After a portable crib for travel?
As family travel bloggers we have tried both using hotel cribs as well as taking various types of cribs with us on our trips until we found the right one.
We know how challenging it can be to get a baby to sleep (don't tell me your baby sleeps like a dream - I don't want to know!). And I'm sure that you are aware that it might be even more challenging to get them to sleep in new locations.
That is why we love travel cots so much! Your baby will sleep so much better when they sleep in a familiar crib.
A travel cot for baby is handy for not only for vacations with your baby, but it is also really handy for when you visit friends or grandparents as well.
In this guide, we will outline features that we love of each, as well as share any negatives that we found of the baby travel cribs as well.
I hope this guide to choosing the best travel crib for baby and toddlers will help you choose the best baby travel bed for your family.
Not in the mood for research and reading and just want to find out which is the best portable baby cot?
- WHAT IS THE BEST TRAVEL CRIB FOR TODDLERS -
Our top pick is the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
- The cot is lightweight (11lb)
- Easy to set up
- Easy to carry
- Comfortable for babies and toddlers
- Suitable for ages 0-3 years (a worthwhile investment)
Click here to check out the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light Travel Crib
Skip the research and simply grab the best baby crib for newborns?
- THE BEST PORTABLE CRIB FOR NEWBORNS -
Our top pick is the Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet
- Compact fold
- Lightweight
- Great for carry-on or hand luggage
- Mesh allows for airflow
Click here to check out the Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet
Keen for all the info? Keep reading.
What Should a Baby Sleep in When Traveling?
We recommend that when your baby is newborn it is best to use a portable sleeper or bassinet when traveling as it is small and compact to keep your infant safe.
When your baby is a few months older, it is better to move them into a full sized travel crib.
Do you Really Need a Travel Crib?
A travel crib is very useful if you travel a lot. However, a travel crib can also be useful if you spend weekends with family and they do not have a spare crib for your little one.
A travel crib is definitely a must have when traveling abroad or away for long periods as not all accommodations have suitable cribs to use for your baby. When you purchase a travel crib you are ensuring that your little one will always have a suitable and safe space and bed to sleep in.
The most popular travel crib for babies from newborn age is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light.
Let's be honest here, most hotels have baby cots available for you to use. So why spend the money and carry along one extra piece of luggage?
Here is why:
- Your baby will have a sleeping space that they are used to. It can be challenging for babies to fall asleep in unknown spaces and let's face it, we want to relax on holidays, not deal with tired babies who are struggling to fall asleep. Using the same crib wherever you go, will mean that your baby will get better sleep.
- You know that the cot will be the right size for you baby's age. We went on a trip to Lombok and one of the hotels gave us a crib that was suitable for newborns. It was TINY! Avalee was only 4 months, and she was really squashed in the crib. Vietnam hotels also have tiny cots, their cots are probably more suitable for 1 year olds, because our 2 year old had to sleep curled up in order to fit in the cot.
- You know that the crib will be safe for your baby. On more than one occasion we received cots from the hotel that would collapse as soon as our daughter pressed against the side. Needless to say they were useless and pretty dangerous to use!
- You know that you will have a crib for your baby. One a few occasions we have pre-requested a cot on the booking form only to arrive at the hotel and be told that they only have one cot and that another family is using it. Our baby doesn't normally co-sleep with us, so it was a nightmare.
- You know your cot is clean. Again we can tell you some horror stories about being given moldy and dirty baby cots. So gross!
- If you purchase one of these best baby travel beds, you will find that it can double up as a safe playard for your baby - hallo downtime!
So should you travel with your own baby travel crib? - Uhmmmmm hell yes!!!
Best Baby Travel Crib Comparison Chart
Below is a comparison chart of our picks for the best travel baby beds; which are mentioned in this article.
You can then read our travel cot reviews below featuring both compact traveling cribs, as well as a full size travel crib for older babies.
Brand | Price | Weight | Age | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| | 11 Lb | 0-3 | ||
 | 13 Lb | 0-3 | ||
 | 12 Lb | 0-3 | ||
| | 6 Lb | 0-5 months | ||
 | 12.54 Lb | 0-5 months | ||
 | 10.5 Lb | 0-3 | ||
 | 13 Lb | 0-3 | ||
 | 12.5 Lb | 0-3 | ||
 | 15.6 Lb | 0-3 | ||
 | 14.6 Lb | 0-3 |
Can I Use a Travel Crib As a Regular Crib?
Yes you can however it is always advisable to check with the manufacturer to verify the weight and safety guidelines. The problem with a regular crib is that they are usually really heavy, they don't come with a travel bag and they are also typically much harder to set up and pack away.
If you have a full size travel crib, your child should be able to sleep in the travel crib until around 3 years old.
We do recommend though that you invest in a travel crib that is good quality. You may have to also invest in a thicker mattress for when at home for extra comfort.
What's The Difference Between a Travel Crib And a Portable Crib?
So what exactly is the difference between a travel cot and a portable cot?
- A travel cot is smaller than a portable cot. Some travel cribs even fit in a backpack that you can carry-on to an airplane.
- A travel crib can fold up. Travel cots need to fit into carry-on luggage & in car trunks.
- Baby travel beds are lightweight. Travel cots need to be lightweight enough to be carried around easily.
The best travel cot 2024 has on offer, will tick the boxes above, as well as offer many of the same benefits (safety and comfort) as a regular portable crib.
What's the Difference Between a Travel Crib Vs a Pack n Play
You might have a Pack 'n Play at home that you are considering taking on your trip. So what exactly is the difference between a travel crib and a Pack 'n Play?
A Pack 'n Play is typically a lot bulkier and heavier than a well-made travel crib. Which means that it is impractical to pack for a trip overseas.
As a positive, some of the infant travel cribs listed below can double up as a Pack 'n Play, whilst still giving you the lightweight, compact benefits.
Travel Toddler Crib Vs a Toddler Travel Bed
![hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Safety Bumpers [4-Sided] | Portable Toddler Bed for Kids | Toddler Air Mattress | Kids Air Mattress - Navy Blue](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41vmagNg-SL.jpg)
Toddler travel beds are designed for kids who are 2+ years old. They are a great alternative for a traveling baby bed for active toddlers.
Whilst many of the baby travel cribs listed below can be used for toddlers, a travel toddler bed is perfect for toddlers who have managed to work out how to climb out of the cribs.
A bed is typically similar to a camping or roll-out mattress.
Our selection below is suitable for those looking for travel beds for babies or a travel crib for 1 year old.
If your toddler is still happy and safe in a crib, then we highly recommend you keep them contained in one of the cribs below as well.
But for those who have climbers, best to go with a baby sleep travel bed instead.
How to Choose the Best Travel Crib 2024 has to Offer
If you are planning on traveling a lot, you will need to invest some dollars in order to purchase a light travel crib that is also compact, easy to fold, safe, and also comfortable for your little one.
You might also like to purchase a crib that will last for longer than the first year as well.
Let's look at each of these criteria more closely, so you can make a smart decision on which crib would be the best travel bed for your baby.
1. Types
There are several different types of travel cribs on the market:
- portable cribs,
- toddler travel cot,
- regular travel cribs,
- travel pack 'n play
It is important to choose the right type of crib for both the age of your baby as well as for your circumstances (how much packing space do you have? Are you driving or flying? etc.)
If your baby is still little, and you typically don't travel very often, you might want to grab one of the cocoon-type cribs.
Best lightweight travel crib
2. Size
The size of your folding travel crib is really important. It needs to fold up small enough that you can easily transport it around.
It also needs to be lightweight so that you can carry it easily. In order to find the best lightweight travel crib for you, we have shared weights for each of the travel cribs in the table above.
Make sure to know down what size the cot is when assembled as well as when it is folded up. The best travel bed for infant use should be able to fit easily in your suitcase.
If you are looking for the best travel crib for flying, it is important to purchase a crib that comes with a protective bag, one that is comfy enough to carry around and one that is lightweight enough to carry from point A to point B.
Another important factor when it comes to size is to ensure that the crib will actually be large enough to fit your baby comfortably.
Age Range
If you travel frequently, it only makes sense to invest in a crib that will last for at least a few years. Some travel cribs are suitable for newborn babies only, but many can be used for 2-3 years.
You will find though, that even though many of these cribs stipulate that they can fit kids up to 3 of age, it might not be best suited for that age bracket.
Once your toddler is 2, I would suggest that you do some research to find the best travel crib for toddler use. The crib should allow your child to move around, but it should also be sturdy enough to keep them contained.
Comfort
You have to be really careful when it comes to travel cribs. As many might be super light and super cheap but have thin flimsy mattresses.
You also want to buy a crib that offers great air flow.
So when you're trying to pick the best travel cribs for babies or toddlers, then it is important to make sure that it ticks both the boxes for comfort as well as air flow.
Safety
Of course safety should be the most important factor to consider. We have only included baby travel cots that have met the American Standards in terms of safety.
When it comes to safety is so important to buy a crib that fits with your baby's age and activity levels. Especially important for toddlers who try to climb out of their cribs.
Also look at how snug the mattress fits into the cot, we don't want the mattress to be loose or have gaps. And think about how the sheet will be held in place as well.
Ease of Use
The best travel baby bed should be super simple and easy to set up, as well as fold up.
Make sure to have a look at how the cots fold up, some are super easy whilst others require some fiddly assembly.
Top 10 Travel Crib Reviews
Below are our travel crib reviews of, in our opinion, the best travel cots 2024 has to offer.
We share both the positives as well as the negatives of these top rated travel cribs, to help you decide which crib would be the best for your baby and your travel-lifestyle.
1. BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light Review (Most Comfortable Travel Crib)
The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light Silver is, in our opinion, one of the best selling travel cots. And one by a well-known baby brand as well. We love that this cot will last you all the way from newborn till age 3!
This travel cot is nice and lightweight. It is easy to set up and fold away and they have made it easy to carry as well.
We love that the sides of the crib is made from a soft mesh material, the mesh is fabulous and allows air flow to circulate through the crib.
The base of the cot is lovely and sturdy to ensure that your baby has a safe sleeping environment. And the insulated mattress means that your baby will be comfy as well.
Baby Bjorn travel crib dimensions:
- Assembled: 32 x 44 x 24"
- Folded down in carry bag: 19 x 23.5 x 5.5"
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this crib or click the button below.
2. Lotus Travel Crib Review
The Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib by Guava Family is very popular as it combines a travel crib for sleeping with a playard for confined play into one handy cot.
This crib might just be one of the best portable crib 2024 has to offer. Why? It only takes around 15 seconds to set up!! Effortless set up when you are tired or jet lagged is definitely a bonus.
The clear mesh sides allow for that all important airflow and you can also unzip the one side if you wish to allow your little one to crawl in and out of their crib for playtime.
The Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib has been thoroughly tested for chemical emissions and is certified to the GREENGUARD GOLD standard!
We love that the crib comes with a backpack (with convertible straps) style carry bag.
Guava Family Travel Crib Dimensions:
- Packed Dimensions: 23 x 12 x 8"
- Assembled Dimensions: 42 x 24 X 25"
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on the Guava Lotus travel crib or click the button below.
3. Pamo Babe Lightweight Foldable Travel Crib Review
This lightweight portable baby crib is an affordable travel crib that will last from baby to toddler.
This travel crib is easy to assemble and comes with a carry bag to make it easier to carry from one destination to the next and is perfect for travel on a plane.
The travel crib can be used for sleep or playtime. The mesh fabric not only allows for airy design but means you can also see your little one easily for keeping an eye.
It comes with a mattress and a fitted sheet. The fitted sheet is easy to remove and clean. The crib is also easy to clean, simply wipe it with a cloth.
Travel baby crib dimensions:
- Packed Dimensions: 24 x 6 x 19"
- Sleeping Space Dimensions: 33 x 22 x 26"
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this travel crib or click the button below.
4. Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet Review
The Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet is the best mini crib and is the best travel crib for newborn babies. Looking for a travel crib that fits in a suitcase - this is it.
It is incredibly lightweight (4.4 lbs) and is suitable for babies aged 0 - 5 months or up to 22 lbs.
The mesh panels and breathable fabric allow for ample air circulation.
The crib is very safe to use as it has a T-lock frame, which is sturdy and safe.
Due to its size and weight, it is our pick for the best travel crib for flying. Simply pack it into your hand luggage and you are ready to go, or fold it up and carry it by the handle.
Travel Crib Dimensions:
- Packed Dimensions: 20.5 x 19.7 x 1.7"
- Assembled Dimensions: 31.5 x 10 x 16"
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this bassinet or click the button below.
5. besrey 3-in-1 Portable Baby Travel Bassinet Review
The besrey 3-in-1 Portable Travel Bassinet is great for traveling with a new baby, it is quick and easy to fold up or set up.
The compact size when folded means it takes up minimal space and storage.
When set up you can choose from 2 modes, rocking or stationery mode.
Mesh sides ensure you have visibility of your baby when sleeping. There is also airflow in the bassinet.
The crib also has a mosquito net keeping bugs out when sleeping. There is also a built-in storage basket.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this travel baby bassinet or click the button below.
6. Dream On Me Travel Light Playard Review
The Travel Light is a great travel crib that is super affordable.
It is very easy to use as it sets up and folds down in minutes making it the ideal travel companion for infants and toddlers.
It folds up flat and can be stored in its durable carry bag which makes it perfect for traveling and using whilst out and about.
The Travel Light Playard comes with a soft mattress, making the space comfortable for your child whether sleeping or playing.
The Travel Light is available in 4 colors.
The Playard sides are made of soft, airy mesh fabric that allows your baby to breathe easily. The see-through fabric helps you keep an eye on your baby and also makes it easy for your little one to look out and see you.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price or click the button below.
7. Lumiere All-in-One Travel Crib & Bassinet Review
The Lumiere All-in-One Travel Crib and Bassinet is a great option as a travel crib, especially if you are traveling with newborns. The travel baby crib is lightweight (13 lbs).
The baby travel crib comes with a comfortable bassinet layer that can be added and removed with ease.
The Lumiere All-in-One Travel Crib comes with a breathable mattress and its own fitted sheet. It also includes a white noise sound machine to help create a calming environment when your little one goes to sleep.
When you do not want to use the crib you can fold it flat for easy storage. It also has a carry bag with two-way handles so can be used as a back pack.
The removable sheet cover makes the crib easy to maintain and keep clean.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price or click the button below.
8. Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard Review
The Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard is designed for babies and toddler aged 1 - 3 years old. We love it because it packs up so compact and fits into its own zippered carry bag making it easy to take with you when traveling.
The Chicco Alfa Lite Leightweight Travel Playard weighs only 12.5 pounds.
The fast, snap-open design makes it a breeze to set up. The lightweight mesh construction provides airflow.
The travel crib comes with a mattress and mattress cover. The mattress cover and frame fabrics are removable and machine washable making it great for easy cleaning.
The crib can also be used as a playpen for playtime.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this crib or click the button below.
9. Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib Review
The Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib is great for home, vacation, and visiting family and friends. The travel crib is great for babies from birth up to 3 years old.
The is quick and easy to set up and fold close for easy storage. When folded the travel crib has a carry case and handle to make it easy when moving around.
The crib is not as lightweight as other travel cribs we have listed lightweight, weighing 15.6 pounds makes it a little cumbersome to carry when moving it around.
We love that the crib comes with a bassinet making it great to use for newborns. The fabric is soft and the mattress is comfortable.
The mesh sides and raised bassinet make it possible to use as a side sleeper crib.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price or click the button below.
10. Palopalo 3 in 1 Travel Lightweight Crib Review
Another fabulous buy is the Palopalo 3 in 1 Lightweight Travel Crib. Travelers love this cot, because it is still a light travel crib if you are looking for a full size travel crib rather than the cocoon or bassinet size ones.
This travel portable crib has plenty of room to move. It is recommended for newborns till 3 years old, so it is a great option as one of the best travel cribs for toddlers as well.
The sides are fully mesh, allowing nice airflow to circulate through the cot. You also have the option of zipping off one of the sides, we don't really ever use this functionality, but hey it is there.
The mattress is lovely and soft and water resistant. It can also be folded into a compact size.
The Palopalo 3 in 1 Lightweight Travel Crib folds down and packs into a compact carry bag that you can carry over your shoulder.
The crib can also be outdoors, for example at the beach, as it has a UV mesh top that offers sun protection.
The negative? You will need to practice the assembly and disassembly before you go.
Palopalo 3 in 1 Lightweight Travel Crib dimensions:
- Packed Dimensions: 19 x 27"
- Sleeping Space Dimensions: 35 x 22 x 27"
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on the Palopalo Travel Crib or click the button below.
Best Crib Block Out Covers
When traveling with a travel crib block out covers are great to use to ensure that no matter where you set up your portable crib, your little one can rest without the light affecting their sleep.
Below are our top picks for the best crib block out covers.
1. SlumberPod Portable Blackout Canopy Cover
2. LYFFXYH StretchyCrib Tent Blackout Canopy Cover
3. SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Cover
Verdict on Our Pick of the Best Portable Travel Crib
We hope you found our portable travel crib reviews and comparison table helpful and that you managed to find a portable travel crib that is comfy and right for your baby and your style of travel.
Have you read through all our portable baby bed reviews and you are still not sure which one to buy?
I recommend you invest in a crib that will last you for as many years as possible. Choose a travel crib that is 12 lb and under. And make sure that it is easy to pack up and carry.
If you are still feeling stuck and confused, here are our personal preferences depending on if you are traveling with a toddler or newborn baby.
The best travel crib for toddlers is the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light. Not only is it lightweight weighing only 11 lbs but is super easy to set up and carry. It is also a great investment as it is suitable for ages 0 - 3 years.
Prefer to have a bassinet when traveling with your newborn? Our top pick for the best portable crib for newborns is the Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet. It is compact when folded and can be transported when flying in hand luggage or carry-on.
Further Reading:
- Click to see a list of handy baby travel products to take along on your holiday with your baby.
- After some gear for yourself? Click to see our favorite traveler gear.