when used by actual children, too.

Tips for Buying a Toddler Travel Bed

Consider your toddler’s sleep needs.

The most important consideration when choosing a toddler travel bed is your individual child’s sleep style and needs. If your child is an active sleeper and tends to roll off of surfaces, you’ll want to choose a bed that has higher bumpers to keep them on the mattress. And if your toddler is a wanderer, you may want a fully contained space like a travel crib to keep them safe. If you can, try to approximate your child’s home sleeping environment as closely as possible. If they’re still in a crib at home, purchase a crib for travel; if they’re using a convertible toddler bed with a railing and high headboard, look for a travel bed with a similar cozy feel.

Balance comfort with packability and safety

A plush, soft sleeping surface might seem like a recipe for better sleep, but when it comes to traveling with a toddler, simpler is usually better. A thinner inflatable mattress, for example, will not only pack down smaller, but will be safer if it malfunctions and deflates on your child overnight. “Remember, many of the inflatable mattresses are made from thick or stiff material that a toddler might not be able to push off of themself,” Dr. Murray notes. “The thinner or more standard mattress size inflatable mattresses are better for those 1-3 years of age.” And most packable cribs have thin mattresses for a reason: a firm sleeping surface is safest for younger kids. “You want to choose something that is sturdy but has the normal safety features of a relatively firm mattress and stable sides,” says Dr. Murray.

Match size, weight, and age recommendations to your child

Most travel toddler beds have clear recommendations for age range and maximum height and/or weight for use. Pay close attention to these guidelines and match them to your child, but use your own judgment as well to ensure you’re choosing the safest option. Although most inflatable mattresses are designed for ages 3 and up, some will claim to be suitable for any age. If your toddler is on the younger side or moves around a lot while sleeping, you’ll want to avoid mattresses altogether — even those that claim to be safe for littler ones — and opt for a portable crib-style bed.

Factor in your final destination

Another crucial consideration when you’re purchasing a toddler travel bed is what type of environment you’re traveling to. “Are you staying in a hotel room, which is usually pretty sparse but might have loose or stray electrical cords? Or are you staying at grandparents' where there may be stairs that aren't protected by a baby gate or other low hazards since the house might no longer be child proof?” Dr. Murray notes. Travel locations with more potential hazards might require portable cribs or mattresses that better contain your toddler, whereas a fully childproofed friend’s or grandparent’s house might offer more flexibility for your toddler to roam and explore.

Where you lay your child down to sleep while traveling will heavily depend on the age and needs of your child, your family’s preferences, and your travel circumstances. Some families choose to bring a dedicated bed for their toddler when they travel, while others prefer to co-sleep or use available extra beds at your destination (i.e., pullout sofas or cots). Also consider the sleep environment that works best for your child: do they need a dark, quiet room, or are they more comfortable within earshot of hustle and bustle in the house? Whatever sleep setup you choose for your toddler, make sure they’re in a safe, supervised location and adhere to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines for safe sleep.

Toddlerhood spans a whole range of developmental stages — technically a toddler is anywhere from 1 to 3 years old. There’s no hard and firm age when a child becomes ready for a toddler bed, but you should consider where they fall on the spectrum of toddlerhood. “Those who are still close to 1 year old will need an environment that is more crib-like,” Dr. Murray notes. “A 3-year-old will have more escape skills and perhaps more interest in wandering, but can likely be safe in a hotel bed or pull-out couch.” Always consult the age limits noted on any toddler bed to make sure the manufacturer recommends it for your child’s age.

You may not be in the habit of wiping down your full-size air mattress after every set of overnight guests, but trust us, you’ll want to clean your toddler travel bed frequently. Luckily, most products have accounted for this, and include either removable covers, wipeable surfaces, or both. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before purchasing to make sure the bed’s washability suits your needs, and follow instructions closely when cleaning to ensure the bed lasts.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Mandy Harris is a contributing writer at Travel + Leisure , and has vetted hundreds of parenting products over the last decade. For this story, she analyzed in-house testing insights, manufacturer details, and her own experience as a frequent toddler wrangler to determine the best toddler beds for every type of travel.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

IMAGES

10 Best Child Travel Cots
10 Best Child Travel Cots
Best travel cots for babies and toddlers 2022: Lightweight portable
Top 10 Best Travel Cots & Portable Cribs
10 Best Child Travel Cots
Top 10 Best Travel Cots & Portable Cribs

VIDEO

Infantino Go Forward Ergonomic 4 in 1 Carrier- Smyths Toys
Antique Rose wood Cots In India Kerala Antique Market Jew town
Balcots/ Paint Cots/ Colourful furniture/ Wooden base/ Strong base furniture Cots
Teak cots manufacturers/ Strong & Good quality furniture/ Latest designs furniture cots

COMMENTS

The best travel cot for babies and toddlers
The best travel cot at a glance. • Best travel cot overall: Venture UK Airpod Baby & Toddler Travel Cot - £109.99. • Best travel cot for compact fold: Graco FoldLite - £73. • Best compact travel cot: Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot - £168.75. • Best budget travel cot: Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot - £60.
Best travel cots 2024: Tried and tested for babies and toddlers
The best travel cots for 2023 are: Best overall - Graco foldlite: £79.99, Gracobaby.eu/uk. Best for entertaining baby - Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce: £175 ...
Best travel cots tested by parents for 2024 UK
Best lightweight travel cot for a good mattress: Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £109.99. Best multi-use travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Cot, £150. Best travel cot for added extras: Graco Contour Electra, £115.99. Best budget buy travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £35. Best travel cot for versatile features: Hauck Sleep'n ...
Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers
5. Joie Excursion: Best travel cot for value for money. Price when reviewed: £190 | Check price at Boots. It isn't the most compact, lightweight or easy to put together model in this list, but ...
Best travel cots 2023
Best travel cot overall: Joie Kubbie Sleep, £99.99 | Very. Best travel cot for assembly: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £220 | Amazon. Best budget travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £36 | Amazon. Best travel cot for camping: Little Life Arc 2, £119.99 | LittleLife. Best travel cot for a plush mattress: Nuna Sena Aire, £249.99 | Very.
The 10 best travel cots in 2022
Chicco Lullago Travel Bed. Pack and Play, OUNUO 2 in 1 Portable Playard. BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. Pamo Babe 2 in 1 Bassinet Quick Foldable Travel Crib. SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Travel Crib. Baby Delight Go with Me. TecTake Travel Cot. Regalo My Cot. Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib.
Best Travel Cots For Babies And Toddlers
On day trips, cabin stays, or other excursions, portable travel cots are a true lifesaver for families packing for a baby. These reviews cover some of the best travel cots on the market, creating the best option for families and babies everywhere. Lotus Comfortable Travel Crib. $229.95. $279.95. in stock.
Best travel cot 2023: lightweight cots for travel
With an RRP of £150, it sits firmly in the upper-mid-range price category, but it's durable materials, solid build, and innovative features mean it more than earns its place at the top of our ...
Best travel cots: tried and tested
Winner of the Mumsnet Best Travel Cot 2018 award, the Joie Commuter Change didn't quite make our top five this year, but it's still a great product and definitely worth considering. ... We commissioned Ruth Lumley to write about and test a variety of toddler and baby travel cots. Ruth is a journalist who has used a number of baby beds with ...
The best travel cots of 2023, including lightweight and playpen options
Large (88cm high x 106cm long x 75cm wide) Heavy (16.7kg) Birth to 3yrs/15kg; This multi-functional travel cot is ideal if you have a newborn or young infant and want to set up a semi-permanent ...
2022 best travel cot and baby bed for travel: the ultimate guide!
MICRALITE SLEEP AND GO TRAVEL COT. The Micralite sleep&go travel cot is probably the best portable travel crib on the market in 2020. It seems that the designer took all the best elements of other top travel cots, like the Baby Bjorn or Phil & Teds, made it even more functional and added some other cool features.
Best Travel Cots (Portable Cribs & Bassinets) For Family Travel
Suitable for 6 months and over. At A Glance Details for the KidCo Peapod travel cot. Weight: 2.5lbs/1.1kg. Mattress size: It is inbuilt. Cot size: 46 x 28 x 14 inches. Folded up measurements: 16.5"L x 16.5"H x 3"D. Age suitable for: 6 months-3 years old. For more information and latest prices on the PeaPod see here.
7 best travel cots for babies and toddlers in 2022
Joie Kubbie Sleep Compact Travel Cot, £115, Argos SHOP NOW. Weight: 8.79 kg Suitable: from birth till 15kg The drop-down side on this model makes it popular with new parents looking for the best ...
10 Best Child Travel Cots
KidCo Peapod is designed for babies under 3 years old. This product is not only comfortable but also has good air circulation. The zippers are easy to use so that the baby is more flexible in and out of the peapod. This product is safe for children to use outdoors because it also has UV protection.
The Best Travel Cots and Cribs for Your Baby's Comfort and Safety
The Lotus Travel Crib was designed with adventure in mind. It's the perfect solution for travel, whether you're taking a quick trip or spending extended time away from home. The carry case doubles as a backpack, so it's easy to take with you on the go. And at only 13 pounds, it's extremely portable.
9 Best Travel Cribs of 2024
Best for Flying: Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard. Best Affordable: Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard. Best for Toddlers: Newton Baby Travel Crib and Play Yard. Most Versatile: UPPAbaby REMI Travel Crib & Playard. Most Portable: Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot. Best for Small Spaces: Bugaboo Stardust Playard.
9 Best Travel Cots for Babies & Toddlers in 2022
Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £87.99, Amazon. Why we love it: One of the best travel cots under £100 is the Venture Airpod Travel Cot, which scores top points for its thick mattress of excellent quality. It's really easy to assemble, lightweight and also comes complete with a strong storage bag when in transport. Dimensions: 85 x 55 x 66cm.
Best Infant Travel Bassinets & Portable Cots for 2024
TODEFULL Portable Travel Crib for Baby, 2 in 1 Folding Baby Travel Cribs and Playards with Mattress, Lightweight Playpen for Toddlers with Carry Bag, Pack and Play for Infants, Grey. It folds down seriously small for a playard to just 36″ x 30″ (91cm x 76cm) and weighs 8lbs (3.63kg).
The Best Travel Bassinets and Travel Cots
Graco Pack n Play on the GO Review. At 23 pounds and measuring 39.5 x 29 x 29 inches, this is a heavy travel cot compared to all the others in our best baby travel cot reviews. This makes it less suitable for plane travel, but the extra space and sturdiness means that it can easily double as a playyard.
The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2024
Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed at Amazon ($70) Jump to Review. Best With Pump: Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed at Amazon ($85) Jump to Review. Best for Camping: EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed at Amazon ($65) Jump to Review. Best Pop-Up Crib:
Best Travel Cots of 2024
1. Bugaboo Stardust - the pop up portacot! 2. BabyBjorn Easy Go Travel Cot - the popular easy-go must have! 3. Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot - the most versatile travel cot! 4. Phil & Teds Traveller - the lightest in the market! 5. ergoPouch Portable Bassinet - the best for newborn!
The 7 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Most Durable: Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed at Amazon ($85) Jump to Review. Best for Car Travel: EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed at Amazon ($65) Jump to Review. Best Pop-up Crib ...
Best travel cots and portable play yards in Singapore
Best travel cots and portable play yards. 1. Joie Commuter Change Travel Cot - Logan. The Joie Commuter is a parent's best friend and keeps our tiny tourists happy come travel time. The cot comes in handy for playing and sleeping securely, with an option of a full-size bassinet for babies too. Its airy mesh lining on all four sides ensures ...

The best travel cot for babies and toddlers

The best travel cot at a glance

The best travel cot 2024

2. Graco FoldLite

3. Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

4. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

5. Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

6. Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

7. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Shortlisted for Best Travel Product over £25 at the M&B Awards 2018

8. Graco Contour Electra

9. Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper

10. Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

11. BabyDan Travel Cot

12. Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

13. Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Travel cots – All you need to know:

Features to consider before purchasing a travel cot

What age are travel cots advised for?

Can I travel on a plane with a travel cot?

How to assemble a travel cot

Where can I buy a travel cot?

Can I buy a travel cot second-hand?

How to clean your travel cot

Travel cot safety

Safe sleeping in a travel cot

How we tested and chose these travel cots

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

UK Edition Change

Thank you for registering

11 best travel cots for hassle-free holidays and overnight stays

Sign up to our free weekly newsletter for insider tips and product reviews from our shopping experts

Related stories

The best travel cots for 2024 are:

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Graco foldlite travel cot

Red Kite sleep tight travel cot

Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce

BabyBjörn travel cot light

Nuna sena aire

Silver Cross slumber carbon travel cot

Kinderkraft lovi 3-in-1 baby crib

Bugaboo stardust travel cot

Halo flex portable bassinet

Fisher-Price on the go travel baby dome

ergoPouch easy sleep portable crib

Travel cot FAQs

Can a baby sleep in a travel cot every night?

What to look for when buying a travel cot

Do travel cots need a mattress?

The verdict: Travel cots

Voucher Codes

12 of the best travel cots 2024 for babies and toddlers

Why do I need a travel cot?

Best travel cots at a glance

What to look for when buying a travel cot

More like this

Sign up to receive our Most Wanted newsletter

How, when and where will you use your travel cot?

How much does a travel cot cost?

Here are the best travel cots for 2024

2. Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £109.99

3. Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1, £150

4. Graco Contour Electra, £89.99

5. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £35

6. Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot, £79.95

7. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £65

8. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot, £99

9. Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £62

10. Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £159.20

11. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £22o

12. Tutti Bambini CoZee Go 3-in-1 Bassinet, Travel Cot & Playpen, £129

How did we choose our 12 of the Best?

About the author

How NatPat's wellness patches may help your family

Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers

Travelling with your baby? Ensure everyone enjoys a good night’s sleep with the best travel cots

Best travel cot: At a glance

How to choose the best travel cot for your child

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?