travel bed for 15 month old

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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.

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• Travel Products
• Family Travel

The 7 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 20 toddler travel beds to find the most safe, secure, and comfortable options.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Traveling with kids is an incredible experience, but also a challenging one — for everyone involved. And sleep can be the most challenging aspect of the experience. New environments present toddlers with distractions, temptations to explore when they should be sleeping, and at worst, safety risks. Having the right sleep setup can make the whole experience more enjoyable, and for many parents, this means investing in a dedicated travel bed for your toddler.

The ideal one should be easy to set up and break down, comfortable to sleep on, and above all, safe. We tested 20 toddler beds in a range of styles for their ease of use, portability, ease of cleaning, and overall value, and will continue testing them over the next six months. Our top picks to suit any type of travel are here.

As you’re perusing our picks and choosing your own toddler travel bed, remember: the actual sleep surface is just one component of better sleep while traveling. Keeping [a] routine is important too, says Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatrician at Golisano Children’s Hospital at the University of Rochester Medical Center. “Trying to incorporate a regular bedtime routine can be helpful as maybe the exact sleep surface/surroundings will be different, the routine will be familiar,” says Dr. Murray. “Bath, brush, book, bed is a great routine (bath might not happen every night, and that is OK!).”

Keep in mind that the picks below are for toddlers and up (at least 1-3 years old). “All infants (up to one year) need to be in their own safe sleep space,” says Dr. Murray. “For travel purposes, this will be some type of crib/travel crib. Nothing inflatable.” Remember to consider the age and developmental needs of your individual child when selecting a travel bed, and to make sure any product you use adheres to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s safety standards .

Best Overall

Jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

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

This bed’s built-in pump is unique and user-friendly, with no potentially dangerous loose parts.

The product is pared down by design for safety and portability, which means it doesn’t boast any luxury features for the higher price tag.

The JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper earned our top slot for its unique design and ease of use. While many travel toddler beds come with an external air pump, this one features a hidden pump built into the mattress that’s operated by hand or foot — ideal if you’re traveling somewhere without easy access to power outlets. Setup took a little longer during our testing than the one minute boasted by the brand, but we still had it inflated and ready to go in less than five minutes. The one-piece mattress has a removable and machine-washable cover and a water-repellent bottom, and we felt like the whole mattress would hold up well to spot-cleaning.

Stokke is known for its kid-friendly travel products; the brand’s ride-on suitcase and in-flight bed is the best we’ve seen. While the CloudSleeper isn’t designed to be used during air travel, it is small and light enough to fit inside your carry-on. This model is pricier than many options we tested, but its high-quality design and easy setup make it our top choice.

The Details: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches (open) | 15 x 11 x 4 inches (packed) | 3.1 pounds | Nylon mattress with polyester cover | Ages 3 years and up; up to 149.9 pounds

Best Inflatable

Eltow inflatable toddler bed.

 Amazon

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

The mattress and bed frame inflate and deflate quickly and easily.

The bed gives off a strong plastic smell when it’s first unpacked.

Inflatable mattresses can be a headache to set up without a high-functioning pump, especially when you have a tired and cranky toddler waiting in the wings. The Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed comes with an effective pump, and had one of the easiest setups of all the models we tested. The mattress and the inflatable “bed frame” were both ready to go in less than five minutes, although we did note that a setup partner was helpful to keep the mattress from losing air after the pump nozzle was removed.

This model’s mattress and “frame” with bumpered sides are two separate pieces, which makes it easy to tuck a crib sheet around the mattress. The removable mattress piece also means it’s easy to access all corners of the vinyl frame to wipe it down after messes or before storing. We did notice a strong plastic odor when the bed was unpacked, so we recommend airing it out before using it for the first time.

The Details: 63 x 40 x 12 inches (open) | 10 pounds | Vinyl, velvet | Up to 310 pounds

Most Durable

Hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

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

The bed’s double plug and included patch kit make it extra resistant to leaks.

The secure double plug can also make it tricky to inflate.

One major disadvantage to inflatable mattresses? They have a tendency to puncture or lose air overnight. At best that leaves your toddler uncomfortable on a hard floor; at worst, it can be a safety risk if the mattress’s sides trap your child. This Hiccapop model impressed us with its durability and thoughtful features meant to prevent leaks. The bed has a secure double plug, which is very resistant to curious little fingers and unlikely to spring open on its own during the night. (Important to note: the secure plug also makes the bed trickier to set up than some.) It also comes with its own patch kit, so any punctures that do occur can be quickly sealed off.

This bed’s inflatable “frame” is thoughtfully designed, with bumpers on all four sides and a handle for moving it from room to room while inflated. The vinyl material is easily wipeable, and the plastic odor on first use is milder than many models we tested. Overall, this bed is a durable option and a great value.

The Details: 62 x 39 x 12 inches (open) | 8 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride | Up to 310 pounds

Best for Car Travel

Enerplex kids inflatable travel bed.

The high-speed pump with a car adaptor makes this bed a versatile choice for car travel.

When packed, this bed is heavier and bulkier than most models.

The EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed is our pick for car travel, when size and weight are less of a consideration but comfort is still key. Although this bed is bulkier and heavier than most when packed, it’s incredibly easy to set up, and easy to fold back up and pack into its included carry bag. The high-speed pump is a game-changer — we didn’t need the included directions for setup, and the bed inflated quickly. The pump also comes with a car adaptor, making it a great option for camping.

Like many inflatable mattresses, this bed has a plastic odor and needs to be off-gassed before use. The two-piece bed wipes down easily and the mattress is durable: the bed didn’t shift or deflate during our sandbag test. Because this mattress is on the heavy side when deflated, it’s best for older toddlers who are less likely to be pinned down if it unexpectedly loses air.

The Details: 66 x 44 x 13 inches | 12.3 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride | Ages 3 years and up; up to 150 pounds

Best Pop-up Crib

Babybjörn travel crib light.

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

We love this stylish travel crib for its easy setup and durability.

The price point may not be affordable for all families.

If you’re traveling with an infant or a younger toddler, or if keeping your child contained in a new space is your top priority, a travel crib is your best bet. We love the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light for its easy setup and durability. It took us less than two minutes to set up, and once set up, the bed is extremely secure and stable. The crib legs lock into place, and the mattress attaches to four corner straps to keep it from shifting.

Unlike some portable cribs, this one is very easy to clean. The exterior fabric and the mattress cover can be removed from the frame and machine-washed, and the rest of the bed is easily wipeable. Although this travel bed option isn’t as compact as an inflatable mattress, we found it surprisingly light. When packed into its included carrying case, it fits easily in a standard car trunk. This crib is significantly pricier than other similar options, but its durability means it can be used for multiple kids and handed down.

The Details: 32 x 44 x 24 inches (open) | 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches (packed) | 13 pounds | Polyester, polyether foam, painted steel | Ages 0-3

Best Lightweight

Hugbino inflatable toddler bed.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5

This mattress is extremely portable and light when packed.

Setup requires two people to keep the mattress from losing air before it’s sealed off.

Inflatable mattresses can feel bulky and unwieldy when deflated and packed, but at just over six pounds, this Hugbino portable mattress is lightweight and extremely portable. The mattress comes with its own pump, and is easy to assemble in less than five minutes. We did find that inflating the mattress was easiest with two people — otherwise it was a challenge to close the nozzle plug before air started escaping. Like many toddler beds, this one has bumpered sides to keep little ones from rolling off during the night; these bumpers are slightly lower than some models, so if you have an incredibly active sleeper, you may want to consider bolstering the sides with additional pillows or stuffed animals for security.

We also found it just as easy to store as it is to set up: the mattress packs easily into its included carry bag. This bed’s small footprint when packed and light weight make it a great option for stashing at a frequent travel destination like grandma’s house.

The Details: 63.6 x 42.5 inches (open) | 6.6 pounds | Vinyl, faux suede | Up to 100 pounds

Best Folding Mat

Milliard toddler nap mat.

• Portability 4 /5

This memory foam mat is an extremely comfortable naptime option.

The case for this mat has to be purchased separately.

For a quick naptime solution, or for travel destinations where durability is key (like camping), a foldable mat is a great choice. This memory foam mat from Milliard is a light and comfortable option for toddler sleep. The mat comes with a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed, and the mat itself can be spot-cleaned as needed. It folds up easily and stacks nicely, but since it doesn’t deflate, it’s not as compact as an air mattress and does take up storage space. Milliard sells carrying cases for this mattress, but they need to be purchased separately.

Because this mat is memory foam, it needs 48 hours with all zippers open to reach its highest comfort level before using it for the first time. The process is worth the wait, however, as we found this to be one of the more comfortable options for naptime we’ve seen.

The Details: 58 x 24 x 3 inches (open) | 24 x 19 x 9 inches (packed) | 8.9 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride, CertiPur certified foam | Ages 3-6

Other Toddler Travel Beds We Liked

These toddler travel beds did not make our final list yet still stood out from the pack. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed : This bed is durable and comfortable, and the price is hard to beat. But because it’s built like a standard twin bed — it’s on the large side, with no bumper or sides — it’s better suited for older kids versus toddlers.

Guava Baby Lotus Travel Crib : We loved the Guava’s attractive and easy-to-use carry bag. However, it is heavy when packed, and we were torn on the usefulness of the zippered opening in the side, which makes the bed less secure for mobile toddlers. Ultimately we preferred the setup and breakdown on the similarly priced BabyBjorn model.

The team spent a day in our New York City lab, putting 20 toddler beds to the test. We tested for ease of use, portability, ease of cleaning, and overall value, rating each category on a scale of 1-5 and selecting top choices based on their scores.

To get a sense of how easy these products would be to use with a cranky toddler on hand, we practiced setting up each bed one-handed, watching a timer closely — then did the whole thing in reverse and broke each bed down. Testers laid down on the beds, weighted them down with sandbags, and evaluated their durability. They considered the hidden nooks and crannies on each bed that might become filled with crumbs or worse, and evaluated how easy it was to get each one spic and span again. Our testing is ongoing for an additional six months to ensure each bed stands the test of time when used by actual children, too.

Tips for Buying a Toddler Travel Bed

Consider your toddler’s sleep needs.

The most important consideration when choosing a toddler travel bed is your individual child’s sleep style and needs. If your child is an active sleeper and tends to roll off of surfaces, you’ll want to choose a bed that has higher bumpers to keep them on the mattress. And if your toddler is a wanderer, you may want a fully contained space like a travel crib to keep them safe. If you can, try to approximate your child’s home sleeping environment as closely as possible. If they’re still in a crib at home, purchase a crib for travel; if they’re using a convertible toddler bed with a railing and high headboard, look for a travel bed with a similar cozy feel.

Balance comfort with packability and safety

A plush, soft sleeping surface might seem like a recipe for better sleep, but when it comes to traveling with a toddler, simpler is usually better. A thinner inflatable mattress, for example, will not only pack down smaller, but will be safer if it malfunctions and deflates on your child overnight. “Remember, many of the inflatable mattresses are made from thick or stiff material that a toddler might not be able to push off of themself,” Dr. Murray notes. “The thinner or more standard mattress size inflatable mattresses are better for those 1-3 years of age.” And most packable cribs have thin mattresses for a reason: a firm sleeping surface is safest for younger kids. “You want to choose something that is sturdy but has the normal safety features of a relatively firm mattress and stable sides,” says Dr. Murray.

Match size, weight, and age recommendations to your child

Most travel toddler beds have clear recommendations for age range and maximum height and/or weight for use. Pay close attention to these guidelines and match them to your child, but use your own judgment as well to ensure you’re choosing the safest option. Although most inflatable mattresses are designed for ages 3 and up, some will claim to be suitable for any age. If your toddler is on the younger side or moves around a lot while sleeping, you’ll want to avoid mattresses altogether — even those that claim to be safe for littler ones — and opt for a portable crib-style bed.

Factor in your final destination

Another crucial consideration when you’re purchasing a toddler travel bed is what type of environment you’re traveling to. “Are you staying in a hotel room, which is usually pretty sparse but might have loose or stray electrical cords? Or are you staying at grandparents' where there may be stairs that aren't protected by a baby gate or other low hazards since the house might no longer be child proof?” Dr. Murray notes. Travel locations with more potential hazards might require portable cribs or mattresses that better contain your toddler, whereas a fully childproofed friend’s or grandparent’s house might offer more flexibility for your toddler to roam and explore.

Where you lay your child down to sleep while traveling will heavily depend on the age and needs of your child, your family’s preferences, and your travel circumstances. Some families choose to bring a dedicated bed for their toddler when they travel, while others prefer to co-sleep or use available extra beds at your destination (i.e., pullout sofas or cots). Also consider the sleep environment that works best for your child: do they need a dark, quiet room, or are they more comfortable within earshot of hustle and bustle in the house? Whatever sleep setup you choose for your toddler, make sure they’re in a safe, supervised location and adhere to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines for safe sleep.

Toddlerhood spans a whole range of developmental stages — technically a toddler is anywhere from 1 to 3 years old. There’s no hard and firm age when a child becomes ready for a toddler bed, but you should consider where they fall on the spectrum of toddlerhood. “Those who are still close to 1 year old will need an environment that is more crib-like,” Dr. Murray notes. “A 3-year-old will have more escape skills and perhaps more interest in wandering, but can likely be safe in a hotel bed or pull-out couch.” Always consult the age limits noted on any toddler bed to make sure the manufacturer recommends it for your child’s age.

You may not be in the habit of wiping down your full-size air mattress after every set of overnight guests, but trust us, you’ll want to clean your toddler travel bed frequently. Luckily, most products have accounted for this, and include either removable covers, wipeable surfaces, or both. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before purchasing to make sure the bed’s washability suits your needs, and follow instructions closely when cleaning to ensure the bed lasts.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Mandy Harris is a contributing writer at Travel + Leisure , and has vetted hundreds of parenting products over the last decade. For this story, she analyzed in-house testing insights, manufacturer details, and her own experience as a frequent toddler wrangler to determine the best toddler beds for every type of travel.

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The Best Toddler Travel Beds We've Tested on the Road and in Our Lab

Solve at least one of your toddler sleep challenges!

Our Favorites

Our testing process, our experts.

• Factors to Consider

Your Questions, Answered

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

Parents / 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 a protected sleep space, resulting in a well-rested child and a smoother trip for everyone. To help you shop for the best suited to your kid and your travel plans, we've tested dozens of travel beds , mattresses, and pack-and-plays in our lab and at home with our kids. For some parents, portable 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 , M.D., 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 in the lab and our homes by assembling and disassembling them—even seeing if we could do it one-handed—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. Here, we've selected the best toddler travel beds we’ve tested, and we’ll continue to test new models as they come out.

• Best Overall:   JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper
• Best Inflatable:   Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed
• Best With Pump:   Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
• Best for Camping:   EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed
• Best Pop-Up Crib:   BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
• Best Budget:   Hugbino Inflatable Toddler Bed
• Best Crib to Fly With:   Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib
• Best for Naps:   Milliard Toddler Nap Mat
• Best Twin:   Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress

Best Overall: JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper

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, it's not hard 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 after any accidents. 

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

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

Parents/Tamara Staples

Best Inflatable: Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed

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

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. It's also very durable due to its  thick vinyl material .

The mattress has a faint chemical smell at first, but it's not as eye-watering as some of the other inflatables we tested.

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

Parents / Tamara Staples

Best for Camping: EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed

This nearly puncture-proof  toddler travel bed can be used during trips or at home as a transitional bed for toddlers who are still getting used to not having crib walls. 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

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. Another advantage is that you won't need to worry about punctures, as this is not an inflatable mattress. 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, comes with a carrying case, and 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

Parents / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget: Hugbino Inflatable Toddler Bed

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.

• Material : Polyvinyl chloride
• Weight:  6.63 pounds
• Size:  63.6 x 42.5 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit : 130 pounds

Best Crib to Fly With: Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib

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. We like the travel crib's packaging, which comes with  shoulder and backpack straps  that make it easy to carry around in an airport. 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 to let them go in and out of the crib when they are awake. You can unzip the bed cover and throw it into the washer for a deep clean.

It is a tad heavy to carry for long periods of time. Also 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.

• 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

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
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit : Not listed

Best Twin: Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress

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. It also has a  built-in pillow rest , so you won’t have to pack an extra pillow for your kid when you travel.

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.

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

To find the best toddler travel beds, we tested 20 travel beds and more than 20 pack-and-plays in the Parents Testing Lab, in our own homes, and on the road. 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, M.D., a pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center, West Philadelphia
• Lynelle Schneeberg , PsyD, a pediatric sleep psychologist and author

Parents / Leticia Almeida

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 Product 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 child, 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 [only] 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 safety-proof 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. If your child is still sleeping in a crib at home, you will probably want to keep them in a pack-and-play or travel crib while traveling. 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,' 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.

Related Articles

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 (2023)

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.

• Second Trimester

10 Best Toddler Travel Bed Options for Safe Slumber on the Go

Sleeping arrangements for your little one can get a bit complicated when your family is traveling—especially as your child enters toddlerhood. Travel cribs are typically recommended for use up until 3 years old, but many children outgrow the height and weight limitations well before then. Typically, portable cribs have a weight limit of around 30 pounds, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends children no taller than 35 inches use them for sleep or play. Travel cribs can also become unsafe at an early age if your little one discovers how to climb out. So if they’re too big to sleep safely in a travel crib and too small to slumber in a regular bed, what’s the in-between?

The answer: Toddler travel beds. These portable beds for toddlers come in a variety of styles, but they’re all designed to provide a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your growing tot. In addition to accommodating children who have phased out of travel cribs, toddler travel beds are also a much more portable option, as they tend to be both lighter and more compact than a travel crib. Many also have a high weight capacity and can be used for older children, making them a versatile choice. Here’s a closer look at the different options and what factors to consider when choosing—then, shop our top picks for several categories.

How We Chose the Best Portable Toddler Beds

As tots get older, they need a lot of new gear to keep up with their rapid development, like appropriately sized travel beds. To help you pick out the best portable toddler bed for your kiddo, we browsed designs from leading brands and online retailers, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling online. When choosing beds to include in our roundup, we considered a list of criteria, such as quality and durability, value, style, size, portability, material and, of course, safety. We also read user reviews to get the lowdown on how these portable toddler beds have worked for real families—plus, we didn’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating.

To make sure we’re highlighting products that are safe and effective, we chatted with two pediatric sleep consultants to understand essential features and safety considerations to keep top of mind when you’re shopping. We also followed the safety recommendations of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Lastly, some of these toddler travel beds were reviewed by our team of independent product testers, providing additional insight for our roundup.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here .

The Best Portable Toddler Beds To Shop

Read on for our top picks in toddler travel beds, from budget-friendly to easily portable and everything in between.

Overall best portable toddler bed

• Washable, temperature-regulating mesh cover
• Integrated pump for easy inflation
• Water-repellent bottom wipes clean
• May deflate over time

The folks at Stokke thought of everything when they designed this portable bed for toddlers. It easily inflates in less than a minute—thanks to a built-in manual pump—and only takes one adult to operate. Rest assured that full-length bumpers along the sides will keep your little one secure at naptime or nighttime. It also has a weight capacity of up to 150 pounds, making this a travel option you can use well past toddlerhood. The real standout feature, though, is the fold: Guidelines help show you exactly how to fold up this inflatable travel bed (no having to stuff it back into the bag), and the double-layered zipper bag is compact enough to fit into a backpack or purse.

Dimensions: 59.1" (L) x 29.5" (W) x 6.7" (H) | Weight: 3.1 lbs. | Material: 100% polyester | Age/weight limit: 3+ years/149.9 lbs.

Best inflatable toddler bed

• Bumpers offer extra security
• Patch kit included
• Easy to transport
• Odor reported by some users
• Doesn’t come with a sheet

The Hiccapop Inflatable Travel Bed will keep even the most active sleepers secure, thanks to four sides of extra-long and extra-tall bumpers. Welded seams and ultra-thick vinyl mean it can withstand the roughest of circumstances, and it’s covered by a lifetime guarantee, even against accidental damage. Plus, with a weight capacity of up to 310 pounds, this is a travel bed that will be with you for the long run.

Dimensions: 62" (L) x 39" (W) x 12" (H) | Weight: 8 lbs. | Material: 100% vinyl | Age/weight limit: 310 lbs.

Best toddler travel crib

• Super easy to set up and break down
• Plush, built-in mattress
• Comes with a carry bag
• Not suitable for older toddlers

If your little one still needs a crib , this portable toddler bed is sure to meet your family’s needs. As your tot snoozes, you’ll be able to keep an eye on them thanks to the ventilated, mesh sides—plus, the soft, built-in mattress will ensure they’re supported and comfy throughout the night. This sleek toddler travel bed can be opened and set up in seconds. Our product tester agreed, telling us, “after taking the crib out of the carrying case, I was shocked at how easily I could set it up by myself. It folds in and out so easily, I could almost do it with one hand." Then, when it’s time to get back on the road, simply fold it back up and pop it into the convenient carry bag—easy peasy.

Dimensions: 44" (L) x 25" (W) x 32" (H) | Weight: 13 lbs. | Material: Polyester/steel | Age/weight limit: 0 to 2 years/35 lbs.

Best toddler travel tent

• Lightweight and easily collapsible
• Great for infants, toddlers and kids
• Self-inflating mattress
• Can be tricky to fold
• Loud zipper, according to some

Sleeping outdoors comes with its own set of challenges, particularly around keeping your child protected from the elements. That’s where the Joovy Gloo Portable Kids Travel Tent comes in handy. It’s ideal for everything from naps on the beach to a full-on family camping trip. The breathable zippered enclosure offers UPF 50 sun protection as well as a barrier from bugs and moisture. A self-inflating mattress pad will make your little one forget they’re snoozing on the ground, or just keep them comfy while they play. An added bonus: This toddler travel tent is machine-washable (which takes care of any and all outdoor messes).

Dimensions: 51.5" (L) x 28" (W) x 24.5" (H) | Weight: 5.5 lbs. | Material: Polyester/nylon | Age/weight limit: 6 months to 5 years

Best toddler travel cot

• Quick and easy setup
• Washable fitted sheet
• Doesn’t come with a carrying bag

Next up is a versatile cot that's a great non-inflatable toddler bed option. The durable frame unfolds to provide a sturdy yet comfy resting place. At nine inches off the floor, it keeps your little one comfortably away from the ground, but it’s not high enough that they can injure themselves. The cot is made of a durable nylon material that’s also washable, and it comes with a fitted sheet for comfort. Whether it’s a sleepover, camping trip or even a nap at daycare, this toddler travel cot is a versatile and convenient pick. No wonder it has thousands of glowing reviews!

Dimensions: 48" (L) x 24.5" (W) x 9" (H) | Weight: 7 lbs. | Material: Cotton/steel | Age/weight limit: 2 to 5 years/75 lbs.

Best portable toddler bed with sides

• Included electric pump
• Sheet not included

This inflatable toddler travel bed from Enerplex checks all the important boxes: 13-inch bumpers on three sides for security, puncture-resistant material for durability and a coil-beam inner mattress for comfort. But where this toddler travel bed separates itself from the pack is the included car adaptors for the electric pump, making it perfect for camping trips (or anywhere you find yourself caught without a plug).

Dimensions: 66" (L) x 44" (W) x 13" (H) | Weight: 12.6 lbs. | Material: Vinyl | Age/weight limit: 3+ years/150 lbs.

Best portable toddler bed with bumpers

• Soft, puncture-resistant vinyl
• Comes with a high-speed pump and a travel bag

If your tot moves around a lot while they snooze, an inflatable toddler bed with bumpers can offer added security and peace of mind. Take this durable design, for instance. No matter how wiggly your little one is, you can ensure they won’t roll off the bed, thanks to the safety bumpers on each side. You’ll also appreciate how it can be inflated and deflated in seconds, and that it comes with a high-speed pump. Another unique feature: The inflatable mattress is detachable, meaning you can snugly tuck sheets onto it. Lastly, this toddler travel bed has a weight limit of 310 pounds, so it can be used for many future trips.

Dimensions: 63" (L) x 40" (W) x 12" (H) | Weight: 9.7 lbs. | Material: Vinyl | Age/weight limit: 18+ months/310 lbs.

Best toddler travel nap mat

• Promotes independence
• Comes with a blanket and a pillow
• Easily rolls up and unfolds
• Indoor use only

This toddler travel nap mat from Lovevery is ideal for short-term snoozes on the go. With this soft set, you’ll receive everything you need to create a comfy sleep space for your kiddo, including a padded nap mat, a blanket and a pillow . Plus, custom buckles (designed with teeny tiny hands in mind) will encourage your child to set up, roll and carry their mat themselves, promoting independence. For added peace of mind, know that it’s made from OEKO TEX-certified organic cotton—and that it’s machine-washable to boot.

Dimensions: 55" (L) x 20.5" (W) | Weight: 11.6 oz. | Material: 100% cotton (outer)/poly (filling)/plastic (buckles) | Age/weight limit: 18 months to 5 years

Best affordable portable toddler bed

• Super lightweight
• Comes with a carry bag and patch kit
• Doesn’t come with a pump

This inflatable air bed from Intex is no-frills, but if you’re looking for a solid, budget-friendly option, it’s sure to check all of the boxes on your list. It comes with a carry bag and patch kit for added convenience. What’s more, it can handle children up to 10 years old (lasting you well beyond the toddler years). Not bad for an inflatable toddler bed ringing in around the $20 mark!

Dimensions: 62" (L) x 34.5" (W) x 7" (H) | Weight: 3.5 oz. | Material: PVC | Age/weight limit: 3 to 10 years/100 lbs.

Best fun toddler travel bed

• Available in several fun designs
• Not suitable for younger toddlers
• Doesn’t come with an air pump

Last but not least on our list of the best toddler travel beds is this super-fun option from FUNBOY. Whether you’re planning a special sleepover for your little one or are often on the road with your kiddo, this car-shaped air mattress is sure to bring a smile to their face. It features a cozy surface for comfy snoozes and has a low design that’s easy for kids to get in and out of independently. This delightful toddler air mattress also comes in several other styles, including a castle and a speed boat . We’re obsessed!

Dimensions: 74" (L) x 40" (W) x 15" (H) | Weight: N/A | Material: Vinyl | Age/weight limit: 3 to 12 years

Types of Portable Toddler Beds

There are a variety of portable toddler beds on the market. Here’s a breakdown of the different types:

Inflatable. The most common type are inflatable toddler beds, which resemble air mattresses. These are a popular choice because of their easy portability (since they can be deflated when not in use) and comfort—but they often require a pump to inflate, which may or may not be included. Additionally, children 15 months of age or younger should never sleep on an inflatable mattress, per the CPSC .

Folding cots. Foldable travel beds offer one of the easiest setups (no inflation necessary) and are commonly used in childcare settings for naps. They keep your little one off the ground while sleeping, but they typically don’t have any side protection (which may not work for all sleepers).

Portable bed rails. Another great option in terms of portability, bed rails are an easy way to make any bed safe and secure for a toddler to sleep in. Make sure there’s a mechanism to secure them in place and that they don’t lose inflation when in use.

Tents. For little ones who like to block out the world while they sleep, tents are a solid choice. They’re one of the few toddler sleep options that provide an enclosed location for your child to sleep, making it ideal for little escape artists. However, note that the interior mattresses are often not super thick or padded.

What To Look For In a Portable Toddler Bed

Not sure where to begin when it comes to picking out a toddler travel bed? We’ve got you covered. Keep these factors top of mind before deciding on a portable bed for toddlers:

Lifestyle. First things first: Figure out what type of travel you’ll be doing and where you’ll be using the bed, suggests Jillian Thistel, a certified pediatric sleep consultant and founder of Twinkling Stars Pediatric Sleep Consulting in Ontario, Canada. By doing so, you can get an idea of what size and shape bed will work best for your needs.

Setup. Check out how simple it is to both set up and break down the toddler travel bed you choose. Also, take a look at what’s required (any additional pumps or parts) to make sure you’ll have it on hand if it’s not already included.

Height and weight limits. Thistel advises parents to “check out the height and weight limit of the travel bed when making a decision." This way, you can create a safe sleeping spot for your little one, even while you’re on the go.

Padding. Padding is another feature to look out for as you shop; most inflatable or portable toddler beds vary in levels of firmness, so this will largely depend on your and your child’s preferences. Rachel Mitchell , a certified sleep specialist and the founder of My Sweet Sleeper , suggests “testing this out before you travel to make sure that your child is comfortable and adjust as needed."

Portability. Many toddler travel beds fold down to a compact size and come with their own travel bags for easy transport. For families on the go, this is essential.

Care. Whether it’s a nighttime accident or a camping mess, you’ll want a toddler travel bed that’s easy to clean. Look for materials that can be wiped down or protective sheets that are machine-washable. For added comfort and safety, Mitchell also recommends that caregivers opt for a toddler travel bed made from breathable, lightweight materials.

Portable Toddler Bed Safety Tips

A safe sleep environment is the top priority, whether at home or elsewhere. Before purchasing a portable bed for toddlers, Thistel advises parents to “make sure that it meets the CPSC requirements, and that there haven’t been any recalls on the product." As you set up the bed, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it’s properly assembled. It shouldn’t be too far off the ground—ideally, no more than 24 inches, says Mitchell. Once it’s put together, Thistlel adds, check that there are no loose parts or pieces that could pose a risk. The bed should also be placed in a safe place away from cords, outlets and wall hangings, and the surrounding area should be childproofed in case your tot gets up in the middle of the night. “This is especially true if your toddler normally sleeps in a crib or more secure space," Mitchell advises. Lastly, Thistel reminds caregivers that “toddler travel beds are specifically for toddlers, and it isn’t safe for an infant to sleep in a toddler travel bed."

Plus, more from The Bump:

The Best Toddler Floor Beds to Promote Independence

The Best Toddler Sleeping Bags for Campouts and Sleepovers

The Top Airplane and Car Toys for Toddlers on the Go

Jillian Thistel is a certified pediatric sleep consultant in the Greater Toronto Area in Ontario, Canada. She is a member of the Association of Professional Sleep Consultants and founder of Twinkling Stars Pediatric Sleep Consulting .

Rachel Mitchell is a certified sleep specialist and former night nanny based out of Denver, Colorado. She is also the founder of My Sweet Sleeper , a business that provides pediatric and maternity sleep consulting services and coaching sessions.

Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), New Play Yard Standards , February 2013

CPSC, Air Mattresses Are Not For Infants

Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process .

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Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024 Categories Kids Travel Gear

By: Author Kate

The Ultimate Guide to The Best Toddler Travel Beds

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Are looking for the best toddler travel bed? Do you want a travel bed That will last a long time and fit a tall toddler? This was exactly our dilemma when we were evaluating the best portable cribs for travel. We wanted something that wouldn’t need to be replaced every time our kids grew a few inches!  

We wanted a portable toddler bed that would allow us to keep our kids precious sleep and give us peace of mind on vacation. When looking for a portable travel crib we wanted something that would be easy to set up, lightweight, and large enough for our son to grow into.

So here it is: I’ve done all the research for you, and picked out the best toddler travel beds for family vacations that meet these requirements below!

The Best Toddler Travel Beds: Quick Comparison

Check out my list below to learn about the best travel cribs for toddler travel sleep on the go.  These are the top rated travel cribs for toddlers around!

What to look for in a Toddler Travel Bed

There are a lot of things to consider when purchasing a toddler travel bed. Here are the 5 factors that we have taken into consideration when ranking our toddler travel beds:

• Overall product weight
• Compact fold and ease of set up

Toddler Playpen vs. Toddler Inflatable Beds

If your toddler is still IN the crib, chances are you want to keep her that way on vacation! My eldest son (the escape artist) definitely needed the constraints of his crib for as long as possible, and there was no way I was giving that up on vacation. Also, having always slept in the crib, my son would not have even known what to do if I tried to put him in a bed! There was no way I was going to try to make such a transition on vacation. We wanted to look for a travel bed for a toddler still in the crib.

The problem I’ve found is that most portable cribs for toddlers are too small for taller and older kids. We wanted a large toddler travel bed so we wouldn’t be stuck replacing this item when our toddler turned 3 or 4. I’ve broken down my review below to include toddler travel beds for kids who are still in the crib and toddler travel beds for kids who are out of the crib.

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Tall Toddlers

Phil and teds traveler.

This is my favorite  toddler travel bed and is the perfect travel crib for a tall toddler.  We used this travel toddler bed until our son was 3 years old and transitioned to a ‘big boy bed.’  This playpen is longer than traditional playpens so it accommodates taller toddlers. This will be a great travel crib for a 3 year old and for many would still work for a 4 year old or 5 year old.  I love that is still like a crib, keeping your little one contained.

The Phil and Teds kids travel bed is really lightweight and will easily fit in a suitcase. It’s the best travel crib for flying as it can be brought on as a carry-on. We often store it in the overhead compartment of a plane and it fits perfect.  Also, it’s lightweight, it weighs only 6 lbs! We have gotten so much great use out of this tall playpen, and it’s still in great shape.

The one negative when rating this portable toddler crib is that the setup is not instant. There are some other toddler travel cribs like the Guava below that set up in just a few seconds. Although it’s not a one-step setup, once you’ve set it up once it’s really easy to set up and take down after that. It takes me about 2 minutes to set it up now that I have the hang of it. For me, this little bit of hassle is worth it for the extra length and lightness!

We’ve used this portable travel bed not only just for sleeping – we have also used it as a makeshift beach tent and fort in our backyard. I love that this compact travel crib is not just for sleep, it’s also a space for our kids to play and stay safe when we are on vacation.

As you can see above, the length of this travel bed is the big selling point! I brought it out to take pictures for this blog and was surprised to find that my 4.5-year-old son STILL fits in this large toddler bed. Now he’s not the tallest 4-year-old out there, but STILL, I was really impressed. My 18-month-old is much taller than my first and he still has PLENTY of room in the Phil and Teds traveler. This is definitely the best travel crib for a 2 year old and up!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for a Play Space

Joovy room 2 play pen.

If you are wanting extra space in your portable toddler travel bed, this extra-sized playpen is perfect for you. The Joovy Room 2 is 50% larger than a standard playpen making it great for large toddlers and also great as a play spot during the day. It still packs up compact and can be checked with your luggage depending on your airline regulations.

It’s definitely heavier than some of the other options on the market, but that might be worth it for the extra room! I love that this playpen is large enough that you can throw some toys in and your little one can also play safely in here without feeling too cramped. Especially on vacation, this can be useful because the places we stay aren’t always baby proofed how we like them! I’ve also heard this playpen is great for twins!

The Best Travel Bed For The Toddler that is Still in the Crib

Guava lotus travel crib.

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib and the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib are both popular options for toddler travel beds. If you check out Amazon there are lots of head-to-head reviews comparing these two options. The setup for the Guava playpen is really simple and intuitive and the crib folds up very compact for easy portability. There is even a backpack carrier which is a really nice feature for airports and more adventurous trips.

The dimensions are not as long as the Phil and Teds travel crib above which is why it’s not my first choice for a portable travel crib. It may work fine as a portable bed for a 2 year old but will be pushing it as a travel bed for a 3 year old . I like the longer length of the Phil and Ted’s traveler crib for my growing toddler.

The Guava Lotus crib is Greenguard certified meaning that it is non-toxic without the use of harmful chemicals. The cover is removable and machine washable which knowing my toddler is an absolute necessity! Overall, I love the design of this portable crib. Although I haven’t tried it myself, I asked my friend Emily over at Henry and Andrew’s Guide for her review. Here’s what she had to say:

‘The Guava Lotus is the best toddler travel bed because it’s easy to carry, it’s so light, and it’s perfect for even the bigger toddlers. We took ours on our 5 countries in 14 days trip in Europe. That meant we carried it through 5 plane rides, 1 train ride, and numerous car trips. We didn’t mind it at all! You can carry it as a backpack so your hands are free, or it folds up in a perfect rectangular shape, so it can be easily stacked on top of your rolling bag. Another perk is that even though it’s not a stroller, we’ve never been charged for checking it through the airlines as a baby item. This was the best travel bed for our 2 year old, until he grew out of his own crib at home! Their customer service is excellent too.’

The Most Compact and Lightweight Toddler Travel Bed

Peapod plu s:.

The PeaPod is a popular option that is particularly marketed as a travel bed for baby. It’s one of the most compact toddler beds as it folds down into a small bag that’s easy to throw in a suitcase. It certainly has small size in it’s favor but it’s otherwise impractical as a long term solution for more mobile toddlers and preschoolers.

I’m happy to have my friend Jill from This Harry Life drop in to give her review of this popular toddler travel bed. You may be surprised to see what she has to say!

‘The most appreciated aspect of this baby travel bed is it’s compact size. Folded up, it’s 18 inches in diameter by about 6 inches deep (this compresses to about half that depth when packed). It was extremely reasonably priced compared to other travel sleep accessories we considered, and with the zipper closed you can keep your child safely contained inside. We purchased this thinking it was the best option for a portable travel bed for baby. There are drawbacks to the PeaPod , though it works OK for us. My primary issue is the interior. Safe sleep guidelines dictate the included mat be snapped underneath, and there is no option to secure it inside. This is fine, but the interior is a a harsh polyester surface to place my child directly on. Anything I put underneath to soften it shifts and bunches as my child moves. It is also incredibly bright, and I have occasionally had to drape towels over it in an attempt to provide darkness to nap in bright spaces. Further, this item only has a single use: for your child to sleep in. It is not a space that I can safely place my child to play or be occupied, which is necessary sometimes when in non-baby-proof settings. For that reason if I were in the market for a travel bed for baby again, I would not likely buy another PeaPod, despite it being the most affordable option.’

The Best Travel Bed For The Toddler that is Out of the Crib

Once our toddler was out of his crib the options for sleep were so much easier! Depending on where we were though, I did worry about him escaping his sleeping quarters at night. To solve this I have rented baby gates at my destination on multiple occasions. This gave me peace of mind that if my toddler woke up in the middle of the night he would be safe until we got to him.  (You’ll find more toddler travel hacks here!)

A Mattress on The Floor

Nothing wrong with simplicity when it comes to kids travel beds! There are lots of great travel toddler beds out there but when push comes to shove, a mattress on the floor is really all you need for toddler sleep. We often rent Airbnbs and in these places, it is usually quite easy to do this. In hotels, space is tighter so we have had to use inflatable bed rails (see below). Once my eldest had transitioned out of the crib it was great not to have to pack an extra piece of equipment. A mattress on the floor works great and means you can keep your packing minimal!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Compact Spaces

Regalo my cot.

Another great option for toddler travel beds is a portable cot. Travel cots for toddlers are generally easy to fold up and store and provide a more comfortable surface than the ground. I love this as a toddler camping bed. We bought this for my son when we were going camping knowing that we wouldn’t have access to a mattress to put on the floor. We used a kids sleeping bag like this one and it made it a bit comfier for him to sleep on. He enjoyed having a special ‘big boy bed’ on the trip and we loved the portability and easy setup.

The portable kids travel cot folds up compact and is extremely simple to set up. I’m not sure that I would take it on an airplane because it would definitely need to be checked! We got lots of use with it on road trips. It’s certainly not the comfiest thing in the world, but my son didn’t seem to mind it. This thing work as a portable travel bed for a toddler and wins points on easy set up and storage.

Now that my son can sleep in a real bed we aren’t using it as much as a child travel bed. I have, however, found a great hack for it – we bring it to the beach and we use it as a raised platform for the kids to sit on when we eat. It keeps us somewhat out of the sand and is comfier than sitting directly on the ground. I love a product that can be used for longer than a few months. I’m glad I’ve found ways to make this purchase worthwhile!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Grandma’s House

Milliard portable toddler bumper bed.

This portable toddler bed is perfect for toddlers transitioning from the crib to an adult bed. The travel bed bumpers on the side are a really nice feature which keep little ones safe and comfortable inside this bed. I think this bed is best portable crib for grandma’s house or a cottage that is tight on space. It would also be great for camping, I wish they made it in adult size!! It’s not carry-on size so it would need to be checked for flying. I think this makes it less desirable for this type of trip.

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for a Hotel Room

Inflatable bed rails by the shrunks.

These are definitely the best travel bed rails for toddlers! I find that hotels always have beds that are sooo high off the ground! I was constantly worrying that my son was going to fall out of the bed until I found this product . These inflatable bed rails are the perfect travel option. They keep my restless sleeper from taking a tumble in the night. Since they are inflatable, they are super easy to set up and pack. You just slip them under the sheets and kids won’t roll off the mattress in their sleep.

Having recently slept with my toddler on our last trip, he is a little MOVING MANIAC. I felt like I was getting kicked all night. I’m glad to have these bumpers to turn our bed into a portable toddler bumper bed and to keep him from Karate kicking right off the bed. If I don’t have these available I will unusually throw some extra pillows on the floor JUST IN CASE 🙂

Sleeping on a real mattress in a nice hotel is so much better than a thin pad in a travel toddler bed so I like that these rails give me peace of mind to let my toddler sleep on the ‘big bed’ and have a really comfortable sleep!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Camping

The shrunks toddler travel bed.

The Shrunks also makes a  Shrunks inflatable toddler bed that has gotten rave reviews from my friends who own one! An inflatable toddler bed is a great option especially for things like camping or hotel rooms where there aren’t extra mattresses lying around.

This award-winning inflatable toddler mattress has some really cool design features that make it a great option. First, it has raised edges that act as toddler bed bumpers and keep your little one safely on the mattress. As well the inner mattress within this inflatable toddler travel bed raises up allowing you to tuck in standard size crib sheets. This is a really nice feature that makes keeping the mattress clean super easy. It’s also nice to be able to use standard crib sheets as this will likely be a familiar comfort for your little ones.

The Shrunks inflatable mattress comes with an electric pump which is essential for inflating quickly on the go. It comes in a compact case that’s easy to carry from one place to another. Keep one of this toddler air mattress at grandma’s house, its a convenient option for places that are short on space.

The Best Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Bumpers

Intex kids travel bed.

Another inflatable mattress for toddlers is the Intex kids travel bed . It has built-in bumpers as well that make it perfect for little ones.  It also has the ability to tuck in sheets by pulling out the inner mattress. I’m more of a ‘glamper’ than a true camper, so we bring an inflatable air mattress when we are camping. The Intex kids travel bed is perfect for camping with kids! It’s also great in a hotel room where space is tight. The Intex toddler travel bed comes with a pump included

Let’s hear your toddler travel bed reviews!

What do you think is the best portable travel cribs for toddlers?? I’d love to hear your favorites! Drop me a line in the comments below and let me know! I always love to hear what you think. Before you head on vacation, be sure to check out my other posts on the best car seat for travel , the best kids suitcases , and my (completely free!) downloadable packing list to keep your packing organized on vacation. Safe travels and wishing everyone a good nights rest! xo Kate

Pin for later!

Ryan Biddulph

Wednesday 27th of September 2017

Nice list of toddler beds here.

Although her fam will not be traveling anytime soon - big-time home bodies - my 15 month old niece could definitely fit nicely in a few of these beds.

Thanks for sharing.

Sunday 8th of October 2017

Thanks for stopping by Ryan! These are perfect for a 15-month-old :)

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Best Toddler Travel Beds

Medical review policy, latest update:, what's the difference between a travel crib and travel bed, types of toddler travel beds, what to look for in a toddler travel bed, how we chose the best toddler travel beds, why trust us, best overall toddler travel bed, hiccapop inflatable bed, best toddler travel bed for flying, jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper, best inflatable toddler travel bed, enerplex inflatable travel bed, best foldable toddler travel bed, milliard toddler nap mat, best inflatable bed rails, hiccapop inflatable bed rail for toddlers, best toddler travel tent, joovy gloo travel tent, best toddler nap mat, moonsea store toddler nap mat.

American Academy of Pediatrics, Big Kid Beds: When to Make the Switch , August 2022. What to Expect, How and When to Transition From Crib to Toddler Bed , May 2022. Leah Alexander, MD, FAAP , Pediatrician, Fairview, New Jersey.

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Best Travel Beds For Babies And Toddlers

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Vacationing with kids takes a whole new meaning when you’re searching for the best travel beds for a toddler or baby. Whether you’re traveling by air or hopping in the car, a comfy and convenient travel bed will come in handy during your trip. But you may be wondering where to start since there are so many different options for families! Between travel cots, inflatable air mattresses, and other portable choices, you can find many options to fit into your family’s travel itinerary. It’s a great option if you’re going to a hotel that doesn’t offer a spare bed, or if you just want a good night’s rest. Luckily, we’ve compiled this helpful guide to choosing the best travel beds for babies and toddlers. With tips on selecting the right travel bed and other pointers, it has everything you need for a fun family vacation. Keep reading to learn more! 

What To Pack For A European Vacation With Toddlers

Are Travel Beds Right for My Kids?

To find the best travel beds for babies and toddlers , consider a couple of facts first. Perhaps you’re traveling to the wilderness, crashing in a home with relatives, or even booking a hotel room. Firstly, ensure it fits your little one. You need to look at the bed’s specifications and double-check your child’s height and weight before you buy. Also, consider the space. You’ll need to account for the space the bed needs when you set it up, and also the storage space. This is especially important if you’re traveling on an airplane or in a car. And of course, safety first! If your little one needs a bumper or perhaps larger protection on the sides, consider that matter. You can find affordable travel beds without any protection, but they won’t keep your baby from falling off. 

Best Travel Cots for Babies and Toddlers

Travel cots are a convenient and easy way to travel with your little ones. Keep reading for our suggestions on the best travel cots for babies and toddlers! 

Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed

If portability and simplicity are what you’re looking for in the best travel beds for toddlers, you found a winner. The Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed has a durable all-steel construction and a reinforced canvas liner and matching sheet. It’s easy to set up and store, lightweight, and perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Plus, it’s ideal for families that camp or have regular outings. You can also install it in a living room for a sleepover, and it comes in a variety of colors. 

Joovy Foocot Toddler Travel Cot

If you’re searching for the best travel beds for toddlers, look no further than the Joovy Foocot Toddler Travel Cot. This flexible and portable option can hold a kid of up to 48 inches and 75 pounds. The storage space is also perfect for car travel since it has a carrying bag, and the frame is made from sturdy steel. In addition, it has pouches on the sides ideal for storing some toys or a flashlight. Perfect for your family camping, your kids will love to spend the night sleeping in this convenient toddler travel bed! 

Then, Read: 13 Tips For Traveling With A Toddler

Best Inflatable Toddler Beds for Families

Inflatable beds allow you to maximize how much space you have, making them perfect for family travel! If you’re constantly on the go, consider buying one of these best inflatable toddler beds for families. Here are our favorite options! 

Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed 

Families constantly on the move need convenient ways to give their toddlers a comfortable space to sleep. Featuring safety bumpers to keep kids at ease, The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is a perfect option for little ones that move all night. The mattress and bumper are inflatable, so you don’t have to worry about storage either. Plus, an electric pump is included, so forget about buying spare items to set it up! It’s also made from reinforced materials, and it has a smooth velvet cover for extra comfort. No wonder it’s one of the best travel beds for babes and toddlers! 

The Shrunks Portable Toddler Travel Bed

Another fantastic option if you prefer an inflatable travel bed for your toddler is The Shrunks Portable Toddler Travel Bed . Airtight and comfortable, the design allows any crib sheet to adapt perfectly to fit your travel needs. It also has inflatable safety rails to prevent your kid from falling. In addition, it includes a powerful electric pump, so you only need 30 seconds to inflate the bed fully. Kids will love how ideal it is to sleep at grandma’s, inside a camping tent, or in a hotel room. So easy to set up and store, the Shrunks Portable Travel Bed uses high-quality materials that don’t make the sounds inflatable beds are known for. 

Intex Kids Travel Bed Set

For some toddlers, side bumpers are not enough to keep them in place. So, the Intex Kids Travel Bed Set is here to save the day with bumpers on all sides! Between extended vacations or quick weekend trips, this inflatable set of bumper and mattresses is practical and versatile. You can use them separately to create two sleeping spaces or put them together for extra safety. It’s suitable for kids up to 48 inches in height and includes a hand pump to inflate it. Your kid will sleep comfortably and safely in this amazing portable toddler bed!

AeroBed Air Mattress 

There are many reasons to choose an air mattress when traveling with kids. Above all, they’re perfect to set them in a camping tent, your relatives’ home, or for a slumber party. You can also store them easily and set them even faster. AeroBed Air Mattress for kids is the perfect solution if your toddler travel bed is not an option anymore. It has room for kids ages four or older and a weight limit of 300 pounds. Featuring a 4-inch-high barrier to prevent kids from falling, you can sleep profoundly knowing they are safe. The included pump makes it easy to inflate, and the thick and washable pad keeps the surface easy to clean.

EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed

The EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed is a cozy and convenient option for constantly traveling families. For one, it’s easy to set up on any corner of your hotel room, or in the backyard during a sunny day. You can also set up your bed quickly with the included electric pump. You can roll it and store it in the included bag for easy access when it’s time to go. It also has a built-in bumper to prevent your kid from rolling off the bed during the night. This portable toddler bed will even solve the bed-sharing problem while staying at a hotel! 

RELATED ARTICLE : Tips To Prepare for a Long Ride With Toddlers

Best Travel Tents for Toddlers

Travel tents are fantastic options for families who want to travel light and effectively. Keep reading to find out our favorite travel tents for babies and toddlers! 

KidCo Peapod Toddler Travel Bed

Suppose bugs are a concern for your next family trip. Then, it’s time to consider a KidCo Peapod Toddler Travel Bed as one of the best travel beds for toddlers . Ideal for kids of one up to three years of age. It has a lightweight mesh on the top to prevent leaves or bugs from bothering your little one. Ventilation will remain, and you can look at your little one. It is the perfect toddler travel bed for a sandy beach enjoying the sound of the ocean. With 2.45 pounds and a foldable option, you can easily carry it and store it in the car. 

Joovy Gloo Portable Toddler Tent

Need a travel tent for your next vacation with a toddler? You’ll love the Joovy Gloo Portable Toddler Tent! Portability and comfort are some of the features that make this foldable toddler tent one of the best travel beds for babies and toddlers . Available in various colors, it comes in two different sizes. There’s regular for 6 months to 3 years and large from 6 months to 5 years. Alongside being bug-proof, i’s also perfect for your toddler to play under the sun because it has SPF 50 sun protection. Plus, the self-inflating pad has a removable and washable cotton cover that you can easily wash! 

Best Travel Cribs for Babies and Toddlers

Travel with ease thanks to these portable and foldable travel cribs. With comfortable mattresses, machine washable fabrics, and more kid-friendly features, we have some great suggestions for you. Here are the best travel cribs for babies and toddlers!

Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light

Families craving the simplicity and portability of an incredible travel crib will love the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light. Make your trip easier than ever with this practical toddler bed you can set up in just one move. With a sleek design and a see-through mesh for ventilation, it’s easy to see your little ones. Plus, the mattress is comfortable and features a machine washable cover for your convenience. Lightweight and perfect for families on the go, it’s surely one of the best lightweight travel beds for babies and toddlers! 

Phil & Teds Traveller

No matter where the adventure takes you, you can rest knowing your baby is safe inside the Phil and Teds Traveller. This lightweight and easy-to-use cot is fantastic for keeping babies entertained, whether at the beach or home. It’s suitable for kids up to two years old, or until they’re old enough to climb out. Since it’s ultra-portable, you even can pack it into a yoga mat-sized bag, and set it up in under two minutes! Your baby will sleep safely in the included firm sleep surface. With breathable mesh, the zip-down front is a unique feature that allows your little one to explore the surroundings and crawl back inside to take a nap. It’s no surprise this is one of the best travel beds for babies and toddlers!  

Guava Family Lotus

When you travel by airplane, you need to know your toddler travel bed will pass the airline standards. With the Guava Family Lotus , that’s a worry you can leave behind. It has an airport-friendly backpack where you can store it and works perfectly for a car trip too. This travel crib is not only great for sleeping comfortably, but also for playing safely. The side zipper door helps your little one to come out and play whenever they’re ready. An aluminum frame provides sturdy support for the toddler years. Plus, the floor resting mattress is perfect to avoid annoying noises that might wake up your baby at night! 

Best Stackable Cots for Babies or Toddlers

Sometimes you just need the extra space. Luckily, these stackable cots are easy to store and super comfy for kids too. Stay tuned to hear our favorite stackable cots for babies or toddlers! 

Disc-O-Bed Kid-O-Bunk with Organizers

Traveling with more than one kid is a real challenge. That’s why you need the right travel toddler bed. Luckily for you, the Disc-O-Bed Kid-O-Bunk with organizers is the perfect solution! With a one-person and no tooling requirement to set up, you will soon fall for this kid portable bed. Two kids ages 7 to 12 fit perfectly when you stack these beds too. They can be assembled separately if needed as well, and you can even turn them into a seating space. It also folds into a convenient traveling bag whenever you’re on the go; you and your kids are going to love this portable travel bed! 

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this list of the Best Travel Beds For Babies and Toddlers! With all the insights and details we provided, you already must have a favorite by now. Good luck finding your perfect travel bed that’ll make the next trip easier for everyone! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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10 Highest Rated Toddler Travel Beds 2024 reviews and ratings

Last Updated on January 10, 2024

Written by Melanie Kassel

Written by Melanie Kassel, Performance Editor

Our testing process.

Here at Sleep Advisor, our Sleep Certified experts use a refined mattress and product testing process to give you unbiased product suggestions… Read our full product review process .

.st0{clip-path:url(#SVGID_00000046340743257271907690000000964648354283835324_);} In This Article

Looking for a handy travel bed for your toddler? We considered everything and made a selection of the ten best-rated picks to choose from.

Traveling with kids can be stressful, but figuring out where your little one will sleep shouldn’t be. It can be a struggle to create a safe sleeping space for your child while away from home.

Having a cozy space to lay their head can make all the difference in getting them the zzz’s they need so you can all enjoy your trip.

There are many options to consider when it comes to choosing a travel bed for your child. Keep reading for all the details you need to know so you can find the top rated toddler travel bed for your family.

10 Top Toddler Travel Bed Reviews

Hiccapop – ideal quality.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Inflatable bed with bumpers
• Plush removable mattress
• Electric pump included
• Travel bag included

CLICK TO SEE PRICE

The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed has unmatched quality and durability, designed with the modern family in mind. With inlay-enforced™ vinyl that is 40% thicker than similar models, the Hiccapop was created to resist punctures and leaks.

The velvety-smooth mattress is removable and fits all standard crib sheets (although it is comfortable enough that a blanket on top may be all you need). The extra-large, built-in bumpers are 2″ taller and longer than most others and offer extra peace of mind for parents.

The Hiccapop comes with a powerful electric pump and was designed to inflate in just 30 seconds for a fast and easy set-up.

The quick-release valve is meant to make deflating simple, so you can be packed and ready to go in no time. The extra-large storage bag should allow you to take this airbed virtually anywhere.

Safety is a big concern for many families. This model exceeds all federal standards for child safety, according to the manufacturer. The vinyl is BPA, lead, and phthalate-free, and is made with no harsh chemicals.

With a 310 lb weight capacity that is greater than most others, this inflatable choice may last you longer so you can keep using it as your toddler grows.

Butterfly Craze – Best Alternative

• Pillow bed / Nap mat
• Plush and comfortable
• Machine washable fabric
• Easy to store away

For an easy solution for travel, school, or nights when scary monsters send your little ones running for safety, this Butterfly Craze Kids Floor Pillow Cover may come in handy. Simply use extra pillows you already have in your house for stuffing into the 5 zipper compartments, and your comfy bed will be ready to use!

The Butterfly Crave comes in many fun and kid-friendly prints and makes a great nap-mat for school, sleepovers, or visits to Grandma’s house. This bed comes in two convenient sizes, making it suitable for children, teens, or even adults.

The smaller lounger fits 5 standard pillows and measures 26″ W X 75″ L. The larger lounger fits 5 king-sized pillows and measures 32″ W X 75″ L.

If you are looking for an alternative to bean bag chairs or floor pillows, this may make a great spot for lounging. Pillow forts and other fun activities could take on a whole new dimension with this foldable and portable design.

This product makes a great solution for schools, daycares, or slumber parties! The soft, plush fabric is machine washable for easy care. This cover can be packed into just about any suitcase, so you can travel with it anywhere and just add pillows at your destination!

Eltow Inflatable Toddler Air Mattress – Best Safety

• Inflatable bed with protective bumpers
• Puncture-resistant layer
• Leak-proof valve
• Pump and travel bag included
• BPA and Phthalate-free

Your toddler will be ready to hit the road with this inflatable air mattress from Eltow that should give them a restful night’s sleep while also keeping them safe and sound.

This bed’s design, which features protective bumpers on the side, should help relieve any concerns you may have about your little one rolling off the mattress during the night. Plus, the health-conscious construction includes a BPA & Phthalate-free product, further assuring the safety and well-being of your child.

What stands out?

• For families who plan to use this bed outdoors, you’ll be pleased to know that this bed comes with a leak-proof valve and puncture-resistant layer, which means you won’t have to worry about your kid’s bed deflating during the trip. 
• Additionally, a pump and convenient travel bag are included with your purchase. The travel bag, in particular, should make transporting your toddler’s travel bed much easier. 

Intex – Best Comfort

• Manual pump included

The Intex Travel Bed was designed to be a comfortable, convenient, and versatile option for families with small children. This durable travel product may make a great solution for camping trips, sleepovers, naps, or wherever life may take you!

Weighing in at under 10 lbs, this lightweight bed could be easily packed into the included carrying bag for travel by car or plane.

The inner airbed can be conveniently separated from the frame to create an additional sleeping space if you are traveling with multiple children.

For younger toddlers or preschoolers, the frame should provide safety and stability to ensure little ones won’t roll out of bed. This travel option was designed for kids aged 3-6 or those up to 48 inches tall.

Having a separate mattress can make tucking in standard crib-sized sheets much easier. This model includes a high-output hand pump for quick and easy inflation and deflation. When inflated, the Intex frame measures 66″ X 42″ X 10″ and the inner mattress measures 28″ x 52″ x 4″.

The kid-friendly light aqua color and enclosed design should make this an inviting space for little ones on-the-go. Having a familiar, cozy spot can help kids to feel safe and secure so everyone can get the sleep they need.

The Shrunks – Best Noise Reduction

• Inflatable bed with guard rails
• Soft flocking and sheet tuck feature
• Included pump

Nothing is worse than the squeaky sounds of a toddler, tossing and turning on a noisy blow-up mattress. The Shrunks Toddler Traveler Bed features soft flocking on the top, designed to eliminate night time squeaks. This award-winning model has been a favorite choice by many families for over ten years.

This mattress is safe from phthalates, lead, and BPA. A repair kit is conveniently included so you can easily patch up any small holes or leaks.

The comfortable mattress is built into this model and has a signature tuck-in feature so you can easily keep any standard crib-size sheets from moving around.

This portable air-mattress has built-in security rails, designed to prevent your little one from falling out of bed so they can feel confident and safe. The low to the ground design should allow young children to easily climb in and out.

A compact yet powerful Jetaire electric pump is included and was designed to inflate this mattress in under 30 seconds. The Shrunks may be a convenient, portable option for travel, sleepovers, or kids who are just transitioning out of their crib.

Regalo – Best Lightweight

• Foldable cot design
• Steel frame
• Sleep surface made with waterproof nylon canvas
• Includes Fitted Sheet

The Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed is made with a durable, all-steel frame that is lightweight and can hold up to 74 lbs. This bed weighs just over 6 lbs and can easily fold up for travel or storage.

The sturdy nylon material is waterproof and easy to wash. This cot can be covered with the included fitted sheet for added comfort.

The product is meant for children ages 2-5 or up to 48 inches long. It was designed to be easily set up in seconds with one fluid motion, making it a quick and easy option for parents.

This cot was created for portability and could be a great option for naps, travel, camping, or sleepovers. You may even use it for extra seating space at a sports event or take it to the beach!

For little ones who like to roll around, The Regalo My Cot has a generous sleeping space that measures 48” x 24” x 9”. When folded down, this cot measures 9” x 8” x 24” and can be easily packed into the carry case for storage or travel. If you are looking to keep luggage weight down, this may be a great option to consider.

Leachco – Most Convenient

• Polyurethane Foam bed with bumpers and headrest
• Machine washable cover
• Folds into included storage bag

The Leachco Bump ZZZ Travel Bed may make a convenient option for families with children ages 3 and up. This spacious and lightweight model is designed to be ready to use, with no need for inflation or any extra equipment. It can also be conveniently folded into the included travel bag for a great fold and go option.

This model features a comfortable foam padded interior with cushioned outer bumpers for comfort and safety. Customers can use the BumpZZZ fully extended as a portable bed, or fold it over to make a convenient lounging spot. This spacious product could also make a great play space for little ones while traveling or at home.

Both the center foam pad and the outer bumper pads can be removed for easy washing. This versatile bed was made in the USA and measures 58” x 39” x 7” when fully assembled. The BumpZZZ packs into a compact travel bag with handles, so you can use it as your carry-on luggage item or take it anywhere you need to go.

If you are looking for a travel option for napping, lounging, reading, playing, or just a comfy spot for your little one to land, the BumpZZZ is a convenient and lightweight option that you don’t have to worry about inflating.

USHMA – Best All-Around

• Two pricing options, with or without air pump
• Comes with two color options
• Bumper rails
• Pillow included
• BPA, phthalate, and lead-free

USHMA’s inflatable bed is our pick for the best all-around travel bed for toddlers. Depending on your budget, you can choose to purchase this item with or without a foot-operated air pump for a difference of six dollars – though both price points are very budget-friendly.

Each bed comes with two color choices for your toddler; they can opt to sleep on either the blue or gray side, both of which feature a comfortable fabric cover. A pillow is also included and can be flipped to either the blue or gray side as well.

A child’s safety is always important, especially when they are away from their regular bed, and this product is conveniently designed to include bumper rails on each side to help your child feel secure throughout the night. You should also feel comfortable knowing that this bed is free of chemicals BPA, phthalate, and lead.

Baby Seater – Best Budget

Whether your tot is spending the night at grandma’s house or joining you on a long road trip, the Baby Seater inflatable toddler bed is a great value for the price. The bed comes with its own pillow, carrying case, and patch repair kit, should your toddler get a little too rambunctious.

Made with reinforced vinyl to be tear-resistant, the bed should be able to withstand up to 310 pounds of pressure and be easy to move around on. With a high-powered air pump, this bed should inflate in less than a minute, so when those eyelids start to droop, your little one should be off to dreamland in no time.

This two-piece design should make it simple to create a home away from home without too much effort as it allows you to tuck the sheets and blankets into the mattress portion. This creates a cocoon effect and could help your baby to drift off easier and stay warmer throughout the night.

AeroBed – Best Heavy-Duty

• Washable mattress pad included
• Included hand-held AC pump

The AeroBed Air Mattress is meant for kids ages four and older. It was designed to support weights up to 300 lbs and features a spacious 50 x 25-inch sleep surface in case your little one wants you to lay with them until they fall asleep. The 4-inch high safety cushions surrounding the mattress were created to prevent children from accidentally rolling off of the bed.

This mattress was created with heavy-duty PVC material with welded seams for added stability, durability and long-lasting use. The horizontal channel construction was designed to prevent sagging and provide extra support for your child.

The thick fitted mattress pad is washable and features a cute, kid-friendly design with moons and stars.

This blow-up mattress is designed to be quick and easy to use, inflating in under one minute using the included hand-held AC pump. When you are ready to put your mattress away, it deflates in less than 15 seconds and can be conveniently stored in the matching travel bag. The AeroBed is a cozy and portable option that can be used for traveling, sleepovers, or a safe space close to Mom and Dad.

How To Choose The Best Toddler Travel Bed In The Market

Kid’s weight.

Some options are meant for younger children who weigh less, so be sure to check the weight restrictions.

If you are looking for a sleeping space for use at home or the occasional road trip, weight probably will not be an issue. However, if you will be traveling, especially by air, it may be important to look for a lighter-weight option. Some designs are incredibly light and could even be packed in carry-on luggage.

Comfort Level

If this is a bed your toddler will be using frequently, choosing a comfortable sleeping spot may be very important. Sturdier designs may be more durable, but inflatable choices tend to offer more in the way of comfort. If you are unsure, read some reviews to see what other parents have said before purchasing.

Includes A Carrier Bag?

While not essential, a carrying bag can make traveling much easier.

Toddler beds come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which may be an important factor if you have a taller child.

Portability

Some designs can fold up easily into a carrying bag for ease of transportation. Other factors like a pump for inflation may take up additional space.

What Is A Toddler Travel Bed?

A toddler travel bed is a kid-sized, portable bed for families who like to travel or need an in-between option for children who have outgrown their cribs. They are usually designed to be lightweight and easily transportable for travel by car or airplane. There are many different styles to choose from including cots, foldable options, and inflatable air mattresses.

Traveling with younger children can be more challenging since toddlers love routine. Many are accustomed to sleeping in their own space at home and may find it difficult to transition into an unfamiliar setting. Having a comfortable space of their own to play or sleep in may help to ease some of their fears and ensure that everyone gets a good night’s sleep.

Many toddlers are still learning how to sleep in a “big kid” bed. Choosing a design with built-in security rails may provide reassurance for parents who are worried about their little ones falling out of bed.

Different Types of Toddler Travel Beds

Air mattress/inflatable.

Inflatable air mattresses offer a compact option that can easily be transported or stored. Most air mattresses come with a separate pump for easy inflation, but for those options that do not include a pump, they can easily be purchased separately. Air mattresses are easy to inflate or deflate, taking on their full shape in under 30 seconds in many cases.

While many options have a soft flocked surface for sleeping on, your little one may prefer to have separate sheets on top as these mattresses can have a slight plastic odor. Air mattresses are also more prone to tears and leaks, but many come with a repair kit so you can easily fix them.

Many toddler designs include built-in bumpers so you shouldn’t have to worry about your little one falling out of bed. Some also have a “tuck-in” feature or a separate frame so you can keep their sheets from moving around. Toddler mattresses typically fit standard or twin sized-sheets which you may already have at home.

A ready bed is a convenient option for toddlers that comes with a built-in sleeping bag so there is no need for extra bedding. For families who travel a lot or need a ready-to-go sleeping space for their toddler, these portable all-in-one designs give parents one less thing to pack.

Some require inflation and simply need to be unfolded. Many of these ready models come in fun, kid-friendly prints featuring their favorite television characters. For convenience and an all-inclusive option, ready beds may be a good choice.

Folding toddler beds are typically a “cot” design that can be folded up quickly for storage or travel. Most feature a canvas top with steel legs, similar to the popular stadium or camping chairs. These sit higher up off of the ground, so they may be a better option for camping, sleeping outdoors, or even a trip to the beach.

Many schools and daycares use sleep cots for naps or rest-time since they can easily be stacked or stored. Most folding cots do not have side rails, so they are better suited for older children or those who aren’t prone to falling out of bed.

Folding cots also make a convenient option for travel since they are very lightweight and can be easily packed into luggage. They also offer versatility because you can use them as extra seating space for little ones outdoors or around the house.

Why You Need To Have a Toddler Travel Bed

Toddlers are in a unique “transition” time in their lives, just moving out of the baby stage and into a phase of discovery. As they switch from a crib to a “big kid” bed, many toddlers prefer to have a more enclosed space similar to what they’ve been used to. Traveling with little ones can be challenging, so having a familiar space of their own may help young children to feel safe and secure.

Child Travel Bed vs. Travel Crib vs. Pack N Play

As you begin researching the best portable sleeping options for your toddler, you may find all of the different terms confusing. While travel beds, travel cribs, and pack-n-plays can all be used as sleeping spaces for little ones, there are unique considerations that you may want to keep in mind before deciding which is the best choice for your family.

Typically, travel beds are designed for toddlers and children who have already outgrown their cribs. They come in various options such as foldable, “cot” style, inflatable, and ready-beds.

Some may include built-in bumpers for younger children, and others include unique features such as bedding and carrying cases. Different sizes are meant to accommodate younger guests with a crib-size mattress, while others feature twin-size or double mattresses for older children.

Travel cribs are designed for little ones aged two and under, although some come in bigger sizes meant for toddlers. While travel cribs are the best choice for babies, you may want to consider a travel bassinet for infants under four months of age. There are different styles of portable cribs including pop-up types or ready-to-use cribs.

Another style of a portable crib is a co-sleeper that is meant to be used in-between parents in bed. While co-sleepers can only accommodate younger babies up to a certain age or weight, they allow parents to keep their tiny child close and are a good option for places with limited floor space. Co-sleepers are very light-weight and are usually easy to pack and travel with.

A pack-n-play is a foldable playpen or play yard that can easily be packed up for storage or to take on-the-go. While pack-n-plays are a lot bulkier and tend to weigh more than travel beds, they are a convenient option for little ones since they offer a safe place for both sleep and play. Many also include removable bassinets and/or change-tables for an all-in-one option for traveling with babies.

Many families with young children have a pack-n-play in their home for their little ones to nap or play in. These are also a popular choice for storing at Grandma’s house for overnight visits and sleepovers.

While they are a convenient option, they are generally too heavy to take on longer trips since they do not fit into luggage and are too big to use as a carry-on. Deciding which option is best for you will depend on the age of your child and your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Toddler Travel Beds

What is the age range for toddler beds.

Depending on your child’s age, weight, and development, they made be ready to transition out of their crib between the ages of one and a half and two. While some parents choose to keep their toddlers in a crib until as late as age three, many children have learned how to climb over the sides of the crib by this time, possibly putting them in danger.

Toddler beds all have different age ranges depending on their design, but most are generally meant for children aged two through five. Some toddler options may extend up to age six or seven, but be sure to check the recommendations first.

Are they really safe?

Safety is a big concern for parents, especially for those with toddlers who love to climb. The benefit of most toddler beds is that they don’t have sides like cribs do so they can easily get up and move. Toddlers are also more prone to rolling out of bed, so many designs feature built-in sides or bumper pads to keep little ones secure.

When considering various options for your child, look for manufacturers that verify they have met American Safety Standards. Many also offer foams that contain safe levels of chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, and lead.

Toddlers are special, and their sleeping space should be special too! Finding a safe and secure option is a big concern for parents, and thankfully there are many varieties to choose from.

Portability, weight, and convenience are all important factors to consider for families looking for the perfect toddler bed for traveling.

Traveling with kids may require more planning to accommodate their unique needs, so having a bed you can take with you may make a world of difference while you travel the globe. Having a familiar spot to lay their head should help your little one to get the rest they need so you can too!

Melanie Kassel

Performance Editor

About Author

As Sleep Advisor’s Performance Editor, Melanie writes and edits content throughout the site to ensure it’s accurate, engaging, and up-to-date.

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Best travel cribs

• Best travel crib overall : Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light
• Best travel crib for flying : Guava Lotus Travel Crib
• Best affordable travel crib : Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard
• Best easy to use travel crib : 4moms Breeze Plus
• Best compact travel crib : KidCo PeaPod Plus
• Best Travel Crib for Twins : Joovy Room2 Portable Playard

How to buy a travel crib

Modern families live their lives on the go, and when they have babies or young children in tow, a travel crib makes staying away from home a little bit easier. 

Unlike standard sized cribs made to stay in one place like a piece of furniture, travel cribs are portable places for a young child or baby to sleep or play. Typically, travel cribs can be easily set up and broken down, are lighter in weight, and are slightly smaller in size than a standard crib. Ideally, travel cribs don’t have a significant footprint when in use and will fold up compactly, often fitting into a case for travel. 

There are many reasons why travel cribs are an “it” item on baby registries: They’re convenient, easy to use, portable, and can be used for more than just infant sleep. Do you need to set your baby in a safe place while you take a much-needed shower? Or pop over to Grandma’s house while you head out for date night? Travel cribs give you flexibility by providing a safe space to sleep or play. 

There are a variety of travel crib options on the market today, but there are two main styles that are safe according to pediatrician recommendations:

• Folding cribs: These sleep spaces look much like a traditional crib, though they’re often smaller and have features like wheels for portability. They generally fold flat for storage and are made of plastic, metal, or both. 
• Play yard cribs: These cribs double as play spaces and may have a removable bassinet or a padded bottom that’s safe for sleep.

Some families also have inflatable beds or mattresses to use for guests, but they’re not recommended for babies or young children under 15 months. 

Dr. Jordan Wright, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Denver, Colorado, says that though there’s only “limited” data on air mattress safety and young children, there’s reason to believe air mattresses are not safe.

“Officially, the CPSC does not not recommend the use of these products in kids under 15 months; noting that even when properly inflated, these products still have the potential to lead to suffocation or for children to become entrapped between the mattress and the bed frame or the mattress and the wall,” Dr. Wright says. “I would recommend parents consider alternative sleep spaces that do not pose that level of risk.”

Of course, it’s important to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) safe sleep recommendations Opens a new window when using travel cribs or putting your baby to sleep anywhere. Babies should always be put to sleep:

• On their back, not on their stomach or any other position
• On a firm sleep surface, such as a crib, bassinet, portable crib, or play yard with a tight-fitting, firm mattress and fitted sheet designed for that particular product, with no blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or anything else in their sleeping space

See our buying guide at the end of this article for more on safety. 

How we chose the best travel cribs

With something as important as your baby’s healthy sleep and safety at stake, we knew it was important to recommend travel cribs that are safe, easy to use, and a good value for the money. We started our search on BabyCenter’s Community, searching through millions of posts for travel cribs that parents recommend to each other. 

Once we had a list of travel cribs parents love, we turned it over to our expert editorial team for research and vetting to make sure each crib meets relevant standards from organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, and medical experts such as Dr. Wright. Read on to find the best travel crib for flying, the best affordable travel crib, and more. And if you’re looking for more baby sleep spaces, our picks for the best cribs and best bassinets may help.

Why trust us?

Best travel crib overall, baby bjorn travel crib light.

Weighing only 13 pounds, the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light is beloved by families always on the go. Parents are thrilled with the easy set-up and break-down: the crib folds and unfolds in one easy motion. The mattress and the crib frame can be removed and thrown in the washing machine, too. When folded and stored in its (included) carrying case, this travel crib tucks nicely into airline baggage compartments.

A crib sheet needs to be purchased separately (though you can buy the crib as a bundle with sheet included Opens a new window for an extra $35). 

Parents say 

“We travel a lot, and the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light ($300) has been one of my most favorite baby purchases.”

“We travelled recently where we stayed at a lot of different places and after research invested in the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light.”

• Assembled crib: 32 x 44 x 24 inches; folded crib: 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches
• Includes mattress, crib, and carrying case
• Recommended for newborns to age 3
• Choose from black or silver

Best travel crib for flying

Guava lotus travel crib.

A travel crib turned into a backpack is every traveling parent's dream. So when you’re getting ready to head to the airport, fold the Guava Lotus into its carrying case and throw this lightweight travel crib onto your back, leaving your hands free to deal with all the other stuff you’ll need to tote with you. The unique zipper opening on the side makes it easy for parents to feed, play, or soothe their baby and then quietly zip it back up for naptime. 

The mattress for the Guava Lotus is on the floor while the crib is placed around it, which can dirty the mattress bottom. Sheets are not included with your crib, so you’ll have to purchase Guava Lotus crib sheets Opens a new window separately. 

Parents say

“Guava Lotus Travel Crib is the BOMB.COM”

“We have the Guava Lotus and it’s really easy to travel with.”

“We’re still rocking the Guava Lotus and my 1-year-old loves it.”

• Assembled crib: 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches; folded crib: 24 x 12 x 8 inches

Best affordable travel crib

Graco pack 'n play portable playard.

Simple and free of bells and whistles, The Graco Pack ‘n Play has a great price point, is sturdy, and sets up or breaks down with the simple push of a button. Thanks to its $60 price tag, you can use these as an extra play yard for around your house or keep one at a family member's house to use when you are visiting.

To help prevent falls, do not use this product when the infant begins to push up on hands and knees or weighs over 30 lbs (6.8 kg), whichever comes first. This Pack ‘n Play doesn’t come with sheets; you must buy them separately. Graco sells its own Pack ‘n Play sheets Opens a new window , and the Pack ‘n Play brand is so popular that there are many other compatible sheets for sale. Just make sure whatever sheet you buy is sold to fit a 37.5 x 25.5-inch mattress, and that it fits tightly on your Pack ‘n Play mattress. 

“I loved the Graco Pack ‘n Play for my daughter.”

• Assembled crib: 39.5 x 18.25 x 38 inches
• 18.7 pounds
• Recommended for newborns to children up to 35 inches tall who are unable to climb out

Best easy to use travel crib

4moms breeze plus.

Built to be used with babies up to 30 pounds, this playard is an investment that can be used for the long haul. Designed with all of the bells and whistles, the 4moms Breeze Plus playard is sleek, sturdy and easy to use. In fact, it can be set up with only one hand. Weighing 23 pounds, this playard folds compactly into a travel bag equipped with shoulder straps, still making it a great option for travel. The Breeze GO version Opens a new window has a slightly lower price, providing the same convenience for parents on the go, just without the bassinet and changing station included.

The bassinet and changing station are included, but have a weight limit of 18 and 25 pounds, respectively, so discontinue use when your baby reaches this milestone. A diaper caddy can be purchased separately. You’ll also have to buy sheets; 4moms makes their own Breeze sheets Opens a new window . 

“I ordered the 4moms Breeze Plus playard and you don’t have to remove the changing table. I love how easy it is to fold and take when we go on trips!”

• Assembled crib: 43 x 30 x 29 inches
• Crib weight without bassinet and changer: 23 lbs; crib weight with bassinet and changer: 28.5 lbs
• Maximum weight bassinet: 18 pounds; changer: 25 pounds; playard: 30 pounds
• Recommended for newborns and up

Best compact travel crib

Kidco peapod plus.

The KidCo PeaPod Plus is so lightweight and compact that it will fold up and fit right inside your suitcase without taking up too much of your precious packing space. Designed with durable mesh, UV-rated fabric, and ground anchor straps, this cozy sleep tent can be used inside or out at the park or beach. Kids can use this tent up to age 5, making sleeping arrangements while traveling effortless.

You will need to have blankets or sheets to cover the sleeping pad. There isn’t a sheet made specifically for this product, which makes this product not safe for infant sleep, so only use this option for babies a year old and up.

“Kidco Peapod Travel Bed - basically a baby tent, folds up to make it easy to travel with (we’ve used this in hotels too).”

• Assembled crib: 52.5 x 34 x 22 inches; folded crib: 19 x 3.5 x 19 inches
• Recommended for ages 1-5

Best Travel Crib for Twins

Joovy room2 portable playard.

With 10 square feet of room to play and sleep, the Joovy Room2 portable playard is perfect for families with twins. The Joovy Room2 has a large sleek and modern design without being too bulky. The large mesh windows allow you to easily see into or out of the playard so you can watch while your babies play. It is easy to set up or take down and folds compactly into a travel case complete with shoulder straps. However, this item is not for twin sleep. Twins need their own separate sleep environment so this is for play only. 

This play yard has a sturdy frame, but is on the heavier side. There are attachments that can be purchased allowing you to add two bassinets and a changing table. A fitted cotton mattress sheet is included with the Room2.

“I've been using a Joovy Room2 and I really love it.”

“I have the Joovy Room2 for my twins & I’m beyond happy about it.”

• Recommended for newborns up to 35 inches tall
• Assembled crib: 39.75 x 39.75 x 31 inches; folded crib: 10 x 9.5 x 37 inches
• Recommended for newborns to age 2

Not every parent needs a travel crib. Some parents stay put while their children are young, or visit only family members who already have cribs or other safe sleeping spaces set up for small visitors. But if you’re a family on the move, a lightweight travel crib can pay off in better sleep for everyone.

Just as travel cribs vary in function, they also vary in price, from a low of about $65 to $300 or more. Generally speaking, the more bells and whistles that are included, equal a steeper price tag. Higher-end travel cribs may include a more comfortable pad and accessories like a bassinet or carrying bag, and may also be more lightweight, easier to set up and break down. 

However, for some families, basic is just fine, so don’t count out those more affordable options. Some of the less expensive travel cribs are just as lightweight, safe, and easy to use as pricier competitors; they may even come with accessories of their own.

Speaking of accessories, travel cribs generally come with their own mattress, but some are thicker and more plush than others. Any mattress used by a baby under age 1 should be firm, and should be covered only by a tight-fitting sheet, with no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or any other soft material inside the crib. 

Lest you be tempted to skip the hassle of traveling with a safe sleep space in favor of co-sleeping with your baby, Dr. Wright offers this advice: “If parents want to travel without a crib they should know that there is not a specific age at which the AAP recommends or condones co-sleeping, or at which evidence has objectively shown co-sleeping to be a safe option. It has been clearly demonstrated to pose a serious risk to children under 1 year of age, and should be avoided in this age group regardless of travel.”

Dr. Wright also highlighted the importance of reading your crib’s instruction manual, and following its safety guidelines. “Travel cribs should only be used according to the manufacturer’s guidelines,” he said. 

Before you invest in a travel crib, here are a few key points to consider:

• Size: Think about how big the crib will be when it is set up and also when it is broken down and folded into its travel case. 
• Storage: Where will you keep it? Does your travel crib come with it’s own storage bag? Is it compact and will it fit into your trunk? Can it fold down flat and store under the bed? 
• Travel options: How easy will this be to travel with? Can you carry it while holding your baby? Does it come with a bag with handles? Can you fit it in a tote or suitcase? If you plan to fly with the crib, can it fit in an overhead compartment or must it be checked? 
• Versatility: It is nice to have a travel crib that’s spacious enough to pull double duty as a play yard. 
• Age range: When purchasing a travel crib, read the product manual for the weight and age recommendations. Most travel cribs are for children under 3 years old. In many cases, older children can climb out of a travel crib, posing a safety risk.
• Ease of setup: You aren’t going to want to use a travel crib if it takes all day to set up. Find one that is easy to use and fits within your lifestyle needs. 
• Care: Is the mattress easy to take out and wipe off? How can you clean when the inevitable blowouts happen?

Was this article helpful?

Our research

AAP. 2016. American Academy of Pediatrics. Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2022 Recommendations for Reducing Infant Deaths in the Sleep Environment. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/1/e2022057990/188304/Sleep-Related-Infant-Deaths-Updated-2022 [Accessed September 2022]

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Jenn Bonicelli and Meghan Hertzfeldt are the authors of the book,  You Can Two: The Essential Twins Preparation Guide  and cofounders of parenting site  Two Came True. 

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Home > Guide To The Best Travel Products > Best Toddler Travel Bed & Travel Cribs

Best Toddler Travel Bed & Travel Cribs

We made it easy to choose the best toddler travel bed or travel crib to keep your little one safe when traveling. Includes a comparison table.

When traveling with a child, you must know that you have covered all bases to ensure your little one is safe, secure, and comfortable on the road.

Isn’t that an understatement? A sleep-deprived child does not make the best travel companion. IsSo, helping your child sleep well is imperative to a good trip. It would help if you had a travel toddler bed or travel cot.

You could go for a travel crib or opt for a portable toddler bed (same thing, different name). These fabulous travel beds for children are a great way to get a good night’s sleep while you travel.

There are many different types of toddler travel beds, so use the guide below to find the right mattress for your child. Best Toddler Travel Bed & Travel Crib Reviews What are the best toddler travel beds?

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

BABY BJORN Travel Crib Light

Our #1 pick. we use this travel crib wherever we go .

This travel crib is from a big-name brand, but its difference is that it easily doubles as a playpen or crib, depending on the situation. The material is washable, there is a travel bed rail, and the sides are made of mesh, so you can easily see what your little darling is up to! There are no bars and no parts that come away and can cause an issue.

You can quickly move this around, as it is lightweight and collapses quickly and easily. You can rock the crib without effort, so you can lull your child to sleep when they are restless. There is a fitted sheet, which is sold separately and can add to the crib’s comfort.

The Shrunks Sleepover Travel Bed

This inflatable travel bed is ideal for those who want to save space and have a go-to extra bed option that doesn’t take a lifetime to pump up! You can use standard sheets with this bed, which tucks into the inside of the mattress, helping your child remain comfortable during their slumber. There are also security rails outside to keep them safe and prevent falls. An included pump inflates the bed very quickly, and an included repair kit, just in case. Easy to inflate and deflate, and very compact when stored away. 

Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed With Safety Bumpers

You can choose between seven different color options in this high-quality and fashionable inflatable toddler bed. This is the ideal bed for toddlers too large for regular child travel beds, and you can sleep safe (as well as them) with the safety guards that prevent your child from rolling or falling out of bed. The bed is made of high-quality vinyl, thicker than you would regularly see on an air bed, and there is a robust air valve to prevent air from leaking out. The mattress also inflates quickly and deflates even faster. You can add regular sheets to the bed to make it even more comfortable. 

Leachco BumpZZZ Travel Bed

This bed is ideal if you prefer not to inflate a bed and want something that folds away easily when not in use. Made of comfortable yet durable polyester, cotton, and foam, the bed is suitable for children over three years old and a very lightweight option for traveling with. The center is foam padded, with bumpers around the outside to prevent falls. You can also remove the cover for washing in a washing machine. 

Diggin Bear Hug My First Ready Bed

This colorful and cute inflatable bed is somewhere your child will love, and they’ll quickly nod off to sleep as a result! Quickly inflated, the bed folds into an equally cute backpack for easy storage and travel . The bed has a removable and washable cover, a pillow and duvet, and a pump to inflate quickly. It is suitable from 18 months to 3 years and has bumpers around the top section to keep your child safe and comfortable. 

BRICA Fold’ N’ Go Bassinet

You know you have a good quality product when you choose BRICA, which is a load off the mind. This fold-out toddler bed has mesh panels on either side, so you can see your baby while they sleep. Its breathable fabric prevents sweating or overheating. The frame is comfortable for your baby, is not too rigid, and is easy to fold up for travel. There is a Safe T-Lock system for locking in place, with four extra strength and stability points.

Overall, this travel crib is lightweight and easy to transport, with a carry handle, while at the same time being super-comfortable for your child.

Brands We Use And Trust

Bassinet to-go metro.

This particular travel crib, by Lilly Boo, is a flexible product and can easily be used as a playpen, crib, bassinet, or even as a changing station while also very easy to pack up and go around on your travels. The crib folds into a backpack and has a three-position canopy, which can easily be removed, featuring plush toys for keeping your little one occupied.

This crib can easily be used indoors or outdoors and is a safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep or play. There is a detachable machine washable cotton cover. Its base is waterproof and wipes clean.

KidCo Peapod Infant Travel Bed

This is a popup style of infant travel bed with a mesh cover to stop insects from biting and shield your child from bright lights when trying to sleep. This is available in a bright yellow and black décor. This is a very sturdy travel childbed and extremely lightweight, at just 2.5lb, making it easy to fold up and store in the accompanying carry bag without adding weight to your journey.

The infant travel bed zips up at the front with a large panel opening and unzips quickly and efficiently to stop your child from getting out and roaming around.

Intex Kidz Travel Bed With Hand Pump

This Intex inflatable travel bed for toddlers has a hand pump, making it quick and easy to inflate and deflate. The plush outer comes with a removable mattress that is easy to clean. The bed is like a blow-up mattress with slightly raised sides, so it doesn’t contain a very active child, but it is undoubtedly perfect for those who settle on this type of bed, with a 52×28″ sleeping area. At just 3lb weight, this toddler air bed with sides is also super-lightweight and easy to transport around wherever you go.

Regalo My Cot Portable Bed For Kids

Available in three different colors, this toddler fold-up bed is ideal for those on a budget and is also suitable for camping and sleepovers. Made of steel fold-up bottom section with a plastic cover on the top, this bed quickly folds up and back down again, which is super-easy. The bed has a case to transport it in and a detachable fitted sheet, machine washable. This is an excellent option if you need a travel bed for toddlers and are on a budget .

Aerobed Mattress For Kids

This is an excellent travel mattress for older toddlers who settle well on an air-bed type of set-up. Made of heavy-duty PVC, this bed has 4″ safety surrounds to stop children from rolling out of bed, and it also inflates in under a minute with the included AC pump. The bed deflates in less than fifteen seconds. This toddler travel bed also comes with a fitted mattress pad, which is thick, washable, and decorated with a cute star and moon design.

The Shrunks Toddler On The Go Travel Bed

This inflatable toddler mattress has a sheet-tuck feature and fits standard-size crib sheets. You don’t have to worry about the sheets’ pinging’ off and coming loose. The bed comes with a carry bag, repair kit, and an electric pump that is very powerful and inflates the mattress in less than one minute. This is one of the biggest brands in the toddler travel bed world, giving you confidence in your purchase without spending a fortune.

Shrunks Wheeled Travel Bag

This wheeled travel bag allows you to store all your toddler travel bed belongings, such as sheets, pillows, blankets, and an electric pump. The bag handles are close together with Velcro for ease of carrying. There is also a retractable handle to pull the backpack and take it on road trips. This bag is designed to hold Shrunks products, so it is specially sized to fit their products, and these are a great range to look at.

Kid’s Floor Pillow Bed Cover

Available in four different colors, you can choose between a king or queen size for this particular travel crib. Rather than being an enclosed type of crib, this is a mattress style that you roll out and back up again for easy storage. This means that the crib will grow with your child and last for much longer as a result. The fabric is also very soft and padded, so super comfortable and suitable for sensitive skin types.

This is a very versatile inflatable toddler bed since it can also be used simply for play, perhaps when the ground is too hard and there is nowhere to sit when traveling around . You can easily clean the mattress in the washing machine  and tumble dry on low. The print is fade-resistant.

Regalo My Cot Deluxe With Sleeping Bag

This toddler’s travel bed is a fold-and-go type, with a steel bottom section that folds up easily and a canvas top with an incorporated sleeping bag. This means you don’t need to worry about packing bedding on top of everything else. This children’s travel bed is also very lightweight, so it can easily be folded up and taken on long journeys, such as camping or road trips. The bed can also be used indoors or outdoors and is very strong.

Bestway Dream Glimmers Airbed

This kids’ travel mattress has something a little different: a set of multicolored alternating lights, which lull your little one to sleep. The lights are battery-operated, blue and pink, while the bed is comfortable and plush. The bed pumps up easily and quickly, in less than one minute, and is super-lightweight for travel.

What About Newborns?

We also have some suggestions for those tiny babes. But first, why is having a newborn travel bed or crib a good idea? Whenever you travel with your newborn, they must remain in their routine as much as possible. This can go as far as sleeping on a mattress or in a crib, which isn’t familiar, and hotel cribs aren’t always up to a parent’s standards. Whenever a baby is out of routine, all hell breaks loose!

Having your travel bed or crib means that your baby can familiarize themselves with the bed, so when bedtime comes around, they’re much more likely to nod off and allow everyone to have a rested night. Also, you have peace of mind that the bed/crib is totally safe because it’s yours.

Of course, hotels have to live up to safety standards, but a concerned parent is never happy unless they know for sure – having your own equipment will give you that peace of mind.

You can also use this type of baby travel bed/crib whenever your baby is away for the evening, perhaps when they visit grandparents. Your parents might not have a crib in their home, but you can take your travel option with you, and everyone’s happy!

Scuddles 3 in 1 Portable Bassinet/Foldable Baby Bed

This 3-in-1 option is ideal because it is so flexible. It is a foldable bed and folds into a small, handy carry bag, which can easily be transported wherever you go. The 3-in-1 part is the crib itself (mattress included), a diaper bag, and a portable changing station. You’ve got everything you need.

The bed has high sides, so you don’t have to worry about your baby rolling out, and the nylon material is super-strong and durable, so it’s sure to last you the test of time. Besides, the bed is easy to clean, and the mattress pad is machine washable.

Chicco LullaGo Portable Bassinet

This portable bassinet comes from a big brand name, so you get instant peace of mind from the get-go. This is a foldable type of bed with snap-on legs to give it a sturdy feel. The fabrics are breathable, with mesh so you can see your baby sleeping, and the fabric sections are machine washable.

The mattress pad is soft and made of a brushed material, equalling a high-quality product for your baby . The legs of the bed also have anti-slip sections to hold the bed in place. The bed comes with a carry bag, so you can easily transport and store it when not in use.

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony Infant Sleeper/Baby Bed

This particular baby bed has several features that make it stand out, including the sound and light unit designed to help your baby drift off to sleep.

The bed folds out from an attractive-looking carry bag and is made of breathable fabric, with a 1.5″ molded incline wedge designed to help your baby overcome indigestion and reflux. The edges are raised far enough for your baby to be safe but aren’t made of mesh. The mattress is made of waterproof foam and has a fitted sheet that wraps around it. The bed then folds up quickly, and you can also use the bag to store small items.

Lulyboo Baby Lounger To-Go

The Lulyboo Baby Lounger To-Go is a foldable baby bed with a large canopy, toy bar, and plush toys . This will help your baby relax, cut out the light, and help them drift off to a relaxing sleep. The bed is made of cotton, nylon, and polyester and has high padded sides, with a waterproof bottom section. The mattress is made of brushed material and can be removed and machine-washed for extra cleanliness.

Once folded, the bed easily stores in a carry bag, and there is a small space to store other items, such as bottles , etc., within the pack.

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Travel Crib For Toddlers FAQ

What features to look for when buying a toddler travel bed.

There are many different types of travel beds for kids , from a toddler air mattress and portable child bed to a baby travel cot and plenty of other types of toddler travel beds. You must understand your needs before making a purchase.

You need to check the weight of the baby travel bed because if it’s too heavy, you might have issues taking it with you on planes in your hand luggage. If you’re heading off on a road trip , weight might not be the biggest issue. However, generally speaking, a lightweight bed is probably the best option if you want to be flexible with your choices.

What is the size of the kid’s travel bed? You must think about this, especially if you have a tall child!

The Maximum Weight

All toddler travel cots have a maximum weight marked, so check this out before making a purchase.

Before you make a decision, check toddler travel bed reviews for the comfort level of the portable toddler travel bed you’re looking at buying. Generally speaking, an inflatable toddler bed is more comfortable than anything sturdier. They may lack support, though, so this is something you need to think about.

Travel Bag Included?

Is there a bag included to help pack the travel cot away?

Ease Of Transportation

How small does the kids’ travel bed pack get? Do you need to deflate it, or does it fold up? How easy is the bed to move around, and how quickly can you dismantle it?

Why Do I Need A Toddler Portable Bed?

Traveling beds for toddlers are easy to fold up and take with you wherever you go, and many are even suitable to pack in your carry-on luggage, so you know that you can take your child’s bed with you with ease. Of course, having a familiar place for your child to sleep is an excellent way to help them settle much quicker without first having to check out whether your hotel has a crib in the room or trying to settle your child in an unfamiliar bed.

Benefits of a Toddler Travel Bed

• You can familiarize your child with a children’s travel bed before you start your travels, which will help them settle in much easier while you’re away.
• You don’t have to check ahead of time that the hotel has a toddler bed in the room or possibly pay extra for one (I hate paying extra)
• Portable toddler beds fold up super-small, so you can easily fit them into your carry-on luggage or the trunk of your car.

Negatives of a Toddler Travel Bed

• Toddler travel beds don’t have sides, so your child can quickly get out and roam around if they are particularly active or unsettled.
• If you opt for an inflatable toddler travel bed, you will need to inflate and deflate it whenever you move locations.
• Your child may not settle that well on this type of bed; it’s a personal issue.
• Not suitable for younger children

What Ages Are Toddler Travel Beds Suitable For?

Children aged two years and upwards are generally suitable for sleeping on a toddler travel bed. However, it would help if you also used a little common sense here. If your child is a very active child who doesn’t settle well, this type of bed may not be suitable for them at that age. You should also check the actual mattress and read the manufacturer’s instructions because they vary depending on age limits.

The general rule is 2-5 years. Most children, however, will be able to sleep in this bed for a bit longer.

How Do I Know If My Child Can Sleep On A Toddler Bed?

If your child is within the age range, the best option is to try them on a toddler bed and see if they settle. If not, you then know not to purchase one. If a friend or a family member has a toddler travel bed, borrow it for a few nights and see how it goes.

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12 Travel Beds for Babies and Toddlers to Sleep In

What can babies sleep in while traveling? This list of travel beds will help your child sleep well while on vacation or sleeping away from home. Get tips to have successful sleep while you are away from home.

When you are headed out of town with your baby or toddler, your first concern is most likely where will baby sleep. If you are wondering what babies can sleep in when traveling and if baby can sleep in a travel bed, this post is for you!

Here are 12 great options for you for beds for your baby or toddler when you travel. Be sure to also go beyond the bed recommendations for some tips for great sleep when away from home.

Post Contents

Travel Bassinet

Baby delight snuggle next portable infant lounger, baby delight snuggle nest bassinet portable baby bed, dream on me karley bassinet, kidco peapod, pack and play, portable travel crib, pack and play cover, slumberpod portable sleep pod, cribs at your destination, travel cots, inflatable toddler travel bed, inflatable bedrail, tips for sleeping away from home, get baby or toddler used to travel bed, make it so kido cannot see you, use a sound machine, maintain a normal sleep routine, keep a sleep schedule as much as possible, related posts:.

A bassinet is a great option for a portable baby bed. When our second baby was born, we bought a bassinet that we could use as an additional bed in our home for her to sleep in. That way she could easily take naps in different parts of the house rather than just in he crib.

The bassinet detached from the base and we were able to take it with us whenever we traveled. It was small and easy to move around. It was lightweight. It didn’t take up a lot of space in our car nor in the place we were visiting.

It was also a bed she was very familiar with, so she was more likely to sleep well when on vacation.

There are many bassinet options out there to choose from. Here are some good options to consider.

This is a very lightweight bed that is comfortable and has breathable fabric. It folds up compact, so this would be a viable solution if you are flying or just don’t have a lot of space to pack. It can be great for a vacation or day at grandma’s house, but also just for visiting a friend for the afternoon or even to take to the park with your older kids. It has a firm mattress and comes with a sheet. They have several different fabric options, so that is fun, too.

This is made by the same company as the one listed above. It also folds up and is lightweight and breathable. It is JPMA certified and safe for baby sleep. This is for 0-5 months old or 20 pounds. This bed is slightly bigger than the one listed above. It is a great option for a baby travel bed.

If you want to be able to use the bassinet consistently at home as well as have it for a travel option, you might prefer this style of bassinet. It has a base so you wouldn’t have to bend over so far to get to your baby. It does fold up, but is much larger than the two listed above, so it would not be plane friendly. It would also take a up a lot more space in the car.

It is lightweight and meets all required safety standards. It also has canopy so you can keep bugs away from baby if you want this outside. It holds up to 25 pounds, so it would last longer than the previous two.

With our third child, we discovered the Kidco Peapod . It is our favorite travel bed for older babies and toddlers. Our third child loved to socialize, so this bed worked really well for making it so she couldn’t see us even if we were in the same room as her.

We loved the ease of use. It folds down very flat and is easy to pack around. It has side-zippered doors and options for opening things up to make it more breathable. We loved to camp when she was a baby and this was a great camping bed for a baby and toddler. It also works really well on a beach and inside a house.

With our first baby, we used the good old pack and play for a travel crib. The pack and play is a great portable crib because it can hold an older baby and a toddler. It is larger than any of the options listed above.

Because it is larger, it is also heavier and takes up more space. When my oldest was a baby, we would go spend the day with a friend and take the pack and play with us. It worked great, but it is big and bulky and harder to travel with.

If you travel to visit grandma a lot, you might want to have a pack and play that is just kept at her house. Then you get the benefit of the larger bed without having to pack it every time, especially with all of the baby gear you have to haul.

As your baby grows into a toddler, you may find you want extra padding to offer more comfort. When that time comes, you can get quilted matress protecors for the pack and play to help with that.

The pack and play is a great tool for independent playtime , so it is definitely worth owning in general anyway.

This is another popular style of portable travel crib for your baby. It is lightweight (12 pounds) and covers ages 0-3 years old. The pack and play is nearly 18 pounds, so this one is much lighter.

The fabric is polyester and sides are mesh fabric for easy breathing. There is a side zipper door.

This and the pack and play are among the best portable cribs that cover a wide range of ages.

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib is a similar design. It is more than double the cost, so you might prefer the less expensive option. It does rate very well and is very popular. This one is 15 pounds. Compare the two and see which you think you prefer. Another popular version is the Babybjourn Travel Crib .

You often are in the same room as your baby or toddler when you travel. Some kiddos just will not sleep well if they see you. If you are running into this issue, get a pack n play cover. This is breathable and provides some blackout benefits too, which is great if you cannot darken the room well enough for your baby when traveling.

The SlumberPod is another option to the cover. A great thing about this option is it covers playards, mini-cribs, bassinets, travel cribs, toddler cots, and toddler mattresses. So it can really grow with your child. It has a pouch for your baby monitor, also.

Many hotels offer a crib if you ask for it. You may want to use a crib that is already at the location you are traveling to. I know my mom and mother in law both set up cribs in their homes when they had grandchildren who were babies. This is super convenient if it is possible.

Once we were done with babies, we still held on to our pack and play so neices and nephews or friends who were visiting could use it if needed.

>>>Read: How To Help Baby Sleep at a Holiday Party

The pack and play options listed above work great for toddlers. The best toddler travel beds for toddlers who are in a regular bed are travel cots. We did not discover the Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed until we had our fourth child. We loved it for all travel. Camping, reunions, hotels…it worked well everywhere we went.

Inflatable toddler beds are another great option for portable toddler travel beds. The hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is a great option. It has a bumper on all sides, so it is great for toddlers who might fall off a cot.

This is of course lightweight and small for easy packing. It also comes with a travel bag and electric pump.

If you have a toddler, you might have a bed available for your little one to sleep in, but it might not have bedrails. Toddlers can be very squirmy, so this might make you nervous.

If that is the case, the hiccapop Inflatable Bed Rail is a great option. This is easy to pack and take with you when you travel. You can also use it at home, so it can be one purchase for home and travel.

>>>Read: Tips for Traveling with Baby/Toddler: Naps on the Go

There is a good chance that your baby or toddler will not sleep as well while away from home. That is normal and nothing to freak out about.

Once you get home, your baby might go right back to normal sleep or may need up to two weeks of a super consistent schedule at home to get back to normal. Be patient with your baby as she adjusts back.

Here are some ways to help your kiddo to sleep better while traveling. See more at How To Handle Baby Sleep When Traveling and Traveling With a Toddler: 17 Tips for Your Family Vacation for more tips.

There are two ways to approach a travel bed.

One is you don’t worry about the travel bed until you are traveling. That is the first time your child ever sees the bed. The risk is your little one might not sleep as well, but at least no sleep was compromised at home before you left.

The other is you do 1-2 naps a day in the travel bed before you travel. You start this ideally about 2 weeks before traveling. This makes the transition to the travel bed less stressful when you are on vacation, but it can disrupt naps at home.

If you can, I think it is wise to have your kiddo take one nap a day in the travel bed. I would do the shortest nap of the day if there is one. If your child does not respond well to the travel bed, I would not compromise overall sleep by continuing the nap each day. I would rather start the vacation with a well-rested child.

You can just have some playtime in the travel bed each day so it doesn’t seem so foreign when you travel.

If you are sleeping in the same room, do what you can to make sure your kiddo cannot see you at night. If your little one can see you, he will likely expect you to be available. Blackout curtains can help a lot with this.

Even if you do not use white noise at home , I would recommend you use a sound machine while traveling to block out weird noises that will wake baby up at night.

While traveling, do your best to maintain your normal sleep routine before nap and bedtime. This will help signal to your little one that it is time to sleep.

Do your best to have naps when they should and bedtime when it should. It is okay to skip some naps or have short naps. The more disrupted your kiddo is while away from home, the longer it will take to get back on track once you get home. If you are doing a once-in-a-lifetime trip, you will probably be more willing to have disruptions than a day away from home you take once a week.

Traveling can definitely disrupt sleep, but with a few steps, you can help your baby or toddler sleep best. A good travel bed will go a long way to help sleep be as successful as possible for your kiddo.

• Smooth Tips for Traveling with a Baby on a Routine
• How To Travel Without Destroying Your Babywise Progress
• General Travel Tips for Families
• Baby Sleeping in Hotel Room {Guest Post}
• Tips for Packing for Your Baby for a Vacation
• Traveling While Sleep Training a Baby

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7 Best Baby Travel Beds for Comfort & Convenience (2024 Reviews)

Traveling with an infant can be a daunting endeavor. From baby supplies, feeding accessories, and multiple outfit changes a day, packing for a trip can often feel a bit overwhelming. However, you can rest easy knowing these options have you covered for safe infant sleeping. Whether you’re planning to stay in a hotel, AirBnB, or simply visit family, the most important aspect of your holiday planning is ensuring your little one has a comfortable place to rest. Luckily, there are numerous baby travel bed options available that can fit your sleeping arrangements, from crib-like options, to co-sleepers, to foldable bassinets. This selection of the best baby travel beds lend themselves to plane, train and automobile rides. No matter how you plan to get from point A to point B, you’ll find the perfect fit for your family’s needs so you can take one thing off your vacay planning prep list.

Best Baby Travel Beds

1. joovy gloo infant travel bed, (best option for indoor or outdoor sleeping — $$).

Why it’s great:  Designed to be dew-resistant and bugproof while offering UPF 50 sun protection, this baby travel bed is the ideal option for indoor and outdoor sleeping. Tested and approved for infants 6 months to 5 years dependent on size, this is the ideal travel bed for adventurous families. The self-inflating sleeping pad and washable cover means it’s easy to keep clean in any environment.

Keep in mind:  The mesh sides of this baby travel bed allow for safe breathability for your smallest family member. However, this means there is limited light blocking so ensure you have a dark space set up for your little one to snooze peacefully.

Good for:  Families who like to go camping with their babies.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Lotus Travel Crib

(highest quality for all travel sleeping — $$$).

Why it’s great:  At only 11 pounds, this is one of the lightest baby travel cribs on the market. The backpack straps make it ideal for hauling through airports or train stations. Made from BPA, phthalate and lead-free materials, you can rest assured that your infant is not breathing in any chemicals. The thick, soft foam mattress is approved for infants from birth to three years old, so you’re sure to get a lot of bang for your buck.

Keep in mind:  Given the compact size of this crib, the carrying case is on the small side and it can be difficult to put the crib back into the backpack.

Good for:  Babies of any age to have a safe sleeping environment.

3. Realer 3 in 1 Diaper Bag Backpack Travel Bassinet

(best budget option — $).

Why it’s great:  The ultimate multi-tasker, this incredible travel bassinet is seamlessly part of a diaper bag that carries all your other infant necessities. The 3-in-1 backpack is multifunctional as a diaper bag, travel bassinet and changing table. It’s large capacity and wide-open design ensure you have everything you need in one place.

Keep in mind:  Some buyers noted it was occasionally difficult to assemble and disassemble the bassinet to fit perfectly back into the backpack after each use.

Good for:  Parents who only want to carry one bag.

4. Graco Pack ‘n Play Close2Baby Bassinet Playard

(best all-in-one option — $$).

Why it’s great:  While the Graco Pack n’ Play is great for traveling, it also functions perfectly as a long term sleeping solution for infants from birth until they reach the weight and height limitations. The portable and removable bassinet is perfect for the smallest of family members, while the changing table is convenient for all diaper-wearing babies. The option to elevate and lower the mattress allows this baby travel bed to grow with your child.

Keep in mind:  At a little under 30 pounds, this baby travel bed option is heavier than some others so it works best for longer trips.

Good for:  Families going on longer trips and want a permanent sleeping solution.

5. Snuggle Me Organic Bare Baby Lounger

(best for supervised co-sleeping — $$).

Why it’s great:  Made from organic, non-toxic and hypoallergenic fabric, the Snuggle Me Organic, is the perfect option for babies with sensitive skin. It’s unique design has soft sides that hug your baby to provide a sense of security. Made for newborns to babies up to 9 months, this option will last you through the infancy phase.

Keep in mind:  This option is designed as a baby lounger, with some buyers advocating for it as a co-sleeping travel bed. Make sure to use this item with supervision.

Good for:  Co-sleeping families when there is limited space for an additional sleeping area.

Get a quote in less than 30 seconds at LadderLife.com ➜

6. BabyJoy Baby Bedside Bassinet

(best bedside option — $$$).

Why it’s great:  The BabyJoy Bedside Bassinet is the perfect solution to families who like the idea of co-sleeping without having to share their space. The ability to drop a side bar allows the bassinet to be stationed safely next to an adult bed. The iron and aluminum frame makes this option ultra-stable, while the carrying case means it’s a breeze to use at home and on the road.

Keep in mind:  The interior of the bassinet offers baby an ample amount of space. Some buyers found it to be oversized and therefore took up more space than necessary.

Good for:  Babies who sleep best with someone closeby.

7. Dream On Me Travel Light Playard

(best lightweight option — $).

Why it’s great:  At around 13 pounds, the Dream On My Travel Light Playard is the best option for families on a budget who are looking for a playard that’s easy and light to carry. The lightweight frame and easy assembly makes this an all around win for having a safe space for your baby. Free from harmful allergens, the fabric and mesh are both durable and safe for your little one.

Keep in mind:  This model is advertised as a playard, so be sure to check with your pediatrician that it can be used for safe sleeping depending on your baby’s age, height and weight.

Good for:  Overpackers who don’t want to add much extra weight to their luggage.

Joovy Gloo Infant Travel Bed

The Joovy Gloo Infant Travel Bed is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..

FAQs about Best Baby Travel Beds

1. how do i know which baby travel bed is best for my family.

Before looking for a baby travel bed, decide what sleeping arrangements work best for your family at home. Determine whether co-sleeping, bassinet sleeping, or bedside sleeping work best with your infant and select travel beds that most closely resemble this set up. Traveling means a new routine and environment for your baby, so having a sleeping setup that’s similar to home will help ease the transition.

2. What should I look for in a baby travel bed?

Safety is the number one priority when looking for a travel bed. Ensure your baby travel bed is approved for sleep, which will most likely include breathable materials and a firm, sturdy mattress. If you’re not sure, run your sleeping arrangement by your child’s pediatrician for additional peace of mind.

3. What are the size requirements for a baby travel bed?

The size requirements for baby travel beds are not standardized, so read through the fine print of your selected baby travel bed to guarantee it’s the right size for your little one. Make sure to check both the weight and height requirements, as well as the age range it’s designed for.

4. How do I travel with a baby travel bed?

Before purchasing your baby travel bed, check the measurements both when closed and when fully assembled. While some may come with a carrying case, others may have a handle or strap that makes traveling with it easier. If flying or taking a train, contact the airline or train company regarding their policies on infant accessories to make sure your chosen baby travel bed is in compliance.

5. What accessories do I need with a baby travel bed?

Most baby travel beds recommend you do not add any additional accessories, such as soft pillows or extra mattresses, to their travel beds to ensure safe sleeping. Check with your particular baby travel bed option on what sheets or items are recommended. Most baby travel beds will provide the specific products that work with their items to guarantee a safe sleeping environment for your little one.

Although preparing for a trip with an infant can feel like a mountainous task, this selection of baby travel beds takes one major decision off of your to-do list. These baby travel beds provide easy assembly and require no additional accessories other than an occasional sheet. With differing styles and capabilities, you can be sure to align your travel sleeping arrangements with what you have at home so your little one can sleep peacefully with their current routine. Whether you’re looking for a baby travel bed that is lightweight or an option that comes with a carry case, there are a myriad of styles designed for whatever your travel plans may entail.

• First Year Products

The best travel cot for babies and toddlers

Venture UK Airpod Baby and Toddler Travel Cot

Graco FoldLite

Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Graco Contour Electra

Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper

Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

BabyDan Travel Cot

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

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

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

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

The best travel cots at a glance:

• Best travel cot overall : Venture UK Airpod Baby & Toddler Travel Cot - £109.99   • Best travel cot for compact fold : Graco FoldLite - £73   • Best compact travel cot : Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot -  £225 • Best budget travel cot : Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot - £60 • Best stylish travel cot : Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper - £74.99

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

The best travel cot 2024

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

Silver winner for Best Travel Product Over £30 in the M&B Awards 2023 Designed to provide little ones with a place to rest and play no matter where you are, the Airpod is assembled in just three easy steps with no tools required meaning it's ready to go in less than a minute. The Airpod weighs just 6kg and can be folded into a bag no larger than a big shopping bag. Despite how lightweight it is, testers agree that the cot was good quality and felt sturdy and secure.  One mum tester says, "I was impressed with the materials used and quality feel of the cot once it was up. Felt steady and secure when lifting child in and out of the bed. Child was able to nap well, good ventilation through the sides."

Another of our mum testers likes how lightweight and how small the travel cot folds. She describes it as; "Super portable and barely took space in the car boot. This meant we were able to pack all our other luggage without worrying about space." She also liked that it wasn't too heavy, which made it easy to lug around upstairs when they staying in hotels without lifts.

All of our testers agreed that a bassinet option would have been great with this travel cot, especially parents of younger babies.  One of our testers whose baby is five months says, "It simply wasn't useful overnight with his wake-ups having to bend. I could barely reach him and resorted to giving up using it and ended up having to co sleep in our bed. This defeats the point of a travel cot." We think that for parents of young babies aged 6 months and under, this travel cot probably isn't what you're looking for. But for everyone else, this is a great portable travel option, and our testers were able to get the cot set up easily and quickly with the simple instructions.

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

• The all round mesh sides provide lots of ventilation for your little one while they rest and enable you to see and check on them from all directions
• This is a compact travel cot that's much smaller, lightweight, and less bulky than traditional ones. When folded, it measures just 60x15x50 cm
• The mattress makes this cot super cosy and comfortable for baby
• Unfortunately there's no raised bassinet

2. Graco FoldLite

Best travel cot for compact fold.

www.oliversbabycare.co.uk

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

Suitable from birth to approximately three years old, the FoldLite was hailed by parents for its lightweight frame, but it has also won a prestigious Mother&Baby Awards 2023 Bronze award. The cot collapses to just 26cm wide. Our Mum tester Sarah says, "When folded down for travel it's small and neat and doesn't take up too much valuable boot space when you're already contending with buggies and suitcases." Testers loved the Home Fold feature to help fold away quickly and clear space within seconds. The cot unfolds and just clicks together, only two of the sides need to click together due to the way it is folded which makes putting the cot up and down much easier and quicker.

One of our mum testers Archana didn't get along with the cot as well when it came to dismantling it fully though. She says, "Folding into the slide away is easy - and really handy for day to day use - that’s what I liked most about it - however folding away fully and putting in the bag is quite clunky and a chore."

The FoldLite has a mesh lining and two wheels for easy manoeuvrability, making it a useful portable cot for travelling with. It's easy to pop up, says Sarah whose grandparents popped it up without any instructions. She enjoys using it around the house and says, "The Foldlite travel cot has been most useful to us for quick and easy use around the house with a mobile baby. It genuinely is two clicks to put up or down and the house fold setting means I can quickly pop it out from next to the sofa if I need to iron or nip to the toilet and pop it back in a few seconds so it's not taking over the room." She also thinks it would be invaluable for holiday cottages that may not be very well baby-proofed.

The cot also comes with a mattress included. Our mum tester Georgia says, "The only issue I had with it was once wrapping the mattress around the base you do have to pull it quite tightly to then fit it in the bag." Overall our testers love the convenience of having a pop-up cot to hand at home. One thing to be aware of though, as our mum tester Joanna pointed out, is that It has quite a large high sides so it can be difficult to reach within, especially if you have a bad back.

Read our full review of the Graco FoldLite.

• Choose between two different ways to fold – this is greater quick changes at home, and also trips away from home with the extra compact fold version.
• Easy to fold and store away at home – folding this way is fast and extra flat too at just 26cm wide. It pops back up fast too!
• Super lightweight – over 30 percent less overall weight than most full size travel cots at just 6.7kg
• The carry bag is very convenient for travel – the cot itself also has two wheels for easy manoeuvrability
• Assembly not totally straightforward as one tester had trouble when dismantling the product fully
• Requires more effort to fit into the bag once wrapping the mattress around the base

3. Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

Best compact travel cot.

www.bugaboo.com

If you're looking for a travel cot that's a doddle to set up and folds away in seconds, this is it – no more grappling with unwieldy parts when you arrive at your destination with a tired baby. We love the clever design, which gives a seamless experience on the go. Our mum tester Meg found the cot to be very sturdy and easy to pack and unpack. She says it folds up reasonable small, and likes that the carry handle makes it easier to transport. "Seems comfortable" she adds, "the newborn bassinet is super convenient for little ones and my babe settled immediately in it."

Convenient for carrying around your home too, it comes with a zip-in carrycot insert, an all-around mesh panel for airflow and a lovely firm and comfortable mattress. It's a shame the mattress doesn't include a waterproof cover, so you'll have to buy this separately to protect it. Our parent tester Matt bought this cot mainly for the ease of popping it up and down, but also says he liked that they could raise the height of the mattress when their baby was very little. this provides easier access to lift baby in and out. "There don't seem to be many travel cots that have that design," he says, "we used it as much at home for naps as we did on the road. It's a great bit of kit." The suspended base will also protect your little ones from draughts.

• Includes carrycot insert and mattress
• You can fold the cot with the mattress still inside as long – as you use without the newborn insert
• Great for both experienced and first-time parents
• Easy to assemble – with a simple no-fuss pop-up design you can literally achieve a 1-second unfold
• Compact to fold in just 3 simple steps
• Unfortunately, the mattress doesn't include a waterproof cover

4. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Best budget travel cot.

www.argos.co.uk

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

This deluxe super lightweight travel cot has a bassinet attachment that clicks easily onto the top, making it perfect for changing nappies. It also has wheels, so it's easy to move around. The best part is that it sets up and folds away in seconds, making it a great travel cot that won't break the bank. Our mum tester Tori likes that it folds up thin to fit in their car boot along with a double pram and a few bags. She says, "I would definitely recommend this product to other mums, it's so easy to put up and down and transport on its handy bag"

Mum tester Sarah agrees, and would also recommend it for anyone looking for an inexpensive no-nonsense travel cot. She says it was lightweight enough for her to carry around, and compact enough to pack in their car along with everything else. She says, "Once I'd done the initial set up of the cot, it was easy to put together and to take apart too." Our mum testers also say the instructions are really easy to follow and everything is easy to wipe down to keep clean while travelling. One thing to be aware of is that the design of this cot is quite low to the ground, which may be something to keep in mind if you have back problems when lifting baby in and out.

Read our full review of the Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

• The removable changer and bassinet that fits on the top is useful for nappy changing
• This cot has four airy mesh sides providing all-round ventilation and baby viewing from all angels to check up on your little one while they rest or play
• The stylish lightweight aluminium legs make it easy to fold the cot down in seconds
• With wheels you can easily move the cot around your home or a hotel room
• Comes with a handy storage bag that's also useful for travelling
• An affordable and very portable solution for travelling with a baby
• The design of this cot means it's quite low to the ground

5. Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Best lightweight travel cot.

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

This travel cot is a real doddle to assemble – just slip it out of its travel bag, and it practically unfolds automatically, so there's no grappling with poles or fiddling with extra accessories. It's also easy to fold away and is really light and portable, making it perfect for taking with you when you visit relatives, or just moving with baby around your home. Our mum tester Nicola did find the cot to be less attractive than others in terms of design appeal, but said her little one slept well in it and seemed very comfortable. She liked that it also comes with a nice carry bag, which she says makes it easy to transport.

The built-in base helps to keep it standing nice and sturdy in its position, but this is a very lightweight cot. Mum Nicola found it to be less robust than others, saying "Amelia can push it around by herself." However, she also says it's the easiest travel cot to carry as it's amazingly light." We love that the fabric can be removed and popped in the washing machine – a real bonus if you have a baby with reflux. The materials of this travel cot meet the requirements of OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Class 1 for baby products, which essentially means kind to your baby's sensitive skin. One thing to keep in mind is that it may be harder to dry, which is quite important if you're away and need to wash and dry it.

Read our full review of the BabyBjörn Light Travel Cot

• With no extra parts this cot is super easy to assemble in just one simple movement – just open the carry bag, lift out the travel cot and pop it up
• The mattress cover and travel cot fabric are easy to remove and are machine washable at 40 degrees
• It's super lightweight at 6 kilos for moving around – but the built-in base helps to keep it standing nice and sturdy in its position.
• Made with sensitive skin in mind
• Reviewers found it harder to dry

6. Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Best newborn travel cot.

www.very.co.uk

This versatile travel cot comes with lots of extra accessories, so it's great value for money. You basically get three-in-one, with a a full-size bassinet, which snaps easily on and off as required, as well as a changing unit and portable bouncing seat. What makes this travel cot even more unique is that there are also lots of sound and light features, including a soothing sound vibration, plus five classical lullabies and nature sounds. The two integrated wheels make it easy to move from room to room, and there's also a nightlight with three brightness settings to guide you In the dark.

Despite all the extras, it still folds compactly and comes with its own travel storage bag. Our mum tester Kathryn did find it quite difficult to assemble though. "I had to enlist my husband's help." she says, adding that it's sturdy and almost as big as a normal cot. however she points out that the integrated wheels do make it easier to move. She says the extra accessories that come with the cot would be great for a newborn, but her Olly was a bit too old for them. He did, however, like the sounds, and she says the light was great for night changes without fully waking him. Overall, Kathryn recommends this cot as a real investment that will grow with your baby.,

Our mum tester Nicola was also impressed, and like that the mesh sides enabled her to check on her little one without getting out of bed. Her daughter also enjoyed being able to see them when she woke up. Nicola says the mattress seems very comfortable for her little one, and she found the colours and pattern of the travel cot to be really appealing. She agreed that the extra accessories aren't really suitable past 12 months though, and also found the cot to be quite heavy. She says, "I would struggle to move it from room to room without help".

• With one quick click you can go from changing unit to snoozing or the bouncing seat, for fast transitions and easy travel
• You can also pop the sound & lights module pop on or off with a quick click
• You get more for your money and greater versatility – the SecureClick snoozing seat doubles as a portable bouncer when used off the cot!
• The simple push button allows you to fold to pack up the cot in a snap – this makes set up and shut down in seconds super quick and convenient for busy mums and dads
• The cot packs away nice and compact in a carry bag that's included – perfect for storing at home in small spaces or travelling with
• The cot has two integrated wheels making moving the cot around a breeze
• All four sizes are lined with see-through mesh allowing plenty of airflow, plus, you can view baby from wherever you are in the room
• With an elevated base the cot is draught resistant
• Enjoy novelty sound, vibration and nightlight settings
• This cot is amazingly good value for money
• With so many features, this cot is quite heavy
• The extra accessories aren't suitable for older babies

7. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Best travel cot mattress.

www.johnlewis.com

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

This stylish, contemporary travel cot takes seconds to put together and is reasonably quick and easy to fold, even with a baby in your arms, making it ideal for travel. We love the bassinet accessory, which makes this brilliant for use from birth, and so does our mum tester Kirsty who says, "The bassinet makes it easy to lift Rikku in and out." She did find it a bit fiddly to detach though.

Doubling up as a play space, this travel cot has padded edges to prevent pinched fingers, and it also comes with an organic cotton sheet included and its own bag to store and transport it in. Kirsty especially liked that the sheet stayed in place with the velcro. The cot has a sturdy aluminium frame and a triple-layered ventilated mattress for superior comfort. Mum tester Nicola thought it was very stylish and said her daughter slept well in it. She loved the "lovely, thick mattress" and extra machine-washable sheet, saying she found it was simple to assemble.

When it comes to set-up our mum tester Kirsty found it reasonably straightforward. However, she says it doesn't fold very neatly, and she found it fiddly to pack away. While the cot is certainly very sturdy, Kirsty says this makes it feel more heavy and take up a lot of space in their small car boot. Mum tester Nicola really liked the sturdiness of the travel cot too, but agrees that the only disadvantage is that it's quite heavy. She says, "I think I would struggle to get this from one place to another by myself."

Read our full review of the Nuna Sena Aire

• The cot is easy to set up and hold with one hand for when you have baby in the other
• This is the only cot available that has the unique feature of being able fold the frame with the upper cot still in it, making it super convenient
• The base of this cot is above ground, which makes it draft-proof for your little one
• The cot has skid-proof feet keeping it quiet and still ensuring your baby stays asleep
• The unique zigzag frame allows the cot to pop open quickly and easily without any fuss
• The advanced air design™, with the mesh sides, floor and mattress working in combination, allows air flow from every angle
• The cot is very easy to clean due to the mattress's zip-off design, which is machine washable and dryer safe
• The ventilated triple-layered mattress is designed to pull away both heat and humidity, meaning little one stays comfortable and asleep throughout the night.
• The removable mattress panels allow for deep cleaning to make sure it stay clean and safe for your baby over time.
• Everything you need comes with the cot – you even get organic sheets included
• The padded edges prevent pinched fingers
• Pack your cot up and travel easily with the travel bag included and easy carry handle
• Not as lightweight as other options
• Doesn't fold very neatly or small
• A bit fiddly to detach the bassinet

8. Graco Contour Electra

Best value travel cot.

www.boots.com

The Graco Contour is a good-value travel cot with lots of extra features. Our mum testers love that it's quick and easy to assemble, and compact enough to fit into smaller spaces without taking up too much room. However, our mum tester Kathryn described it as one of the heaviest travel cots they tested. This meant that it was nice and roomy, and a good size for their baby, but Kathryn says it was almost the same size as their normal cot! Despite this, she agrees it's easy to assemble and put away in the carry bag included, plus, the wheels made it easier to move around, and she did like the neutral colour. Mum tester Nicola, on the other hand, points out that while the cream colour does look lovely, she imagines it could get dirty very quickly.

Loaded with extras such as a newborn bassinet, handy changing mat and toy bar, this is definitely a cot that represents great value for money, although Nicola points out that the changing unit, while it's a great idea, is only suitable for use up to 12 months. It also has a nightlight and musical feature, as well as the option to set the mattress to vibrate to help soothe your baby. The four mesh sides are a great feature too, allowing you to keep an eye on your little one, while also being useful for ventilation, but Kathryn found that she did have to bend low to reach her baby. Nicola also felt that the mattress was on the thin side, which meant that her little one didn't sleep as well as hoped.

Read our full review of the Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

• This is a cot that is designed to grow with your child from newborn to toddler
• The removable bassinet is perfect to newborns
• There is an integrated changing station for added convenience, made from wipe-clean fabric.
• The hanging toy bar with toys provides little one with plenty of distraction as you get things done!
• There is a detachable control box to operate a night light, music and the vibration feature to help soothe little one on your travels
• Don't worry about moving from room to room without an extra pair of hands, as the two wheels make the cot easily transportable.
• Pack the cot away out of sight or transport it no hassle with the compact fold
• Some reviewers struggled to assemble it
• Very heavy and quite large for a travel cot
• The neutral cream colour is likely to get dirty quickly
• The changing unit is only suitable up to 12 months
• Mattress is on the thin side

9. Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper

Best bassinet-style travel cot.

We love the innovative way this travel cot converts between two different modes, with a bassinet level for younger babies to cot, and the fact that you can use it in either fixed or rocking mode. This is top pick for newborns, so be aware you won't be able to use it much beyond six months old.

This travel cot is worth considering if you're really short on luggage space, as it's particularly compact once folded and one of the lightest travel cots we found. Our mum tester describes the cot as the best purchase they've made for their baby. She says, "We can't fit a cot in our bedroom and needed something that would last longer than the Moses basket. Our little boy sleeps so well in it and it's so easy to pick it up and carry downstairs. We have travelled with it too and it folds down neatly."

• Easily fold using one hand and use the carry handle to transport the cot around your home, even when carrying baby
• The cot folds into a storage bag, which can also be used to transport it more easily when travelling
• The legs can adjust to fix and lock in a stationery position or allow for a gentle rocking motion to soothe little one to sleep
• the vented mesh sides allow plenty of airflow to aid sleep and let you see baby more easily from afar
• The cot is lightweight for easy transportation
• Easy to clean – you can remove and wash the cover in your washing machine
• The mattress comes with the cot and it's anti-allergy
• Only able to use until 6 months

10. Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

Best carrycot travel cot.

This is a really clever invention! it looks like a really spacious changing bag, but then off you pop for your overnight stay, take everything out of the bag, and it changes into a travel crib. Our mum tester Jennifer thinks the design is stylish and that it's extremely easy to use. It doesn't take long to assemble and comes with a padded mattress. Jennifer says, "The travel cot section folds out in a few seconds and the rods are easily inserted to make it very sturdy. This means a new mum (who has little time on her hands) can easily erect this in minutes." She likes that it is easily transported and takes up no more than a bag's room in the car or walking, so it really can be taken anywhere! Jennifer says, "I have only used this at friends/ families homes but definitely would take it on weekends away or on holiday. It means I don't have to buy a big travel cot. It is also lightweight so don't have to worry about carrying something heavy."

Unfortunately, it isn't as long-lasting as the other travel cots on our list, as it's really only suitable until baby is four to six months old or when they start rolling, but it's definitely the smallest travel cot, not to mention the most compact and easy to carry. Our mum tester Esther says it's designed as a travel sleeping pod, for nighttime and daytime naps, and a changing bag. She had no trouble assembling it in a couple of minutes, and says it weights as much as a bag of sugar and would fit in easily amongst other items in a packed car when going away. She says, "We used the pod whilst away for the weekend and found it very useful, as we already had a travel cot packed for our older child and couldn't have fitted a second in the car."

Read our full review of the Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

• This crib is easy to assemble
• Includes a mosquito net to keep your baby protected in the summer
• Can be used as a changing bag with handy fold out for changing on the go
• Includes a padded mattress for restful nap times and comfort when changing baby 
• Extremely compact and lightweight for storing or travelling
• Easy to carry with two carry handles and an over-the-shoulder strap
• Only suitable for use up until baby can sit up or roll over by themselves

11. BabyDan Travel Cot

Best long-lasting travel cot.

This travel cot represents good value for money, especially because it can be used from birth up to approximately three years of age. It's also very sturdy, which means it doubles up as a playpen for smaller babies. And although fairly large, it features wheels and a brake to make it easier to transport around the home. Reviewer Sophie describes it as an excellent travel cot and incredibly easy for one person to put up within minutes. Thankfully, folding it away is just as quick and easy, and it folds down to such a compact size, she says, which is then stored as a carry case and easy to stow away.

The cot also comes with a small toy bag attached, which could be useful for storing nappies or other baby essentials when you're on the move and away from home. Sophie loves that it can be used as a play pen too, and found the storage pouch to be useful. She says, "I initially set the cot up in the sitting room as a play pen/nap time cot. It is a full size cot so does take up some room but it means that the cot will last for several years before the baby outgrows it."

Our mum tester Corinne Hills said that standard cot bedding fit, then she found the mattress to be quite thin and had to pad it out with blankets. Mum tester Roz Walker described the mattress as okay for occasional use.

Read our full review of the BabyDan Travel cot

• Your baby will have plenty of space to stretch out and grow with this "full cot size" travel cot, measuring 60cm x 120cm
• You get great value for money as this cot is versatile and is also designed to be used as a play pen, to keeop little one contained at home or on your travels
• Feel reassured as this cot is sturdy and stable, making it safe and secure for your little one – definitely built to last!
• For your convenience this cot comes with its own lightweight folding mattress included for added comfort while baby sleeps
• We love travel cots that come with travel bags, and this one does, so it'll be easy for you to take it with you on the go or store it safely at home
• it may be a spacious travel cot, but it's also super compact when folded, so you won't have to worry about it fitting in your car boot or under the stairs at home, measuring only 20 x 21 x 77.5 cm
• Mesh sides are a must, allowing baby to see out and you to see in – plus allowing air to flow freely through for a good night's sleep
• The wheels make for easy transportation of the cot around your home, and the cot has sturdy brakes.
• With it being a large cot, it is also heavier than others
• The mattress is quite thin

12. Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Best simple travel cot.

The Sleeptight Travel Cot is an award-winning sleep solution from Red Kite. Stored in a carry bag, the Sleeptight Travel Cot is lightweight and compact folding. It is the perfect choice for holidays, visiting friends and family or for your own home. Mum Kat is really impressed with it after using several times and says, "it's good quality and not too bulky when folded so fits easily into my small car boot along with all the other baby paraphernalia needed for a night away!"

It's really easy to put up and take down and Kat says "it was so helpful that the instructions are printed onto the underside of the mattress - what a great idea!" She points out that you must put it up/take it down in the right order or you will struggle to get it folded correctly. The mattress doesn't come with a waterproof sheet so Kat used her own with a cot sheet on top of the mattress. She says, "For the price paid, it's exceptionally good value. 10/10!"

• The cot has a central locking base for extra safety
• It's easy to fold and store in the storage bag
• The see-through mesh sides low airflow and let you see baby easily
• The instructions are printed on the underside of the mattress, so you won't lose them.
• Mattress is very thin
• No waterproof sheet included for the mattress

13. Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Best 4 in 1 travel cot.

Rrp: £ 139.99

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

The cot is slightly narrower than some travel cots, but one reviewer says that this was exactly what they needed to fit it into their spare room for their new grandson when he stayed with them. They said that they love that it's on two levels too, so it's suitable for a newborn as well as a toddler, although they weren't sure their grandson will fit past the age of two years.

The fact that this cot is so easy to fold and comes in a cover, means it can be stored under another bed quite nicely. As this reviewer points out, while you use the top level, things can also be stored underneath. They say the only slight problem is the fitting of sheets, "It is fiddly", they say, "and you need to lift the mattress to be able to fit the sheet and tuck it in. But it is doable, so very happy with purchase."

Read our full review of Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

• You get reallygood value for money with this 4-in-1 cot, with a normal cot, a travel cot, a playpen and cradle in one
• The cot can be used with or without the rocking function
• The mattress can be used at two different levels
• You don't need any tools to change between the functions and folding
• The cot will look stylish in your home
• Slightly narrower than standard travel cots
• Bit fiddly to fit the sheets

Travel cots – All you need to know:

Choosing the right travel cot for you and your child.

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

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

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

Features to consider before purchasing a travel cot

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

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

Fold mechanism

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

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

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

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

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

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

What age are travel cots advised for?

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

Can I travel on a plane with a travel cot?

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

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

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

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

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

How to assemble a travel cot

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

Where can I buy a travel cot?

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

Amazon {href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/'%20target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

John Le wis

Mamas & Papas

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

Can I buy a travel cot second-hand?

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

• Check that it assembles and folds down correctly

• Make sure it's sturdy

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

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

How to clean your travel cot

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

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

Travel cot safety

There are a number of safety aspects to check on your travel cot for your peace of mind. Emily McInnes, a paediatric nurse and holistic sleep coach from Sound Asleep Coaching , advises that you "ensure that the travel cot has a firm flat surface/ mattress, there are no loose objects attached the cot and no sharp edges and always ensure that the child is dressed appropriately according to the temperature of the bedroom. Be mindful of this when you are in a warmer environment when away on holiday. If your child is in a sleep suit, ensure that the tog of sleeping bag is the correct tog for the temperature of the room."

Some other safety features to consider include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe sleeping in a travel cot

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

Here's what The Lullaby Trust have to say:

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

Emily McInnes also advises that it is wise to get your child familiar with the travel cot before using it when away. She suggests, "you may like to introduce your child to the travel cot in your home environment before your holiday, so that it is not completely new when you go away. Try and incorporate some of the sleep associations that you use in your home environment such as a comforter or particular blanket. This will make your child feel more at home when they are in their travel cot in a new environment and you can use white noise for babies under 6 months and pink noise for babies over 6 months when away, to help block out any new break-through noises which could impact their sleep."

How we tested and chose these travel cots

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

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

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

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

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

About the expert

Emily McInnes is a a Paediatric Nurse and Certified Holistic Sleep Coach and she has over ten years experience in healthcare settings. She is interested in and has experience of sleep biology, sleep cycles, circadian rhythm and attachment styles and she applies her evidence based practice to real life situations.

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

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Travel Cot or Sleep Options for 15 month old

KayC19 · Yesterday 22:12

My DD is 15 months old and has now outgrown her travel cot (tall parents, so not a shocker). We're going on holiday in the UK (for 2 weeks) and are stuck on the best travel sleep options. We considered bringing her cotbed mattress to put in a portable playpen but as her mattress is 140x70cm, the only playpen size we can find to accommodate this is 150x180cm - no room in the holiday house we're renting has enough room to store this. The only way I'd feel comfortable having the mattress on the floor without the playpen around her is if she remained in the same room as us, but she's a light sleeper so it's not ideal to keep her in the same room, plus the room is only small. The holiday rental also doesn't supply a cot. There is a spare room with two twin beds and we considered bed rails so she could stay on one of them without the duvet and pillow, just her usual sleepbag. However, looking into these they all state from 18 months old - has anyone used bed rails sooner than this age? She is a big wriggler at night and ends up at all ends/corners of her cot, so this just worries us a little as there wouldn't be a rail at the foot of the bed. Any suggestion on safe sleep options for a 15 month old that's outgrown travel cot options?

Intex toddler bed

Or buy a 140cm travel cot!

Would sleeping in the bed with you be an option?

I can't see how a 15 month old could possibly have outgrown a travel cot though. We had a pretty small one and could still fit our tall child in when they were nearly 3.

I think you just need a bigger travel cot. My 3 year old can still comfortably fit in ours. It's bigger than the cots you get in Premier in or somewhere though. Or just a single mattress on the floor. I don't think I would use one of those sunken airbed things because if they deflate a bit and toddler gets stuck under the edge and panics because they can't roll over.

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Abducted 10-month-old girl has been found, officials say

Police issued an Amber Alert for Eleia Maria Torres last week.

A 10-month-old girl who was abducted in Clovis, New Mexico, was found Monday, according to the FBI Albuquerque Division. A suspect is also in custody, officials said.

She was taken to a local hospital as a precautionary measure, the Clovis Police Department said in a press release.

An Amber Alert for the baby, Eleia Maria Torres, was issued on Friday.

The baby's mother, as well as two other women, were found dead at Ned Houk Memorial Park, a recreational area north of Clovis, with apparent gunshot wounds, police said. Authorities also found a 5-year-old who was suffering from a head injury. The child is currently recovering at a local hospital, Deputy Chief of Clovis Police Trevor Thron said.

"Our hearts are with the victim and her family during this incredibly difficult time," Thron said. said at a Sunday press conference. "And we fervently hope for swift and complete recovery."

The suspect's identity is still unknown.

MORE: Ohio 5-year-old abducted by foster mother, believed to be in danger: Police

Thron said a small piece of maroon debris was found at the scene, adding, "We cannot be certain if it was part of the incident."

"We are still trying to gather more and for more information in regards to the suspect vehicle," he added.

Police ask that anyone with information about this incident please call the Clovis Police Department or 911.

On Friday, at approximately 4:26 p.m. local time, Clovis police received a 911 call about two women found dead at Ned Houk Park.

Upon arrival, officials said two female victims with apparent gunshot wounds were found lying on the ground near a silver Dodge minivan.

MORE: 15-year-old allegedly abducted by teen boyfriend found safe, suspect in custody

Officers on the scene discovered an infant car seat, an infant stroller, and a small baby bottle left at the scene, and immediately began searching for the infant, according to officials.

The women were identified as Samantha Cisneros, the mother of the baby and the injured 5-year-old, and Taryn Allen, both 23 years old, from Texico, New Mexico.

The investigation is ongoing, according to officials.