baby doesn't like travel cot

Helping you to create and organise travel adventures, even with small kids.

2022 best travel cot and baby bed for travel: the ultimate guide!

Last Updated on 27/05/2022 by Clotilde Passalacqua

Do you need a baby bed for travel? When you have children, you soon realise that you start asking questions you never thought you would.

In this case, it soon turns out that the right answer is yes. If you like to travel, you must equip yourself with a baby travel bed.

A portable bed for baby or a travel cot will be essential both for parents who only occasionally visit relatives or friends for the weekend, and for parents who embark around the world with their brand new twins!

Of course if you travel only occasionally, you should carefully review the cost aspect, while if you travel often by plane you will probably be looking for a light, compact, and easy to transport travel cot. Deciding what to pack when travelling with a baby cd be overwhelming, you can read here more advice on baby travel essentials and also how to save hundreds in luggage fees when flying Ryanair or other European low cost airlines.

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through the links on this page, at no cost to you .

WHICH IS THE BEST BABY TRAVEL BED?

On the market there are many alternatives: travel bed for infant, portable crib for toddlers, and also baby pop up bed and everybody has different needs, so it is not an easy question to answer. It may be overwhelming trying to choose the right model, therefore I distilled the choice down to the 8 models I think are the best to choose from! In this guide we will analyse the best travel cots for different travel styles, to make sure you buy the model that suits your way of travel the best!

Then I will go into the details of each portable travel bed for baby to understand each model and analyse which features make them the best option for families that love to travel.

Here is the criteria for the evaluation:

Portability : With a compact travel cot it is important that it is easy to carry on the shoulder, perhaps with a shoulder strap, while pushing a stroller or holding a baby.
Weight / dimensions: If you travel a lot by plane, it is important to consider a compact lightweight travel cot, in order to not make travel even more challenging
Ease of assembly: If you often make road trips, or you like to change hotels every two / three days, it is important to choose a model that is easy and quick to assemble.
Longevity: this is an important aspect to consider based on how long you want to use the baby portable bed you choose. A bit like pushchairs, not all of them are suitable for use from birth, but others are not usable beyond 12/18 months
Fabric : it is important to check how easy it is to clean. While travelling you don’t want to waste time and an accident could always happen.
Mattress: some mattresses are thicker than others, I wouldn’t discard a model only if the mattress is a bit thinner because little kids need quite a firm mattress, but it is good to be aware of it, perhaps if one night you use the travel crib over a hard floor you can put a towel under the cot to compensate.

Let’s start with an overview!

BABY TRAVEL BED COMPARISON CHART

A lightweight travel cot is a great present for a family of travellers, check this gifts for travelers guide if you need more ideas.

WHY DO YOU NEED A PORTABLE TRAVEL BED FOR BABIES?

There are various reasons why I think it is essential to organise yourself with your own baby travel sleep options:

If you visit relatives or friends, you may be tempted to find a temporary solution or to try co-sleeping, but unless you are already used to this solution it can only prove to be a producer of a sleepless night.

If you stay in a hotel you must be absolutely sure that the baby bed supplied complies with the most current safety standards.

Young children, much more than adults, are likely to become infected with germs and bacteria, especially in the period when they are bringing everything to their mouth because that’s their way to discover the world. In a hotel it is almost impossible to be sure that the baby cot supplied has been carefully sterilised.

If, like me, before Liam and Santiago, you have not been interested in the subject before, you will be amazed at what a hotel can ask for, per night, just to add a simple baby crib or an extra bed (usually in the case of children over two years).

At the hotels during our tragicomic first beach holiday , for example, we were asked for Euro30 per night per child, so for two weeks it would have cost us over Euro800!!!!

8 BEST BABY BED FOR TRAVEL: DETAILED REVIEW

Best overall travel cot.

MICRALITE SLEEP AND GO TRAVEL COT

The Micralite sleep&go travel cot is probably the best portable travel crib on the market in 2020. It seems that the designer took all the best elements of other top travel cots, like the Baby Bjorn or Phil & Teds, made it even more functional and added some other cool features. Like the BabyBjorn, it is a super easy to assemble and to transport travel cot, watch here the official video to appreciate these features . This cot folds small into a padded travel bag, with a comfy handle and a practical shoulder strap. It also features the newest generation of infant bassinet (depending on the shop it may be included or sold separately), that can super easily zip to the top and be used until the baby is around 6 months. Really practical if you want to use the travel cot as a newborn travel bed and you want to save yourself from back-pain.

great design
super easy to assemble
really practical bag to store and transport
practical bassinet
side panel zip down
plastic bottom makes it possible to use outdoor
it could be lighter
needs to be checked-in on a flight

Second best if money isn’t an issue

BABY BJORN TRAVEL COT LIGHT

This portable travel cot isn’t cheap, but it is so practical that you will maybe not regret the money spent. Especially if you like road trips and you change location often then this is just amazing. It requires no time to assemble it or put it away. It folds neatly into a sort of small suitcase with a big handle to carry it easily. The fabric and the base are built in, so there are no loose parts to assemble, but the mesh is also really easy to remove to wash. Watch the assembly video to be amazed about how clever it is.

great size from newborn to 3 years +
easy to carry with included bag
side panel doesn’t zip down
no newborn bassinet available

Best lightweight / Best twins travel cot

PHIL & TEDS TRAVELLER

“The only travel cot lighter than your baby” is the slogan that Phil & Teds have been using for years. It is this feature that still keeps The Phil & Teds traveller as one of the top choices on my list. The other element that sets apart this portable crib for travel from the contenders is the way you assembly it. Unfortunately the structure doesn’t come already fixed to the mesh, but needs to be put together. It doesn’t really require more than 2-3 minutes, but you maybe want to consider this aspect, especially if the weight is not a key element for you. Here is the link to the Phil & Teds traveller assembly video if you want to understand better the assembly technique. As parents of twins we can say that this is the best portable crib if you have twins. You can carry 2 and you will still end with a lighter load than one of most of the other models. We used 2 of these portable travel cribs until our boys were over 3 years old.

the lightest traditional travel cot, only 2.8kg
easy to carry on a shoulder
side panel zip down completely
mesh bassinet for newborn available
sunshade top cover available
thermally insulated mattress
allowed as hand luggage from some airlines
assembly is more complicated than other models like Baby Bjorn or Micralite
newborn bassinet sold separately
inflatable mattress on the thin side
sunshade top cover sold separately

Best compact travel c rib

GUAVA LOTUS TRAVEL CRIB

The Lotus travel crib is probably the most compact of all the traditional travel cots. The designers developed this clever 3D mechanism, that makes the crib fold in a Z way and simply fit in the backpack. Watch here the official video on how to assemble it. All parts are connected, so no risk to loose anything. Only the mattress needs to be fixed to the feet. One of the few downsides is it is not easily available everywhere.

easy to assemble
super easy to carry as a back pack
most airlines will consider it hand luggage
newborn bassinet available
newborn bassinet is sold separately
fixing the mattress could be a bit laborious
mattress sheet is sold separately
not easy to buy in Europe

Best baby crib for under $50 £40

HAUCK DISNEY DREAM ‘N PLAY TRAVEL COT

The Hauck Dream ‘n Play travel cot is the most traditional travel cot in this list. For a price tag under $50 (£40) I could not leave it out because there are still situations when it could be worth considering. First of all it is quite big, but if on one hand this means it is the biggest and heaviest in the list, on the other hand it is a really good travel cot for toddler. If you travel mainly by car (with generous boot), mainly visiting friends and family for a weekend or you stay in one place, then save same money and get one of these cots. It doesn’t have the cool features of some others like a newborn bassinet, and doesn’t fold into a back pack, but it still comes with a useful carrying bag. We now have been using two older models of the Hauck for more than 4 years when visiting my dad in Italy. We leave them there but they are still compact enough to be stored away. We think they’re also perfect for a weekend away with the car.

easy enough to assemble, but only if you follow the instructions!
great size from newborn to 4 years +
big enough to be used as a small playpen
heavy, kg. 9,4
not mesh panel all around

Best travel bassinet

BIZZI GROWIN POD TRAVEL CRIB

The Bizzi Growin Pod travel Crib doesn’t have a long life in use as a travel cot, but it is really clever and deserves a space on this list. Parents that prefer to travel with their newborn in a carrier instead of in a pram, will find this changing bag that transforms into a travel crib for newborns particularly useful. Perfect for all parents that like to be out and about all day while travelling, but want to secure a safe space for the little one to nap. One side of the changing bag folds down and you just need to insert 2 lightweight poles to keep the mesh sides in place. Includes a padded mattress for overnight sleep. The changing bag also includes several compartments to keep everything organised including an insulated bottle pocket.

really light
double function
washable mattress
short use as a crib

Best portable crib for outdoor travel

LITTLELIFE ARC 2 LIGTHWEIGT TRAVEL COT

The Littlelife Arc 2 Lightweight Travel Cot, like the Kidco Peapod, developed the traditional travel concept a little further. The designers took inspiration more from the camping life than the usual nursery environment, but the results I think are excellent. This baby travel tent packs easily in a light, small backpack (including the mattress and mattress sheet), and it takes only few minutes to assemble. The assembling is not difficult but it is important to follow the instructions the first time, it is like building a mini camping tent. This is an amazing on the go baby bed, for all families who love to pack really minimally and love life outdoors, as it doubles up as a shaded place for the little one to play during the day outside.

really light only 2.5kg
great size from newborn
includes bed sheet
mesh panel on the side and on the top
safety toggle to block the zip
sunshade available
sunshade sold separately

Best pop up travel cot

KIDCO PEAPOD PLUS TRAVEL BED

The Kidco Peapod Plus travel bed is another tent-style travel cot. It is even lighter than the Littlelife Arc 2, as it is only 1.66kg. The best part is it comes out of his bag already assembled! Yes it is a sort of pop up toddler bed! The other key difference with the Littlelife is that can be used only from 12 months on-wards, but it should last up to 5 years. This travel toddler bed is probably the lightest and longest lasting model on the market, the only issue is that its not available Worldwide. It is really easy to buy in the USA but less in Europe.

really light only 1.6kg
great size from 1 to 5 years
mesh panel on the side
2 big openings on the side, 1 to enter and 1 as a meshed screen
2 smaller meshed screens
mattress attached at the bottom, for safety
easy to remove and wash mattress
tricky to put back in its bag
mattress is quite thin
not worldwide available

You could also be interested in the best double stroller for travel , to make all your travel easier.

TWINS TRAVEL COT

Where are the travel baby beds for twins? As we have twins you might expect me to be ready with a list of cots for twins, but the reality is there are not many on the market. The available options are limited to use in the first few months of life and are not ideal for travelling. The best baby crib for twins to keep at home are the Halo Bassinest and the Simmons bassinet for twins . Two ingenious products, which I hope will be adapted to easily disassemble to make it travel friendly. They were developed on the concept of other cradles that attach to the adults bed, but they are larger and the Halo rotates allowing the parent to reach the baby who needs cuddling without leaving the bed. A mesh panel divides the cot for twins in two so that the babies cannot bother each other, but they can see each other.

Another very popular baby cot for twins is the Joovi room 2 , practically a large playard that, by purchasing the nursery center kit separately, can be divided to accommodate two babies. The playard itself does not take up much more space than a traditional travel cot, but the nursery center is another element to consider to carry around.

You could also be interested in “The reality of travelling with twins and how to make it possible”!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KIDS PORTABLE BED

If, despite my selection you are still confused, it is normal. Many factors influence your choice and then there are always personal preferences that only you can judge, and that will make you lean towards one model or another. I personally have used 3 different types of travel cot: two of them are on the list, the Phil and Ted traveler and the Hauck (even if I own an old model). The Phil and Ted travel cot has been for us the best baby bed for travel. Having twins, for me the most important thing that determined the choice was the lightness and ease of transport (because obviously we have two). My husband can put one on each shoulder and without problems push the stroller and pull a trolley (while I follow empty-handed of course). On the other hand, it is perhaps the most time consuming model to assemble, but lightness and portability were more important to me. The two Phil & Teds have come with us on almost all the trips made with Liam and Santiago up to about three years: Japan, Egypt, Spain ,Turkey. During only the first 6 months we used our beloved Joolz Geo pram carrycot. Now they are just over 4 and we usually find accommodation that offers at least a sofa bed as option for them. The Hauck dream ‘n play we still use when we are visiting their grandfather. We don’t take them on the plane because they would be too bulky, but they are perfect for taking around for a short weekend in the car when we are in Italy. So to conclude, what should you ask yourself before choosing your best travel crib for travel? You should reflect on your style of travel first.

Different travel style, different sleeping solution

Discovering the backyard.

If you love to explore your country, travel by car, and your budget is limited, then the best travel baby bed is definitely the Hauck dream ‘n play . Without frills, it performs the necessary functions without draining your wallet.

Enjoying the outdoors

If you love the outdoor life, travel with the bare minimum, love cycling and camping, then you will surely appreciate the group of non-traditional travel cots. Starting from Bizzi Growin Pod Travel Cot as an infant portable bed and then moving on the super-practical Kidco PeaPod Plus Travel Bed or Littlelife Arc 2 lightweight travel cot .

Planning a round the world trip?

You are covered: Micralite sleep and go travel cot will accompany you everywhere. A model which is certainly not super cheap, but that you can use from birth, very quick to open and close, and practical to carry. If you prefer to focus on the lightness then go with the Phil & Teds and you will forget to have it on your shoulder! …and if you fear to fly with a baby, don’t miss our recommendation for the most carefree experience!

Weekend away?

If you like to jump on a plane even for a weekend away then the best options are the Guava Lotus travel crib or the practical Kidco PeaPod Plus Travel Bed or Littlelife Arc 2 lightweight travel cot . Not all airlines offer the possibility of boarding babygear for free, but with these models you should be safe to carry them as hand luggage (always check!)

Different type of travel cot for different ages

The last considerations to make are concerning the age of the child when you decide to purchase a travel cot.

Travel bed for baby

Many parents may skip this stage as many pushchair bassinets are approved for overnight sleeping. To decide what is the best infant travel bed for you, you will have to consider two options: take one that can be used from birth up to 3/4 years, or buy a small one for the first 6 months and then change it. If you decide for the second option, consider also these: many of the new travel cot models offer a practical bassinet that can be attached with a simple zip to the structure. It is very practical in the first months when you take out the babies from the cot very often. Many travel cots are deeper than you may have in the nursery at home since in many cases the mattress rests on the ground, so it is more difficult to reach your baby and your back could complain, If there is no bassinet, it is a good option to have at least one of the side panels that can be opened, so as to make access easier.

Toddler travel crib

If the first 6 months have gone, the choices expand. In this case one of the most interesting features to look for is the possibility of opening one of the side panels . The toddler age is the most difficult stage, and if you have a child who has difficulty sleeping, it can be useful to have the possibility to open the panel and lie down next to him. During the day the portable toddler crib can also simply become a playpen.

RELATED: Best tablets for 2 year olds

I hope this guide will help you to travel better and more organised! Let me know in the comment if I forgot any great product!

NO TIME NOW? SAVE IT FOR LATER

Clotilde Passalacqua

Clotilde is a resilient, resourceful and adventurous person that navigate the world of travelling with kids. She is a mum of 7 years old twins and she share practical tips, profound insights and genuine personal experience to empowers family to embrace travel with children as an enriching experience rather than a daunting challenge.

The reality of travelling with twins and how to make it possible

How to save hundreds with a Ryanair approved cabin bag in 2023

The only twin must haves you need to make your life easier at home and to travel

Well this is awesome post and written very well. Your point of view is very good.

Thank you Martin, I’m really happy you found it useful!

How to find the best travel cot for your baby

We let our baby out of our sight when we sleep – this is why it is all the more important to choose a suitable and safe travel bed. This guide will help you.

You would do anything for your baby and of course you want only the best.

One of the most important factors for healthy growth is long, restful sleep.
But this is rather difficult, especially when traveling. Fortunately, there is a practical solution for you: travel cots for babies.

Travel beds are particularly suitable for very active and mobile families.

But what should you pay attention to when choosing a suitable travel bed for your protégé? In this article we have summarized the most important things for you so that you can become a baby travel cot expert.

First of all, I will answer a few general questions about travel cots before I go into detail and give a few specific recommendations for buying .

What exactly is a travel cot for babies?

The travel cot was invented to make it as easy as possible for the baby to move from home and on the go.

The travel cot is very similar in shape and texture to the extra bed or cot.

However, it is much easier to transport & you can easily take it with you everywhere.

This makes your protégé feel at home even when traveling & you promote your baby’s sleep optimally

How long can I use the travel cot for my baby?

In general, travel cots are suitable for babies up to 24 months. It is important to pay attention to when your child has become too old for this.

For example, when your baby is too big for the travel cot or can slip out of bed without great effort.

When should I buy the travel cot best?

It makes sense to think about which travel cot is suitable for your baby when you are pregnant.

It is best to buy the bed only after you know the gender of your little one (not that you are looking forward to buying a pink bed for your boy).

What should I look out for when buying a suitable travel bed?

Not all travel cots are the same. There are now countless models from many brands in different designs and colors.

But what is important when buying? In the following section, I’ll cover everything you should think about when choosing.

One of the most important points when buying a travel cot is probably the price.

There is almost no upper limit. You should therefore set a realistic price range before buying the bed.

Good products are available for less than € 50, but you have to dig a little deeper for better quality beds.

The structure

Many beds are easy to assemble, but not all. Do you have a lot of patience for this or do you want it to be quick and easy?

Transport bag

That is also an important criterion – the transport bag. Because with it you can stow the travel cot easily and space-saving.

The travel cot is also available in different sizes. It makes more sense to buy a slightly larger travel cot so that you and your baby can enjoy it longer.

But with the size there are also travel cots for several babies. With twins / triplets, it makes sense to invest in them.

An additional mattress insert makes lying even more comfortable.

Height adjustable

Height-adjustable beds are especially useful if you have back problems. This allows you to raise the mattress and you don’t have to lift your baby that far.

Integrated changing table

An already integrated changing table offers a very practical feature.

So you can lift your baby straight out of bed and change the diaper on the spot. And who doesn’t like it as practical as possible?

Play arcs with integrated music help to lull your baby to sleep. The soothing music and the little animals make your baby tired quickly – ideal sleep aid for the baby !

The music to fall asleep also helps to make sleep particularly restful.

If you would like to spend a little more money on additional accessories, you can buy all kinds of useful things.

An insect repellent, for example, is a real treat for your protégé, especially in summer.
Additional straps help with transport – they also make it easier to fasten the bed.
Some models also bring an additional pillow that your child can snuggle up to.

So it is worth investing some time in research. Often the extra charge for such extras is worthwhile because they noticeably increase the sleeping comfort of your baby.

To save you a long search, I have selected a few recommended travel beds:

The best travel beds for your protégé

Which of the models listed here is the best depends primarily on your baby’s needs. If you value high quality, I can recommend this bed to you.

Hauck travel cot

Hauck is one of the most popular brands when it comes to travel beds. This model comes with a mattress and a travel bag.

This not only provides you with practical transport, but also gives your protégé a comfortable pad.

The mattress is made of a soft foam and adapts to the shape of your baby’s body. There is also a breathable cover to prevent odors.

The assembly is also very easy and quick.

Flexible 2-1 cot from Kinderkraft

Kinderkraft is also a very popular brand with mums. The bed is a bit more expensive, but you have two different uses for it.

Ideal as an extra bed for babies, a reliable travel companion and also a sturdy cot.
Since the bed grows with your baby, the investment is worthwhile in order to enjoy it for as long as possible.

A great way to avoid having to buy again later.

For the playful: Sleep N Play Go Plus

Another travel cot from the Hauck brand. This frame has a side zipper through which your child can get in and out.

This makes the bed suitable not only for sleeping, but also for playing. Crawling fun guaranteed.

Another plus point: the bed has castors, so you can easily slide it from A to B. A soft mattress and a transport bag are also included.

And for a small surcharge, the travel cot is available in a classy brown-beige color.

Easy to transport: travel cot from TecTake

The travel cot is ideal for a relatively small budget, but still convinces with good quality.

The delivery includes a sleeping pad and a practical travel bag. It is also mobile thanks to the integrated roles.

The model is available in many beautiful colors.

Great facilities: Kinderkraft JOY

If you want a good travel cot with a lot of accessories, then this model is for you.

The scope of delivery includes a mattress, a travel bag, a changing mat, a diaper insert, a loft for babies, a play arch and a mosquito net. So many accessories for little money.

The bed is also mobile thanks to the integrated castors.

As you can see, there is a suitable travel cot for every requirement that does not necessarily break the price range.

Another reading tip: the right baby pillow for your child .

Please recommend this page if my buying guide has helped you!

Dr. Niki Elrod

I created Sleep Knowledge to share my interests and experiences on healthy sleeping with others. On this page I am therefore dealing with interesting questions about the optimal night’s sleep & everything else that goes with it.

That’s how much sleep a baby needs, according to leading sleep researchers

The perfect mattress for the baby bed, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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

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

Baby & kids

Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers

Catherine Hufton
Chris Martin

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

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

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

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

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

Best travel cot: At a glance

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

How to choose the best travel cot for your child

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

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

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

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

Can a travel cot double as a playpen?

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

What else do I need to consider?

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

How we test travel cots

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

The best travel cots you can buy in 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check price at Boots

2. Silver Cross Slumber: Best lightweight travel cot

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

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

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

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

Check price at Silver Cross

3. Tutti Bambini CoZee: Best travel cot for style

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. BabyBjörn Travel Cot: Best luxury travel cot

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

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

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

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

Check price at BabyBjörn

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

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

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

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

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

13 of the best travel cots 2024 for babies and toddlers

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

Christy McGhee
Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on pinterest
Share on whatsapp
Share on reddit
Share on tumblr

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

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

Best travel cots at a glance

Best travel cot for easy assembly: Bugaboo Stardust, £225
Best lightweight travel cot for a good mattress: Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £119.99
Best multi-use travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Cot, £195
Best travel cot for added extras: Graco Contour Electra, £100
Best budget buy travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £37
Best travel cot for versatile features: Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot, £79.95
Best travel cot for occasional use: Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £60
Best travel cot for newborns: Joie Kubbie Sleep, £99.99
Best budget travel cot for co-sleeping: Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £65
Best travel cot for versatile newborn co-sleeping: Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £199
Best travel cot for no upper weight limit: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £219.90
Best stylish travel cot: Tutti Bambini CoZee Go 3-in-1 Bassinet, Travel Cot & Playpen, £129
Best lightweight newborn travel crib: ErgoPouch Easy Sleep Portable Crib, £99.95
Jump to best travel cots and cribs in 2024
Jump to why do I need a travel cot?
Jump to what to look for when buying a travel cot
Jump to how, when and where will you use your travel cot?
Jump to how much does a travel cot cost

Here are the best travel cots for 2024

1. bugaboo stardust, £225, – best for easy assembly.

Suitable from: birth (with newborn insert) to 2 years/15kg | Travel cot weight: 6.7kg | Unfolded dimensions: L64cm x W98cm x H85cm| Folded dimensions: L 65cm x W14cm x H85cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

Quickest to assemble
2 mattress height positions
Lightweight

More like this

Quite large when folded

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

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

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

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

Available from: Bugaboo , Boots and John Lewis

2. Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £119.99

– best for lightweight with good mattress.

Venture Airpod Travel Cot tester polaroid final

Easy to build and collapse
Mesh design
Good mattress
No newborn bassinet
Can’t be used as playpen

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

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

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

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

Available from: Amazon and Venture

3. Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1, £195

– best multi-function travel cot.

Suitable from: birth (with newborn insert) to approx. 3 years (up to 15kg) | Travel cot weight: 7.65kg | Unfolded dimensions: 112 x 80 x 67cm| Newborn bassinet: Included

3-in-1 functionality
Will grow with your child
Sustainable fabric
Large when assembled, expensive

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

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

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

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

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

Available from: Boots

4. Graco Contour Electra, £100

– best for added extras.

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

Lots of accessories included
Good newborn bassinet

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

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

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

Read our full MadeForMums Graco Contour Electra review

Available from: Smyths and Graco

5. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £37

– best budget buy.

Easy to assemble
Thin mattress
Not very lightweight

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

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

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

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

Available from: Amazon and Halfords

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

– best for versatile features.

Good value with lots of features
Changing table included
Can wheel along when folded
Easy to assemble and transport
Thin, uneven mattress

The Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot has all the bells and whistles for under £100. This includes an integrated changing table, high and low sleeping positions (reducing back strain), a utility pocket, a zip-down side panel for a fun playpen adventure (crawl in – crawl out) and a fun design with pops of colour. For ease of moving about, it also has two wheels when folded up that means you can pull it along like a suitcase – genius!

Our home testers found the cot to be well made and sturdy, and they particularly liked the wipeable fabrics. With a little practice, parents found it easy to set up and fold down as long as they performed the steps in the right order. "The cot feels sturdy when set up and the fabric is wipeable which makes life easy when on the go," says Shannon, who tested it with their 2-month-old baby Rae (pictured).

Testers would have liked the mattress to be a bit thicker, however, and didn't score it quite so highly for comfort (Hauck do sell a thicker mattress separately). One parent said they found the included mattress did not lie completely flat, but that “the unevenness was not to the extent that we had concerns about baby”. They also felt the changing table’s safety strap could be longer for older babies.

"It's good travel cot for the price with lots of features," said Jennifer, who tested the cot with her 3 month old Brianna. "It's large so will last while our child grows, and the ability to use from newborn up is obviously very helpful. The included change station an added bonus for when baby is small and I think the quality of the frame and materials is good."

Bargain hunters will be happy to hear that despite the £79.95 RRP, we’ve seen online deals for less than £60 - which would make this even better value.

Available from: Boots and Online4Baby

7. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £60

– best for occasional use.

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

Folds up small
Small footprint
Low weight limit

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

The built-in mattress is 2.5cm deep, putting it on a par with most travel cot mattresses but perhaps not up there with the likes of the Bugaboo Stardust. Overall, the cot is smaller in size than some other options we tested, but that means it folds up smaller too. However, for taller children a larger option like the Joie Kubbie or BabyBjorn might last you longer.

Available from: Argos

8. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot, £99.99

– best for newborns.

Suitable from: Birth to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 8.79kg | Unfolded dimensions: L99cm x W59.5cm x H80.5cm| Folded dimensions: L 27 cm x W 25 cm x H 80.5cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

Simple drop-side feature
Grows with baby
Can be tricky to put up and down

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

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

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

Read our full MadeForMums Joie Kubbie travel cot review

Available from: Very and Argos

9. Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £65

– best budget travel cot for co-sleeping.

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

Permanent drop-side option
Flimsy newborn insert

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

Once the baby is older, it becomes a travel cot that's almost a metre in length, offering lots of space for a growing toddler. Our testers were divided on the mattress' comfort levels. While our reviewer found it to be too firm for their 9 month old, other testers really rated it. "As travel cots go this is one of the comfiest mattresses I’ve seen. It feels nice and padded and had a solid firm base underneath to secure into the cot," said home tester Bridget, who tested this with her 4 month old.

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

Read our full MadeForMums Red Kite Dreamer beside travel cot review

Available from: Argos and Red Kite

10. Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £199

— best travel cot for versatile newborn co-sleeping.

6 height positions
Quick and easy fold
Shorter life span than other options
Can be difficult to transport

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

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

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

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

The crib has an impressively quick and easy 3-second fold that Helen thought was one of the standout features of the travel cot: "The ease of putting the cot up and down with the 3-second fold, and without the need to dissemble anything, is the main selling point and for good reason. It easily folds up into one piece and is easy to insert into the travel bag included." However, at 10.5kg, the PopUp is the heaviest option on our list and is quite bulky when folded. Whilst compact and able to fit under some beds while not in use, it does have a large footprint and therefore takes up quite a lot of car boot space and may not fit into the boot of smaller cars.

Read our full MadeForMums Chicco Next2Me Pop Up travel cot review

Available from: John Lewis , Amazon and Boots

11. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £219.90

– best for no upper weight limit.

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

No upper weight limit
Easy to set up
Premium feel
Extra thick mattress
One of the most expensive options

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

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

MFM Head of Consumer Content and mum of 3 Christy commented: "It's so easy to set up, which is really useful if you forget how between holidays, or are asking a grandparent to help. I had no worries about sleepily packing it up at the airport hotel before we took an early flight."

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

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

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

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

Available from: John Lewis and BabyBjörn

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

— best stylish travel cot.

Multi-functional
Quick to put together
Mattress included
Quite large

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. ErgoPouch Easy Sleep Portable Crib, £69.97

Best for: lightweight newborn travel crib.

ergopouch portable bassinet crib tester image final

Very light and compact
Mosquito net included
Multifunctional

Considerably smaller – by design – than the more traditional travel cots on our list, this lightweight folding crib weighs in at a very portable 2.2kg. It is suitable for overnight sleep with newborns, so ideal for babies who are sleeping in a moses basket or crib at home and not quite ready to spend their holiday in a larger cot. Our testers found the breathable mesh sides make it easy to keep an eye on your baby, and the easy fold and included storage backpack make this a great shout for travel in the early days. The high sides and sturdy steel frame also make it a safe resting place for tummy time and play.

You’ll be hard pressed to find a lighter travel cot, but the downside of it being such as super-lightweight crib is that it has a relatively short usage span for sleep. ErgoPouch say the product is designed as a safe sleep area for a newborn infant, but do advise you discontinue use once your baby shows signs of rolling, or has reached 9kg (whichever comes first).

Holly, who tested it with her 7 week old, Charlotte, says, “My honest initial thoughts were that it was flimsy – however as soon as I assembled the product I realised it was exceptionally well produced - the materials are wonderfully lightweight which allows it to be carried in the accompanying backpack with ease. Similarly, I was worried that the mattress would be overly thin but in reality it is not much thinner than the mattress we currently have in the moses basket and is soft and comfortable. Great value for money!”

We also like the fact the mattress is breathable, and the cotton cover can be removed for washing. For lazy days by the pool or in your garden, it even comes with a mosquito net for extra protection for your baby. Folded down and popped in the travel case, it can also fit in overhead lockers on the airplane, or inside a suitcase.

Available from: Ergopouch and Natural Baby Shower

Sign up to receive our Most Wanted newsletter

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

Why do I need a travel cot?

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

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

What to look for when buying a travel cot

Portability — Travel cots have lighter-weight components and are designed to be easily carried and stored. But they're still cots, so none of them are going to fold into a truly tiny package. They fold into different shapes so look for the folded style that suits your needs. Some of the travel cots on our list fold into a long 3D rectangular shape more suited to public transport, others fold flat to fit well in a car boot.

Weight — Travel cots vary significantly in weight - we found some that are under 7kg and others that weigh in at a hefty 10.5kg. There's even a super-light travel crib, albeit with a shorter usage period. Think about how often you’re going to use it, and if you’ll be lifting it up and down stairs or in and out of a car. If you want frequent use, a very lightweight travel cot may suit you best. Of course, a heavier cot is likely to feel more sturdy and offer more functionality.

Ease of assembly/disassembly — Once you have the knack, putting a travel cot up and down should be a very quick process - a matter of minutes, if not seconds. Do read the instructions though, many have a knack and have parts that need to be put together in a very specific order. If you only plan on using it occasionally, a cot with a very easy, or intuitive fold, might suit you better than an 'easy once you've practised a few times' option.

Age suitability — Age suitability really varies for travel cots. Most can be used from birth – we’ve specified the manufacturer’s instructions – but the travel cots that have a built-in bassinet offer a cosier, elevated sleep environment for newborns. This will also make bending down to lift them out easier if they need frequent settling through the night. Several of the cots even have drop-down sides to allow them to be used as a bedside crib. Some cots can only be used for a few months while others are suitable up to around 3.5 years.

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

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

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

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

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

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

How much does a travel cot cost?

Our list covers travel cot prices ranging from £35 up to more than £200 - so quite a wide scope. For items at all price points, we expect a safe, comfortable and stable sleeping environment.

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

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

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

How did we choose our 13 of the Best?

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

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

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

How NatPat's wellness patches may help your family

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

Advertisement feature with NatPat

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

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

Thank you for registering

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel cots for 2024 are:

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

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

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

Graco foldlite travel cot

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

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

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

Red Kite sleep tight travel cot

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

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

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

Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce

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

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

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

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

BabyBjörn travel cot light

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

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

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

Nuna sena aire

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

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

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

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

Silver Cross slumber carbon travel cot

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

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

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

Kinderkraft lovi 3-in-1 baby crib

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

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

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

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

Bugaboo stardust travel cot

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

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

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

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

Halo flex portable bassinet

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

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

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

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

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

Fisher-Price on the go travel baby dome

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

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

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

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

ergoPouch easy sleep portable crib

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

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

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

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

Travel cot FAQs

What age is a travel cot for.

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

Can a baby sleep in a travel cot every night?

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

What to look for when buying a travel cot

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

Do travel cots need a mattress?

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

The verdict: Travel cots

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

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

Provide extra comfort by investing in the best cot mattresses

Voucher Codes

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

My Independent Premium
Account details
Help centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LOVE SHOPPING? Sign up to the HELLO! Edit Newsletter

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

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

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

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

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

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

Are travel cots suitable for toddlers?

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

Best travel cots for 2022 at a glance

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

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

Best travel cot for flying – Deryan travel cot

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

Best travel cot for easy assembly – Bugaboo Stardust

Best pyramid-style travel cot - Micralite Premium travel cot

Best travel cot for newborns

Joie Kubbie Sleep Compact Travel Cot, £115, Argos

Weight: 8.79 kg

Suitable: from birth till 15kg

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

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

Best travel cot for toddlers

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

Weight: 5.6 kg

Suitable from: birth to approx 3.6 years old

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

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

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

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

Best travel cot budget option

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

Weight: 6.99 kg

Suitable from: birth until 15kg

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

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

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

Best pyramid-style travel cot

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

Weight: 6.74 kg

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

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

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

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

Best travel cot for easy assembly

Bugaboo stardust travel cot, £225, John Lewis

Weight: 6.7kg

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

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

Best travel cot for flying

Deryan travel cot, £68.38, Amazon

Weight: 1.8kg

Suitable from: birth to two years

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Parenting

Olly Murs' heartbreaking comment about being separated from newborn daughter

I'm a first-time mum and here's what you need to know about breastfeeding

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

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

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

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

Exclusive: Oti Mabuse on motherhood, breastfeeding and sleepless nights

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

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

Travel Products

SpaceCot Travel Cot review

At a glance:

SpaceCot has been designed using quite literally 'Rocket Science'! Space system engineered materials make each travel cot easy to assemble and as lightweight to carry as possible. The SpaceCot comes with a soft, comfortable, foldable mattress, creating a snug, cosy place for your baby to sleep. The mattresses built-in base keeps the lightweight travel cot firmly on the floor, so your child can sleep and play securely. It has an airy design for added visibility - the sides of the SpaceCot are made from soft mesh fabric allowing your baby to breathe freely.

Read our essential guide to the best travel cots here

Would you recommend this to other mums?

Jo: I like the foldability. It is so easy and effortless to set up or pack away. The setting for new babies and toddlers means you don't have to have two separate travel cots. You can buy this and use it from birth without worrying about them outgrowing it. The travel cot isnt bulky and when set up it is quite compact.

Jamielee: I would recommend this product firstly because it is so easy to put up, with a few simple clicks you can put the space for up within a matter of seconds. I would also recommend because the quality is amazing. No one wants to put their baby into an unsafe sleeping area and this travel cot ensures that you don’t have to.

Louisa: I loved the speed of setting up which is second to none. Packing it away is just as simple. It is great to find a cot that is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. I had a caesarean so moving bulky heavy items was out of the question. I was able to lift this into the car without help. The sleek design with neutral colour helps it blend with décor.

How did this product make your life easier?

Stephanie: This product makes life so much easier when we take my daughter to her grandparents or our friends. We have also used it in hotels and even set up in our caravan awning for naps. It is just so simple to put up and down.

Chloe: It is so simple to use. It is easy to put up or down and lightweight enough to carry or move around the room if need be. I love the fabric and it makes it super easy to clean. You just wipe it and you're done! It makes life easier if you are travelling as its light weight and small when folded. It will fit it in your car better and it is very quick to put up once you've reached your destination.

Kirsty: This product is perfect for trips away and fits nicely flat in the boot of a car, taking up a minimal amount of room. The cot is easy to put up and down. It takes less than 10 seconds, which is so handy when in a rush.

Would you choose this product to win?

Jo: I wouldn't choose this product as it looks quite plain. For the price, it doesn't give much extra compared to cheaper travel cots available. Although a toddler still using a cot would fit in it I don't think it is very spacious for them to move around. I also find it quite big when packed away. It can be hard to store as travel cots aren't used all the time.

Jamielee: I would choose this product over others on the market for its sheer simplicity and quality. It is amazing and my daughter found it very comfortable. It didn’t disrupt her sleep pattern at all. I would choose this product over others as it’s very easily portable with a travel bag it makes it easy to carry from A to B.

Louisa: The SpaceCot is lighter, easier to put up, more compact and has a sleeker design than many of its competitors. It feels like a quality product that is built to last. If you are going on a mini break with a car this is a perfect hassle-free replacement of your usual cot. If you are travelling by public transport it is not quite as useful.

What changes would you make to this product?

Stephanie: The shape when the travel cot is folded down along with the short carry strap make for uncomfortable transporting. It wouldn't fit in anything to take on to a plane which could be a sticking point for some. My baby doesn't like travel cots from hotels so we tend to take hers with us when we travel.

Chloe: I think the only thing I would probably change would be the price. It is on the higher end of the scale and I suppose some people wouldn't want to pay that amount. You may not need to use a travel cot very often. I do think it is worth the investment if you can afford it. It is great quality and the ease of use is what you pay for.

Kirsty: The only thing I would change would be the weight of the product. I understand in order to keep its stability, it would need a specific weight to maintain health and safety regulations. However, should they be able to review the weight ever so slightly, I believe this would be a must-have product for every family.

Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot Review

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

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn how we test and explore discount codes .

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

By Sophie Cockett

Image may contain Furniture Human Person Cradle and Crib

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

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

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

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

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

By Sophie Cockett and Mayola Fernandes

Do I need a travel cot ?

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

What age can a baby sleep in a travel cot?

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

Are travel cots safe?

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

What to look for in a good travel cot

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Kari Colmans

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

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

Image may contain Furniture Tent and Cradle

Best travel cot overall

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £220, John Lewis

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

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

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

Best travel cot Amazon

Dooky - Portable Travel Cot Grey, £36.88, Amazon

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

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

Save when you shop for the best travel cots with these Amazon promo codes .

Best bedside travel cot: Joie travel cot

Joie Baby Roomie Glide Sleep Bedside Travel Cot, Foggy Grey, £169, John Lewis

Why we love it: Joie travel cots are among some of the best on the market, and the Roomie Glide Co-Sleeper is our favourite for allowing your little one to sleep by your side – wherever in the world you are. On one side, there's a high mesh wall, and on the other, a single-hand sliding panel which prevents any separation between yourself and baby. The single-hand glide function allows you to rock your newborn to sleep without leaving your own bed, and the one-touch glide lock lets you secure Roomie Glide in place when you're done rocking.

The sliding panel can be lifted and lowered with one hand, and the 11 height adjustment options mean you can fit this travel cot to almost any height/style of bed frame or sofa bed .

As for its portability? This travel cot has four lockable wheels so you can easily move it around your space, and it assembles and disassembles with speed. It also comes with a handy travel bag so you can take it on overnight stays or weekend breaks.

Dimensions: H68.5 x W81 x D98.5cm Weight: 11.94kg

Best travel cot for holiday

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot, £230, John Lewis

Why we love it: It might be a little more expensive – and a tad heavier – than some of the other travel cots in this edit, but if increased air flow and visibility of your baby are priorities, it's certainly one to consider. It has 360-degree mesh lined air flow on the crib and bassinet, and the mesh mattress has two levels of airflow thanks to ventilating padding. Basically, your baby will get plenty of fresh air when they're kicking back for the night.

As for practicality, it has a centralised pulley system which makes it easy to assemble even with one hand, plus skid-proof feet and a raised base. It also comes with a certified organic cotton sheet, setting it apart from cheaper options on the market. Have a little more to spend? You can purchase a matching changing unit and insect nest for more exotic destinations.

Dimensions: L73.5cm x W107cm x H74.5cm Folded dimensions: L24cm x W28cm x H86cm Weight: 10kg

Are Jono and Ellie from Married at First Sight Australia still together?

By Meg Walters

Who is Nava Mau? Meet the Baby Reindeer star who plays Teri

By Francesca Specter

Are Jayden and Eden still together from Married At First Sight Australia?

Best travel cot for changing

Joie Commuter Travel Cot, £165, Mamas & Papas

Why we love it: The best travel cot for changing is this portable crib by – no surprises here – Joie. It comes with a removable bassinet and a vibrating bouncer and a toy bar to keep your little one entertained. It has mesh sides for airflow and visibility, and integrated wheels so that you can move your baby closer to you during nap times. The only downside? It is a little bulkier – and therefore less portable – than some of the other models in this edit, making it better suited for UK holidays over long-haul flights.

Dimensions : 106 x 70.5 x 80cm Folded size : 79 x w 25 x h 21cm Weight : 12.3kg

Best travel cots for long term use

Micralite Sleep and Go, £150, Amazon

Why we love it: The best travel cot for long term use is the Micralite Sleep and Go. It can be used as a newborn crib (with thanks to the detachable bassinet), infant travel cot and playpen for toddlers. It's lightweight, easy to move around, and though not as compact as some of the others on this list, it easily fits into a car boot when folded. It can be assembled in just two minutes.

The only downside? When you're using it in the early days of your baby's life, it doesn't fit snug against the side of the bed due to the sloped sides. That said, this gives a toddler more space to play further down the line… swings and roundabouts.

Dimensions: L112cm x W80cm x H67cm Folded dimensions: L88cm x W34cm x H17cm Weight: 7kg

Best travel cot for easy storage

Maxi-Cosi Iris Travel Cot, Graphite, £159, John Lewis

Why we love it: Not only is this one of the chicest travel cots in appearance (check out those wooden legs!), but it's perfect for both newborns and infants. It comes with a bassinet option for newborn babies, which can be lowered when they get a little older. It has a machine washable lining, a comfortable mattress and it's easy enough to assemble in just one click.

Dimensions : 690 x 670 x 115cm Folded size : 570 x 540 x 150cm Weight : 6 kg

Best travel cot for twins

LITTLELIFE ARC 2 TRAVEL COT GREY, £149.99, Jojo Maman Bebe

Why we love it: Unique in design, this travel cot is suitable for use from birth through to toddlers. It's one of the lightest and most compact travel cots we've tried, acting a bit like a pop up tent and complete with a comfy foam mattress. It has mesh panels for insect protection, visibility and ventilation, and comes with a travel bag for easy transportation. Perfect for UK camping holidays and longer-haul trips alike.

Dimensions: 33 x 85 x 72 cm Folded size: 42 x 31 x 20 cm Weight: 2.5 kg

Save when you shop for the best travel cot with these Jojo Maman Bebe discount codes .

Image may contain Furniture and Electronics

Best travel cot with thick mattress

Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £87.99, Amazon

Why we love it: One of the best travel cots under £100 is the Venture Airpod Travel Cot, which scores top points for its thick mattress of excellent quality. It's really easy to assemble, lightweight and also comes complete with a strong storage bag when in transport.

Dimensions : 85 x 55 x 66cm Folded size : 60 x 15 x 50cm Weight : 6kg

I can't live without my wireless bras, and once you try one you'll feel the same

By Mayola Fernandes

These ultra-soft bed sheets will make you feel like you're sleeping in a five-star hotel

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light Review

We put the BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light to the test and think it's the best buy for easy assembly

'A high-quality, compact travel cot that can be assembled with one hand. Clearly a lot of time and thought and time have gone into the design and functionality of this travel cot.’

Premium quality fabric

Compact and lightweight

Easy to assemble

No newborn insert

Pricey - but an investment buy

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

Hollie Bond and her ten-month-old daughter Margot tested out the BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light during their travels to see how it fared.

The BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light gets our vote as the best travel cot to buy if you're looking for something super easy to assemble. Flying long-haul and want the assurance that your cot will be a doddle to set up? This is the one to buy.

It's a very good option for a lightweight travel cot, because it is really easy to transport, looks stylish, and, most importantly for frazzled parents, it is extremely easy to assemble and put back down. It comes with a comfortable mattress and mattress cover included, along with a handy bag that ‘it’s really easy to fit back in,’ according to our tester, Hollie.

She found the low base a bit off-putting as you have to bend over quite a way to put your child into the cot, but this also means it doubles up as a playpen. ‘I took the cot to my parents' house to use as a playpen and it worked a treat, keeping Margot safely away from all the delicate antiques and trinkets,’ she says.

While at the pricier end of the spectrum, Hollie thinks it's well worth the extra money because of the quality of the fabric and materials used.

VIEW AT AMAZON | £220

Weighs: 6kg (including bag) | Age: Birth to 3 years

Our tester Hollie’s first impression of the BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light was that it lived up to its name - it arrived in a smart bag with a useful carry handle and is indeed very light. ‘In the past, I've had to wrestle with travel cots and spent ages trying to get the knack of putting them up, but with this cot, I managed to assemble it in seconds with one hand while holding my baby and without reading any instructions,’ she says. ‘It's very intuitive and just folds out into shape straightaway.’

As well as the cot itself, this travel cot comes with a ‘surprisingly spongy and soft’ mattress and a fitted cot sheet. The mattress is attached to the cot via little tabs that go through the cot lining and fasten to the frame.

‘This cot doesn't come with a bassinet option and is very low to the ground, so it was quite a stretch to place Margot down onto the mattress, so I wouldn't recommend it for parents with back problems,’ adds Hollie. ‘Luckily, the days of me having to stroke Margot's back to get her to sleep are over too, as that would have been a problem.’ There is a flip side to the low base, however – it means the travel cot can double up as a playpen when you’re travelling or even at home.

Comfort and features

Our tester was impressed by the BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light’s mattress and apparently, her daughter was too. ‘The mattress is well padded and as soon as I put Margot in the cot she had a lie down and snuggled in,’ says Hollie. ‘She slept as well in it as she does in her more sturdy and higher up cot at home, and had enough space to move around in her sleep comfortably.’

As you’d expect from the BabyBjörn brand, the quality of the cot is excellent. ‘I loved that it felt sturdy and solid even though it's lightweight,’ adds Hollie. She also liked the mesh sides which meant that she could keep an eye on Margot as she slept but they didn’t let too much light in.

This travel cot is designed for newborns through to three-year-olds, which Hollie did find a bit optimistic. ‘My now-four-year-old son definitely wouldn't have fitted in it at three and probably would have grown out of it by the age of two.’

Value for money

At £220, this travel cot doesn’t come cheap but our tester feels it's worth the money. ‘It has a lot of high-quality features - such as the smart carry bag and padded mattress - that you'd look for in a top-of-the-range travel cot,’ she says. The fact that it doubles up as a playpen also adds to the value.

Hollie would recommend the BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light to anyone planning to do lots of travelling with their baby and says it'll particularly appeal to parents who like baby products to look good, but also work really well.

This gets our vote as the best travel cot for easy assembly of all those we tested but you might also like to read our Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot review – it’s the best travel cot overall, according to our parent reviews. And don’t forget to check out the rest of our baby product reviews .

GoodtoKnow Newsletter

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

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

Teenage girl with arms raised showing her armpits

We know that puberty can cause all sorts of smells to emanate from teens - now scientists have revealed exactly what you're smelling, and how evolution contributed.

By Lucy Wigley Published 24 April 24

Happy mother and daughter smiling in the sunshine

A parenting coach has shared four ways parents can reframe their thoughts when their kid has big emotions. Giving them a try could offer big results in little time.

The 'Surprise!’ episode has really done what it says on the tin - and many can’t get over the shock of Bluey having a baby

By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published 24 April 24

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

Best travel cot 2023: lightweight cots for travel

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

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

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

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

How to buy the best travel cot

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel cots you can buy today:

Graphite/Black Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot

1. Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

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

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

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

Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjorn Travel Cot Light

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

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

3. Nuna SENA Aire

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

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

4. Inovi Cocoon Folding Moses

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

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

5. Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Cot

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

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

6. SpaceCot Travel Cot

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

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

7. LittleLife Arc 2

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

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

8. Pop Up Bassinet Koo-Di

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

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

9. Chicco Lullago Zip Crib

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

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

Joie Excursion Travel Cot with detachable changing mat and rocker

10. Joie Excursion Change & Rock Travel Cot0

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

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

Get the T3 newsletter!

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

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

Carys Lowry-Carter

Any of these products could win a coveted T3 Award in June

By Mat Gallagher Published 25 April 24

Spotted on an Indian certification website so should launch soon.

By Rik Henderson Published 25 April 24

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

By Jamie Carter Last updated 20 December 23

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

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

By Jamie Carter Last updated 15 March 24

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

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

By Amy Davies Last updated 2 January 24

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

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

By Jamie Carter Last updated 2 January 24

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

The best electric scooter can make getting around more fun

By Matt Kollat Last updated 25 January 24

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

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

By Gavin Stoker Last updated 29 February 24

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

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

By Spencer Hart Last updated 2 January 24

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

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

By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Last updated 22 March 24

Out & About

Best Travel Cot 2024

Babies sleep a lot at home, on outings, and when visiting friends and family overnight, and won’t have access to their regular cot. You’ll need somewhere safe for your little one to sleep – that’s where travel cots (portable cots) come into the picture.

What you will find in this guide

Safe baby bed options for peace of mind, best baby travel cots for 2024, what to look for when buying a travel cot.

Best compact travel cots and full sized travel cots

Safety checklist

Accessories you will also need to consider, keep baby safe when you are travelling, brands to look out for, how to make a cot comfortable.

Safe sleeping is a right for every newborn. The sleeping space travel cot you choose for your baby is value for money if it frees you up for easy transportation and safe set-up when away from home.

Portable cots are designed for babies that need somewhere to sleep when their regular cot isn’t available. They’re made of fabric or mesh sides plus a removable mattress. Travel cots fold up for transportation.

When looking for travel cots, parents are particularly interested to know if the cot is lightweight, easy to fold, and compact for storage and transportation. A portable travel cot is a small folding shelter with mattress that keeps your baby safe and comfortable while sleeping. Travel cots are handy on a picnic, while camping, or when visiting away from home. Travel Cot ideas at Metro Baby include:

The AeroMoov Air Layer is specifically has been designed to keep your child fresh and dry in the car seat, pushchair, or travel cot.  Air circulation is regulated under your baby to stop heat from accumulating. Advantages of the AeroMoov include:

Constant air circulation around your child’s back, head and legs
Reduced sweating
Reduced the risk of overheating
Machine washable, soft and comfortable

Bugaboo Stardust

Sleeping is an essential part of a child’s development. The Bugaboo Stardust makes naptime easier and more fun for you and your baby. Bugaboo Stardust uses aerospace technology and smart design to create an ultra-comfortable play yard that you can use at home or on the go.

With SlumberPod, the days of inconvenient set-up for a cozy night’s sleep are long gone. SlumberPod is a portable, affordable solution for family room-sharing and getting a good night’s sleep in a different environment.

Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Easy Go

The Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Easy Go is an instant assembly lightweight travel cot. Weighing just 6kg, the Travel Cot Easy Go makes travelling stress-free for parents. The cot can be carried around the house, placed in the car, or carried through an airport. The Easy Go is a good investment in your little one’s upbringing.

All new parents like to investigate convenient baby-care ideas such as bassinets, playpens, travel bags, carry bags, and pop-up baby sleep travel cots. There’s a lot to look for, including padded mattresses, fitted sheets, cocoon-style travel packs, breathable mesh mosquito nets and a whole lot more.

At Metro Baby, we are inspired by our baby product partners who focus on specially designed baby gear of the highest standard. Here are a few considerations when looking for the best travel cot available.

STABILITY & SAFETY

Look for a travel cot with compact design and sturdy base that stands firmly and doesn’t wobble. The best cots have see-through mesh panels on the sides to allow parents and their little ones to see through and keep an eye on things. The best travel cots meet Australian & NZ portocot safety standards.

WATERPROOF SLEEPING QUARTERS

The mattress should be both cosy and roomy. A comfortable mattress will create a restful environment for your child wherever they happen to be. The mattress should come with a removable, waterproof cover to protect against leaks.

EASY SET-UP

Assembly of your new travel cot should be an easy task. After a long day of travel it’s good to know you have a cot that takes only a few seconds to erect or dismantle. The best travel cots have legs that automatically set and lock in place. Your travel cot should be small enough to fold up and stow in the boot of your car. Many travel cots fold into a small enough parcel to pack in a suitcase and carry on a plane.

SAFE, EASY-CLEAN MATERIALS

The fabric and materials used in your new travel cot should be certified safe and free of any harmful substances. The mattress cover and fabric should be removable, machine washable, and smooth on your child’s skin.

The best travel cots are designed to provide optimum ventilation while still keeping your baby warm and snug. Look for new Air Layer technology the promotes airflow, reduces moisture, and creates a more comfortable environment.

TRAVEL COT WEIGHT

Some travel cots are extremely light yet surprisingly durable, such as the Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Easy Go, weighing only 6kg. A slightly heavier and sturdier product alternative is the SlumberPod, a sleeping system that gives your toddler their own private luxury space for the night.

Every parent is different, and so are their little ones. The sleeping solution you choose should suit your lifestyle and needs. Look for special design features that will make the job of parenting just that little bit easier.

BEST COMPACT TRAVEL COTS AND FULL SIZED TRAVEL COTS:

Before purchasing a travel cot, consider how you intend to use it. Will the cot be an all rounder used in lots of different situations? Do you want a travel cot that’s easy to set up? Is a compact and lightweight travel cot on your wishlist? Your search can include:

Best compact travel cots – Ideal when travelling by airplane and need luggage solutions

Best full sized travel cots – Perfect for regular stayovers with relatives and friends

Best travel cots – For parents and their little ones who enjoy getting out and about

There is a lot to look out for when searching for the best travel cot or travel crib for your family. These include:

Good ventilation : Each side should be made from a breathable mesh material that extends to the floor of the cot.
Well designed : Surfaces should be free of protruding parts so children can’t hit their heads, get snagged or create footholds to climb out of the cot.
No gaps : The travel cot portable crib mattress should be firm, fit snugly without gaps, and not be easily moved or lifted out of place by the child.
Sturdy : The rails of your portacot should have locking mechanisms to prevent accidental collapse of the cot. Look for a cot that has a sturdy base that doesn’t sag.
Not too heavy : Some portable travel cots are still quite weighty, so make sure to check how heavy the cot is prior to purchase. You should be able to lift and carry a travel cot comfortably.

You will be needing an assortment of accessories to go with your travel cot. Fortunately, Metro Baby has everything you are looking for in one place. Explore our extensive baby product collections that include:

Foldable Changing Tables
Baby Carriers

Whether you are looking for a cot mattress and changing unit for bub or hand luggage for yourself, you’ve come to the right place at Metro Baby.

The best lightweight travel cots are designed for the commuter comfort of both caregiver and baby. Some travel cots include a shoulder strap for carry-assistance, and the best travel cots are easy to assemble and disassemble. A travel cot should be a safe place for newborns and little ones, even your one or two year old.

Metro Baby is proud to work with leading baby product brands from around the world. Every product we select has been chosen for safety, quality, durability, and price. Our buying power means that you get high quality baby products for the best available price.

Our brands are leaders in the field whose products have won numerous industry awards. Metro Baby brands and products include the Baby Bjorn Go Travel Cot, Bugaboo products designed for ease of use, and some of the lightest baby carriers and bassinets available.

You will need to strike the balance between comfort and safety. As long as your baby is dressed in warm layers and your cot has a fitted mattress and soft sheet, your little one should be comfortable. Here are some tips to keep baby warm and safe in their cot.

Dress your baby in layers that can be easily added or removed
Use a swaddle-style sleeping bag
Remove hats, hooded clothing and loose bedding
Always lie your baby on his or her back to sleep
Make sure there are no loose toys or materials in the cot
Choose a cot that meets Australian & NZ safety standards

If your baby is comfortable and happy, the travels can be enjoyed by everyone, so it’s worth investing in the best travel cot available at Metro Baby for happiness, harmony, and peace of mind.

Was this page useful?

A Beginner's Guide to your Baby's Cot - Everything You Need To Know

Whether you’ve had a baby, are expecting one or are just thinking about having a child in the future, a cot is going to be something that you use. Whilst they may look simple from the outside, there are a lot of questions surrounding your baby’s cot. Are they safe? Are there more than one type? Can my newborn baby sleep in a cot? These are all questions that are completely normal to think about – and we have the answers.

We have put together a huge blog of the most popular questions surrounding cots. We don’t expect you to sit and read through every single question (but you can if you’d like to). If you’re only looking for the answer to 2 or 3 questions, just click on the ones you’d like to read in our table of contents – you’ll be taken straight to them!

We hope that after you read our blog, you’ll be left feeling much more confident on buying your baby’s cot or using the one that you already have.

What is a cot?

You may think this is a super simple question that everyone knows the answer to, but if you’re just starting out and aren’t sure what a cot actually is, we have a good explanation for you. A cot is simply a bed made for babies and small children. They are designed to keep your baby secure whilst they sleep in their cot through the night or during naps. Cots typically have 4 walls that surround the edges, normally in a cage-like design.

Whilst your baby is very young, you’ll find putting them into such a secure space seems like a bit of a waste. Your baby won’t move around too much whilst they are still very young but it’s still important to protect them from rolling over. As your child gets older and is able to get onto their feet more, this is when a cot really comes in handy. The 4 walls will prevent your child from falling out of the cot and potentially hurting themselves. In simple terms, a cot is just a smaller and more secure bed.

Types of cot

There are a few different cots to choose from, but this does depend on the age of your baby and the circumstances you are in. You will probably use each of these cots at least once in your baby’s development as they all come in handy for different reasons. We will go into more depth about these cots later on in the blog to talk about their safety and how you should use them…

Standard Cot

These cots are normally the most popular type as they are easy to find and do exactly what you need them to do. Whilst they don’t have any other features, they do provide a safe space for your child and make sure that they won’t fall out of the bed during the night. There are many different styles and colours you can get of standard cots to fit in with your baby’s nursery. However, if you’re looking for something cheap and cheerful, there are plenty of standard cots to choose from!

You may have seen these types of cots before. Instead of a permanent frame around the sides, one side of the cot is able to drop down. These can be great for parents who are slightly shorter or who have back problems. Leaning over the side of the cot can make it very difficult to get your baby out or put them in safely.

These cots are designed to make it difficult for your baby to unlatch the side themselves whilst in their cot. There are many designs like a nudge and lift mechanism, catches and foot pedals so that you can easily drop the side down without risk to your baby.

Drop-sided cots are sometimes avoided by parents as they don’t deem them as safe. It’s important that your purchase an item that you will feel comfortable using and leaving your baby in. We will discuss more on the safety of drop-sided cots later in this blog.

Sleigh cots

Sleigh cots are simply just another design of cot. Instead of the standard rectangle shape, these cots have a wavy and more stylish design. If you’re looking to go for something with a little more character, a sleigh cot is a great choice. It’s just important that you check that the ends of the cot don’t have a dip or groove in them where your baby’s clothes could potentially get caught.

Sleigh cots can still offer you the drop-sided feature. They offer you and your baby everything that a standard cot does but with just a different style. The rails can usually also be fully removed to turn the sleigh cot into a bed once your little one starts getting older.

This cot really does say what it does in its name. If you’re making a weekend trip to grandma’s house or going away on a holiday, a travel cot will keep your baby safe and allow them to have a good night’s sleep. Most travel cots can be folded down completely to make it easy to put in the car when driving to your new accommodation. Some parents also take them abroad with them to ensure that their baby will be comfortable during the night as well as safe.

What size is a cot?

A standard cot for your baby is usually around 60cm x 120cm. It’s important to make sure that your baby’s nursery is big enough for a cot before you go and buy one. If you don’t have the space for one, you can always look into Moses baskets first whilst your baby is still young. If you purchase a standard sized cot, you will be able to find a standard sized mattress very easily. Sometimes these are included with what you pay for the cot.

As your child gets older, they will no longer need the sides of the cot to keep them in their bed. Some cots allow you to take the sides straight off to turn it into a toddler bed right away. However, if yours doesn’t do this, you can purchase a cot bed instead. These are usually 70cm x 140cm – just slightly bigger than a cot.

Can a newborn sleep in a cot?

Some parents can become a little confused when it comes to their baby’s first night at home. Can they go straight into a cot? Do they need to sleep in a Moses basket first? The answer is that it’s completely up to you. The only thing that you need to make sure of is that they are in your room and should be up until they are around 6 months old.

Most parents use a Moses basket first if they find that the space isn’t big enough in their room for a full-sized cot. A Moses basket is simply just a scaled down version of a cot that offers your baby everything a cot would. If you do have the space, there’s nothing wrong with putting your newborn baby straight into a cot from their first night home.

As long as they are kept close to you during the entire night, it does not matter whether they are in a cot, bassinet, crib or Moses basket . It’s really important that you do not share a bed with your baby, especially when they are so young. This is because you may roll onto the during the night which can cause injury or in a worst-case scenario, death.

Find a cot that you feel comfortable with putting your newborn baby in and make sure it is comfortable for you when your put them in or take them out. You will be using the cot for a long period of time, so you need to make sure it’s the right one.

How to get a baby to sleep in cot

Babies are amazing at sleeping. Wherever you are, they can usually fall asleep pretty easily. However, when you put them in the one place that they are meant to sleep, they suddenly don’t want to anymore! We have some great information on how you can get your little one to sleep in their cot and some explanations as to why they might be struggling.

So, why won’t your baby settle in their cot? When they are newborns, sleeping in new environment can be extremely daunting. Before this, they have been alone in the womb, surrounded by white noise and warmth. But now, there are noises they haven’t heard before and a whole different routine to try and get into. Once those things they are used to are taken away, it can cause many problems for them and for you as a parent. However, don’t worry, there are plenty of things you can try and do to create a calm and natural environment for them. Here’s some things we recommend…

Room temperature. If your baby’s room (or your own room) is too hot or cold, this will cause discomfort for your little one. When your baby is young, they will struggle to regulate their own temperature. If they get too hot, this can cause huge risks including SIDS. We recommend keeping the room cool, but not letting it get cold.
Try out swaddling. Your baby is in one comfortable position whilst they are in the womb. By putting them in one position and keeping them in it during the night, this can also help sleeping become a little easier! You just need to remember that once your baby can roll over, you should no longer swaddle.
Change the lighting. For your baby, the darker it is the better. Think about purchasing some black out curtains to ensure no light creeps into their room whilst sleeping. It’s also a good idea to turn off any lights outside of your baby’s room so that they do not become disturbed. When entering your baby’s room to change their nappy or to check on them, use a very low light to prevent waking them fully.
Feeding routine. A feeding routine is one of the most important things to get into. Not only is it easier for you, it means your baby will be fed exactly when they need to be and will prevent underfeeding or overfeeding. If your little one goes to sleep feeling hungry or like they have not had enough, this will impact their sleeping routine. Make sure you are feeding your little one every 2-3 hours to ensure they are getting what they need.

Give these tips a try to see if it has any impact on your little one. If you still find that they are really struggling to sleep in their cot, it may be worth checking the mattress to make sure it is comfortable enough for them and making sure they are fully supported throughout the night. If problems continue, you can always go and see a doctor or nurse to talk about anything they recommend.

How long do babies sleep in cots?

There’s no rule as to when you need to move your little one out of their cot. It usually ranges from around 18 months all the way up to 3 years old. It’s down to you to decide when your feel it is right to change your baby’s cot into a cot bed or to completely move them over to a normal sized bed. Once you can see that your baby is beginning to outgrow their cot, it’s probably time for a change.

We’ll elaborate on this more later on in our blog where you can find out when to move your little one from a cot to a bed and how you will know it’s time.

What is a cot bumper?

A cot bumper is a pad that lies around the edges of your baby’s cot to prevent them from getting their hands or head caught in the gaps of the rails. Whilst these sound like a good idea, they have proven to be unsafe for babies over the years.

In 2007, a study was published that concluded that cot bumpers were unsafe. They found that 27 infant deaths were linked to cot bumpers either because the baby’s face was pushed into the bumper or because it was caught around the baby’s neck. They have also been found to not prevent serious injury and are more likely to cause injury if they are inside of a cot.

However, cot bumpers are still being sold and aren’t completely unsafe if used in a sensible way. They have been found to prevent minor injuries like bruises and marks and can be used if your baby is being closely monitored. For example, if your little one in in their crib whilst you are also in the room with them, you can watch to see if your baby gets into any complications. However, they are not advised throughout the night when you are not able to watch your baby.

We advise that you do not use cot bumpers when you are not able to watch your little one. Your baby should be placed on their back, on a firm mattress with no loose items for them to potentially grab and put over their face.

Are drop-side cots safe?

Sticking to the subject of safety – what about drop-side cots? We briefly spoke about these earlier in the blog. Many parents are put off of getting a drop-side cot as they are worried that the rail will potentially fall and hurt their baby.

If you are thinking about purchasing a drop-side cot, you need to make sure it is a highly secure mechanism that only you can manoeuvre. Your baby should not be able to drop the side down on their own, whether that’s on purpose or by accident.

Drop-side cots aren’t as recommended as they used to be as they do pose safety risks. A cot with 4 secure sides is much safer as it doesn’t matter if your baby grabs the sides at all. If you find that a drop-side cot would be more comfortable for you when taking your baby out of the cot, it may be worth purchasing a Moses basket instead for the time being as there is much less risk.

It really does come down to your instincts when purchasing items for your baby. If you feel that they would be beneficial to you then we advise you look into the safety precautions and make sure your baby will be left safe when you’re not around to monitor them.

What is cot death?

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) – known as ‘cot death’ – is the sudden death of a healthy baby where there is not much explanation to go with it. This happens to around 200 babies a year. SIDS is a massive worry to new parents and parents who already have children. When a baby dies of SIDS, there is usually no proper explanation as to why it has happened. This is what makes it so worrying.

However, after years of research into the syndrome, there have been some things that have flagged up as to why babies die from SIDS. We have listed some things you can do to prevent sudden infant death syndrome…

Place your baby on their back when putting them into their cot. Your baby is unable to rollover when they are young so will stay in that same position.
Keep your baby’s cot in your room for at least the first 6 months of your baby’s life. This is for close monitoring throughout the night.
Avoid any loose blankets inside of the cot. This can be pulled by your baby in their sleep and potentially cover their face.
Use the ‘feet to foot’ position. This means that your baby’s feet are right at the end of the cot or Moses basket. This is useful if you do choose to use a blanket.
Avoid sharing a bed with your baby.
Ensure the room is not too hot or cold – your baby cannot regulate their temperature when they are so young.
Do not smoke during pregnancy or around your baby once they are born.

These are just a few things you can do to protect your little one whilst they are in their cot. Having your baby in your room for the first 6 months allows you to easily check on them and get to them as soon as you can if they begin crying or making any noise. It’s also easy to get up and check on your baby without waking them up.

You should take all of the precautions you can against SIDS. Unfortunately, this is something that many parents have had to experience and is important that we try and reduce the number as much as we possibly can.

When to take the side off a cot

You should remove the sides off of a cot once you are confident that your child is ready to move from a cot to a toddler bed. As we mentioned earlier, this usually happens between 18 months to 3 years old. You should carefully remove the sides off of the cot and make sure there are no sharp edges or screws left behind that your child could potentially injure themselves on.

You should also consider if your child will be able to stay on their bed for the entirety of the night. If you are still worried that they will rollover and fall, you may way to keep them on for a little longer. You can also buy toddler beds that have small ridges on the edges to prevent this from happening.

How to put baby in cot

There are many questions when it comes to putting your baby in their cot. It can be difficult to know what’s wrong and what’s right – especially if you’re a new parent. Before you even place your baby in their cot, you need to test if the cot makes it easy for you to do that. For example, if the rails are too high and don’t allow you to be able to reach over properly, you may want to look into another design where the rails are slightly lower. It’s important that you know this before placing your baby inside as you want to make sure there is no risk of dropping them of injuring yourself. You can test it out by using an object that weighs around the same as a baby to see if you can put it in and get it out easily.

The most important thing to remember when putting your baby in their cot is to always lie them down on their back. This may sound like a silly thing to suggest but you should not leave your baby unattended whilst they are laying on their tummy or slightly on their side. If they are placed on their back, they will not be able to rollover. This is something that young babies cannot do. As your child gets older, they will learn how to rollover, but will also have the strength to push themselves back over.

After your baby is in their cot, you should avoid any blankets, pillows or soft toys. Blankets can act as a hazard as your baby can grab this during the night and potentially cover their face with it. This will cause breathing difficulties for your little one and is a common cause of SIDS. The same goes for soft toys. Your baby will not need them during the night, and they will not help them sleep any better. Instead, they also act as a hazard and your baby could get caught on one or they could also cover your baby’s face. Pillows are not required when your baby is young as they need a flat, firm surface to sleep on. This helps them develop properly and doesn’t cause any injury to their spinal cord or neck.

If you decide to start using blankets as your baby gets slightly older, you should position them right at the end of the cot – so their feet touch the bottom. This will mean that they cannot wriggle down and get under the blanket. However, it may be safer for your baby if you dress them in a slightly warmer outfit instead – making sure they can still stay cool though!

Once your baby is positioned correctly and you are confident that there is nothing that could potentially cause any harm in their cot, you need to look around the cot too. Hanging mobiles are great to get your little one to sleep, but only whilst you are monitoring them. A lot of mobiles are clipped onto your baby’s cot and hang over them whilst they are in there. You should avoid leaving this up during the entire night as it could potentially fall off during the night and land on your baby. This could cause injuries for your little one which is something you really want to avoid. As well as this, when your child gets older and learns to pull themselves up on the cot, they can them grab this hanging mobile and pull it down on themselves.

This also applies to other furniture that is close to your baby’s cot. If there are any items or furniture that would be easy to pull over or any items that have been left on surfaces they can reach, you should remove these. You want to be able to sleep without worrying about your little one so removing all possible risks is a great way to do so.

What age can baby have comforter in cot?

It’s very common that babies like to have something they can carry around with them to make them feel safe. This can be a blanket, toy or just a random item that they feel connected to. However, when is it safe to give your baby their comforter in their cot? We’ve spoken lots about keeping your baby’s cot clear whilst they are sleeping to reduce the risk of SIDS. However, once your baby is a certain age, this becomes much safer.

If your baby doesn’t have a comforter yet or you’re thinking about putting it into their cot, there are a couple of things you can do to make it much more special for them. A good way to make it a firm favourite is to keep it near you for a prolonged amount of time so that it smells of you. This could be when you are sleeping or just carrying it around with you for a little while. You can also choose something that’s brightly coloured so that they are attracted to it and it’s easy to find when they’ve lost it!

If your baby already has a comforter and you’re thinking about putting it in their cot, you should wait until they are at least a year old. By this stage, the risk of SIDS is much lower. It’s important that you don’t rush and put the comforter in your baby’s cot whilst they are still very young as this could lead to devastating consequences. It doesn’t mean to say your baby will definitely be harmed, but it’s a risk not worth taking.

One last point is to check and see if the comforter your baby has become attached to is suited for their age range. If there are bits that come off of it or sections that have different materials, it may be worth holding off putting it into the cot. In this case, you should monitor your baby around their comforter or try and introduce them to something that is safer for their age.

Can you use a travel cot long term?

We spoke about travel cots briefly earlier in the blog. 50% of parents own a travel cot – mainly because of their convenience if you need to go elsewhere for a night or if your baby is staying with friends or family. They are a great way to make sure your baby will have a good night’s sleep when you are away from home. They provide your baby with a safe space to sleep and are sized well so that you can still have them in your room if they are young.

However, lots of parents think that because they are safe for your baby when you go on holiday, that they can be used for longer periods of time. Unfortunately, this is not the case and can cause problems for your baby if you continue to use them when you don’t need to.

Travel cots are designed for short term use, which means they don’t offer the same support as a normal cot. They usually come with mattresses that you shouldn’t change as they help stabilise the cot when your baby is in it. The mattresses normally aren’t as firm as your normal one and can tend to be harder and thinner. You should avoid trying to add padding to the original mattress as this heightens the risk of overheating or your baby getting under this during the night.

Overall, they are designed for short term use and should be avoided after this. Your baby is best supported in their normal cot and this should be used as their primary sleeping space. If you would like to use something for yor baby to nap when not in their room, Moses baskets can be handy and are easy to move aorund as you'd like.

How to put up a travel cot

Whilst you can buy a variety of different brands of travel cot, they are usually all very much the same when it comes to putting them up and taking them down. However, if you haven’t used one before, you may need a little bit of help to make sure it is safe for you little one.

They are designed to be quick and simple and done by anyone. This means that if your little one is staying at Grandmas on the weekend – even she should be able to do this! It might just take a little bit of practice, try putting it up and taking it down a couple of times before you actually need to use it. We’ve got some easy steps on how you set up your travel cot and what you do when it’s time to put it away…

Putting it up

Travel cots normally come in a fold design. Unfold the cot and click all of the sides together. You should hear when they have clicked in properly – it may be easier to do opposite sides together so that it ends up forming a rectangle.
Push the base of the travel cot down and adjust the legs so that they are pulled out fully and the cot is stabilised.

Taking it down

Pull the middle (base) up. There’s usually a loop attached that will help you to pull. It may fall over here so make sure there isn’t anything you could harm around you.
Unclip all of the sides so that it begins folding back away. You can do opposite sides together again to ensure it’s all even.

And that’s it! It’s really simple but we do advise that you test yours out before you go and use it for a weekend away. It’s not just being able to put it up that’s important. It’s also making sure that it is as stable as you’d like it to be and that nothing on it is broken.

Do you need a mattress for a travel cot?

Most mattresses for travel cots are known to be hard and quite thin. Some travel cots will advise you not to change the mattress and it stabilises the cot. When it’s removed, it could cause the cot to tip over or wobble. However, just because you cannot replace it, it doesn’t mean that you cannot put a mattress on top of the one already in there. This means your travel cot will stay stable and your baby will be able to sleep comfortably.

If you choose not to place another mattress on top, this also isn’t a problem. Travel cots are designed to be used for short periods of time so will not have any effect on your baby if it’s only for a few nights.

One thing you should not do is take the travel cot mattress out and replace it with another. This can throw off the balance of the travel cot and make it dangerous for your baby.

What bedding do you need for a cot?

There’s a lot of dos and don’ts for a cot, and bedding is no exception. There are lots of opinions and different sources of information that tell you to do different things. But really, it comes down to you at the end of it all to sit down and think about what you think is best for your baby. We don’t all do the same things when it comes to looking after a child so don’t feel like you shouldn’t do something if the right safety precautions are being taken.

We’re going to speak about the different things you’ll need for your cot to protect it and well as keep your baby comfortable whilst they sleep.

Waterproof mattress protector

There’s no doubt that your baby will have accidents through the night. Although they may be wearing a nappy, that doesn’t mean the cot is fully protected! To be on the safe side, a waterproof mattress protector will mean that any liquid will be stopped from getting and soaking into the mattress. It’s not essential but is a great way on keeping your mattress clean.

There are two types of sheet, bottom and top. You may find that fitted sheets are better as they don’t come off as easy. Bottom sheets go over the mattress and tuck underneath the bottom. This is primarily to protect the mattress and make it a little more comfortable to sleep on. Top sheets go over your baby – up to around their chest – and then are tucked in underneath the mattress again. Some parents choose to not use top sheets as it is a concern that the sheet could potentially cover the baby’s face. We recommend that you keep you cot empty until your child is around a year old.

Sleeping bag

If you don’t want to use a sheet or blanket on your baby during the night, a sleeping bag is a great alternative – especially when it’s colder. The sleeping bag zips up around your baby but sits against their feet so they cannot wriggle down into it. You can buy different types of sleeping bags that are more suited to different weathers. These are very popular but normally are more expensive.

What else do you need to know?

We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions around cots to give you a better understanding on them. We hope that this blog has helped you and given you some useful information. Keeping your baby safe is the most important thing so it’s essential that you acknowledge all safety precautions before purchasing a certain type of cot or doing something new. Now you know all about cots, why not take a look at some of our other guides?

The Definitive Guide to Moses Baskets, Stands and Mattresses

The Ultimate Guide to Baby Prams

Everything you need to know about newborn baby car seats

Bedtime Routine Importance Establishing a consistent nighttime routine.

Napping schedules timing and duration of baby naps., transitioning to crib moving baby from bassinet to crib., bedtime soothing techniques calming strategies for easier bedtime., when do toddlers stop napping, top 10 best moses basket mattresses, recent posts, safe sleep practices ensuring baby's safety during sleep., sleep training techniques methods to help babies learn to sleep through the night., understanding sleep cycles how infant sleep cycles work., sleep regression solutions handling changes in sleep patterns as baby grows., night feeding management balancing nighttime feedings with sleep., room sharing strategies sharing a room with baby effectively., featured posts, when do you feel baby move baby movements in pregnancy., when do babies smile, can babies get covid-19, when do babies start teething, how to sterilise baby bottles, how often should you bathe a baby, here to help.

Feeding and Mealtime
Development
Buying guides

Shopping cart

Travel Cots: Everything You Need to Know

September 12, 2023
Posted by Ehnan Zafar
Leave a comment

Having a travel cot means your baby has a home away from home. We know travelling with a little one can be stressful at the best of times, especially when they have to stay away from the comfort of their own bed. But, there are so many different travel cots to choose from with so many different features that we understand it can be difficult to know which one is best for you.

In this post, we give you all the information you need to be able to choose the perfect travel cot. We have also included plenty of options for you to look at from our range of travel cots on our Kiddies Kingdom website.

What is a travel cot?

Travel cots ensure your little one has a comfortable and safe place to sleep when they’re away from home. If you’re going on holiday, on a mini-break or if your baby is having a sleepover at a friend or family member’s house, a travel cot gives your baby their own space.

Travel cots are usually made with a mesh construction that ensures plenty of ventilation circulates the cot. Often, a drop-down side is included so you can safely co-sleep with your baby, and then they have an extra sense of security when they’re in unfamiliar surroundings. Some travel cots even double up as a playpen meaning your little one not only has a place to sleep but somewhere to play and be entertained safely too.

Some travel cots function as changing mats and have a rocking feature, so you can change your baby’s nappy quickly and easily before bedtime and rock them gently to sleep. Travel cots are designed to be easy to put up and take down so you won’t have to take time out of your precious family holiday to put it together. The best travel cots are lightweight, compact and come in a handy travel bag so you can take it with you on every trip and sleepover.

Choosing the best travel cot

Our range of travel cots from reputable brands like Joie and Maxi Cosi will give you peace of mind that your baby has a bed as safe and comfortable as a cot or cot bed to sleep in whilst travelling. Whether it’s to see Grandma and Grandpa, or a weekend away, you can take a travel cot anywhere and everywhere.

Here we have selected a few travel cots that we think make excellent travel companions.

Joie Excursion Change & Bounce Travel Cot

The Joie Excursion Travel Cot is ideal for families who enjoy travelling. This is a road trip ready travel cot with portable, pop-off toppers, a portable changing table and a snoozing seat to make life easier when travelling with a baby. This handy travel cot folds into a compact parcel with a carry handle so it is easy to transport.

The Excursion is suitable from birth to 15kg, has a secure frame with mesh sides and a spacious bassinet. The snoozing seat works both on or off the cot and converts into a portable rocking unit when used on the floor. It features soft, cosy fabrics and even has a light and sound attachments with 2-speed settings and 5 classic lullabies to calm your babe to sleep.

Maxi Cosi Swift 3-in-1 Travel Cot

We’re pleased to introduce the impressive Maxi Cosi Swift , a travel cot that can be used as a newborn bassinet, a cot or a sturdy playpen. At only 7kg, this is the lightest of its kind. With a one-second folding mechanism, the Swift can be quickly put up and put down again without a fuss.

The Swift grows with your baby from birth through to 3.5 years of age. This 3-in-1 travel cot has a unique two-stage mattress that unzips and resizes to fit the bassinet, providing a smaller and cosier mattress ideal for newborns. As your baby grows, the mattress zips back together to create a larger, super-comfy space for playtime or a well-deserved nap.

Kinderkraft Sofi Bedside Travel Cot with Playpen

The Kinderkraft Sofi 4-in-1 cot was created in response to the needs of active parents who like to travel and enjoy the value of practical, multi-tasking products. It can be used right from birth until 3 years of age or 15kg. It serves as a crib, classic cot, playpen and travel cot so it can be used as the only cot your little one needs both home and away.

In addition to this, the Soft folds and unfolds in under 5 seconds, without the use of tools to remove any components. Three of the four sides are made from mesh so you can always see your child whether they’re sleeping or playing.

This brilliant cot has a rocking function so you can gently rock your little baby to sleep, thanks to the specially designed legs that can be transformed from non-rocking legs to curved legs in just two simple moves.

As you now know, some travel cots have more than one function and they’re super-handy to take with you on holiday or for those precious evenings when your baby is having a sleepover. They are comfortable, safe and provide your cherub with a place to sleep and play away from their usual cot.

How to put a travel cot up

Travel cots are all designed differently, meaning they all need to be put up in different ways. However, for the best travel cots, no tools are needed and it usually only takes a few seconds. After all, the purpose of travel cots is that they’re portable and easy to use.

For example, the Kinderkraft Soft Bedside travel cot is ready to use in under 5 seconds by following these steps:

Take it out of the bag and lay it on the floor, legs facing upwards
Pull out one of the legs and click it into place, then the other
Flip it around to stand up and the mesh bassinet and playpen will naturally unfold.

And that’s it! It’s now ready to use. To collapse, do the same in reverse and it’s as easy as that.

For the Mazi Cosi Swift 3-in-1 Travel cot, follow these simple instructions to put it up:

Take it out of the zipped bag
Stand the cot on the floor
Pull the sides upwards from the bottom to fully unfold and click into place- this only takes 1 second!

Make sure when you choose a travel cot that it can be easily put up and down in seconds. The last thing you need when you’re on holiday or dropping your little one off at their grandparents’ house for the evening is to spend time putting together a complicated travel cot.

Frequency asked questions

Now you know all about what a travel cot is, the different options available plus their innovative features as well as how easy they are to assemble, here we have the answers to some of your other frequently asked questions about travel cots.

Do travel cots come with mattresses?

Yes, most travel cots come with a mattress, but always check first before purchasing because if it doesn’t, it will cost you more money to buy one. However, it’s rare to come across a travel cot that doesn’t have a mattress included. The three examples given above all come with an appropriate mattress.

The most important thing to remember is that babies need to sleep on a firm mattress, so make sure you’re choosing a travel cot with a comfortable but firm surface to sleep on. So if you’re wondering why travel cot mattresses or cot mattresses in general are so firm, safety is the reason.

Can you take a travel cot on a plane?

This will depend on the type of travel cot you have and the airline you’re flying with. If your travel cost is small and light enough to act as hand luggage then there is no reason to suggest that you cannot take it on a place, as long as you don’t go over your hand luggage limit.

Otherwise, you can always pack your travel cot away with the rest of your luggage to go in the holding area of the plane. Always speak to the airline before travelling to find out what the requirements are and if you can take it with you. In most cases, it shouldn’t be a problem to travel with your compact cot in a bag.

We hope you feel more confident now in choosing the right travel cot for you. Make sure you choose one that is easy to put up and take down, has mesh sides for ventilation, is multi-functioning and small and lightweight so it’s easy to travel with.

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

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

List of 10 Best Travel Cots for Traveling with a Baby

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

Description

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

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

Weight and Dimension

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

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

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

Easy to Setup and Pack

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

Accessories

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Here are some of our recommendations that can be your reference

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. EvenFlo – Evenflo Portable BabySuite Classic

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

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

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

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

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

5. BabyTrend – Baby Trend Nursery Center, Tanzania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. KidCo – KidCo Peapod Infant Travel Bed

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

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

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

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

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

Written by Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor

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

48 Hours in Tokyo – Exploring Japan’s Vibrant Capital

How to find the best hotels in new york, top california destinations for families to enjoy, scuba diving and snorkeling in the philippines, what are the benefits of booking flight tickets in advance, related posts, how to apply for 10 year multiple entry canada tourist visa for filipinos, list of best hotels in key west and the rest of the florida keys, the 10 best all inclusive resorts and hotel in greece, radisson blu hotel, riyadh qurtuba – visiting my 171st country, previous post, how to teach english in south korea – tefl teaching jobs in sokor, airport to airport: what to do when you are an inadmissible passenger, subscribe to our newsletter.

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

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

Getting pregnant
Preschooler
Life as a parent
Baby essentials
Find your birth club
Free antenatal classes
Meet local parents & parents-to-be
See all in Community
Ovulation calculator
Am I pregnant quiz
How to get pregnant fast
Best sex positions
Signs of pregnancy
How many days after your period can you get pregnant?
How age affects fertility
Very early signs of pregnancy
What fertile cervical mucus looks like
Think you're pregnant but the test is negative?
Faint line on pregnancy test
See all in Getting pregnant
Pregnancy week by week
How big is my baby?
Due date calculator
Baby movements week by week
Symptoms you should never ignore
Hospital bag checklist
Signs of labour
Your baby's position in the womb
Baby gender predictor
Vaginal spotting
Fetal development chart
See all in Pregnancy
Baby names finder
Baby name inspiration
Popular baby names 2022
Numerology calculator
Gender-neutral names
Old-fashioned names
See all in Baby names
Your baby week by week
Baby milestones by month
Baby rash types
Baby poop chart
Ways to soothe a crying baby
Safe co-sleeping
Teething signs
Growth spurts
See all in Baby
Your toddler month by month
Toddler development milestones
Dealing with tantrums
Toddler meals
Food & fussy eating
When to start potty training
Moving from a cot to a bed
Help your child sleep through
Games & activities
Vomiting: what's normal?
See all in Toddler
Your child month by month
Food ideas & nutrition
How kids learn to share
Coping with aggression
Bedtime battles
Anxiety in children
Dealing with public tantrums
Great play ideas
Is your child ready for school?Top tips for starting school
See all in Preschooler
Postnatal symptoms to watch out for
Stitches after birth
Postpartum blood clots
Baby showers
Sex secrets for parents
See all in Life as a parent
Best baby products
Best formula and bottles for a windy baby
Best car seats if you need three to fit
Best nappies
Best Moses baskets
Best baby registries
Best baby sleeping bags
Best baby humidifier
Best baby monitors
Best baby bath seat
Best baby food
See all in Baby essentials
Back pain in pregnancy
Pelvic girdle pain
Perineal massage
Signs you're having a boy
Signs you're having a girl
Can you take fish oil while pregnant?
18 weeks pregnant bump
Can you eat salami when pregnant?
Edwards' syndrome
Missed miscarriage
Should I harvest my colostrum?
Rhesus positive vs. Rhesus negative
What do contractions feel like?
Hunger in early pregnancy
First poop after birth
When do babies sit up?
When can babies have salt?
MMR vaccine rash
Vaping while breastfeeding
How to transition from formula to milk
When do babies start grabbing things?
Sperm allergy: can sperm cause itching?
How long after taking folic acid can I get pregnant?

My baby hates his cot. What should I do?

How can I get my baby to wake later in the morning?

My baby is up all night and sleeps all day

How do I get my baby to nap for longer?

How do I teach my baby to self-settle?

Was this article helpful?

My baby won't sleep at night. What should I do?

Wide awake baby in parent's arms at night

3 month old, fourth week

Where to go next

Trying to Conceive
Signs & Symptoms
Pregnancy Tests
Fertility Testing
Fertility Treatment
Weeks & Trimesters
Staying Healthy
Preparing for Baby
Complications & Concerns
Pregnancy Loss
Breastfeeding
School-Aged Kids
Raising Kids
Personal Stories
Everyday Wellness
Safety & First Aid
Immunizations
Food & Nutrition
Active Play
Pregnancy Products
Nursery & Sleep Products
Nursing & Feeding Products
Clothing & Accessories
Toys & Gifts
Ovulation Calculator
Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
How to Talk About Postpartum Depression
Editorial Process
Meet Our Review Board

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.

Skip to main content
Skip to main navigation
Skip to search
Skip to talk navigation

For free parenting resources please check out the Early Years Alliance's Family Corner .

Baby won’t sleep in travel cot - help!

springggg · 03/04/2021 11:39

I’ve gone to see family (my support bubble) for the Easter weekend with my 11 month old. He’s a fairly good sleeper at home but since arriving here he just won’t sleep! He’s in a travel cot and a new room obviously - I wonder if the new environment is unsettling him? He won’t go down for naps (just cries when put in the cot) and wouldn’t sleep last night until 9.45pm. I feel bad for moaning but was really hoping to have a bit of a break. Now I almost wish I’d stayed home as at least he’d be sleeping. I’m not sure I can take another two days of this! Is there anything I can do?

Can you switch to using a blanket and co-sleep? Make yourself into a c shape around your dc. No drinking/smoking/drugs (not that I'm suggesting you would).

Sorry to say it’s pretty normal. Baby in a new and different environment, also those travel cots are not the most comfortable. I actually bought a cheap cot from wayfair for when we stay with family and he sleeps better but still not great. I just accept now I won’t get great sleep, it puts a bit of a dampener on things but I manage for a few days x

I used the travel cot at home for daytime naps so they would sleep in it anywhere. Took my until DC number 4 to work this out 🤦🏼‍♀️

@springggg - had all those feelings myself lol and actually got a bit upset about it but it wont last forever. Another year or so and my DS will understand a bit more about being away and sure he’ll find it quite fun and exciting. The little ones don’t understand bless them but I know it’s hard on the mammas. Try and get a nap in if you can? They’re my saviour 😂

Check the travel cot has an ok mattress - if you're just using the base that comes with it then get an extra mattress for it - Amazon prime or local WhatsApp/Facebook group might be able to help! Or if you're confident that you can tuck it in tightly and safely then wrap the travel cot mattress in a towel under the sheet (if you put anything thick in there it could be a sids risk but we found a towel wasn't too thick or soft)

@springggg - bless you. How was last night? Sympathies-I know how you feel x

Let him fall asleep in your bed with your scent / pjs etc then move him?

Daytime - will he sleep in his pram/pushchair? Nighttime - maybe just on the floor on the travel cot mattress? The sides are quite high on a travel cot so I can see why he doesn't like it. If the floor is safe I would put him there. (Or in bed with you but if that's not usual for him and you don't want to become used to it I would try to avoid...)

The extra mattresses are an entrapment risk, because the mesh sides of the cot can move away from it, unlike hard wooden poles as in a normal cot. We have one but just so you're aware!

To comment on this thread you need to create a Mumsnet account.

Subscribe to the Newsletter. Get 5% discount on your first shopping!

Cart overview( 0 )

The lowest price of the last 30 days before the discount:

Your cart is empty

Checkout using your account

Checkout as a new customer.

Creating an account has many benefits:

See order and shipping status
Track order history
Check out faster

Travel cots

A weekend trip to visit grandparents, or a longer vacation? Once your holiday plans start including your baby, their needs come first and foremost. Sleeping away from home can be stressful for your baby, and so it's good to make sure they're safe and comfortable. A travel cot is ideal for trips together with your bundle of joy. Its light weight, simple folding and functionality will pass the test in all sorts of conditions. Such a cot will also fit into a small car and can act as a playpen in which your youngster can play freely. Some Kinderkraft travel cots are equipped with additional accessories, such as changing table and shelf for nappies, which will be of great help on trips with your child.

=1024) { open = !open }" >Price

=1024) { open = !open }" data-title class="p2 p2-montserrat font-bold text-black mb-6" :class="countSelectedSwatch()? 'attribute-active' : ''" > Colour

=1024) { open = !open }" class="hidden p2 p2-montserrat font-bold text-black mb-6 lg:mb-0" data-title >Sort

Review Rating: from highest
Price: from lowest
Price: from highest

Travel cot and standard cot

Folds in five seconds

Lightweight and stylish

2-in-1 cot: co-sleeper cot and cot

Two-step incline adjustment

Mattress included in the set

The perfect travel cot
Mattress and 2 sheets included
Folds up and down in 5 seconds

Award - Mother and Baby 2021 Bronze award - best cot crib

Folds and unfolds in 5 seconds
Two mattress levels

Built-in mosquito net
Easy to transport in its cover

A night away from home can be a challenge for babies. The presence of their favourite soft toy and the caring arms of their parents will make falling asleep much easier. The space in which they fall asleep is also important. They need to feel safe and comfortable. A travel cot will provide them with adequate intimacy and peace. It's a reliable parent helper that's a must-have on trips.

Which functions should a travel cot have?

As an adult, you've probably gotten used to the fact that sleeping away from home is, simply, different. Sometimes it's uncomfortable, and sometimes you can't sleep for half the night as you toss and turn. This isn't pleasant for an adult, and even more so for children, who need the right amount of sleep to develop correctly. That's why ensuring an adequate, comfortable place to sleep is one of the most important challenges you'll face on trips.

Firstly, a travel cot doesn't necessarily have to be less functional than a normal cot. Our travel cots are made of materials that are perfect for little sleepyheads. They feature mesh, which ensures excellent air flow and allows you to keep an eye on your child at all times.

With Kinderkraft travel cots, you don't have to sacrifice comfortable sleep. LEODY and LEODY in the version with accessories are cots that have two mattress height options. You can carry them easily thanks to the handy bag, and after setting it up, you can move it wherever you like thanks to the wheels on one side of the cot. The accessories are also highly sought-after elements that travelling parents love. The shelves for nappies and the changing table will make it easier for you to tend to your child, and the toys on the mobile will soothe your tired baby and keep them entertained for longer.

Our travel cots can also act as 2-in-1 cots (a cot for the home and a co-sleeper cot), 3-in-1 cots (a cot for the home, co-sleeper cot and cradle), and even 4-in-1 cots (a cot for the home, travel cot, playpen and cradle). Our cots include ones that'll be perfect for both newborns, babies, and slightly older sleepyheads.

With a travel cot, you don't have to sacrifice anything!

Even on trips, you don't have to give up your rituals, such as night-time rocking. Some of our cots, such as JOY with accessories and LOVI, can easily be converted into a cradle that'll calm your baby and make them feel safe.

If your baby likes falling asleep with the mobile on, you'll love the accessories we include with some of our cots. You just put the mobile on with the sound, lights and toys, and your youngster will feel like they're at home!

All products from our online shop are created based on the years of experience of our staff. We use materials that are not only safe for children but also functional and esthetically appealing.

monday - friday / 8:00 - 15:00

Kinderkraft

Worldwide warranties
Safety programmes
Delivery Information
Payment methods
Terms and conditions
Cookie settings
Security & Privacy

IMAGES

10 Best Child Travel Cots
10 Best Child Travel Cots
Parents Need Blog: Best Travel Cot for Babies Buying Guide
Review Deryan Travel Cot Baby Luxe: het ideale reisbedje
Baby Elegance Bedside Travel Cot- Smyths Toys
Top 5 Best Travel Cots For Babies

VIDEO

Padamati Sandhyaragam
Baby Doesn't like the food
No No No.. Baby in Bathtub
Toby's Pouty Face
Baby doesn’t like our new friends 😔
How to open and close a BABY TRAVEL COT

COMMENTS

Going on holiday, but baby doesn't like travel cot
Sleep. 8 week baby doesn't smile at all and doesn't look at faces. HV told to talk to G. Sleep. Using travel cot as main cot. Sleep. Travel Sickness = 2 year old. Sleep. 7 week old baby doesn't sleep day or night!
The best travel cot for babies and toddlers
The best travel cot at a glance. • Best travel cot overall: Venture UK Airpod Baby & Toddler Travel Cot - £109.99. • Best travel cot for compact fold: Graco FoldLite - £73. • Best compact travel cot: Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot - £168.75. • Best budget travel cot: Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot - £60.
2022 best travel cot and baby bed for travel: the ultimate guide!
MICRALITE SLEEP AND GO TRAVEL COT. The Micralite sleep&go travel cot is probably the best portable travel crib on the market in 2020. It seems that the designer took all the best elements of other top travel cots, like the Baby Bjorn or Phil & Teds, made it even more functional and added some other cool features.
How to find the best travel cot for your baby
How to find the best travel cot for your baby. Baby. How to find the best travel cot for your baby. February 15, 2021 August 9, 2021 By Dr. Niki Elrod. We let our baby out of our sight when we sleep - this is why it is all the more important to choose a suitable and safe travel bed.
Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers
5. Joie Excursion: Best travel cot for value for money. Price when reviewed: £190 | Check price at Boots. It isn't the most compact, lightweight or easy to put together model in this list, but ...
Best Travel Cots (Portable Cribs & Bassinets) For Family Travel
Cons: Suitable for 6 months and over. At A Glance Details for the KidCo Peapod travel cot. Weight: 2.5lbs/1.1kg. Mattress size: It is inbuilt. Cot size: 46 x 28 x 14 inches. Folded up measurements: 16.5"L x 16.5"H x 3"D. Age suitable for: 6 months-3 years old. For more information and latest prices on the PeaPod see here.
Best travel cots tested by parents for 2024 UK
Best travel cot for easy assembly: Bugaboo Stardust, £225. Best lightweight travel cot for a good mattress: Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £119.99. Best multi-use travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Cot, £195. Best travel cot for added extras: Graco Contour Electra, £100. Best budget buy travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £37.
Best travel cots 2024: Tried and tested for babies and toddlers
Best budget travel cot - Red Kite sleep tight travel cot: £27, Asda.com. Best travel cot for entertaining baby - Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce: £190, Boots.com ...
7 best travel cots for babies and toddlers in 2022
Best travel cots for 2022 at a glance. Best travel cot for newborns - Joie Kubbie sleep compact travel cot. Best travel cot for toddlers - Maxi-Cosi Iris 2-in-1 travel cot. Best travel cot for ...
SpaceCot Travel Cot review
The travel cot isnt bulky and when set up it is quite compact. ... My baby doesn't like travel cots from hotels so we tend to take hers with us when we travel. Chloe: I think the only thing I would probably change would be the price. It is on the higher end of the scale and I suppose some people wouldn't want to pay that amount.
The best travel cots of 2023, including lightweight and playpen options
Large (88cm high x 106cm long x 75cm wide) Heavy (16.7kg) Birth to 3yrs/15kg; This multi-functional travel cot is ideal if you have a newborn or young infant and want to set up a semi-permanent ...
9 Best Travel Cots for Babies & Toddlers in 2022
Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £87.99, Amazon. Why we love it: One of the best travel cots under £100 is the Venture Airpod Travel Cot, which scores top points for its thick mattress of excellent quality. It's really easy to assemble, lightweight and also comes complete with a strong storage bag when in transport. Dimensions: 85 x 55 x 66cm.
Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light Review, tested by real parents and babies
At £220, this travel cot doesn't come cheap but our tester feels it's worth the money. 'It has a lot of high-quality features - such as the smart carry bag and padded mattress - that you'd look for in a top-of-the-range travel cot,' she says. The fact that it doubles up as a playpen also adds to the value. Hollie would recommend the ...
Best travel cot 2023: lightweight cots for travel
The Cocoon is also easy to set-up, with four locking joints on its fold-out base for maximum stability. 5. Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Cot. With a name like that, this cot was always going to be ...
Top
The Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Easy Go is an instant assembly lightweight travel cot. Weighing just 6kg, the Travel Cot Easy Go makes travelling stress-free for parents. The cot can be carried around the house, placed in the car, or carried through an airport. The Easy Go is a good investment in your little one's upbringing.
Best travel cots: tried and tested
Brands that offer attachments like these include Joie (the Joie Commuter Change won Mumsnet Best Travel Cot 2018), BabyBjorn and Graco. Some, like the Arc 2, also come with added extras like built-in mosquito nets for camping. What's the best travel cot to buy? The Joie kubbie Sleep is the best travel cot to buy in 2024. Mumsnetters love that ...
A Beginner's Guide to your Baby's Cot
Place your baby on their back when putting them into their cot. Your baby is unable to rollover when they are young so will stay in that same position. Keep your baby's cot in your room for at least the first 6 months of your baby's life. This is for close monitoring throughout the night.
Travel Cots: Everything You Need to Know
Travel cots are usually made with a mesh construction that ensures plenty of ventilation circulates the cot. Often, a drop-down side is included so you can safely co-sleep with your baby, and then they have an extra sense of security when they're in unfamiliar surroundings. Some travel cots even double up as a playpen meaning your little one ...
10 Best Child Travel Cots
KidCo Peapod is designed for babies under 3 years old. This product is not only comfortable but also has good air circulation. The zippers are easy to use so that the baby is more flexible in and out of the peapod. This product is safe for children to use outdoors because it also has UV protection.
My baby hates his cot. What should I do?
Keeping the cot close to your bed will reassure your baby, and make night-time feeds and nappy changes easier for you and your partner too. It's a good idea to help your baby get used to any change gradually. Try putting him down for a daytime nap in his cot at first. Once he's happy sleeping in it during the day, it may be easier to settle him ...
The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2024
Best Overall: JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper at Nordstrom ($129) Jump to Review. Best Inflatable: Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed at Amazon ($70) Jump to Review. Best With Pump: Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed at Amazon ($85) Jump to Review.
Baby won't sleep in travel cot
Stealthtoast · 03/04/2021 23:50. Check the travel cot has an ok mattress - if you're just using the base that comes with it then get an extra mattress for it - Amazon prime or local WhatsApp/Facebook group might be able to help! Or if you're confident that you can tuck it in tightly and safely then wrap the travel cot mattress in a towel under ...
Travel cots for children and infants
temporarily unavailable. Travel Cot SOFI PLUS grey. Be the first to review this product. The perfect travel cot. Mattress and 2 sheets included. Folds up and down in 5 seconds. £149.00Special Price£119.00. The lowest price of the last 30 days before the discount: £129.00. See product.

2022 best travel cot and baby bed for travel: the ultimate guide!

WHICH IS THE BEST BABY TRAVEL BED?

Here is the criteria for the evaluation:

BABY TRAVEL BED COMPARISON CHART

WHY DO YOU NEED A PORTABLE TRAVEL BED FOR BABIES?

8 BEST BABY BED FOR TRAVEL: DETAILED REVIEW

Second best if money isn’t an issue

Best lightweight / Best twins travel cot

Best compact travel c rib

Best baby crib for under $50 £40

Best travel bassinet

Best portable crib for outdoor travel

Best pop up travel cot

TWINS TRAVEL COT

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KIDS PORTABLE BED

Different travel style, different sleeping solution

Enjoying the outdoors

Planning a round the world trip?

Weekend away?

Different type of travel cot for different ages

Travel bed for baby

Toddler travel crib

Clotilde Passalacqua

You May Also Like

The reality of travelling with twins and how to make it possible

How to save hundreds with a Ryanair approved cabin bag in 2023

The only twin must haves you need to make your life easier at home and to travel

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

How to find the best travel cot for your baby

What exactly is a travel cot for babies?

How long can I use the travel cot for my baby?

When should I buy the travel cot best?

What should I look out for when buying a suitable travel bed?

The structure

Transport bag

Height adjustable

Integrated changing table

The best travel beds for your protégé

Hauck travel cot

Flexible 2-1 cot from Kinderkraft

For the playful: Sleep N Play Go Plus

Easy to transport: travel cot from TecTake

Great facilities: Kinderkraft JOY

Dr. Niki Elrod

Related Posts

That’s how much sleep a baby needs, according to leading sleep researchers

Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers

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

Best travel cot: At a glance

How to choose the best travel cot for your child

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

Can a travel cot double as a playpen?

What else do I need to consider?

How we test travel cots

The best travel cots you can buy in 2023

2. Silver Cross Slumber: Best lightweight travel cot

3. Tutti Bambini CoZee: Best travel cot for style

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

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

6. BabyBjörn Travel Cot: Best luxury travel cot

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

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

13 of the best travel cots 2024 for babies and toddlers

Best travel cots at a glance

Here are the best travel cots for 2024

More like this

2. Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £119.99

3. Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1, £195

4. Graco Contour Electra, £100

5. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £37

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

7. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £60

8. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot, £99.99

9. Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £65

10. Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £199

11. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £219.90

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

13. ErgoPouch Easy Sleep Portable Crib, £69.97

Sign up to receive our Most Wanted newsletter

Why do I need a travel cot?