crib in travel trailer

THE RV FARMHOUSE

Making Campers Feel Like Home

September 1, 2021

12 of the Best RV Baby Cribs + Where to Put it in your Camper?

Getting a crib for your RV is essential to ensure your baby is happy and thrives. When moving into a camper full-time with an infant, you will want to give them a space that is their own. There are so many different options out to choose from, but what size do you need and where do you even put it?  Here are the x BEST RV Baby Cribs that help your little one feel at home.

When we first started planning our daughter’s nursery, I quickly realized that her full-size crib wasn’t going to fit. And the more I started doing research, I noticed that some cribs were pretty heavy. I thought about just doing a pack n play since it’s a multi-purpose piece.

I ended deciding that getting an actual crib would make my daughter feel at home. Plus, this went better with the design we chose for her nursery. I have to admit, finding a crib that worked with the Chaparral’s mid-bunk was a little tricky. 

I’m going to share the crib we chose and some others that I had thought about purchasing. Keep reading for some tips when choosing a crib for your baby’s nursery, along with ideas of where you can put it in your camper!

12 of the BEST RV Baby Cribs

When choosing a crib for your camper, you will want to decide where it will go first. As I said, I’m sharing some ideas and tips on where a baby can sleep in an RV a little later.

Once you have your dimensions, you can decide which of these RV baby cribs will work best for you and your little one!

Mini Cribs for RVs

If you haven’t heard of a mini crib, this is just a smaller more compact version of a crib. This is perfect for small spaces. Often parents of twins will use these, so both babies can sleep in the same room. 

I ended up going with a mini crib, simply because it fits PERFECTLY in the slide-out in the mid-bunk. It also gave my daughter the feel of home without compromising space in her room.

1. Dream-On-Me 3-in-One Mini Crib

This is the mini crib we bought for our daughter’s RV nursery! I absolutely love it… still!! It fits perfectly in her room, it was easy to assemble and looks beautiful.

Size: 44in x 29in x 40in

Weight: 44 Lbs

• Easy Assembly
• Nontoxic Finish
• Comes in several different colors including white and gray
• Converts into a toddler bed and a twin bed

2. Babyletto Origami Mini Portable Crib with Wheels

This mini crib was the one we almost bought! I loved how it folds up and is easy to store. So if you travel a lot, this is a great space saver.

Size: 39.2in x 25.7in x 36in

Weight: 49.6 Lbs

• It has wheels so you can easily move it.
• Looks + Feels High-End
• Same size as a pack n play
• 2 mattress positions

3. Carter’s by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 Convertible Mini Crib with Trundle

Size: 40.6in x 25.6in x 34.6in

Weight: 54 Lbs

• It has a trundle for storage
• 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Full-Size Cribs for an RV

Some bunkhouses have plenty of space for a full-size crib. But, you don’t want to put any crib in there because of weight. If you plan on moving your trailer at all, you don’t want heavy furniture because this just adds to the amount you are allowed to tow. Here are the best lightweight cribs for an RV.

1. Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Crib

Size: 53in x 29in x 39in

Weight: 35 Lbs

• It’s Lightweight 
• 8 Color Options
• Simple Design
• 4 Mattress Height Settings
• 5-in-1 Convertible Crib

2. Graco Benton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

Size: 29.72in x 56.73in x 41.68 in

Weight: 42 Lbs

• Solid Pine + Still Lightweight
• Rated most durable
• Easy to Assemble
• 4-in1 Convertible Crib

3. Ikea Gulliver Crib

Size: 53.5in x 29.5 in x 32 in

• Most Affordable
• Slimmer than most Cribs
• It’s a full-Size Crib
• Converts into a Day Bed

Bassinets for the Master Bedroom in an RV

If you are planning to have a baby or you are moving in with a newborn, getting a bassinet or bed-safe sleeper is your smartest option. According to  Harvard Health , it’s best if baby sleeps in the same room as you until they are 6 months old. Here are some of the best bassinets for your trailer. 

1. Evenflo Loft Portable Small Travel Bassinet

Size: 33.75in x 20.5in x 26.75in

Weight: 10 Lbs

• Only 20.5 in wide!
• It folds in half and is super compact
• Bluetooth speaker with nature sounds
• Soft Nightlight
• Room Temperature

2. Primo Cocoon Folding Bassinet

Size: 35in x 17.5in x 34in

Weight: 9 Lbs

• Only 17.5 in wide!
• Comes with a Carrying Bag
• Has a Mesh Canopy (perfect for keeping pets, bugs, and anything unwanted in the bassinet)

3. Simmons Kids Sleeper Bassinet

Size: 31in x 19.5in x 41.5in

Weight: 22 Lbs

• Only 19.5 in wide!
• 5 Adjustable Heights
• Storage pockets

**Note: This bassinet has wheels, so check to make sure it will fit under your bed!

Pack N Plays for an RV

I contemplated on using a pack n play for our daughter to sleep in. I love that you can move it ANYWHERE and is also multifunctional. You can find these pretty inexpensively, too! Here are the best pack n plays for an RV.

1. Nuna Sena Aire Playard

Size: 30.7in x 41.3in x 41.29in

Weight: 23 Lbs

• Its breathability is top of the line!
• Everything is Machine Washable
• Set-Up is EASY
• Durable for if you plan on having multiple kiddos!

2. Flisko 2 in 1 Travel Crib & Bassinet

Size: 28in x 43in x 28in

Weight: 15 Lbs

• Super compact when folded!
• Washable and can be thrown in the Washing Machine
• It’s lightweight

3. Dream On Me Travel Light Playard

Size: 40.5in x 27in x 26in

Weight: 12 Lbs

• This is one of the MOST lightweight play-yards
• Comes in several different colors
• Easy to Set Up
• Breathable Mesh
• Comes with a Decent Mattress!

Where to Put a Crib in an RV

Choosing an RV floor plan that would accommodate a baby’s nursery seems like a no-brainer. We ended up going with the Coachman Chaparral’s Mid-Bunk which has two different options; the bedroom door in the kitchen or next to the main entrance. When we found our fifth wheel, we didn’t care too much about where the bedroom door was located. Although they both had a mid-bunk room, one will accommodate a full-size crib and the other won’t.

 1. In the Bunkhouse

Most full-time families choose to turn the bunkhouse into a nursery or the kid’s room. In many of these rooms, there is enough space for a full-size crib too! If you plan on making your RV your permanent home, getting a floor plan with a room to turn into a nursery is a MUST!

Check out this cute Toddler + Nursery Combo from @tinywallsfamily

2. In the Master Bedroom Closet

If you are looking for a temporary solution, you can always turn a closet into a little nursery cubby. You will definitely need a mini crib for this space, but it’s perfect if you don’t want to upgrade the size of your trailer. 

Check out this Farmhouse inspired Master Bedroom Closet Nursery!

3. In the Living Room Slide

I would say this is a temporary solution. It’s really tough when it comes to nap time to be quiet in an RV. But, there have been a few people who have made it work. 

Here is a cute RV Living Room converted into a nursery!

Final Thoughts…

As you could probably tell, the weight and size really matters when looking at RV baby cribs. Ultimately you will need to figure out where your baby is going to sleep, measure the space, and then you can begin looking at what crib will work best for you!

Copyright © 2024 THE RV FARMHOUSE · Theme by 17th Avenue

Travels with Ted

20 Creative RV Crib & Nursery Ideas for your Baby

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

Planning on taking your baby on RV trips or living in an RV? Turning a camper into a baby-friendly space can be tough. But don’t worry! We’ve got great ideas to help you. From making it safe to keeping it fun, we’ll show you how real travelers created amazing RV nurseries.

In this article, we showcase 20 practical and adorable camper crib and nursery ideas. Get inspired to create your own cozy and functional RV nursery space.

• 1.1 Use a Pack ‘n Play as a Crib
• 1.2 Let the Baby Sleep in a Bassinet
• 1.3 Replace the Lower Bunk with a Crib
• 1.4 Convert a Bunk into a Crib
• 1.5 Place the Crib in a Slide Out
• 1.6 Put a Crib in your RV Closet
• 1.7 Give up the Master Bedroom
• 1.8 Convert a Bunk Room or Garage into a Nursery
• 1.9 Transform a Half Bath into a Baby Room
• 2.1 Changing Table
• 2.2 Lightweight Wall Art
• 2.3 Wall Decals
• 2.4 White Noise Machine
• 2.5 Play Area
• 2.6 Travel High Chair
• 2.7 Collapsible Bathtub

Camper Crib Ideas

Use a pack ‘n play as a crib.

A Pack ‘n Play is the easiest crib to use in an RV or camper. These playpens are easily folded up with a simple push-button fold, so the nursery space can double as play space during the day.

Kailey of Believe and Budget , converted her RV dining area into a nursery on wheels with a few simple renovations. She removed the dinette and added a Pack ‘n Play and some simple nursery decorations.

Graco also makes a Pack ‘n Play Travel Dome , which has even more features for RV babies. The Travel Dome is an entire nursery in a portable package. It includes a removable bassinet and a changing table.

Let the Baby Sleep in a Bassinet

A bassinet is another compact sleeping solution that works well for RV babies. A small bassinet can easily be placed in the RV bedroom or the RV living room, and can be moved around as needed.

The Dream On Me Traveler Portable Bassinet is a great option for RVers. It is lightweight and includes a quick-fold mechanism so it can easily be collapsed down and stored for travel.

RV parents with open floorspace near the bed can also use a bassinet to keep baby close at night. Brooke of @villacheyennevalley bolted a swivel bassinet to the floor of her closet so she could easily swing the baby over to her in bed.

Replace the Lower Bunk with a Crib

If your motorhome or trailer has a set of bunk beds or a full bunk room, the lower bunk area is the perfect place for an RV crib. Simply remove the lower bunk and place the crib on the empty floorspace.

The Colby Convertible Mini Crib is a perfect small crib to use in an RV. It will easily fit into the space of typical RV bunk bed, and includes a built-in drawer for extra storage.

Convert a Bunk into a Crib

If you do not want to remove a bunk bed, it is also possible to transform a bunk into a crib by adding rails or a gate that extends the length of the bunk bed. Once baby is old enough for a toddler bed, simply remove the barrier and use the original bunk bed.

Renee and Shaun of @theflippintilbys turned their client’s mid bunk room into a beautiful combined guest space and nursery. They added a crib rail to the upper bunk to make it safe for the client’s one-year old baby.

Madilyn of @madiroseofficial also added a custom barrier to a bottom bunk in her RV’s bunkroom to create safe crib space for her babies. There is also another set of bunk beds in the room for her older kids.

Place the Crib in a Slide Out

A slide out area is another RV space that can be easily converted into a nursery. Many RVs have slide outs that house dining tables or small couches. Simply remove the built-in furniture and add baby gear to convert the space into a baby room.

Amber of @amber.in.wanderland created a beautiful nursery space in her fifth wheel RV. She removed the dresser that was built into the slide out space, and added a crib and some custom decorations.

Put a Crib in your RV Closet

Many modern RVs, especially fifth wheels, include a walk-in closet in the main bedroom. This large closet space can easily be converted into a cute nursery cove. Putting a small crib in the closet keeps the baby close to you while leaving your bedroom floorspace open.

Amanda converted her RV closet into a nursery by placing a bassinet in the space. She used the rod in the closet to hang a bird over the baby’s bed, and filled the built-in shelves with all of the baby’s clothes and accessories.

Give up the Master Bedroom

Some RV parents also choose to convert their entire master bedroom into a nursery. Using the bedroom as a nursery creates a private room, where baby can easily sleep without interruption. It also means parents can use the kitchen and living areas while baby is sleeping.

Professional RV renovators, BBandtheRV , created this stunning travel trailer nursery for one of their clients in the space that used to be the primary bedroom. With the bed removed, the nursery easily fit a crib, a rocking chair, toys and floorspace for a baby play area.

Parents who give up the main bedroom to baby will need to find another spot to sleep. Depending on the RV, parents could sleep on a pull-out couch in the living room or convert a toy hauler garage into their own private bedroom.

Convert a Bunk Room or Garage into a Nursery

Bunk rooms and toy hauler garages are two other RV spaces that can be used to create a private nursery. Buying an RV with one of these rooms allows you the flexibility to create a fully customized room for your baby.

Serena of @irisonelmstreet turned the RV bunkroom in her RV into a kids’ room and nursery. She used one side of the room as the nursery with a small crib, a dresser and comfy carpeting to keep it cozy.

Cait and Russ of @rvwithrandc also created a private nursery for their full-time RV baby. Their toy hauler travel trailer features a front garage area, so they removed the bunks in this room and transformed it into a stunning nursery on wheels.

If you are not into remodeling, you can also place a Pack ‘n Play or a bassinet in these rooms, so baby just has a quiet place to sleep.

Transform a Half Bath into a Baby Room

One final (and very unique) RV nursery idea is to turn a half bathroom into a tiny bedroom for your baby.

Isela of @sela_luna did just that. After gutting the half bathroom, she added a small crib, cute décor and a bookshelf to create the perfect compact nursery.

Other RV Nursery Ideas

Once your have figured out how you are setting up a crib in your RV, check out these other RV nursery ideas to complete your baby’s first room.

Changing Table

Having a full-size changing table is not practical in many RV nursery spaces. Instead, use a Skip Hop Baby Changing Pad, which packs lots of features into a small package. This changing pad includes a tuck-away toy bar, a safety belt and a non-skid base.

Lightweight Wall Art

These simple, magnetic frames are the perfect solution for hanging wall art in an RV nursery. The frames come in a variety of sizes, and are so lightweight that they can be left up during travel. The magnetic design allows you to easily change out the art as your child grows.

Wall Decals

Removable wall decals are another easy way to decorate your RV nursery. This “Adventure Awaits” decal set with trees and forest animals is perfect for your little adventurer.

White Noise Machine

Campgrounds and RV parks are often noisy. A compact white noise machine, such as the Dreamegg , can help drown out the noise so you your RV baby can sleep peacefully.

All babies need a cozy play area on the floor, but most RVs have limited floorspace. That’s why soft foam interlocking tiles are a great solution. The tiles can be connected to create a soft area for playtime, but easily come apart to store when playtime is over.

Travel High Chair

In addition to sleeping, babies need a place to eat. The OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat is the perfect portable high chair for feeding RV babies. Appropriate for kids 6 months and older, this folding seat is easily stored away after meals.

Collapsible Bathtub

Finally, don’t forget about a solution for cleaning your RV baby. If your RV does not have a bathtub, consider buying a MoreFeel Baby Bath that collapses down for easy storage.

If you prefer to have a real tub for your kids, check out these RVs with bathtubs .

Thanks for reading our guide to camper crib and RV nursery ideas. We hope you found the perfect solution for your traveling baby.

Whether you are living in your RV or just taking a short camping trip, traveling with your baby is a memory you will never forget.

Happy Camping!

Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book .

Best Travel Cribs

Fact-checking standards, latest update:, what is a travel crib, what to look for in a travel crib, how to pick the best travel crib, how we chose the best travel cribs, why trust us, best travel crib overall, babybjörn travel crib, best travel crib for airplane trips, guava lotus travel crib, best travel crib for car trips, graco pack ‘n play portable playard, best travel crib with easy assembly, 4moms breeze plus, best travel bassinet with mesh canopy, primo cocoon folding travel bassinet, best lightweight infant travel bassinet, munchkin brica, best compact portable crib with bassinet, uppababy remi portable playard, best easy-to-carry travel crib, chicco alfa lite, best adjustable travel crib, nuna sena aire travel crib, best easy-open travel crib, bugaboo stardust.

Daniel Ganjian , M.D., Pediatrician, Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.  American Academy of Pediatrics, How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics, Suitable Sleeping Sites: Safe at Night & Naptime , June 2022. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Safe Sleep – Cribs and Infant Products .

Explore the Best Products for Moms and Babies

Trending on what to expect, best baby deals happening right now, how to get your registry's free welcome gift, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., 17 of the best baby bottle and breast milk storage solutions you can buy on amazon, best toddler water tables, best stroller fans.

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

In This Article

How we chose the best travel cribs.

• Our Top Picks

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.

Ashley Here!

I've have lots more of the site to show you! You've only seen one page. Check out this post that is currently my most popular.

Ten Crib Ideas For Your RV And Your Baby

Some families want to live in the RV for the best reasons but they have one problem: their babies. Not that their babies themselves are the problem, but it is because having babies or smaller children require extra spaces or measures to take so that their stay in the RV would be a meaningful, safe, and secure one. Thus, having a crib inside your RV is the best solution for this kind of problem.

This article gives you ten ideas on how to make or install cribs inside your RVs for your baby’s sleeping convenience. I will also show you the advantages of having a crib inside your RV for your newborn and toddlers. I will also share different alternatives for families on a budget to have for their babies. Lastly, I will be talking about the updated CDC guidelines for living outdoors in face of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Page Contents

Ten Crib Ideas You And Your Baby Will Enjoy In The RV

These ideas are vouched for by most campers and families living in RVs. These range from simple ones to ideas requiring you to have extra skills with power tools and other related abilities. You can choose whatever idea you like and you are also free to tweak some aspects of it to make it your own.

Pack-And-Play Cribs And Pens For Easy Storage

A lot of families have been using portable playpens, or much known as “pack-and-play” pens in their RV for their babies to stay and sleep whenever they are on the road. This is a good idea as you do not have to devote a place where to put your crib permanently, saving space in your RV. We all know how important spaces are in the RV, so this one has an advantage.

A lot of models are available in the market, from the most basic one all the way to the most elaborate one. They cater to a lot of people with different preferences. As their name implies, you can just fold them and store them away when you are not using them, therefore no space gets wasted because you just use it for short hours.

Lightweight Travel Cots For Convenience

Lightweight travel cots are also popular because not only are they lightweight, but they are also easy to use, maintain, and store.

One of the best models is the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light, with its excellent design securing the comfort and strength of your cot. It also has an insulated mattress, so there is no need to install heaters or electric mats under your cot in winter.

Weighing only 13 pounds, it is easily carried. No parts to lose and the crib is simple to put together and to take apart. The base is sturdy and also gives you additional reassurance, creating a more protective sleeping environment for your infant. Thanks to the see-through mesh, you can check on your child anytime, even during your road trips.

Overall, it is definitely one of the most comfortable travel cribs available, but gives your baby enough room to sprawl out and sleep. I cannot think of a better portable crib when it comes to the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib.

Adding Regular Cribs To Your Bunk Rooms

Converting an RV bunk room to a nursery is easy. You might try converting a rear bunkhouse fifth wheel to a kids’ room by adding a ladder and railing to the top bunk and replacing the furniture below with a crib that converts to a toddler bed.

Because of its low profile, this crib is unlikely to move around much while the RV is moving, but if it does, the owners can still anchor it to the wall or floor. You can customize the bunk room based on your needs and likes, so it is highly personalized for the people using it.

Bunk rooms are a good option especially if you have a lot of people using the RV. You allow them to use the room without having to give up much space for other people to use it as well.

Go Traditional With Wooden Cribs For Efficiency

If your concern is having a small space for your baby, you might consider having a crib that is made of wood.

Some wooden cribs are smaller than the standard sizes, and some of them are also foldable, meaning you can fold your crib when you are not using it. Wood is a very durable yet lightweight material for cribs so you can use it without affecting how your RV runs, since it is not that heavy.

You can secure your wooden crib by anchoring it to walls so that it will not move around, especially when you are on the road.

Multi-purpose Cribs For Saving Space And Stuff

You can also use cribs that have multiple functions so that you can also save on space, especially with your baby needs. Having such a crib allows you to attend to your baby’s needs while everything is within easy reach.

One of those is the Fisher Price Ultra-Lite Day and Night Play Yard. For traveling parents, the Fisher Price Ultra-Lite Day and Night Play Yard is a great multi-purpose device. It is one of the best travel cribs for newborn babies because it combines a cozy sleeping space, a safe play area, and a convenient changing station.

On the outside, there is also a handy storage pocket for holding wipes and diapers on hand. The inclined sleeper can be removed, and it comes with a three-point restraint, cushioned head support, and other features to keep your baby healthy and relaxed.

It is also easy to set up and take down, weighing just 15 pounds. The Fisher Price Ultra-Lite Day and Night Play Yard has everything you need for your baby to sleep, play, change diapers, and more.

Adjustable Cribs For Longer Usage Over Time

You can also choose to buy a crib that you can adjust so that you will only use one crib from being a newborn down to being a toddler.

Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages is a good crib model for it gives you the ability to adjust your crib based on your kid’s age. The fact that the Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages can be changed as your child develops is a big plus.

You can use it for your infant and then adjust the bassinet’s height as your child grows. This, in our opinion, makes it the best travel bassinet because it is built to last a long time. It is also a perfect place to keep your baby healthy while they’re awake because of the large play yard. It is very compact thanks to its space-saving architecture, lightweight nature (it weighs 20 lbs), and small wheels.

Do not be fooled by its size and weight because it is still still packed with features. The Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages has a soft padded mattress, a canopy, and a toy tray, ensuring a happy baby and happy parents.

Incorporate Your Baby’s Bed To Your Bed

This is a very practical way of adding a space for your baby to sleep inside the RV. Not only is this practical but also a safe way since you can always check your baby without going out of your bed since we do not have a lot of space in RVs.

Buying a bassinet designed to be attached next to a bed is also a good idea. Make sure that it fits your space and is long enough so that your baby will not have a problem when he grows up.

You can also add a baby nest beside you, which is like a small bed for your baby that is placed beside you in your own bed. You have to choose something that is not going to be a problem when your baby grows up.

Converting A Portion Of Your Master Bedroom

If you think your master bedroom is too big for you and your partner, you can always transform a corner of your master bedroom into a space where you can put your crib and all the things your baby uses.

Lightweight cribs would do best for this since they are durable without giving too much weight under them. You can attach your crib to the walls so that it will not fly all over your RV when you are driving it. It is also a good idea since you can attend to your baby without going out of your room, saving you space and time to check.

Add A Dresser And A Cart For Easy Access

This one works on cribs made of wood, but you can also try it by using cribs made of other materials. You can add a mini-dresser on your crib for your baby essentials, such as the diapers, extra clothes, milk, and other needs.

This is a cool idea because you do not have to go anywhere else just to get everything you need as they are all in one place. You can also put a tray on it so that your baby’s milking needs and essentials would be easier for you to reach.

Do-It-Yourself Baby Beds For Customization

If you are confident enough in your woodworking or metalworking skills, you can just create a crib or a baby bed for your young ones and put it inside your RV.

This one saves you a lot of money and it also allows you to customize whatever you want. You can put additional spaces for your baby essentials or make it longer for your baby when they grow up. You just have to make sure that your baby would be secure and safe enough for anything that might happen, especially when you are on the road.

You have to consider that RV is a running vehicle so adding features to prevent your baby from hurting or falling from the bed is very important.

Perks Of Having A Crib For Your RV Baby

Having a crib for your little ones in the RV can give you a lot of pros. Here are some of the advantages of having a crib in the RV for your baby.

It Allows The Baby To Sleep Comfortably On Its Own

Having a crib inside your RV is a good thing because we want the baby to sleep and grow up comfortably while on the road. It allows the parents to not wake the baby up whenever they are on the road or when they get up earlier than their baby.

It gives their baby uninterrupted sleep and resting cycles, helping him grow up well physically. It also lessens the probability of your baby having tantrums since he has not slept well.

You Can Do Other Tasks While They Are In The Crib

Having a crib inside your RV is like having a room for your baby. You can just put your baby there if you need to do something, like go to the bathroom or run some errands.

It allows you to not bring them every time you need to do something, especially when you just have to get something from another room. You just have to make sure that your baby is far enough from hazards such as electric wires, water, choking hazards, and more. Other than that, the crib is a safe place for your baby to stay while you are on the go.

A Safe And Secure Place For Your Baby While On The Road

Like what we mentioned earlier, having a crib is a safe choice for your baby while you are on the road. Babies need to sleep a lot so they need a comfortable space for them to sleep. It also helps them to be at ease with their surroundings.

Cribs are high enough for your babies to fall over, but you still have to take necessary precautions so that it would still be a safe place for them. Remember to anchor them on the walls so that they would not fly around while you are driving down the road.

Updated CDC Guidelines For Living Outdoors

Cleanliness is a must in every living space, and that need is given more emphasis thanks to the coronavirus pandemic. We should put more emphasis on cleaning since we have babies on board. Here are the updated guidelines for living outdoors as issued by the CDC.

Clean Your RV As Thorough As Possible

Always take things up a notch, especially when cleaning, since the pandemic is still here and not everyone is safe. Clean surfaces with soap and water before disinfecting.

Using a disinfectant that has been approved by the CDC is the best way to do it. For hard surfaces, use diluted bleach solutions or alcohol-based products containing at least 70% alcohol if none are available. It is recommended to put a wipeable cover on electronics when able and to obey the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting.

If you do not have any given directions, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays that contain at least 70% alcohol, then thoroughly dry the surface.

Clean Your RV As Frequently As Possible

It is highly recommended to clean your RVs daily as it is very much exposed to the virus, especially the exteriors. Clean every surface, from inside to outside, not sparing an inch and disinfect as much as possible.

Do not leave out the driver’s area, and clean the steering wheel, the dashboard, door handles, and even the sides. Make sure to clean everything daily so that the probability of exposure to the virus gets smaller and smaller.

Always Clean Your Baby’s Crib And Items

Cleaning the items your baby is using as well as their cribs are also important since babies have weaker immune systems than grown humans. Bring your baby’s toys, feeding bottles, pacifiers, teething toys, and anything they put in their mouth to a quick boil to kill the germs on them.

Clean the surfaces as well but remember to use cleaning products that are not toxic or harmful for babies. Keep the cleaning products and items far from your baby’s reach to prevent dangerous situations.

Do not touch your baby’s face especially if you have used your hands to cover your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing. Never touch them or kiss them since you can transmit viruses just by kissing them or pretending to swallow their hands whole as a joke.

Living the van life with your family is fun but living the van life with a small baby with you can be a challenge if you have no idea how to deal with the sleeping accommodations and places for them to stay safely while you are on the road with them. These options are perfect for van life enthusiasts of all ages and preferences. Choose the one you think that is the best for your baby and improve it as they grow up.

Related posts:

Recent Posts

Vanlife Camping Games You Can Enjoy With the Family

Outdoor activities are fun, especially traveling around the wild side. There are times in van life when the weather would not permit you to go outside. Indoor games are great, especially if done with...

Gift Ideas for RVers: Know What to Get Your Loved Ones

When looking at RVers, you might think they won’t need anything as they already have everything inside their van. However, a traveler may need tons of things, and you can help them save money by...

• Pregnancy Weeks
• Nursery Design
• Toddler Sleep
• White Noise

Travel Crib Tips for Safe Sleep Away From Home

On This Page

What is a travel crib, are travel cribs safe, what should i look for when buying a travel crib, is it okay to buy a used travel crib, how can i help my baby sleep in a travel crib, can you travel with snoo.

Whether you’re heading to a long-awaited vacation, visiting family, or you simply need an extra sleep space in your home, travel cribs are a must-have item for many parents. But before you buy the trendiest travel crib—or borrow a nearly-ancient play yard—you’ll want to make sure it’s as safe and functional as it can be. Here’s what parents should look for when buying a travel crib.

A travel crib is another name for a portable crib. Travel cribs are compact, lightweight, and especially designed for easy transport. Sometimes “play yard” and “travel crib” are used interchangeably, but they’re not always the same. For example, play yards tend to feature mesh sides or another non-rigid construction. While travel cribs can mimic that, some portable cribs are wood and foldable. Generally, travel cribs and play yards can be used from birth to age 3.

Yes. Fortunately, the safety standards for travel cribs were upgraded over 10 years ago, so models currently sold in America have passed rigorous stability, entrapment, and structural integrity tests. (The same is true for play yards .) But for even more peace of mind, I recommend looking for travel cribs or play yards with a JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certification, which means they are checked annually to prove they meet or exceed all safety standards for infant products. Of course, it’s imperative to use travel cribs safely , which means always…

Place your baby on the back. All babies under a year old should be put on their back for all naps and night sleep.

Make sure the travel crib is empty. Keep the travel crib free of all loose bedding , pillows, loungers, and stuffed toys.

Use the proper mattress. Only use the play yard mattress provided by the manufacturer—and never double up or add a soft topper. Remember, your baby’s mattress needs to be firm, whether they’re snoozing in a full-size crib, a bassinet, or a travel crib!

Only use a well-fitted sheet. Portable crib fitted sheets need to be tucked under the mattress, so the sheet can’t snap up and become a suffocation risk.

Keep the sides up: Never leave a baby in a mesh play yard with the side lowered or your little one could get trapped between the side and the floorboard.

Remove the changing table. If your play yard features a raised changing table, remove it when your child is in the play yard so they don’t risk entrapment .

Know when to retire your travel crib. Discontinue using the play yard or travel crib when your little one can easily climb out.

While safety, of course, is number one, there are other points to consider when buying a travel crib, such as:

Sturdiness: If you’re able, test out the travel crib before buying. You’ll want to feel first-hand how sturdy it is. Does it feel a bit wobbly when you press on the top? If so, choose another.

Functionality: Buying a play yard for an infant? Look for one with a bassinet feature where you detach the mattress from the bottom and safely raise it up so you can more easily lift your baby in and out of the crib. At the same time, you’ll want to make sure your portable crib has enough space for a toddler to rest and play comfortably when it’s time to lower the mattress.

Size and weight: For many, the point of a portable crib is to be able to travel with it, so be sure it’s easy to fold and carry. If you’re a frequent flier, you also want a travel crib that’s small enough to meet airline size requirements— and light enough to lug through the airport!

Weight limit: While travel cribs with mattresses at floor-level might not have a weight limit, most other travel cribs/play yards have a recommended weight max of around 25 to 30 pounds. Either way, it’s always smart to double check.

Ease of use: The last thing you want to do when you arrive at your destination with a cranky baby is take 10 minutes to assemble the travel crib! For example, look for play yards that unfold at the push of a button…and lock into place easily.

Maintenance: Many portable cribs feature removable, machine-washable fabric that can be a gamechanger when dealing with diaper blowouts and other unexpected oopsies.

While it may be tempting to borrow a travel crib or a play yard—or buy one used—proceed with caution. Nearly two million play yards have been recalled before new federal safety standards were put into place in 2013, so anything older could be dangerous. Plus, it wasn’t until 2022 that replacement mattresses used in play yards and portable cribs were required to meet the same safety requirements as the original mattress! Before then, babies were at risk for getting trapped and suffocating in a gap between the mattress and the side of the play yard.

As a pediatrician, I lean toward buying new so you know for-sure your travel yard isn’t missing any parts and meets the most recent safety standards. But I also know that buying new can be hard for some families. So, if you are buying a secondhand travel crib or are borrowing one, keep the following in mind:

Look for important numbers. If the travel crib is missing a label that includes the manufacturing date (or lot code) and manufacturer’s contact info, don’t buy it .

Check for recalls. Found the label with all the travel crib’s manufacturing info? Great. Now check to see if it’s been recalled .

Inspect for damage. Make sure the mesh of the play yard and the top rails are free of tears, holes, or loose threads . Check for missing or loose parts and ensure the travel crib is fitted with the manufacturer’s original mattress.

If you know ahead of time that your baby will be snoozing in a play yard or travel crib during a trip, arrange to have them sleep in one at home first. The more familiarity the better! Speaking of familiarity, recreating your baby’s sleep surroundings is key, too. That means, dim the lights about 30 minutes before night-night, play the same white noise your little one loves, and wrap your baby in the same sleep sack or swaddle they’re used to. If your baby has been sleeping in SNOO and swaddled in a SNOO Sack , use SNOObie or SNOObear to recreate SNOO’s white noise—and use the Sleepea 5-Second Swaddle in the travel crib. Sleepea is the exact same expert design as the award-winning SNOO Sack, minus the “wings” that secure SNOO sleepers into the bassinet.

If your baby has been blissfully sleeping in SNOO , you may be wondering if SNOO is portable. While SNOO is not a travel crib, many SNOO users do travel with their beloved bassinet! If you’re considering traveling with SNOO, know that, when packed and reboxed , your SNOO will take up about 8 cubic feet in your trunk. At the same time, SNOO can likely be checked as oversized luggage on your flight. (Call ahead!) But if packing and traveling with SNOO is impossible, don’t worry! Babies tend to sleep okay on trips without their SNOO…as long as:

Your stay is under one week.

Your baby has slept well in SNOO for one to two months.

You continue to swaddle your baby .

You use a strong white noise machine while away.

More on Baby Travel:

• How to Help Children With Jet Lag
• Dr. Harvey Karp on Stress-Free Flying With a Baby
• Sleep Tips for Holiday Travel
• Help Your Baby Sleep in Any Hotel Room
• Travel Toys to Occupy Tots on the Go
• How to Handle Travel Nightmares When Flying With Kids
• United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide
• CPSC: Play Yards Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): Playpen Safety
• Kids in Danger: Product Hazards – Play Yards
• Safety Standard for Crib Mattresses. Federal Register . February 2022
• Consumer Reports: Is It Safe to Buy a Used Car Seat, Stroller, or Crib for Your Baby?

About Dr. Harvey Karp

Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatricians, is the founder of Happiest Baby and the inventor of the groundbreaking SNOO Smart Sleeper. After years of treating patients in Los Angeles, Dr. Karp vaulted to global prominence with the release of the bestselling Happiest Baby on the Block and Happiest Toddler on the Block . His celebrated books and videos have since become standard pediatric practice, translated into more than 20 languages and have helped millions of parents. Dr. Karp’s landmark methods, including the 5 S’s for soothing babies, guide parents to understand and nurture their children and relieve stressful issues, like new-parent exhaustion, infant crying, and toddler tantrums.

View more posts tagged, sleep

Have questions about a Happiest Baby product? Our consultants would be happy to help! Submit your questions here.

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.

You may also like

In the 48 contiguous United States, customers will be charged $59.50 + tax for the shipment of SNOO back to Happiest Baby. Added charges will apply for shipping to and from Alaska and Hawaii.

* An additional $185 shipping fee will be applied to SNOO purchases sent to Hawaii and Alaska.

Best Travel Cribs

When you're ready to travel with your baby, whether for an overnight jaunt or a weeklong vacation, a portable travel crib can really come in handy. We surveyed more than 3,000 Pampers Parents to find out which travel cribs were their favorites. Find out which products made the list.

8 Best Travel Cribs

There are many options to choose from when it comes to travel cribs. Here are the portable cribs that Pampers Parents voted as the best:

1. Graco Travel Lite Crib

Why pick this one? The Graco Travel Lite Crib is the number one choice among Pampers Parents, and for good reason. This travel crib converts to accommodate three different stages, growing along with your little one. You can use it as a bassinet for your newborn, as a crib for your infant, and finally as a play yard for your young toddler. The travel crib is lightweight, coming in at under 20 pounds, making it easy to take with you for travel, play dates, or family visits. Simply fold it into the carrying bag when it’s time to head out. Once assembled, it’s easy to wheel from room to room. You might also appreciate that when used as a play yard, the Graco Travel Lite Crib is 20 percent smaller than most other play yards on the market, making it ideal for small spaces such as apartments. The travel crib's airy mesh sides ensure plenty of ventilation for your baby’s safety and comfort. No part of the travel crib is machine-washable, but the mattress pad and the crib itself can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Highlights: Included is a canopy with removable plush toys that your baby will enjoy looking up at before he snoozes. The travel crib is available in three different designs: Manor, Montana, and Ramley.

Price*: about $119.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

2. HALO 3-in-1 DreamNest Bassinet, Portable Crib

Why pick this one? This 3-in-1 portable crib from Halo can convert into a rocking bassinet, travel crib, or cot, making it a versatile product. It’s designed with all-around breathable mesh fabric, which is great for your baby’s comfort, and makes it easy to see your baby from any angle. Since your baby lies directly on the taut mesh fabric, there’s no need for an additional mattress when using this travel crib, and this can be a huge benefit when you’re on the go and traveling light. However, some Pampers Parents noted that the mesh stretched with prolonged use, making the crib less stable when the baby moved around. To engage the rocker function when the crib is in use as a bassinet, simply step on the foot pedal. With the included cot legs, the crib can be converted into a toddler cot when the time comes. When not in use, the entire travel crib and all its accessories fold into the carrying bag for easy portability. A matching changing table can be purchased separately. The changing table clips onto the crib for more comfortable diaper changes.

Highlights: The mattress fabric is removable for machine-washing.

Price*: about $249.99 on Amazon.com

3. Lotus Travel Crib

Why pick this one? This travel crib may be one of the fastest to set up—you're done in just 15 seconds, Lotus claims. It’s also the second-lightest travel crib on our list, weighing only 12 pounds. The backpack-style carrying case allows you to keep your hands free when you're transporting it, a big advantage at airports, for example. The travel crib/play yard comes with a thin foam mattress, and has mesh panels to promote airflow. A zippered door on the side lets you easily reach your little one and allows him to crawl out for playtime. However, some Pampers Parents noted that the zipper is rather noisy, so you wouldn’t want to use it while your baby is sleeping.

Highlights: The travel crib is GreenGuard Gold certified, which means it was manufactured without the use of chemicals or substances such as formaldehyde, arsenic, or mercury.

Price*: about $209.00 on Amazon.com

4. Dream On Me 2-in-1 Portable Folding Stationary Side Crib

Why pick this one? Though this portable crib from Dream On Me is made from solid wood, it’s still light enough to transport and it folds up easily. The crib includes safety wheels with locking casters so you can easily move the crib from room to room, and lock it safely before placing your baby inside. Keep in mind, this won’t be the kind of crib that you can easily travel with, so its use is limited. The crib’s mattress support can be adjusted all the way down or halfway down. The manufacturer claims that in the upper position, the crib can be used as a changing station, which may be the case; however, for some parents it may be difficult reaching into the crib for a diaper change. Note that the mattress isn’t included, which is a definite downside, as it can be difficult to find the right size portable crib mattress .

Highlights: Available in five finishes: natural, cherry, espresso, black, and white. The crib is manufactured without the use of phthalates, latex, lead, and BPA.

Price*: about $114.99 on Amazon.com

5. Flisko 2-in-1 Travel Crib & Bassinet

Why pick this one? This travel crib functions as a bassinet as well as a crib, so you can get plenty of use out of it. It’s ideal for traveling with your infant or baby as it’s lightweight enough to carry with one hand when it’s folded in the carrying bag. It’s also easy to set up and disassemble in just minutes. The firm mattress offers comfortable support for your baby and can go in the bottom of the crib, or in the bottom of the bassinet depending on what configuration you’re using. The mesh fabric is easy to see through and there’s a zippered opening on the side of a play yard for when you want to let your little one crawl out.

Highlights: A fitted sheet for the mattress is also included so you don’t have to search for the right size.

Price*: about $94.95 on Amazon.com

6. BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light

Why pick this one? This travel crib is the lightest on our list and comes with a convenient carrying case. Setup is simple and disassembly isn’t that hard either. All it takes is some folding, and voila — next thing you know you’re sliding the crib into the carrying case. It also includes a mattress, which easily folds in half to fit into the carrying case as well. The travel crib features breathable, see-through mesh fabric, which is free of any toxic chemicals.

Highlights: It’s available in black, blue, or silver. Both the travel crib fabric and the mattress cover are machine-washable.

Price*: about $299.99 on Amazon.com

7. Baby Delight Go With Me Nod Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard

Why pick this one? This portable crib and play yard from Baby Delight gives you options for your little one: Use it as a portable crib when you’re on the go or use it as a play yard inside or outside your home. It folds up compactly for travel, and can be assembled easily when you’re ready. The crib is made of breathable, easy-to-see-through mesh so you can keep an eye on your little one. There’s even a zippered panel for when you’d like to let your little one crawl out of the play yard. The carrying case doubles as the mattress, which can be safely attached to the inside of the travel crib when it’s assembled. Some Pampers Parents noted that it was difficult to find sheets to fit the mattress.

Highlights: The cover is removable and machine-washable.

Price*: about $149.99 on Amazon.com

8. Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib

Why pick this one? Whether you’re heading to Grandma’s house for an overnight stay, or just need a crib to fit a tight space, this portable crib from Delta is a good choice. The crib folds up easily and can be wheeled anywhere. This may come in handy if you’d like your baby to sleep in the same room as you and are tight on space. The crib comes with a mattress that can remain inside the crib even when it’s folded, limiting the amount of room taken up while it’s in storage. The mattress height is adjustable so you can lower it as your baby grows to prevent her from climbing out. The mattress is hypoallergenic and waterproof, and is made of nontoxic materials. However, it may difficult to find sheets for this particular size mattress.

Highlights: The crib is available in natural, cherry, and dark chocolate wood finishes, and in white or gray painted finishes. The crib is made of sustainable wood from New Zealand.

Price*: about $102.49 on Amazon.com

How to Choose the Right Portable Crib For You

A portable crib can be a lifesaver if you plan to travel with your baby or are tight on space at home and are looking for something smaller than a regular crib. Many of the cribs on our list also double as a portable bassinet and/or play yard, which means you can get extra use out of the product. To decide which is best for you, it helps to consider whether you just plan to move your portable crib from room to room, need the crib to fit the trunk of your car when it’s folded, or need it to be compact and lightweight enough to be stowed in an airplane overhead bin. These are the kinds of questions to ask yourself before making a purchase:

Can the crib be converted into a bassinet, cot, or play yard?

Does the crib or play yard have mesh sides?

Does the play yard have zippered sides for easy access?

Is a mattress included?

How easy is it to find a fitted sheet for the mattress?

Does the baby lie close to the floor or higher up for easier access?

Is the mattress height adjustable?

How easy is it to assemble and disassemble?

Does the product come with a carrying case?

Are the fabrics machine-washable?

Is the product lightweight enough?

How compactly does the portable crib fold?

Is the footprint of the crib large or small enough for your needs?

The Bottom Line

There are many different options when it comes to choosing a travel crib for your little one. You could go with the more traditional wooden crib that folds up for storage and may even fit into the trunk of your car. This style could work well as a crib you can move from room to room, or to set up at the grandparents’ home for overnight stays. Or, you may prefer a more compact portable crib that doubles as a play yard and folds so small that it’s even great for airplane travel. Whichever option you select from this list, you’ll be making a great choice. A travel crib can be an essential piece of baby gear that you can't live without.

Recall Notice

Before buying a product, always check that it’s approved and hasn’t been recalled on sites like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). *Prices are correct at the time of writing.

• Healthy Children: How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained
• Consumer Reports: Crib Buying Guide
• Consumer Reports: Play Yard Buying Guide

Review this article:

Read more about best baby products.

• Health and Safety
• Travel Gear
• Feeding & Nursing products
• Nursery Gear
• Infant activity
• Pregnancy Gear
• Baby Activities & Play

Join a World of Support

through Pregnancy and Parenthood.

TRACK WITH TOOLS

LEARN WITH EXPERTS

GET REWARDED

Where You Already Belong

The Best Travel Cribs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

A safe and comfortable travel crib is an essential accessory for parents who want to travel with their little ones without restriction. Sleepovers with friends and family, local road trips, and even international adventures—the world is your oyster with the right one. Some can be used as a permanent sleeping place for your baby or toddler, while others adapt throughout the first stages of their life from bassinet to cot or playpen. Things to consider include how long you want to use the crib, what you want it for (and, therefore, whether lightness or size is the greater priority), and how much you’re willing to spend. 

To help you find the travel crib best suited to your requirements, we tested 19 of the most popular options in the TripSavvy lab. Each one was scored for ease of setup, portability, quality, durability, ease of cleaning, and overall value—giving us our overall winner, the Maxi-Cosi Swift 3-in-1 Bassinet, Travel Cot, and Playpen. This crib stood out for its attractive, high-quality design and the fact that it works from birth to approximately 3.5 years. Read on to find out which other models earned themselves a spot on our roundup of the best travel cribs currently on the market.

• How We Rated

Other Travel Cribs We Tested

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, maxi-cosi swift lightweight portable play yard.

• Ease of Setup 4.8 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

Beautiful, high-quality design

Incredibly easy to put up and take down

3-in-1 design suits newborns to toddlers

Not the lightest option for air travel

The Maxi-Cosi Swift was a clear winner for us due to its ingenious design that combines three baby essentials—bassinet, cot, and playpen—in one high-quality product. The mattress unzips to fit the newborn bassinet, then zips together again to create an extra thick, comfy mattress for the toddler cot and playpen. This versatility means you can use the travel crib day and night through all stages of your little one’s growth from birth up until approximately 3.5 years—saving you plenty of money in the long run. 

The manufacturer’s description claims that the crib takes one second to fold or unfold; however, our tester timed assembly at three minutes and disassembly at less than two. We did find it incredibly easy to set up, earning the crib a near-perfect score for this element of the testing process. At 15.4 pounds, it isn’t the lightest cot on this list and probably not the most convenient choice for air travel. However, we loved that its full size and sturdy construction meant it could double as your permanent crib. 

We also fell for its beautiful design and high-quality fabric—in fact, our tester called it the most stylish pack n’ play they’d ever seen. We felt it was durable and likely to last a long time, with a convenient carry bag that makes it ideal for taking with you on your next road trip or staying at Grandma’s house.

Dimensions: 41.7 x 33.9 x 29.9 inches | Weight: 15.4 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 33 pounds

Best Budget

Munchkin travel bassinet.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

Incredibly lightweight

Folds down flat

Mesh panels for maximum airflow

Relatively short use window

Available online for a fraction of the price of our overall winner, the Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet is the perfect fit for those on a budget. It’s also a very different product, intended for occasional use only during the newborn stage. Brica recommends stopping using the bassinet when your baby reaches three months, 15 pounds, or can push up on their hands and knees—whichever comes first. Nevertheless, we found it almost unbelievably easy to set up, with assembly taking one minute and disassembly taking less than 30 seconds. 

With side walls constructed of breathable fabric and mesh panels for maximum airflow, the bassinet is also incredibly lightweight (less than 3 pounds). Its tubular steel frame is held in place by a four-point Safe-T-Lock system but folds flat for effortless transport. We felt it would be ideal for air travel—although we wished it came with a carry bag to help keep it clean. We thought it was relatively sturdy and easy to spot clean, though the removable mattress pad comes with a water-resistant sheet.

Dimensions: 30 x 21.25 x 11.75 inches | Weight: Under 3 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 15 pounds

KidCo Peapod Travel Bed

• Durability 4 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Essentially self-assembling

Great age range from 6 months to 3 years

Ultra lightweight

The material could be a little thicker

If you’re looking to spend under $100 on a product that still guarantees good quality and an extended lifetime, we recommend the KidCo PeaPod Travel Bed. It weighs less than 3 pounds and is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry using convenient shoulder straps. Once opened, the tent-like travel bed pops up on its own. We found that, including the time taken to attach the removable sleeping pad, it took less than two minutes to assemble and disassemble, and we felt that it would also be a great fit for outdoor uses such as backyard campouts and the beach. 

The tent crib features a large zippered panel for easy access and walls made of lightweight mesh. These are great for maximum airflow and also double as an insect screen. The material is coated for UV protection, while anchor straps help to secure the tent against breezes (or active occupants!). We felt it would hold up well to the toddler years and be easy to spot-clean when necessary. Choose yours in colors ranging from Midnight to Cranberry or Tangerine.

Dimensions: 46 x 18 x 28 inches | Weight: 2.45 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 3 years

Best for Playtime

Chicco alfa lite lightweight travel playard.

• Value 4.5 /5

Quick, intuitive setup

Smart safety features

Side panel for easy access

The mattress could be a bit thicker

For a travel crib that doubles as an on-the-go play yard, we love the Chicco Alfa Lite. It assembles in just three minutes with a snap-open motion that locks the legs in place and takes less than a minute to disassemble. We found both steps so intuitive that the instructions were unnecessary. The zip-open side panel was a particular highlight for us, allowing the gentle placement of younger babies and the freedom to come and go for older children. Best of all, the zipper is lockable from the outside to prevent wandering at night. 

The full-size mattress creates ample space for playtime and is made extra secure by buckling underneath the cot to eliminate any risk of suffocation. If you need to move the cot around, we found it easy to do so with side handles that provide a good grip. Both the materials and the structure felt solid, and the crib survived our drop test undamaged. When folded back down into its zippered carry bag, we found it pretty light, too. Finally, the GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials are removable for machine washing.

Dimensions: 43 x 29 x 25 inches | Weight: 13 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 30 pounds

Best Portability

Zoe the cloud.

• Ease of Setup 4 /5

Packs compactly into a backpack

Wipe-clean, mesh walls

Extra comfortable plush mattress

Disassembly may require some practice

If you’re traveling with a crib, the chances are you’re also traveling with the rest of the paraphernalia a small child needs. The Cloud from Zoebaby keeps your hands free for other gear thanks to its clever backpack-style carry bag and compact design. Although it weighs 15 pounds (more than most others on this list), it felt light to carry and also features wheels for moving it easily once set up. Setup and take-down took us around five minutes, though we thought this time would be much shorter once we were familiar with the crib’s straps and buttons. 

The walls are breathable mesh with water-resistant Luxe fabric accents. The crib floor floats 3 inches off the floor, keeping your little one away from potential drafts—while the mattress was a particular highlight for us, being thicker and plusher than standard mattresses. The crib withstood our durability tests well, and we liked that its shallow depth made it simple to clean. There are six attractive colors to choose from, including practical gray to pastel pink or blue.

Dimensions: 44 x 28 x 26.5 inches | Weight: 15 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 30 pounds

Best 2-in-1

Baby joy travel crib 2-in-1 playpen.

• Portability 4 /5

Zippered side entry panel

Very stable and secure

All fabrics are removable for washing

Not particularly easy to carry

Those searching for a travel crib that can act as a generously sized play area will appreciate the Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-in-1 Playpen. We timed setup and take down at approximately three minutes each, with most of that time used to attach the mattress’ Velcro straps. The actual cot is incredibly easy to unfold and lock into place. It’s designed for babies from birth to 3 years, with breathable mesh walls offering excellent visibility from across the room. A zippered side door provides easy access for crawling and toddling children. 

We particularly liked how stable this crib is. With aluminum tubes reinforcing each corner, it felt rock solid even when we dropped a 25-pound sandbag into it and threw it around. We found it hard to tip over, even for an adult. Materials are high quality, while the mattress cover and crib fabrics can all be removed and washed as needed. The only downside was that the crib lacked portability. We felt an over-the-shoulder strap would have been more useful than the short carry handles included and that it was too wide for convenient air travel. 

Dimensions: 45.5 x 31 x 27 inches | Weight: 11 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 33 pounds

Best Compact

Kidco peapod plus.

The age limit is up to 5 years

Folds flat for easy storage and transport

Adjustable sun screens and UV protection

Not particularly structured

For the maximum blend of space and compactness, choose the KidCo PeaPod Plus Travel Bed. As the larger version of the standard PeaPod already mentioned on this list, it’s for children aged 6 months to 5 years, yet still weighs in at just 3.65 pounds. When not used, it folds flat into a compact circle that can be easily slung over the shoulder or carried in hand. We loved that it’s small enough for easy air travel or to realistically keep in the trunk of your car for “just-in-case” situations. 

It took us seconds to pop the tent up and less than two minutes to attach the Micro-Lite sleeping pad (this snaps on underneath the crib floor to avoid any risk of suffocation). Take down time was less than three minutes. Like its smaller sibling, the PeaPod Plus features lightweight mesh walls with a tight-enough weave to protect from insects and UV protection and adjustable sunscreens. Entry is through an extra-large, zippered side panel. The pod comes in Midnight or Camo and would be easy to spot clean.

Dimensions: 52.5 x 34 x 22 inches | Weight: 3.65 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 5 years

Best Splurge

Uppababy remi portable playard.

Buy Buy Baby

Zip-on bassinet attachment

Stood up to durability tests perfectly

Zippered panel for easy access

The heaviest option on this list

The UPPABaby Remi Portable Playard retails for roughly seven times the price of our budget pick; however, its excellent quality and intuitive design make it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers or those who plan to use it as a primary sleeping space. It’s intended for babies up to 18 months old and comes with a zip-on bassinet attachment that allows easy bedside access to your newborn. Setting up the crib frame takes a matter of seconds and can be completed with one hand. 

We did find that figuring out the bassinet attachment took us several minutes—however, once learned, this process would be much shorter. The crib also features a zip-open panel for easy access, mesh walls for clear views and optimum ventilation, and a triple-layer mesh mattress for ultimate breathability. We found it very sturdy even when moved around and subjected to our sandbag tests. The quality of the materials is top-notch. It is relatively heavy (20 pounds)—however, a good quality carry bag with handles on the top and bottom makes transportation easy.

Dimensions: 40.5 x 28.5 x 26 inches | Weight: 20 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 20 pounds

Best Bassinet

Chicco lullago anywhere portable bassinet.

Moving it around the house is easy and simple

Fabrics zip off for machine washing

It takes less than a minute to set up

A relatively short window for use

We love the Chicco LullaGo Anywhere Portable Bassinet for its high-quality design, which stood up well to our durability tests. It features a firm, flat sleep surface with mesh side panels for maximum visibility and ventilation; with metal legs that snap into place and a convenient shade canopy. It took us less than a minute to set it up and the same amount of time to fold it flat and fit it into its low-profile carry bag. At just 12 pounds, it’s wonderfully light—so much so that you can easily move it from one area of the house to another to keep an eye on baby during naptime.

Other thoughtful features include a mesh storage pocket for keeping essentials handy and a waterproof mattress with a fitted sheet. Best of all (during a stage when accidents happen often), all fabrics zip off for easy machine washing. For added peace of mind, the bassinet is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it’s been independently tested for low chemical emissions to ensure your little one is breathing the healthiest air possible. It comes in several colors, including Sandstone or Grey Star.

Dimensions: 30 x 28 x 18 inches | Weight: 12 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 20 pounds

How We Rated the Travel Cribs

• 4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best travel cribs we reviewed. We recommend them without reservation.
• 4.5 to 4.7 stars: These travel cribs are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
• 4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great travel cribs, but others are better.
• 3.5 to 3.9 stars: These travel cribs are just average.
• 3.4 and below: We don't recommend travel cribs with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

Chicco Dash Instant Setup Playard : This was a solid crib with high-quality materials—however, we found it so difficult to attach the mattress' Velcro straps that we gave up, and it's too bulky and heavy for easy travel. 

Graco My View Travel Crib With Stages : Compact and well-made, we liked that this crib was quick to assemble. It lost points due to its relatively small size, and the bassinet section doesn't fit in the carry bag. 

Baby Jogger City Suite Multi-Level Playard : We loved this crib's look, quality materials, and lightweight construction. We didn't love that it required two people to set it up or that the mattress buckled slightly in play yard mode. 

Pamo Babe Deluxe Portable Nursery Center : This crib initially impressed us by offering a bassinet mode, a travel crib/play yard mode, and a changing table. However, it started to collapse during testing, which made us question its safety. 

4moms Breeze GO Playard : We assembled this crib without instructions and liked its sturdiness and simple mattress design. However, we felt the price was high for relatively few bells and whistles. 

Dream On Me Nest Portable Play Yard With Carry Bag And Shoulder Strap : Although four separate testers tried, we could not successfully assemble this crib, which we found to be frustrating and useless. 

AeroMoov Instant Travel Cot Playard : This crib was easy to set up, although the zipper for the bassinet section broke. It wasn't particularly structurally secure, either, and when folded, it was heavy and awkward to carry. 

Gladly Family Merritt Portable Playard Suite : We loved this crib on most fronts—it's incredibly durable and sturdy, easy to clean, and boasts plenty of smart features. The only downside? It's possibly too heavy to be a true travel crib. 

MiClassic Foldable 2-in-1 Stationary & Rock Bassinet : This bassinet was a win for us; easy to set up, light, easy to clean, and with a nice carry bag. Our only complaints were the jerky rocking function and the product's limited window of use. 

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony Baby Bed : This baby bed is super lightweight and essentially assembles itself upon being taken out of the box. However, it has a minimal use period—only until the baby starts to roll over. 

First, we timed how long it took to assemble the crib and evaluated how easy the setup process was. Where relevant, we checked how simple it was to adjust it to its different stages (from bassinet to cot, for example). We assessed whether the mattress would fit a standard crib sheet or required a special size; then, we moved the crib across the room while fully assembled to see how easy it was to do so and whether all the parts remained securely in place. We also examined each feature and shook the frame to determine its sturdiness. 

Next, we placed a sandbag in the crib to replicate a baby or toddler (depending on the weight the product was certified for). We checked how the added weight affected the crib’s stability, then dropped the sandbag from 6 inches to simulate a toddler jumping up and down. Finally, we timed how long it took to disassemble the travel cot. Once packed away, we tested how easy it was to carry the crib before dropping it from waist height to test its durability further.

Each product was scored from 1 to 5 for ease of setup, portability, quality, durability, ease of cleaning, and value.

What to Look for in a Travel Crib

Weight and dimensions.

Travel cribs generally come in two styles. "Full-size" cribs that last through to the toddler years often double as a play yard, and smaller bassinets are meant exclusively for newborns. When choosing which one to purchase, consider your needs and whether the extended lifespan of a larger crib might make the trade-off of it being a little less portable worth it. The best option for you depends on your child's needs and how you plan on traveling—cribs for air travel will need to be much lighter than those packed in the car. 

How much you can expect to pay for a travel crib depends on the style and brand you go for. For example, our category winners range in price from just under $50 to nearly seven times that much—but what you get for your money differs considerably, too (one’s a foldable bassinet, the other’s a bassinet, crib, and play yard that could be used permanently). When deciding how much to spend, consider what you can afford and the long-term savings of purchasing a product that can be used throughout your baby’s early life, from newborn to toddler. 

Other Features

Other features to look out for range from the bassinet and changing table attachments to zippered side panels that provide easy access to the crib when you want it to double as a play yard. Any parent knows the value of baby equipment that’s easy to clean, so look for wipe-down surfaces and removable, machine-washable fabrics. Setup shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes, and if it’s possible to do it one-handed, so much the better. Finally, the best cribs fold down for easy over-the-shoulder or backpack-style carrying, keeping your hands free for everything else. 

You should always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before cleaning your travel crib since best practices differ from one model to the next. However, most can be spot-cleaned with warm water and a soft cloth, while the best feature fabrics can be removed and machine-washed when necessary. Many come with waterproof mattresses that can also be wiped clean. If yours doesn’t, after-market mattress protectors are often available, although you should always consult an expert before adding anything to your baby’s sleeping environment.

Some travel cribs fold flat and are small enough to pack in your suitcase. Others are compact enough to count as carry-on luggage and can be stowed in an overhead compartment. Often, even if your travel crib is substantially bigger, you can take it as checked luggage. Many airlines allow you to take a travel crib as an additional piece of checked luggage for free. However, rules vary, so check specific airline regulations for flying with children before deciding whether to take your crib with you.

Some parents choose to invest in a pack-n’-play-style travel crib as their child’s permanent sleeping place. Otherwise, having a travel crib as a backup is worth it if you travel regularly and don’t want the hassle of always having to check whether your hotel or vacation rental can provide a cot (or if you simply want the peace of mind of knowing the cot’s history and quality). Many parents also purchase one to keep at a place their child regularly sleeps—a grandparent or shared custodian’s house, for example, or even in another room of their own home.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor to family travel articles. A mom of two who’s always up for the next adventure (from road-tripping around South Africa’s national parks with an 18-month-old to hiking up Scottish mountains with a six-week-old), she has traveled extensively with her kids and personally tested many different brands of travel cribs.

The 9 Best Camping Cots of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Hardside Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 12 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Beach Chairs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 7 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

The 10 Best Shoes for Disney of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 7 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Kayak Roof Racks of 2024

The 6 Best Small Coolers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Air Mattresses for Camping of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 10 Best Beach Canopies of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The Best Beach Tents of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Rolling Duffels of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The Best Lightweight Travel Cribs

By Cassie Shortsleeve

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As a new mom, I’ve found packing a travel crib into a car to be one of those dreadful yet poignant tasks. On one hand, maneuvering a somewhat cumbersome, easily forgettable item (yes, I have had that we forgot the crib moment on a ferry before) into a Tetris-styled trunk is a chore. On the other? It’s a reminder of a temporary and fleeting stage of new parenthood : the tiny timeframe in which your child doesn’t yet sleep in an actual bed.

Fortunately, today’s travel cribs have come a long way. Most of them aren’t very heavy. Some of them can be carried as bags. Some are so small they can fit into bags. Better yet: Many hotels will provide a complimentary crib (or cribs) to traveling families—lightening up the packing process even more. But for road trips to the in-laws, stays at Airbnbs , or visits to hotels without rental cribs available, you'll want to have one of your own at the ready.

Ultimately, babies’ needs are fairly simplistic, a fact of life that makes them—for the most part— nice travel companions . They really only ask for two things: food and sleep. For a nice place to do the latter, here are five travel cribs—from affordable to luxe, both adventurous and traditional—to consider.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Top pick: Graco Pack ’n Play On the Go Playard

Graco’s Pack ’n Play is so easy to build that even seasoned parents will ask themselves if the setup of a baby product can truly be so simple. The playard-meets-bassinet-meets-crib has another major perk too: In a saturated market of pricier items, it clocks in at under $100, making it a great pick for parents of twins or those who want to store an extra crib at grandma and grandpa’s. But don’t think for a minute that its lower price means lesser quality. It’s versatile; the mattress pad doubles as the crib’s carrying case (seriously, you won’t believe how easy this thing is to pack up). It’s sturdy and durable. And while, at 23 pounds, it is heavier than other products out there, it’s light enough to load easily into your car’s trunk or onto a ferry. If you're looking for more validation, the Pack and Play is also the choice of top hotels and resorts—from Disney properties to the cozy Lark bed and breakfasts of New England .

Buy now: $84, amazon.com

Honorable mentions

BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light

Known for their baby carriers, BabyBjorn is no stranger to making ergonomic gear, and their 13-pound crib—about half as heavy as traditional portable cribs—fits the back-friendly bill. Don’t worry about a weight limit either: Since the padded mattress is on the ground, this pop-out crib supports babies of all sizes. What’s more, there’s enough room in the carrying bag (which looks something like a giant briefcase) for you to throw in some precious extras, be they stuffed animals, a crib sheet, or beloved blanket.

Buy now: $299, amazon.com

Nuna Sena Aire

You can build the 22-pound Nuna Sena Aire with one hand—delightful news to any (every) sleep-deprived parent . It’s designed to keep your baby cool with ventilated mesh sides and a slightly raised mattress that optimizes airflow, and has skid-proof feet, plus a machine-washable mattress cover with a super easy zip-off design. Forgetful parents, fret not—the crib comes with a fitted sheet, too. If you want more, pair it with other Nuna accessories like a changing pad.

María Casbas

Jessica Chapel

Madison Flager

Buy now: $350, potterybarnkids.com

The Lotus Travel Crib by Guava Family

Another favorite floor crib, The Lotus differentiates itself with a side zipper door that transforms the crib into a playard and a waterproof mattress that’s surprisingly comfortable. For about $100 more you can buy a crib-bassinet combo, too, which is perfect for growing families or a younger baby who you want in your line of sight. Plus, the bassinet can be used as a rocker if your baby's upset or having trouble sleeping. Together, the crib and bassinet are only a little heavier, too, and the set up is still incredibly easy. It's also perfect for travelers; once it's packed up you can even wear it as a backpack.

Buy now: $209, amazon.com

Joovy Gloo Infant Travel Bed

At first glance, the Gloo screams “camping”—but for adventurous parents of small babies, it’s a great option as a take-it-anywhere pick, so small it fits into a big diaper bag. It comes in two sizes: a smaller one that’s good for babies six months to three years, and a bigger one that works from six months to five years. The sides can be left open for daytime play at the beach or park, zipped up (but open with mesh) for easy view of your baby, or covered by side panels for when it's time to sleep in some shade. An added bonus: Kids will love the self-inflating mattress.

Buy now: $130, amazon.com

• Original Mattress
• Waterproof Mattress
• Essential Mattress
• Mini Crib Mattress
• Crib Mattress Pad
• Extra Covers
• Cribs & Dressers
• Travel Crib & Play Yard
• Pregnancy Pillow
• Shop All Baby
• Kids Mattress
• Figgy Play Couch
• Twin Mattress Pad
• Shop All Kids

Travel Crib Buying Guide: Everything Parents Should Know

If your little one is getting ready to spend their first night away from home, you’re probably wondering whether a travel crib is a necessary purchase. In our opinion, it’s a total must-have for traveling families.

Whether you’ll be heading on an overseas adventure or staying at the grandparents’ house for the night, a travel crib is the simplest way to help your baby settle in right away.

In this buying guide, you’ll learn the key features to look for when shopping for a travel crib, plus some important health and safety tips to ensure your little one enjoys their trip to the fullest.

But first, let’s take a look at the benefits of purchasing a travel crib and why we won’t go anywhere without one again.

What Is A Travel Crib?

A travel crib — also known as a portable crib , play yard , or pack and play — is an easily transportable sleeping space for your little one.

Unlike standard cribs that are usually made from wood, travel cribs generally have foldable plastic or metal frames with mesh sides to offer both protection and optimum airflow.

Many travel cribs are multi-purpose, meaning they can be used for playtime or even as a makeshift diaper changing table in addition to being used as a bed.

What Are The Benefits Of Travel Cribs?

Aside from being multi-functional, the biggest benefit of owning a portable crib is that it provides a safe, familiar sleep environment for your little one no matter where they are. This can help them feel secure enough to sleep so everyone on your trip can rest.

And sure, many hotels have the option of renting a crib. But without knowing how clean, safe, or suitable the crib might be for your little one, it’s understandable that you’d want to bring your own.

Plus, if you’re staying at an Airbnb or at a relative’s house, chances are you won’t have access to a crib and will need to bring one with you regardless.

A travel crib helps provide a sense of comfort for your baby whether they’re just visiting a different house or an entirely different country. This can make bedtime a lot smoother and helps to maintain a sense of normalcy in line with your baby’s usual sleep routine .

A travel crib still has benefits if you aren’t staying overnight anywhere. Some parents pick one up to leave at Grandma’s house or other homes away from home.

This way, your baby can continue napping like normal, even if you’re visiting during their normal nap time. Consistency makes sleep training easier!

And since it’s already there, you don’t have to worry about packing it each time. Not having to bring as much stuff with you for a daytime visit is always a win.

However, if you need to haul a crib with you, these days, portable cribs are incredibly lightweight and easy to transport.

A portable crib can also provide a safe place to lay your baby anywhere in the house. Since your little one’s main bed probably can’t be moved easily, a travel crib provides flexibility that some parents prefer. You can set it up in the living room, hallway, or outside.

But not all travel cribs are created equal. Some might be lacking the features you need the most, while others might have inclusions that you just won’t use.

Keep reading to learn the key attributes to look for when buying a travel crib to ensure your little one sleeps soundly — wherever your family adventures may take you!

What To Consider When Choosing A Travel Crib

1) Make Sure It’s The Right Size For Your Baby’s Age And Weight

Like any crib, you’ll want to make sure your new travel crib is the correct size for your little one’s age and weight.

Some are designed with infants in mind, which means your baby can outgrow them relatively quickly. But they do provide a cozy, safe place for your little one while they’re small.

You can also buy larger cribs for toddlers to nap and play in. And some travel cribs that work for infants and toddlers can last for years.

The sizing information should be clearly outlined on the crib you’re looking to purchase, so check it out before you decide.

If the travel crib is too small, it won’t last your baby as long as you might like. And if it’s too big, it could pose a potential safety hazard. So it’s important to get this feature just right!

Verify Travel Size Restrictions

If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll also want to ensure the travel crib is small enough to meet airline size requirements. Your airline’s website should have this information. But if not, you can call the company and ask about its restrictions.

Many travel cribs fold up small enough to be allowed as a carry-on, so you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged or lost as it goes through the baggage process. However, some are too big for this, so you may need to check a larger crib.

2) Opt For A Multi-Purpose Travel Crib

If you’re investing in a travel crib, it’s a good idea to choose an option that can also be used as a play area (and potentially for other purposes too).

The key is to make sure the crib is spacious enough for your little one to play in when they’re not sleeping.

Some travel cribs have additional attachments to create a diaper changing table, while others will enable a bassinet to be placed on top of the crib as a cozier sleeping area for newborns.

If you purchase a travel crib that you can use until your little one is a toddler, these features can make a big difference. Without them, you’ll need to bend over pretty far to get your baby onto the mattress.

That’s because the mattress height has to be low to prevent your toddler from climbing out. The inserts are much easier to reach when you have a newborn and can help save your back.

Whichever additional features you’re looking for, travel cribs can make adjusting to a new place easier for your baby.

3) Choose A Crib With A Travel Bag

Next, we recommend looking for a crib with a travel bag included. While not all portable cribs will have this additional accessory, it’s definitely worthwhile if yours does.

These travel bags are usually made from a waterproof material to protect your crib during transit, and since they’re specifically built to fit the crib inside, it makes packing up a breeze.

It also keeps your crib secure, so you don’t have to worry about it sliding around and falling out while you’re trying to haul it up a set of stairs. And a bag is much easier to carry around than a loose crib.

That means one less thing to worry about when you’re traveling with a baby!

4) Ensure The Crib Mattress Is Comfortable And Safe

While the majority of travel cribs will come with a mattress included, some may require an additional purchase to complete the set.

Others may leave a lot to be desired with a thin, hard crib mattress that your baby may not enjoy sleeping on.

In either case, it’s crucial to make sure your travel crib mattress is comfortable and safe for your little one to help them fall asleep and stay asleep during your trip. You might even consider swapping out the included mattress for one that’s built for durability and longevity.

If your baby typically sleeps well but isn't in the travel crib, it’s likely a sign that they’re not comfortable. Using a different mattress can help, making it more likely for you all to enjoy some rest when it’s in use.

Our Essential Crib Mattress is available in both standard and mini sizes and is safe, breathable, and comfortable whether you’re at home or on the move.

Our Wovenaire® Core allows your little one to breathe easily while they sleep and helps them regulate their body temperature to reduce nighttime sweating.

Plus, our mattresses are 100% washable to make accident clean-ups easy. For those times when you need a quick change, our Extra Crib Mattress Cover is great to have on hand, so your little one can get back to sleep sooner.

Remember, if you choose to switch out the mattress in your travel crib, it’s important that the new mattress fits snugly inside the travel crib frame. That means no more than two fingers should be able to fit between the mattress and the side of the crib.

It’s best to double-check the measurements of your crib against the size of the mattress before making a purchase to ensure it’s going to be the perfect fit. If it’s not, don’t risk it. Instead, take the time to exchange the mattress for the right size before using it.

5) Think About Your Budget

Finally, you’ll want to consider your budget when choosing a travel crib for your baby. You can pick up a basic one for less than $100 or pay more for one with more features.

While thinking about the money side of things, consider how long and often your baby will use this bed. That will help you decide which option to choose.

For instance, if you think they’ll only use it for the occasional sleepover at grandma’s house, a less expensive portable crib might be best.

However, this might not have the most comfortable mattress , so your child may not sleep as well. But for an occasional night, that might be a trade-off you’re willing to make.

If you plan on using it often for travel or as an additional safe space while you’re at home, you might consider spending a bit more on one with premium features that can be used longer.

As you’re shopping, remember that travel beds designed for both infants and toddlers may cost more upfront. But they will serve you longer and may provide a better value in the long run.

Weigh your options, consider your budget, and make a decision based on how you think you’ll get the most use out of your travel crib.

6) Check That It Has Machine-Washable Fabrics

Lastly, confirm that your travel crib is made using machine-washable fabrics. You’ll thank yourself later when it comes time to clean your baby’s crib.

Being able to toss mattress covers and mesh sides straight into the machine is a lifesaver whether you have a blowout mid-trip or you’re freshening up the crib before storing it once you’re back at home.

If you plan on selling your travel crib in the future, being able to wash it is even more critical. While you might not mind your baby sleeping in one that’s stained or a bit dirty, someone else will.

Additionally, many consignment shops won’t take any portable beds that have stains. If you find one that will accept it, you’ll likely get a lot less for it compared to a clean one.

Trust us — machine-washable fabrics are a great feature to have!

Travel Crib Health And Safety Tips

No matter the size of the crib your baby is sleeping in, it’s essential to follow crib safety practices . This way, your little one sleeps soundly and safely.

To help keep them safe, here are some important tips to remember about travel cribs.

1) Test Out The Crib Before You Travel

When your travel crib isn’t set up correctly, it’s not safe. If the sides aren’t locked properly, it can even turn deadly. As such, this has to be our number one tip for traveling with your baby: Make sure you test out the crib before you travel!

There’s nothing worse than feeling tired and rundown from a lack of sleep on vacation and trying to put something new together.

Additionally, you can’t expect your baby to sleep well in a new space for the first time, so it’s crucial that you’ve given your little one a chance to get used to their new crib before your trip.

Take time to set up and fold the crib several times before putting your baby inside. The process for each one is different, so always read the directions carefully. You don’t want it folding back down while your baby is inside.

Once you have the hang of it, try having your baby play in the crib during the day to start with, and eventually let them sleep in the travel crib a few times, even if it’s just during nap time.

This will help to build a sense of familiarity, making a new environment like a hotel room feel less daunting for your child when it comes time to travel.

This is also a great opportunity for you to practice putting the travel crib together and packing it away. This should be a straightforward process, not one that makes you frustrated, so make sure you’ve picked the right crib for your needs before you hit the road .

2) Set The Crib Up Carefully

Once you arrive at your destination, take your time when setting up the crib. First, look around the room and select the best location.

You don’t want your little one to be able to grab the strings from window blinds or anything else that’s dangerous. Always look around the area carefully so you can help prevent any accidents.

Finally, set your travel crib up on a level surface. It shouldn’t rock once you get it put together and locked.

3) Use Safe Sleep Guidelines

Whether your baby is sleeping in their regular crib, a bassinet, or a travel crib, always follow safety guidelines for sleep.

These include putting your little one to sleep on their back and keeping pillows, blankets , and stuffed animals out of their sleep space.

If it’s chilly in the room, consider swaddling your newborn . Our Organic Swaddle Blankets are soft and breathable, helping keep your baby cozy while they sleep.

However, it won’t take long for your baby to get too big for swaddling. Once they can roll over, it’s no longer safe, and you’ll want to transition them into a sleep sack.

This keeps them warm while allowing arm mobility in case they roll into an uncomfortable position and need to reposition themselves in the middle of the night.

4) Get The Right Sheets

As mentioned earlier, travel cribs come in various shapes and sizes. This means you need to shop for sheets carefully. Always make sure you have the correct dimensions before making a purchase.

If your baby is sleeping on a mini-mattress, our Organic Cotton Sheets are the perfect size. They are 100% breathable and offer superior airflow so your little one can sleep well. They also come in cute patterns to match your personal style.

No matter which mattress you pick, take time to test your new sheets out before your trip. That way, you don’t have an unpleasant surprise on your vacation.

While your baby doesn’t need a top sheet until they’re older, the bottom sheet should fit snugly all the way around. You don’t want to worry about it coming loose and ending up over your baby’s face at night.

5) Clean The Crib Thoroughly After Each Trip

This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s very important to thoroughly clean your baby’s travel crib from top to bottom after each use before you pack it away.

Disinfect any soft materials, like mattress covers (plus the mattress itself), and wipe any waterproof areas down to remove bacteria that could build up in storage.

Be sure to follow any provided instructions regarding bleaching fabrics, such as the crib’s mesh frame, to avoid damaging it.

Once it’s clean, allow the bed to dry completely before you fold it back up for storage. Otherwise, you risk mold starting to grow on the damp areas. If that happens, you don’t want your baby sleeping on it.

6) Check It Carefully Each Time You Use It

Whether your travel crib has been in storage for three months or you used it last week, always check it before you put your baby in it.

Take it out of the storage bag and set it up before you pack it in the car. Make sure there aren’t any rips or tears on the sides. Check the mattress for wear and the sides for mold. And verify that everything is working properly and is in good shape.

If your travel crib is damaged, don’t use it. What seems like a tiny rip to you can quickly expand, allowing a big enough hole to form that your little one can get an arm caught or try to crawl through it.

You don’t want to take chances regarding your baby’s sleeping spaces, so err on the side of caution.

7) Know When To Stop Using The Travel Crib

While a travel crib can be a great additional sleep space for your child, it won’t last them forever. So keep tabs on their weight and height, and make sure they’re still in the appropriate range for the bed you bought.

No matter their age, once your child can climb over the sides, it’s time to look for a different option. You don’t want to worry about them getting hurt while getting out of bed.

Sleep Easily, No Matter Where You Are

It’s easy to see why a travel crib is a total must-have if you’re heading on a trip with your little one.

From providing your baby with a safe play area to helping them feel secure while they sleep, bringing a piece of home on your travels can allow your baby to settle into an unfamiliar environment much more easily.

As you’re deciding on the best travel crib for your needs, remember to find a multi-functional crib, opt for machine-washable materials, and ensure the mattress is safe and comfortable.

If you choose to upgrade your travel crib mattress, the Newton Baby Crib Mattress is there to help your little one sleep easily and safely night after night!

Follow Newton

Latest Topics

• News & Tips
• Parenting & Kids
• Ask the Experts
• Stuff We Love
• Sweepstakes & Giveaways

Search Newton

From Instagram

Nursery Inspiration

5 Best RV Bunk Bed Conversion Ideas

Sharing is caring!

Thanks for your support! If you make a purchase using our links in this article, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See the full disclosure here .

We’ve all heard of RVers retrofitting their coaches with bunk beds, but have you ever considered an RV bunk bed conversion in reverse? 

Fortunately, there are many amazing ways to repurpose a bunk area. When you no longer need the extra sleeping space, RV bunk bed conversions are a great way to customize your rig.

Maybe you’re an empty nester whose children have moved on to their own adult lives. Or perhaps you work from the road and desperately need office space. Depending on your family’s needs, bunk beds may not be the best use of space. 

If your two-legged children have left home, you may want to convert the bunk space into a pet-friendly haven for your four-legged travel companions.

Or perhaps, you’re the opposite of empty nesters, and your children are still very little. We have some great ideas for how you can convert that RV bunk space into a crib that’s safe for your baby or toddler.

If you love your travel trailer or motorhome but want to make better use of your limited square footage, an RV bunk bed conversion might be for you. We’ll show you some great ideas on what else you can do with that space.

Why RV Bunk Bed Conversions Make Sense

As my dad always says, “It’s your house, you have to live in it.” That same advice can be applied to RVs as well. If you spend a lot of time in your RV, then customizing it to meet your specific needs only makes sense. Converting an unused RV bunk bed area is one of the most impactful ways to do just that.

Bunk beds are a popular feature, in part because that space is adaptable as your family grows and changes. Many bunk spaces already have hanger rods and/or fold-up top bunk features for this exact reason.

Sometimes an RV bunk bed to closet or storage conversion is as simple as taking advantage of features already installed in that space. Even if your desired remodel requires removing the bunks entirely, converting this space can still make a lot of sense.

Removing bunks is a relatively uncomplicated DIY project with a lot of bang for your buck. Performing an RV bunk bed conversion into a space you can use is a great way to enhance your RV lifestyle.

How To Remove RV Bunk Beds

Of course, the first step in the RV bunk bed conversion process is to remove the bunks themselves. But how? This construction project can be daunting but don’t be intimidated. In many cases, removing the bunks is a relatively straightforward process.

The first step is to consult your owner’s manual. It should help you determine if there are any wires or plumbing concealed beneath the bunks. If there are, you should disconnect your battery and unplug your camper as a safety precaution. You do not want to risk shorting wires during the demo.

The presence of wires or pipes may also impact your design plan. Rather than hire an electrician or plumber to reroute those utilities, you may opt to hide these fixtures within a cabinet or beneath a raised floor.

Fortunately for novice DIYers, most bunks are not permanently anchored to the frame. But resist the urge to channel your inner Chip Gains or Gallagher and take a sledgehammer to that unwanted fixture.

RVs are built more delicately and, therefore, require a systematic approach. In most cases, disassembly is as easy as removing a few screws and staples.

You’ll need some combination of the following tools:

• Safety gear (goggles, dust mask, etc.)
• Screwdriver or drill
• A mallet or hammer
• A prying tool (crowbar or hardware staple remover)
• An oscillating cutting tool with a carbide blade (not always necessary)

Before you dive in, you’ll want to protect the surrounding area with drop clothes and painter’s tape.

Begin by removing the bedding and mattresses. Once the mattresses are out of the way, look for any bolts connecting the top and bottom bunk. You’ll want to remove these before anything else.

If you have a ladder and/or safety rail, disassemble those using a screwdriver or electric screwdriver. Next, gently pry off the paneling sheet on the top and bottom of the bunk frame. This should expose the plywood base of the bunks.

Find and remove the screws holding the plywood in place and carefully lift the wooden platform out. Depending on your design plan, you may want to leave the structure of the bottom bunk intact. In this case, only remove the plywood on the upper bunk.

The 2 x 2 frame of the bunk should now be visible. Examine the frame to determine how it’s anchored to the wall and remove the screws holding it in place. You may need to cut any hidden screws with your oscillating saw. Consider leaving a portion of the wood frame affixed to the wall to anchor any new furniture you plan to install.

Clear out all of the demoed debris and inspect the walls for screw holes and scratches. You’ll want to apply wall putty, wallpaper, or paneling to give the area a finished look. 

Check out this short 2:30 minute video showing how easy it is toremove bunks!

5 RV Bunk Bed Conversion Ideas

1. rv bunk bed to pet bed conversion.

If you have a four-legged travel companion, a great RV bunk conversion idea is to transform the bottom bunk into a pet sanctuary. For larger dogs, this space is usually the right size for their bed. If you have a smaller furry friend, you might be able to fit all of their gear in this spot.

You may need to lower the bunk a bit for smaller, or older pets. Otherwise, consider adding bedside stairs to make it easier to access. When making your RV dog or cat friendly , don’t forget about the potential for storage underneath the bottom bunk. This can be a great place to install a drawer for food dishes, or leash and toy organization.

If you have a pet who can’t quite be trusted to roam free while you’re away, you can enclose the bottom bunk to create a true kennel space for Fido. Whether you use a tension-based baby gate or install a more substantial wall-anchored metal pet door, it’s relatively simple to cordon off this space.  

2. Converting RV Bunk Beds To Storage

One of the most straightforward, easily reversible, RV bunk bed conversion ideas is repurposing that space for storage. Often motorhome bunk spaces already have rods for hanging clothes built right in. Proper bunkhouses, more commonly found in towables, have even more room for storage. 

When transforming a bunk area into a storage room, consider whether or not you’d like to still be able to use the bunks as beds on occasion. There are tons of totes and collapsible bins that can be set on the bunks and used as pseudo drawers. You can simply remove these containers when you have an overnight guest.

Another option is to remove one or all of the bunks completely. This will allow you to transform the space into customized storage. Some RVers have built walk-in closets or pantries.

If you use video or other specialized equipment, you may find it helpful to create a storage space tailor-made for your industry-specific gear.

3. Changing A Bunkhouse To An Office

Perhaps the most popular RV bunk bed conversion idea is to transform that space into an office. With the increase in people working or attending school remotely, the demand for desk space within an RV has never been greater. While some RVs include office space, others have to be retrofitted with desks, chairs, computers, and the like.

A bunkhouse offers an entire room you can dedicate to remote working. There is often enough space for multiple desks and any auxiliary equipment you might need. Some RVers have even opted to leave one set of bunks and convert the other set to an office area. This creates an office-by-day/bedroom-by-night multipurpose space.

What if the idea of an onboard office intrigues you, but you don’t have a whole bunkroom to work with? Never fear, there are plenty of ways you can create a cozy workstation in place of a single bank of bunk beds. You’ll probably want to start by removing all or part of the bunk frame. Then install a small desk, chair, and divider. Once it’s all in place, you’re good to go!

Retirees may also appreciate a desk area. Even if they aren’t working from the road, an office space doubles as a great hobby room or a good place to sit and video chat with the family.

4. Create A Camper With 2 Master Bedrooms

Another, less thought-of, RV bunk bed conversion option is to reimagine the space as a second master bedroom. Bunks are best suited for kids. Whether you plan to travel with your parents, adult child, or friends, converting that space to one large bed rather than multiple smaller beds sometimes just makes more sense.

This design option works especially well if you have a separate bathroom near the bunkroom. Then everyone can truly have their own space. If you’re a snowbird who leaves family behind during the cooler months, creating a proper guest room might even encourage more visitors.

RV bunk bed conversions are not just for empty nesters. Reconfiguring the bunk room is sometimes the best option, even with young children. Many bunkhouses have four beds, while the average American family has less than three children.

If you have fewer children than beds, you can use that extra space for anything from school desks to toy storage. Opt for a room divider and viola, now you have a three-bedroom camper .

5. How to Convert an RV Bunk Bed into a Crib

While we’re on the topic of converting RV bunk bed areas into more custom bedroom spaces, let’s take a look at how you could also repurpose bunks into a nursery. 

The easiest option is to simply install a crib rail across one of the bunks. A tension-based baby gate or a railing anchored directly to the wall both work well. We prefer to anchor the crib rail to ensure it stays firmly in place even when our daredevil toddler does not want it to.

Transforming a bunk to a crib allows you to avoid using valuable floor space for a pack-and-play. This option is also great because it can grow with your child. When they no longer need a crib, simply remove the rail, and ta-da, you have a regular bunk again.

If you’re full-time in your RV, or even if you’re not, you may desire more of a proper nursery space for your baby. Many on-the-road parents have opted to remove the bunks completely and put a freestanding crib in their place. This option also gives you more flexibility as far as toy and clothing storage. There are some truly beautiful RV nurseries that have been created out of bunk spaces.

If you do want to travel with a Pack-And-Play for your young children, check out our article on our sister site, Travel Trailer Pro, Does A Pack-And-Play Fit In An RV?

How Do I Add More Sleeping Space To My RV?

By now, you’re probably enticed by the idea of reclaiming some of that underused bunk space. But you may not be ready to fully commit to an RV that sleeps just two.

What if your older kids actually want to join you for a weekend? What happens when the grandkids are old enough for a sleepover? If these are concerns you have, consider an RV bunk bed conversion that utilizes multipurpose furniture.

The Expand Furniture Dormire Couch Transformer is a great place to start. This amazing sofa pops up into bunk beds in seconds. Whether you choose to place this magical piece of furniture where the bunks once were or simply replace an existing sofa is up to you.

If you have a freestanding table and chairs, that’s another great place to consider using convertible furniture. By installing a traditional dinette/bed instead, you’ll recover your RV’s sleeping capacity even if you’ve repurposed the bunkhouse into something else entirely.

Additional Considerations Before Remodeling

An RV bunk bed conversion can be an exciting blank slate. There are so many possibilities for that space. In all your enthusiasm, take care to consider weight, specifically the Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW or “Dry Weight”) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) changes in your remodeling plans.

Regardless of your design vision, your RV is only rated to carry so much. Be careful that whatever you install in place of bunks, you don’t exceed the weight capacity of your rig.

Any alterations you make could also impact the tongue weight of your towable. Typical packing advice says you should concentrate the bulk of your load towards the front of the trailer to prevent sway . Since most bunkhouses are located in the rear, you should avoid installing particularly heavy structures there.

Final Thoughts On RV Bunk Bed Conversion Ideas

RV bunk bed conversions make it possible for your RV to grow with your family’s needs. From a crib and nursery to a kid’s bedroom, to a space for a grown child to come back home, there are countless options. Once you enter the empty nester phase of life, a home office or hobby room might be the perfect use of that space.

If you incorporate convertible furniture into your remodel, you can preserve the ability to host guests. Dual-purpose furniture provides sleeping options without you having to sacrifice the square footage you’ve only recently reclaimed.

While bunk beds are a coveted RV feature, they are only fully utilized for a brief period of time. Considering one of the countless RV bunk bed conversion options can prolong and enhance the usability of your rig.

Related Reading:

1. 10 best travel trailers with bunk beds under 7,000 lbs., 2. 8 best class a rvs with bunk beds, 3. 5 awesome class c rvs with bunk beds, 4. 12 best travel trailers with bunk beds, laura tyrell – author and part time rver.

Laura is a part-time RVer and a full-time mom of three.  Long-time campers and RVers before children, Laura, and her husband have fallen even more in love with the RV lifestyle since becoming parents to a child with food allergies. 

Having her own kitchen on wheels makes her RV trips amazing. Laura is passionate about finding ways to make traveling with young children fun, easy, and attainable.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.