walmart travel cot mattress

Best Folding Camping Cots With a Mattress (2022)

• Last updated on April 1, 2022

If you’re a camping enthusiast that loves to sleep in comfort, a folding camping cot with a mattress is a great accessory to invest in. They are easy to transport and set up, provide plenty of support, and can elevate the overall camping experience. 

But with so many camping cots available online and in sporting goods stores, it can be difficult to whittle down the choices to one that works for your exact needs and specifications. Some come with wheels or memory foam mattresses, others are incredibly portable and sturdy. 

In this guide, we will review several of the best folding camping cots with a mattress to help you decide which cot to buy for your next camping trip. 

Queen Coleman Airbed Cot – Best Folding Camping Cot with Mattress

The best camping cot with a mattress is the Queen Coleman Airbed Cot. It is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport, and comes with an amazingly comfy mattress. 

• 7-inch thick Queen-size mattress 
• A 59”Lx22”Wx78”T durable steel frame
• When collapsed, the cot’s dimensions shrink down to 42x18x18
• The entire cot weighs 42 pounds
• It holds up to 600 pounds
• Designed for people 6 ft. tall or less 

The cot’s frame is durable and can withstand being repeatedly collapsed and moved around from campsite to campsite. It also comes with two snap-on side tables that have cup holders built-in as well for storage. The frame can also be separated from the mattress for additional sleeping spaces.

The mattress itself is a simple air bed that does not lock into place on the frame. However, it is made with leak-proof materials that keep it from deflating throughout the night. 

The Queen Coleman Airbed Cot comes with an electric pump that fits perfectly in the airbed mattress. It blows it up in a matter of minutes for quick setup.

The Verdict

This is a fantastic camping cot for both experienced and inexperienced campers. Furthermore, it is an excellent option for elderly campers who struggle to sleep comfortably in a tent . It sits at a comfortable height that makes getting in and out of bed incredibly easy. 

This cot is a great option if you have a small tent and need to maximize the space you have inside to work with. There is plenty of under-bed space to store luggage and camping supplies. 

In Summary 

Although this sleeping cot and its accompanying mattress isn’t on the same level as a high-quality regular mattress you have at home, it is comfortable, durable, and easily transportable. You also get a lot of bed for an affordable price. 

Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot – Best Single Camping Cot with Mattress

If you’re a single person in need of a comfortable cot to sleep on, whether camping or in the comfort of your own home, the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot is one of the best. 

• 3-inch thick mattress 
• Has a 40.3×31.9×6.7 inch durable steel frame
• Shrinks down to 37x25x5 inches when collapsed
• The cot weighs a total of 21.5 pounds 
• It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds 

The cot comes in grey and black with a plaid print mattress cover. It includes a battery-operated pump that takes 4 D-batteries for quick inflation. Although thinner than an airbed, the cot’s mattress contains coil construction that provides excellent support for the entire body. 

This deluxe camping cot also comes with two attachable side tables. 

All in all, the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot is a comfortable and sturdy alternative to sleeping on the ground. They are roomy enough to comfortably accommodate individuals of varying weights and heights.

It is slightly larger than most single folding camping cots. That means that, once it is collapsed, it is slightly bulkier and more difficult to transport. The canvas covering the mattress can tear easily during transport as well. To avoid this, it is recommended that users protect the mattress cover when moving to and fro. 

Since the mattress only sits on top of the frame, aggressive sleepers may find the mattress moves around throughout the night. To work around this, you could place a towel or yoga mat between the cot and the mattress for additional sticking power. 

The cot is very simple to set up and folds down into thirds when packed away. 

This single deluxe cot with mattress is a perfect addition for tent campers, cabin goers, and people of all sizes. If you are looking for a great night’s sleep that will withstand the wear and tear of larger bodies or aggressive sleepers, this deluxe cot is a great compromise. 

Outsunny Collapsible Camping Cot – Best Queen Size Camping Cot with Mattress

Whether you need a camping cot for two people or you simply like to stretch out while you sleep, the Outsunny Collapsible Camping Cot is the best queen-size camping cot with an air mattress. 

• 8-inch thick mattress 
• Has a 54x75x54 inch durable steel tube frame
• Shrinks down to 43x9x4 inches when collapsed
• The cot weighs 40 pounds
• It has a weight capacity of 350 pounds

The camping cot has a waterproof mattress that comes with 2 pillows, 2 pillowcases, and 2 built-in sleeping bags. The cot also has a foot pump and a convenient carrying bag. 

You will sleep like royalty on this folding camping cot. It is by far the most comfortable and versatile camping cot we’ve come across. Plus, it comes with everything you need to sleep well in any kind of weather. 

Despite its size, the cot collapses into a neat, easily portable package that fits nicely in the durable carry bag. It is on the heavier side, which may make it difficult to carry for long distances. 

It is also built to last. Unlike other cots, which are flimsy and poorly constructed, this camping cot is made of tough and easily cleanable materials. 

This is the most expensive cot we’ve reviewed here. Is this folding camping cot worth the money?

We’d suggest “yes, yes it is”. It has an incredibly comfortable mattress and it is huge. You’ll have plenty of room for a great night’s sleep, whether sleeping alone or beside your partner. 

GigaTent Folding Comfort Camping Cot with Mattress – Best Budget Camping Cot XL with Mattress

Camping in comfort and on a budget is made possible with the GigaTent Folding Camping Cot and Mattress. 

• 1-inch thick mattress
• Has a 79x29x14 inch frame 
• Shrinks down to 40x30x7 when collapsed
• The cot weighs 18 pounds

The GigaTent Folding Comfort Cot XL is a brilliant heavy duty camping cot for people who are new to camping and unwilling to spend their life savings on camping equipment. 

The frame has sturdy, U-shaped legs which help distribute body weight more evenly to avoid stressing the frame or damaging the tent floor. The cell foam mattress provides sufficient comfort and has a waterproof vinyl bottom for moisture protection. 

The XL frame and mattress are perfect for people of larger sizes or who are just wanting a little extra sleeping room. It sits slightly higher than other standard camping cots which makes getting in and out of it easy. 

If you are a taller person looking for a budget-friendly folding camping cot, this is the best option for you. 

REDCAMP Folding Camping Cot with Mattress – Most Portable Camping Cot with Mattress

No camping cot can be folded up and transported as fast or as easily as the REDCAMP Folding Camping Cot with Mattress. 

• 1-inch thick mattress 
• Has a 75x28x15 inch frame
• Packs down to 41x9x7 inches
• The cot weighs 15 pounds
• Has a weight capacity of 500 pounds 

The REDCAMP folding camping cot features a velvet pad stuffed with cotton for extra comfort. The frame’s legs have non-slip feet and high-strength supports that can support full-grown adults of larger sizes. 

In addition to this, the cot comes with a convenient side pocket made of canvas material for storage. 

The Verdict 

This cot, which is comparable to a twin-size mattress, gets high marks for sturdiness and overall comfort. It doesn’t make noise when you sleep or move around on it as well. 

Where this cot shines is how simple it is to set up and fold back down. In addition to being light and portable, it can be broken down and packed up in about 10 seconds or less. 

The only downside reported with this cot is the carry bag that comes with it. Unfortunately, the bag is made with lesser-quality materials than the actual cot and may not withstand being carried over long distances or on strenuous backpacking trips. 

This is a great camping cot that is sufficiently comfortable, quiet, and easy to set up. It makes a good cot for people who are new to camping or are looking for an option that won’t take up too much space. Because of how easy it is to fold up and store, it can be taken care of in the morning quickly to make more living space in an RV or tent. 

LiteBed Folding Bed with Memory Foam Mattress – Best Rollaway Bed with a Mattress

If you don’t have a dedicated guest room, a rollaway cot like the LiteBed Folding Bed With Memory Foam Mattress may be a better option for your overnight guests. 

• Memory foam mattress pad 
• Has a 75x32x17 inch steel frame
• The cot weighs 28 pounds
• Has a weight capacity of 350 pounds
• Memory foam mattress pad
• Has a 74.5x39x17 inch steel frame
• The cot weighs 35.2 pounds

The LiteBed Rollaway Bed folds in half and fits neatly into a convenient carry bag that comes free with the purchase of the cot.

This is a slightly more sophisticated sleeping arrangement for your overnight guests than a blow-up mattress, and even more comfortable. 

Setting up and taking care of this camping cot is easy thanks to an easy open and close flip-lock. You don’t have to spend frustrating hours figuring out how to assemble it. The mesh cot underneath the mattress is strong and flexible and is held up by powerful weight-bearing springs that can support adults up to 350 pounds. 

These springs are a huge reason this cot is so comfortable. Rather than having uncomfortable bars beneath the cot’s base to sleep on, the cot is suspended from the frame. This helps compensate for the thinner memory foam mattress and makes for a great night’s sleep. 

The bed also has a neat, compact design that makes storing it easy when not in use. 

We think this cot is an excellent choice for people who need a temporary folding bed in their home for guests. It is a high-quality bed that is comfortable to sleep on, and its compact design is perfect for even the smallest of spaces. 

Coleman ComfortSmart Cot 

For a standard sleeping cot that will elevate your camping experience, the Coleman ComfortSmart Cot provides additional comfort for an affordable price. 

• 3-inch thick mattress
• Has a 69x25x15 inch aluminum frame 
• Collapses down to 33.5×25.4×4.4 inches
• Weighs 14 pounds
• Has a weight capacity of 275 pounds 

The Coleman ComfortSmart Camping Cots came on the scene in 2015 and is designed specifically for outdoor use. It comes with a 1-year warranty. 

Generally speaking, this is a simple camping cot that will get the job done. It doesn’t have a ton of frills or extra accessories, however, the spring-supported cot and included mattress provide the right amount of comfort.

The cot can accommodate smaller adults up to 275 pounds. It is also on the smaller side, with recommended use for people who aren’t much taller than 5 foot 7 inches. If you are a taller person, this may not be the best cot for you. 

Set up with the Coleman ComfortSmart Cot is relatively easy as well. You simply unfold the cot and pull out the three U-shaped legs, flip it over, and you’re ready for sleep.

The only downside to the cot is its storage size. The cot itself folds in half rather than thirds, which means it’s not a particularly portable cot as it takes up quite a bit of space both in the car and in your tent. Similarly, because of its large design, this is not a good cot for backpacking.

This low-cost, no-frills camping bed is a good option for campers who want a little bit of extra comfort and support. As long as you don’t mind the amount of space it takes up when not in use, this is a solid piece from a great brand. 

Twin Coleman Airbed Cot 

The Twin Coleman Airbed Cot is a smaller but just as comfortable alternative to the Queen Coleman Airbed Cot. 

• 7-inch thick mattress
• Dimensions: 74x40x23.5 inches
• Collapses down to 38x9x11 inches
• Weighs 29 pounds 
• Has a weight capacity of 300 pounds 

The Twin Coleman Airbed Cot comes with a convenient storage bag and an electric pump that takes 4 D batteries. 

Like all Coleman camping cot products, this cot also comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

If you don’t need the larger Queen-size airbed cot, the Twin-size is an excellent and space-saving alternative. 

It features all of the same comfort technology of the larger size, including a leak-free double lock valve and their signature ComfortStrong coil system for gentle support. It stays inflated throughout the night so you won’t find yourself waking up in a crater with a backache. 

The cot comes with accessories that elevate the sleeping experience, including side tables with built-in cup holders and a sewn-in mattress cover that keeps the airbed from slipping and sliding around on the cot. 

It is also just the right height off of the ground. If you have an injury or are of more advanced age, you will find that this cot is easy to get in and out of.

Finally, this cot is built to last. From its sturdy steel frame to its superior airbed mattress, this is a cot that will withstand whatever camping or traveling adventures you throw at it. 

The Twin Coleman Airbed Cot is perfect for older people or people with injuries that require a comfortable and sturdy mattress. It is well-constructed and stays inflated throughout the night, resulting in more restful and comfortable sleep no matter where you find yourself staying. 

Slumberjack Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot 

Believe us when we say that you will sleep in style with the incredibly comfortable and uniquely designed Slumberjack Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot. 

• Dimensions: 30x15x80 inches
• Weighs 30.36 pounds
• Has a weight capacity of 300 pounds

This Slumberjack camp cot comes with a 2-year warranty. 

Slumberjack may not be a brand as well-known as Coleman or REI, but they are experts in the field of comfortable camping. Their sleep products focus on ergonomic and oversized designs that provide maximum comfort, whether you’re hunting, camping, or in need of an extra bed for guests. 

The Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot is one of our favorites. The overall design is superb. It features adjustable legs and an adjustable headrest to allow for optimal sleeping positions, even on the most uneven ground. It is also wide and made with rugged and durable polyester fabric that won’t tear or snag in the first couple of uses. 

This cot also utilizes a bungee system for enhanced comfort. Despite this, we found that the cot itself is more suitable for back sleepers. Side sleepers may find that the mattress pad puts pressure on their hips. 

A downside to this deluxe camp cot is how bulky it is when you fold it up. The cot folds up into thirds, however, it is heavy and the adjustable legs tend to stick out. As a result, if you are a backpacker or are short on space, you may have to get creative when transporting this cot. 

Back sleepers and campers that seek out rustic spots with the uneven ground will love the Slumberjack Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot. 

Byer of Maine Cottage Cot Bed 

The Byer of Maine Cottage Cot Bed is a standard, no-frills sleeping cot that is a great option for both adults and children. 

• 3-inch thick memory foam mattress
• Dimensions: 75x31x17 inches
• Folds up to 37x32x7 inches
• Weighs: 28 pounds 
• Removable and washable mattress cover 

Like most Byer of Maine camping products, this cot bed was designed for use indoors in a cottage setting. It is a Swedish cot bed that has a solid steel frame and locking legs that make it safe to use for any individual. 

The mattress isn’t overly fancy, although it has a memory foam layer for added comfort. It also has a spring base which helps distribute weight evenly and avoids painful pressure points. 

When unfolded it is roughly the size of a twin mattress and is, therefore, suitable for both children and grown adults. 

Storing this cot is as easy as its setup and takedown. It folds in half and features a tethered closure, keeping it both portable and compact when not in use. 

This is a great and versatile sleeping cot for indoor use. If you are looking for something simple and affordable, this is the cot for you. 

Interesting Alternative – Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot 

If you’ve found yourself skimming through these reviews and aren’t sold on the idea of a steel or aluminum frame cot, consider the Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot. 

• Packed size: 28×5.5×6 inches 
• Weighs 4.1 pounds

The cot comes with a variety of accessories, including a detachable mesh cover, velcro patches for conversion into a wider or taller bed, a convenient carrying bag, and 3M repair patches.

This cot alternative is a mix between a sleeping pad and an air mattress. It is infinitely more portable and much lighter than traditional sleeping cots, making it a better option for campers that enjoy remote camping or backpacking. 

It is quite comfortable, with plenty of support even on rough or uneven terrains. It is designed to work as a box spring mattress. 

Despite its relatively simple design, it is on the pricier side. 

If you enjoy backpacking and need extra light and portable cot that will provide plenty of comfort and support, the Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot is an excellent alternative. 

How To Choose the Best Camping Cot with Mattress

Let’s talk about what to look for when looking at folding camping cots that come with mattresses. Be warned though, that the best camping cots tend not to be sold as a bundle with a mattress and you might be better off buying both items separately. 

Assembled Dimensions

Folding camping cots vary in size. Single folding camping cots can actually be a lot smaller than you expect, so it’s worth being aware of the dimensions before you buy.

You also need to think about the space the folding camping cot will need to fit into once it is assembled. Be sure to measure your tent dimensions or floor space and compare it to the cot’s assembled dimensions before making a purchase. 

Portability & Storability 

Folding camping cots with mattresses are generally quite heavy; usually weighing between 15lbs and 30lbs (although the Queen Coleman Airbed Cot weighs a whopping 42lbs).

The weight is important because a portable folding cot will be at the lighter end of the scale. If you plan to keep your folding camping cot in large cupboard (basically to use as a camping bed for guests) then packed size and weight will be less important.

But if you plan to travel or take it on a camping trip then you will definitely want a more lightweight cot .

Also, while many folding cots come with a storage bag, some do not.

Furthermore, it is important to know how the cot will be stored and to make sure you have adequate space for its packed dimensions. 

Weight Capacity 

If you want your camp cot to last, you mustn’t put more weight on it than it can handle. Be sure to look at camping beds that are of the appropriate size and have the weight capacity for your body type. 

Comfort & Mattress Thickness

Ultimately, mattress thickness is a personal preference. The mattresses that come with folding camping cots vary in quality. So, if you are looking for more support or want the same good night’s sleep you’d get on your mattress at home, you’re going to want to consider folding camping cots with thicker mattresses or, ideally, a memory foam mattress. At a pinch, sleeping pads are also acceptable on camping beds.

Ease of Assembly 

There is nothing more frustrating than trying to assemble a difficult camping product. Indeed, the best camping cots are always easy to assemble.

When looking at sleeping cots, consider the overall design when making your purchase, including how it unfolds, the type of legs it has and how they are set up, and how easy it is to attach the mattress or pad to the top of the cot. 

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The 8 Best Camping Cots of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The best camping cots have trouble-free setups and are noticeably comfortable to sleep on.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Other Gear You May Need
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Jennifer May

If you’re ready to upgrade your sleeping arrangements while spending time outdoors, consider getting a camping cot to (literally) elevate your sleep. A camping cot is the closest portable thing to a typical bed, so it’s a must-have for campers who don’t feel like roughing it on the ground.

Our team of outdoor enthusiasts tried 19 camping cots to find out which ones are the most comfortable, durable, and easiest to put together for your next camping trip. The Osage River Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot earned its spot as our top pick by being exceptionally easy to put together and comfortable to sleep on inside of a tent. An additional seven cots landed on our list as well, with picks for campers looking to splurge on an ultra-lightweight option and a double cot for pairs. We even found a cot that is so comfortable, it could easily replace the air mattress you use for house guests. 

Best Overall

Osage river standard folding camping cot.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The cot is a breeze to set up and is long enough to comfortably fit campers over 6-feet-tall.

It’s a little too big to carry long distances.

From setup to breakdown, the Osage River Standard Folding Camping Cot was a favorite, earning the highest scores in every one of our testing categories over our six-month testing period. We discovered that the cot can easily be assembled by stretching out the canvas fabric over the metal frame that folds out, and it simply folds back down when the time comes. It's super convenient and easy to get in and out of its storage bag and it takes less than a minute to set up and fold up. The cot fits perfectly in its carrying bag and is easy to transport to and from the car. Although it might be a little big to carry far distances, it’s extremely portable for car campgrounds or to use around the house.

We used the cot during a camping trip and were impressed that the size is convenient for both placing in a tent and getting a comfortable night’s sleep. One six-foot tall camper said it was plenty long enough for them to fit comfortably on it. The build and materials of the cot feel exceptionally sturdy and durable, so we’re confident it will last for years to come. And if you weren’t already sold, the affordable price of this cot makes it a no-brainer. 

The Details: 75 x 28 x 18.5 inches unfolded | 40 x 8 x 5 inches folded | 12.45 pounds | One person | 300 pound weight limit

Best Overall, Runner-up

L.l.bean easy cot.

• Portability 5 /5

The frame and canvas material feel exceptionally sturdy and durable.

It’s on the larger side.

L.L.Bean’s Easy Cot was super easy to set up, requiring the same low effort as unfolding a camping chair or table. When the cot is unfolded, we think there’s plenty of room for one person thanks to the generous 79-inch length. This was one of the biggest camping cots we tested, so even when it’s folded up, it takes up a little more space than we wish, but it still fits nicely in storage closets in an apartment. The canvas material is especially taut and the frame is sturdy, and we got a good night of sleep while laying on it with just a blanket. Although the heftier size and price were the ultimate reasons why this cost wasn’t our top pick, we still think it’s an excellent option if you have extra storage space for it. 

The Details: 79 x 30 x 17 inches unfolded | 40 x 6 x 7 inches folded | 21 pounds | One person | 330 pound weight limit

Best Splurge

Helinox camp cot.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The cot is extremely lightweight at just 2.13 pounds, and the comfort it provides is unmatched. 

It takes some extra strength to unfold the cot the first few times.

If you have some wiggle room in your camping cot budget, the Helinox Lite Cot is worth the splurge thanks to its ultra-light weight and comfortable design. Helinox is known for its lightweight outdoor gear, and we found that they deliver on expectations with this 2-pound cot. Although the width is on the smaller side at 23.5 inches, we loved that two cots could easily fit in a smaller tent if needed. The cot doesn't weigh much more than backpacking pads and definitely weighs less than some more plush air mattresses. The long thin design of it when it's in its carrying case is ideal for sliding long-ways into a backpacking backpack. The only downside is that it takes some extra strength to unfold the cot the first few times, but after a while, it gets less strenuous to put together. 

The Details: 73 x 23.5 x 5 inches unfolded | 21 x 5 inches folded | 2.13 pounds | One person | 265 pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham

Best for Extra Room

Alps mountaineering camp cot xl.

• Ease of Use 4 /5

The length and width provide generous space for campers in need of the extra room.

It feels a bit bulky and heavy to carry around.

We love that the Alps Mountaineering Camp Cot XL provides a generous amount of space for campers at 86 inches long and 40 inches wide. For the most part, the cot was simple to put together and take apart since it comes with just a few pieces, but assembly might be easier with two people because of the heavier weight of the materials. We think having an extra-taut canvas to sleep on is worth putting some extra effort into getting the canvas onto the frame. The cot is comfortable to sleep on, but if you want to add extra cushioning, a Therm-a-rest pad or blanket could make it even more comfortable. Additionally, in a six-person tent, the cot took up a good amount of space, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough room to fold it out comfortably. 

The Details: 86 x 40 x 22 inches unfolded | 48 x 5 x 9 inches folded | 19 pounds | One person | 325 pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Kate Donovan

Best for Car Camping

Byer of maine easy cot.

The setup instructions are straightforward and it took just seconds to put the cot together. 

The heavy weight makes it impractical for some trips.

Setting up a tent can be no small feat, so for additional ease while car camping , the Byer of Maine Easy Cot is your best option. Out of all the cots we tested, this one had the easiest setup by far, and it only took a matter of seconds to have the bed ready to go. The instructions are easy to follow and they’re printed on the side of the bag to make the setup that much more trouble-free. Keep in mind that the cot itself weighs 21 pounds, which is on the heavier side, so we think it’s best suited for campers who don’t have to carry the cot far (or at all for car camping). This cot was set up in a matter of seconds, making it one of the easiest cots we've ever used. It's definitely bulkier than some backpacking cots, but it didn't take up a ton of room in the back of a car and was easy to stack with other similar-sized gear.

The Details: 78 x 18 x 31 inches unfolded | 21 pounds | One person | 330 pound weight limit

Best Lightweight

Fe active folding camping cot.

• Durability 4 /5

It’s noticeably lightweight and the carrying bag makes it even easier to transport. 

There's a learning curve for setting it up and breaking it down.

We think the lightweight FE Active Folding Camping Cot is ideal for hikers, backpackers, or campers looking for a cot with superior portability. It only weighs 4.6 pounds, and we particularly liked the carrying bag it came with for additional portability. The bag is the perfect fit to carry all of the items for the cot. It is hard to break down the cot, but the portability portion is prime for a hike. The tautness of the canvas makes it slightly tricky to attach it to the base, but after the first few times of putting it together, we found that it gets easier. And even though the canvas is tight around the base, we found the cot very comfortable to sleep on with the perfect balance of stiffness and cushioning. It feels sturdy and didn’t wobble when we sat or slept on it, and we felt confident in its durability.

The Details: 74.5 x 27.5 x 6.5 inches unfolded | 18.8 x 5.9 x 5.1 inches folded | 4.6 pounds | One person | 250 pound weight limit

Best Multi-use

Mountain summit gear horizon cot.

• Portability 3 /5

The cot is so comfortable and easy to set up that house guests could sleep on it.

It feels heavy to carry around in the bag.

Whether you’re going on a camping trip or looking to add an extra place to sleep in your guest room, the versatile Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Cot is a solid choice. We found the setup to be simple and quick as it only took a few minutes to get the four-piece set put together. The size of the cot is perfect for a good nights' sleep since it’s not too big or too small. The material is taut and the legs give great stability, even when on uneven ground. There was no sinking when sleeping on the cot for hours. The cot weighs 18 pounds, which was noticeably hefty when we carried it in the bag, so we think it would be best for campsites that are close to the car or to set up in your home. The comfort matched with the simple setup makes this cot the best option for a multi-purpose cot that’s long-lasting. 

The Details: 75 x 27.55 x 14.5 inches unfolded | 18 pounds | One person | 300 pound weight limit

Best Double

Kamp-rite double kwik-cot.

The setup is incredibly intuitive and simple. 

It's too large for small tents, so make sure you're checking your tent capacity before camping with this cot.

For pairs that like to go camping together, the Kamp-rite Double Kwik-cot is a must-have. The two-in-one style cot is impressively easy to put together and take apart thanks to its intuitive design. Because the cot is the size of two put together, you’ll need quite a bit of space to set it up, and since it weighs 33 pounds, you might need two people to carry it. Although it’s a little heavy, it was still portable enough to transport between the car and the tent, but you might not want to go much further with it. We used the cot to camp in a four-person tent and found that the cot was a little too tight to fit comfortably, so we recommend only opting for this cot if you plan to use a six-person tent or larger. Sleep was comfortable and sturdy throughout use thanks to the plastic reinforcements. The materials feel high-quality enough to last even through many camping trips over the years.

The Details: 85 x 55 x 19 inches unfolded | 42 x 11 x 11 inches folded | 33 pounds | Two people | 500 pounds

Other Camping Cots We Liked

Coleman Pack-away Camping Cot : It was easy to put together, and the size is ideal for a four-person tent, but it wasn’t as comfortable as we hoped it would be. 

Coleman Trailhead II Cot : We found this cot to be very comfortable to sleep on, but it does require two people to set it up and it’s on the heavier side. 

Luno Air Mattress 2.0 : We love that the air mattress comes custom-fit to your car, but we’re worried that it could possibly tear or get a hole over time. The price tag also felt a bit steep for an air mattress.  

Coleman Airbed Cot : Although it takes a bit of time to assemble, the cot is easy to put together and it was extremely comfortable to sleep on. Still, because it comes with a cot and an air mattress, we found it to be a bit cumbersome to carry and transport.

Travel + Leisure / John Somerall

Our expert outdoor gear testers tried 19 different camping cots from popular brands like Coleman, L.L.Bean, and Helinox. Whether we used the camping cots to sleep in a tent, a car, or at home, we evaluated the product based on portability, ease of use, comfort, size, and durability. 

To test portability, we were tasked with carrying the cot in its case and placing it in a car or rooftop carrier to get a feel for the weight. Our favorite cots for portability were noticeably lightweight and their carrying bags made them even easier to carry the cot around. Next, we took the cots out of the bags and set them up to see how easy (or difficult) it was to put together and break down the camping cots. Since cots can require some extra elbow grease, we paid close attention to the time it took to unfold the cots and how much effort was needed to spread the canvas over the frame. Once the cots were unfolded, we judged the size of the cot, with our top performers being those that are the perfect size for someone to sleep on while not taking up too much space in a tent or room.

Then, we spent at least one 30-minute nap and a full night on each cot to gauge the comfort of the canvas and the sturdiness of the frame. The best cots for our comfort category provided us with enough support and cushioning for a restful night of sleep. The cots that felt the most durable didn’t wobble when we moved around and the canvas felt tough and durable when we spread it over the base of the cot. After completing the tests, we uncovered the price of each cot to judge the fairness of the cost compared to its performance. 

Travel + Leisure / Jennifer May

Other Camping Gear You May Need

To ensure you have a fun and restful night out under the stars, be sure to pack the proper gear. From sleeping bags to camping stoves, we've selected the best camping gear for all users — you just need to add the s'mores.

Marmot Sawtooth 15 Sleeping Bag : This sleeping bag (that comes in both regular and long sizing) is versatile enough to be used for three-season camping. With 650-fill-power duck down, it's sure to keep you comfortable, yet it weighs less than three pounds so you won't have to wrestle with it on your way to camp.

Nemo Dagger Osmo 2 Person Tent : Whether you're a solo camper or heading out with your best friend, this tent is a high-quality and lightweight option that can withstand even heavy downpours. It comfortably fits two adults and their hiking packs and has doors on both sides for ventilation and convenience.

Solo Stove Lite Gear Kit : This compact and portable camping kitchen comes with everything you need for making coffee, heating dinner, or taking a little time to warm up. The full kit takes up the same amount of space as a large water bottle, so backpackers and weekend campers alike are sure to love this mini, yet powerful, setup.

Tips for Buying a Camping Cot

Consider the size of your space.

It’s important to double-check the dimensions of your cot and the space that it will go in whether that's a tent, car, or room in a home. We found that while one cot might fit in a two- or four-person tent, it might be difficult or impossible to fit another in the same space.

Simple setups and breakdowns are essential

The best cots we tested were notable for being trouble-free to set up since no one wants to wrestle with a camping cot during a weekend enjoying the outdoors . While some cots might have a slight learning curve at first, it’s ideal to have one that can be unfolded and folded up in a matter of minutes to make camping easier. 

Think about the distance the cot will travel

Some cots can be cumbersome to carry far distances due to the weight, so if you like to hike into the campsites or backpack, be sure to pick a cot that doesn’t weigh a lot. If you’re planning on transporting the cot a few feet from the car to a campsite, the weight and size may not be a crucial factor.

Generally, a good camping cot should be comfortable enough to sleep on with just a sleeping bag or a blanket. However, if you want to upgrade your sleeping arrangements, another layer of cushioning like a foam pad or Therm-a-rest can add a little extra comfort . 

While it ultimately depends on your sleeping preferences, a camping cot might be more comfortable to sleep on, especially if you prefer a stiffer bed. Air mattresses are easier to store, but you run the risk of it deflating or getting a hole, which can happen when you’re camping or using the mattress often. Plus, you can always add more cushioning to a camping cot, but you can’t make an air mattress tauter. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She spent every summer camping in Oregon with her family growing up and has a keen eye for camping gear, especially for getting a good night of sleep. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best camping cots based on a series of tests completed by our expert outdoor gear testers.

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9 Best Rollaway Beds to Make Extra Space for Guests

Because nobody really wants to sleep on an air mattress.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Rollaway Bed

Milliard deluxe diplomat folding bed.

Best Value Rollaway Bed

Giantex rollaway folding bed.

Best Rollaway Bed with a Cover

Karcog rollaway bed.

Best Rollaway Bed for Kids

Alwyn home amani folding bed frame with mattress.

Best Rollaway Bed for Heavy People

Lucid rollaway folding guest bed.

Best Space-Saving Rollaway Bed

Leisuit foldaway guest bed.

Best Lightweight Rollaway Bed

Milliard lightweight folding cot with mattress.

Best Adjustable Rollaway Bed

Giantex folding rollaway bed with mattress.

Best Portable Rollaway Bed

Litebed folding bed with memory foam mattress.

To make our top picks, we scoured top retailers for the bestselling products, reading hundreds of online reviews and checking specifications to ensure they met high standards for quality. Based on our research, these are the best rollaway beds you can buy online . Plus, read on for more information about what to look for when shopping and important considerations to improve comfort.

To make your new rollaway bed a cozy sleep oasis, check out our guides to the best cotton sheets and the best pillows .

Though it is on the more expensive side, the Milliard Deluxe Diplomat Folding Bed has everything you’d hope for in a rollaway bed. The sturdy steel frame can support up to 300 pounds, making it a suitable sleeping spot for most adults. The included 5-inch Twin mattress offers a bit more room to move around than your standard cot. The mattress is surprisingly comfortable, according to reviewers, likely because it’s composed of a 3.5-inch base foam and a 1.5-inch memory foam layer for all-night comfort. Unlike many other options, i t’s also CertiPUR-US certified , which means it meets third-party guidelines that guarantee it’s constructed without ozone depleters.

The mattress comes with a polyester cover that’s machine washable, and when it’s time to stash the bed, the whole thing secures together with a quick-close latch. Wheels make it easy to transport from room to room, even if it is on the heavier side. (This fold-up bed is the heaviest one on our list.)

Another Twin-sized rollaway bed that offers a little bit more space to sleep, the Giantex Rollaway Folding Bed has many of the same great features as our top overall pick, yet comes at a fraction of the price. We also love that the steel frame is made with wooden slats instead of springs, offering even more support and durability. It's worth noting, however, that the weight capacity on this foldable bed is just 265 pounds, which may not be strong enough for heavier adults.

The memory foam mattress is made of 4 inches of high-density support foam that's breathable and offers medium support to suit all types of sleepers. And, when it's time to clean up, this option is just even easier to fold up. It weighs a more manageable 37 pounds and has a locking mechanism to keep the mattress from opening as you wheel it back into its storage space.

A happy medium between our top overall pick and our best value pick, this foldable bed checks most boxes. The sturdy steel frame can hold up to 300 pounds, offering enough stability for most adults. It is a cot size, so it's slightly smaller than a standard twin bed, which may not be comfortable for larger individuals, but the smaller dimensions are nice if you have limited storage space. The mattress is comfortable, according to reviewers. It boasts a total of 5 inches of foam — 1.5 inches of memory foam and 3.5 inches of high-density support foam. For convenience, it comes with a machine-washable cover, too.

At 45 pounds, it's heavier than some other options, which hinders portability to some extent, but does add to the overall support and durability of the bed. We also love that this rollaway comes with a storage cover, so it won't collect as much dust when not in use.

Ideal for kids on sleepovers or trips to a relative’s home, this rollaway bed is low to the ground and durable enough to withstand lots of tossing and turning. The steel frame has wooden slats instead of springs and is topped with a thick 4.25-inch memory foam mattress.

The bed is easy to set up and take down — reviewers say gravity does most of the work — which makes the fold-up bed great for grandparents who may be hosting family. But the weight limit is a mere 200 pounds, so it’s not the best pick for adults.

Slightly larger than standard rollaway beds, this one offers a twin-size 4-inch memory foam mattress with a very impressive 350-pound weight capacity. As a result, this fold-up bed is an obvious choice for anyone who regularly hosts adult visitors.

It has a streamlined design that’s a cinch to set up. Even when you first purchase the bed, there’s no assembly required. And when folded, the portable bed is only 10.5 inches wide — nearly 2 inches slimmer than average. If there’s any downside, it’s the weight, which clocks in at over 46 pounds, but thankfully there are wheels to help with portability.

This thin rollaway bed may not look like much, but it’s a win for those who are working with limited space. Because it’s a cot, it doesn’t offer as much room to move about, but it does easily fit into tighter areas of the home — both when in use and when being stored. When folded, the portable bed measures just 10.5 inches deep , tying just one other pick on our list for the slimmest design.

Despite its more petite size, the bed can hold up to 300 pounds. Reviewers say the 3-inch memory foam mattress is surprisingly comfortable and supportive, likely aided by the combination of wood slats and reinforced wire mesh.

From the makers of our top overall pick, this rollaway cot is a more budget-friendly pick with an enviable feature: its weight. At 32 pounds, it's the lightest wheeled rollaway bed on our list. And it's got wheels, so it should be a cinch to move about the house. With help, you could even carry this one up or down a flight of stairs, if necessary.

For this benefit, there's not much sacrifice to be made in the way of comfort. The foldable bed boasts a comfortable 4-inch foam mattress and a sturdy metal frame that supports up to 264 pounds. Because this weight capacity isn't as high as some others, some reviewers prefer this pick for kids over adults.

Because it adjusts to six different positions, this rollaway bed is a unique option for those who want the flexibility to read or watch TV in bed. It's also a worthy choice for aging adults who may want a more permanent option for resting in another room of the house. To prevent mishaps when getting in or out, it has eight wheels, four of which are lockable.

It may not be the most comfortable fold-up bed out there — the sponge and cotton mattress doesn't offer much padding against the steel frame — but it does have an enviable weight capacity. The bed can hold upwards of 330 pounds.

Though it may not be the most sturdy option for in-home use — the frame isn't quite as hefty as most — this foldable bed will get the job done in a pinch. It has a slightly roomier twin footprint and a 5-inch memory foam mattress, and the brand claims the steel frame can hold an impressive 350 pounds.

Where this option really shines, though, is in its portability. It doesn't have wheels, but in this case, that's a good thing, since it keeps the bed nice and lightweight. T he whole thing neatly folds up into a handled storage bag , so you can easily take the fold-up bed on road trips.

What to look for when shopping for a rollaway bed

✔️ Size and weight: In general, rollaway beds come in cot (slightly smaller than a twin) or twin sizes. But because many have sturdy metal frames, they can be rather heavy — usually somewhere between 30 and 50 pounds. Typically, the heavier the bed, the more durable the frame material and, therefore, the more weight it can support. Keep this in mind if you anticipate heavy adults using the rollaway, and look for a rollaway with a weight capacity of 300 or more pounds.

✔️ Mattress: Like other mattresses, the toppers on rollaway beds are made with all different materials, including sponge, memory foam and even inflatable PVC materials. We recommend memory foam for comfort but note that not all memory foam is created equal. Take a look at mattress thickness — the thicker the better, like our top pick, which boasts 5 inches of memory foam. You may also want to consider any special certifications like CertiPUR-US for help determining overall quality.

✔️ Portability: Rollaway beds are inherently portable, since they're designed to be temporary options for guests. For the greatest convenience, look for a foldable bed with built-in wheels so you can easily move the mattress around the house. And don't forget to consider folded dimensions — particularly if you're short on storage space. Some fold-up mattresses are even small enough to fit into included storage bags, which is ideal for anyone who wants the flexibility of taking theirs on the road with them when traveling.

Are foldable beds worth it?

It depends entirely on your personal needs and preferences. If you have the storage space and expect frequent visitors, a rollaway bed is a great convenience that will keep your guests more comfortable without a true bed available. On the other hand, if you rarely have anyone staying the night, the hassle of stashing a fold-up bed — even one of the slimmest options — may not be worth it, particularly if your home lacks storage space.

What is the thickest mattress on a rollaway bed?

Most rollaway beds come with mattresses that are somewhere between 3 and 5 inches thick. Keep in mind: The thicker the mattress, the more likely it is to offer adequate support. But a thicker mattress often means a heavier overall bed, so keep that in mind if portability is a priority for you.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Brigitt Earley is a writer and editor with over 15 years of experience writing about home products, including beds and mattresses. She worked under the guidance of experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute to research and review the rollaway beds recommended in this story.

Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.

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The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds, Tested by Our Editors and Their Mini Explorers

With the right travel bed, your tot will sleep (almost) anywhere

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

Verywell Family / Nick Kova

Traveling with toddlers isn't easy, but you can still have a wonderful time exploring new places with your family—you just need to be prepared. Toddler travel beds provide consistency and protected sleep space, resulting in a well-rested child and a smoother trip for everyone. 

For some parents, portable toddler travel beds are must-haves to provide young children with a secure place to sleep while on vacation. “Simpler is always better, especially when thinking of traveling with toddlers . So, when it comes to a toddler travel bed, you don't need all the bells and whistles,” says Anjuli Gans, MD, a pediatrician at the Karabots Pediatric Care Center in West Philadelphia. “There are a lot of fancy ones out there on the market, but your baby really just needs a safe and comfortable place to sleep ." 

We spent hours testing these products (20 total) in the lab and our homes by assembling and disassembling them—sometimes with one hand—and timing the whole process. We also studied the beds' features, how well they hold a toddler's weight, and how easy they are to clean. Our list shows the best toddler travel beds we’ve tested, which we’ll continue to update as we test new models.

• Our Testing Process And Experts
• Factors To Consider

Your Questions, Answered

Best overall, jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

• Assembly 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

Why We Like It

If you plan to hit the road with your little one and need a toddler travel bed that is comfortable and easy to travel with, then the JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper Kids Inflatable Bed is our top pick for you. Designed for children ages 3 and up, this travel bed features side bumpers to keep your child from rolling onto the floor. There's also an air mesh cover to keep your child cool at night. 

We loved this inflatable bed's unique design, which is very easy to fill up and took us only five minutes to put together and inflate, which is great when traveling with little kids. And since it's light and comes with a small bag with handles, so it's easy to move around. The mattress also has a removable and washable cover that can be spot-cleaned and dries quickly, so your little one can get back to bed. 

When you’re done with it, deflate the mattress, pack it back into its packing cube, and you're good to go!

But Take Note

Setup is incredibly easy, thanks to an integrated pump that lets you inflate the mattress in minutes by using your hands or feet. It’s meant to lie on the floor, so there’s no additional assembly required. Although we noticed it can sound a bit noisy when a child moves on it. Otherwise, we didn't experience any additional issues.

The Details

• Material: Nylon
• Weight: 4.1 pounds
• Size: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches inflated; 15 x 11 x 4 inches in travel bag
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Ages 3 years and up; up to 68 pounds

Verywell Family / Vicky Wasik

Best Inflatable

Eltow inflatable toddler bed.

 Amazon

• Assembly 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed is portable and easy to set up, and it comes at a lower price than our top pick, the Stokke. Unlike other inflatables, the Eltow toddler travel bed consists of an outer section with bumpers on two sides and a mattress that fits snugly inside the outer shell. It's not sitting directly on the floor but is at floor level.

We love that it took us just five minutes to set up and is lightweight and portable . It comes with a high-speed pump, two patches in case of punctures, and a travel bag for storage. And thanks to a vinyl layer that protects against punctures, it's well-equipped to withstand wear and tear. Plus, it comes with a bag, so it's super portable. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a sheet, so you'll have to pack one in your luggage. 

One flaw is that the mattress has a plastic smell that sticks around for a few hours once the mattress is removed from its packaging. (It should go away if you allow the product to air out for a day or two before use.) Assembly is straightforward, but removing the pump nozzle without losing air can be difficult when done alone, so we recommend getting a partner to help you out.

• Material: Vinyl
• Weight: 10.21 pounds
• Size: 63 x 40 x 12 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 310 pounds

Best With Pump

Hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4.5 /5

The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is ideal for parents who want their toddler close to the ground with bumpers on all sides of the bed. A removable mattress rests in a higher outer shell that ensures your little one cannot roll off. It's designed for kids making that transition between cribs and big-kid beds, and it's easy to deflate and pack into its carrying bag before moving to your next destination.

Setup is relatively quick once you get the hang of detaching the electric pump, and it's easy to move around with the handles. Another plus: It comes with a patch kit. The handles are not as easy to clean as the rest of the bed, but we do appreciate that the removable mattress comes in three different colors for kids who definitely have their design preferences. 

The mattress has a faint chemical smell at first, but it's not as eye-watering as some of the other inflatables we tested. It's also very durable due to its thick vinyl material .

• Weight: 8 pounds
• Size: 62 x 39 x 12 inches inflated

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

Best for Camping

Enerplex kids inflatable travel bed.

This puncture-proof toddler travel bed can be used during trips or at home as a transitional bed for toddlers who are still in that in-between stage. A 120-volt electric pump (and three universal nozzles) is a game changer and makes inflating the bed a breeze. We love how quickly and easily this bed can be put together: It took us five minutes to blow up both parts of the bed and attach a fitted sheet. Best of all, we didn’t even need to glance at the instructions while doing so.

In case you worry about your toddler rolling off the mattress, the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed has bumpers along three sides. The removable coil-beam mattress rests snugly inside the outer shell and fits a standard crib sheet. 

Even though the bed is bulky, it comes with a large carry bag that you can wear as a backpack, freeing your hands for luggage or a kid. We also like that the electric pump comes with an adapter for your car, making it ideal for camping. It can be wiped down and the crib sheet can be tossed in the laundry for cleanup. One downfall: It has a chemical smell.

• Material: Not listed
• Weight: 11.88 pounds
• Size: 66 x 44 x 13 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 36 months and up; up to 150 pounds

Best Pop-Up Crib

Babybjörn travel crib light.

• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.2 /5
• Design 5 /5

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib is a great option for parents who prefer more of a crib design than an inflatable mattress. Toddlers who need more than bumpers to keep them safe in bed can benefit from this travel crib’s high mesh walls and a mattress that sits low to the floor—which means it's difficult to climb in and out of, let alone roll off of. You won’t need to worry about messes or nighttime accidents because the fabric can be wiped down quickly, and the exterior fabric can be removed from the frame and washed.

The BabyBjorn is a dream to assemble: Setup takes two minutes, and you can put a standard crib sheet on the bed without a struggle, even after attaching the mattress to the four corner safety latches. The mattress is comfortable and a standard crib size . It is also a good pick if you need a travel bed that isn't hard on your back. It is very light, it comes with a carrying case, and it fits into a car trunk. However, the mattress does lie low to the ground, so picking up your child may be tough on your back if they are lying down.

The main reason this crib isn't our top pick is that it's much more expensive than most of the other products on this list, but it's a worthwhile investment if you have the room in your budget.

• Material: Polyester
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Size: Mattress 23.5 x 41 x 1.2 inches; assembled crib 32 x 44 x 24 inches; 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches in bag
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until your toddler can climb out of this travel crib

Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Hugbino inflatable toddler bed.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5

The Hugbino provides a lot of the same features as other inflatable mattresses on this list, but at a lower price. The removable mattress is coated in soft velvet flocking to keep your little one comfortable while they snooze, and bumpers along all four sides of the outer shell keep them in bed. It's also a cinch to clean. We appreciate that the mattress can be spot-cleaned, and a sheet can go over the mattress for extra protection.

This inexpensive bed does come with an electric pump, but the setup is not as easy as with other travel beds we tested. We had to use two sets of hands to get the nozzle on before it started to deflate. However, it is light and easy to store and comes with a carrying bag .

• Material : Polyvinyl chloride
• Weight: 6.63 pounds
• Size: 63.6 x 42.5 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit : Not listed

Best Crib to Fly With

Guava family lotus travel crib.

• Ease of Setup 4.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Value 3.8 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4 /5

This crib can’t make traveling on a plane with a toddler less challenging, but it can simplify your life when you get to your destination. In terms of ease of use, this travel bed only took us five minutes to set up and didn't require too much prep work to understand how to put it together. The setup process isn't as straightforward as other travel beds we tested, but it's not difficult.

An access door makes it easier to get to your little one without leaning over the side. You can use the entrance to lay them on the padded, waterproof mattress inside the mesh enclosure or let them go in and out of the crib when they are awake. The mattress is easy enough to wipe, but the fabric around the top of the crib is so absorbent that it's tough to give it a good cleaning. You can also unzip the bed cover and throw it into the washer for a deep clean. This convenience does come at a higher price than a lot of competitors, however.

We like the travel crib's packaging, which comes with shoulder and backpack straps that make it easy to carry around in an airport. It is a tad heavy, however.

• Material: Polyvinyl chloride
• Weight: 13 pounds, 15 pounds with bag
• Size: Mattress 41.5 x 23.5 x 1.4 inches; crib 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches; 24 x 12 x 8 in backpack
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until child can climb out

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

Best for Naps

Milliard toddler nap mat.

The Milliard Toddler Nap Mat Tri Folding Mattress can be used for napping anywhere. Simply unfold it at the hotel, a relative's house, or a camping tent, and your little one is good to get their sleep on. It doesn't come with a carrying case, which may make it a pain to carry. But if your toddler spills a drink or has an accident on this mattress, the good news is that it's effortless to clean: It has a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed and a foam mattress that can be spot-cleaned. Plus, it's got a cozy, thick mattress that's comfortable for naptime.

This folding mattress doesn't require any assembly—just take it right out of the box. However, after unboxing, it takes 48 hours to reach the highest comfort level.

• Material: Foam mattress, bamboo cover
• Weight: 8.74 pounds
• Size: 58 x 24 x 3 inches unfolded; 24 x 19 x 9 folded

Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress

• Comfort 5 /5
• Effectiveness 3 /5

The Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed is a good pick for families who want a larger travel bed without bumpers that’s a little higher off the floor (16.5 inches) than the toddler beds on this list. A built-in pump makes for easy assembly, since you just turn the panel to either inflate or deflate, and you’re done! When it needs a cleaning, just wipe down as needed.

The mattress comes with a duffel bag for storage and travel, but it's not the most compact, and the bag isn't as comfortable as others we tested. On the plus side, the bed has a built-in pillow rest , so you won’t have to pack an extra pillow for your kid when you travel.

• Weight: 10.16 pounds
• Size: 75 x 39 x 16.5 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 300 pounds

Our Testing Process and Experts

To find the best toddler travel beds, we tested 20 beds in the Parents Testing Lab and in our own homes. We first tried to assemble the travel beds—with one hand, if possible. After that, we noted whether we needed to use both hands or had to get another adult to help. We also timed just how long the setup took for each bed. We then tested how well the toddler travel beds hold a toddler's weight using a 25-to-30-pound sandbag.

Next, we looked at how hard it would be to clean messes on the beds, examining hard-to-reach areas and taking note of the material and what it felt like to wipe it. We tested whether we could use a standard crib sheet as well, and then we tried to disassemble the beds one-handed. After breaking them down, we considered how long it took us and how difficult it was to place the beds inside their carry bags, if bags were included. Finally, we lifted the carrying bags to assess the beds’ portability. 

In addition to lab and real-world testing, we spoke with medical experts to gather their input on how to choose a toddler travel bed. We spoke to the following experts:

• Anjuli Gans , MD, a pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center, West Philadelphia
• Lynelle Schneeberg , PsyD, a pediatric sleep psychologist and author

Factors to Consider in a Toddler Travel Bed

• Comfort: As you’ve probably realized when getting a kid to sleep at home, comfort is key. Comfort for some toddlers may mean a favorite blanket, while others require a crib. Parents should consider various must-haves to make traveling easier and smoother when trekking across the country—or a few hours away—with your little one.
• Safety: Dr. Gans recommends researching products on the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) website to determine their safety and ensure that they haven't been recalled. When purchasing a crib or bassinet, parents of babies should also practice the same safe sleeping rules they implement at home. "Every toddler travel bed has age and weight requirements, so I would definitely check those first and make sure it matches up (with your toddler's age and weight)," she explains. Then, stick to simple beds without all the added features. "The less they have, the better.” Once you've narrowed down your selection to simple beds, make sure there are no bumpers or parts that can potentially trap your baby, and check corner points and sharp corners. "Corner points are sometimes a place where kids can get clothing caught or get injured, so make sure it doesn't have sharp corners," explains Dr. Gans. "And remember that pillows and blankets are still recommended for toddlers age 2 and over."
• Ease of Use: If you need a toddler travel bed that is easy to carry, quick to assemble, and doesn't require much work, then ease of use and portability must be considered when selecting a toddler travel bed. Some toddler travel beds can be assembled using one hand and only take minutes to assemble. That is very helpful if you arrive at a destination with a sleeping or cranky tot . You may want to look for bags that allow hands-free carrying. Another consideration is whether the bed is easy to put in those bags so you don’t find yourself fighting to pack it back in when it’s time to go home. If you are in a situation where you don't have a toddler travel bed, don't worry. "If you are staying somewhere, and they allow you to request a crib, you can pull out the mattress and just lay it on the floor," Dr. Gans adds. "If it's in a safe place for your toddler, then it is perfectly fine. Make sure it is somewhere they can have adult supervision at all times and within eye view, because you may not be able to safetyproof rooms the way you can at home."

How can I keep my toddler in bed while traveling?

A pack-and-play or travel bed with inflatable bumpers (which are not recommended for babies, of course!) can help keep a toddler from rolling onto the floor. You can also bring along some of their favorite items from home to help them want to stay in bed in a strange new place.

"The best thing to do when traveling is to bring along items from the child's home bedroom," recommends Dr. Schneeberg. "Parents can bring along the child's favorite pillow, 'bedtime buddy' (security object), and favorite books, for example. If the child is used to a certain night light or a sound machine , these can be brought along as well."

Can my 2-year-old sleep in a travel cot?

Certain travel cots are appropriate for 2-year-olds, but young 2-year-olds who haven't yet transitioned to a toddler bed may be more comfortable and safer in more crib-like pack-and-plays or travel beds with safety rails.

Can I put my 3-year-old in a toddler cot?

Unless a manufacturer suggests otherwise (usually based on a child's weight or height), most toddler travel cots are appropriate for 3-year-olds who have already transitioned from a crib to a bed.

How much is a toddler travel bed?

A high-quality travel toddler bed will generally cost between $60 and $100, although some can be cheaper, and certain models can cost upwards of $200. Pricier travel beds often come with more accessories and features, although not every family will need extra bells and whistles.

Ambrosia V. Brody is a California-based editor, journalist, and mother of three. She has worked as a professional journalist for more than 16 years. You can find her at the library, Starbucks, or the park with her kids when she isn't writing.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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