In our experience, one of the most important things to figure out when traveling with a baby is where baby will sleep. Depending on where we stay, we decide if we can use the hotel cribs or pack one of the best baby travel beds.
While some hotels will offer cribs or something similar to a pack n’ play, this option doesn’t work well if we aren’t staying put. On longer trips, where we visit more than one country, city or destination, we might choose to stay in an Airbnb or run into hotels that don’t offer a crib, that’s where our portable baby travel bed comes in handy.
We know the travel crib is extra weight to carry, but it’s worth the effort to pack our portable travel crib for our baby. This allows us to give our baby a familiar sleep environment, no matter where we spend the night.
We know what’s important to parents and that’s why we created this guide on the best baby travel beds. As fellow traveling parents, we know that when it comes to baby travel cribs, safety and comfort for your baby are of the utmost importance!
This post contains compensated links.
Baby Can Travel Recommends
TOP PICK
All Around Best Travel Crib:
Lotus Travel Crib by Guava Family
While the Lotus Travel Crib isn’t the cheapest option and the bassinet kit is an extra cost, this baby travel crib ticks all the boxes. We love that it’s lightweight and packs into dimensions that allow it to be used as carry-on. In addition, it has a carrying case with backpack straps, making it convenient for us parents to carry.
With the longest mattress, it’s the one that you’ll get the longest use out of especially if you have a tall baby.
After narrowing down the multitude of options for parents looking at purchasing a baby travel bed, here are the 5 other best travel beds that you should consider:
2. Best Travel Bassinet:
Dream On Me Poppy Traveller
3. Best Lightweight Baby Travel Bed for Moving Around:
phil&teds Travel Crib
4. Best Portable Baby Crib for Budgets:
Chicco Alfa Lite or the MiClassic Travel Crib (when available)
5. Best Value Travel Crib & Bassinet
Lumiere All-In-One Travel Crib & Bassinet
6. Best Baby Travel Bed for Older Babies & Toddlers:
KidCo PeaPod Plus Travel Tent
Like we mentioned above, it’s important to consider how your baby will sleep when moving around and changing cribs throughout your trip. Travel baby beds are designed specifically for use on the go, allowing you to provide your little one with a familiar sleeping environment no matter where your travels take you.
While it’s extra for to carry, I found our babies and toddlers slept better in a portable baby travel bed that they were familiar and comfortable in. It was one less thing that was changing for them while we traveled, especially when we had them sleep in it at home in preparation for our travels.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best travel beds on the market. Whether you’re in need of something lightweight and compact for short trips or a more sturdy option for extended travel, there’s an infant travel bed out there that will suit your family’s needs.
Are those your only options for travel cribs for babies?
No, we also have other similar options to each of the portable beds for babies listed above, so you can find the best travel crib for your family.
What you won’t find listed here is heavy pack n’ plays or playards. These are great for Grandma’s house (and it’s worth it just to buy one and ship it there) but they are not all that great for traveling with. For parents traveling with a baby, you don’t want to be lugging one of these heavy portable baby cribs around, especially flying with a pack n’ play. They might be portable but they aren’t lightweight!
As fellow traveling parents, we make sure to recommend only portable baby travel beds that we personally have traveled with or would travel with.
Best Baby Travel Cribs – Table of Contents
Finding the Best Baby Bed for Travel
Traveling can take a lot out of a baby or toddler, so you’ll want to make sure you are doing what you can to get your baby to sleep on vacation! We know from experience, that a well-rested baby makes for a much happier little traveler!
The first step for is making sure to have the best baby bed for travel that’s lightweight and portable, but more importantly that will provide a safe and comfortable sleep for your baby while traveling.
Here are our recommendations for the best baby beds for travel:
Best Baby Travel Cribs
Here are all the best travel cribs for babies. These portable baby travel beds are lightweight compared to a regular pack n’ play, while still giving your baby a safe place to sleep while traveling.
1. Lotus Travel Crib
The Lotus travel crib by Guava Family is a lightweight travel crib with backpack portability which sets up in just 15 seconds. At only 15 lbs (including the carrying bag), it fits as a carry-on and you could even use it for naps in the airport! With a side door that zips open, your little one will even have their own safe area to play wherever your travels take you!
Best for: Parents who know they’ll get plenty of use out of it. The Guava Family Lotus portable crib is approved for 0-3 years olds (including newborn and infant overnight sleep). If you want a bassinet, you can buy the travel crib with a bassinet kit directly on the Guava website.
Safety: The Lotus travel crib meets all the safety standards, was made without any harsh chemicals and is GreenGuard Gold approved.
Ease of use: It has no assembly with quick setup and pack away. The Lotus travel crib fabrics can be removed and tossed in the wash – which is always a bonus for busy parents!
Size for travel: We love that the travel bag comes with backpack straps to make carrying this travel crib even easier. This portable sleeping bed for baby was designed to fit in most overhead compartments on the airplane when flying with a baby.
The size when folded in the backpack is 24 x 12 x 8 inches. Check your airline’s cabin baggage size to confirm before flying.
Read our full review of the Guava Family Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib here.
Price: At slightly cheaper than the Baby Bjorn baby travel bed, the Lotus travel crib is one of the more expensive portable baby beds in this list. However, it’s rated for use from birth and is 45 inches long, so you’ll get plenty of use out of it (assume you can use until your child is around 40 inches tall).
Recommended age: The Lotus travel crib is recommended from 0 to 3 years old (or until your little one is trying to climb out). With the mattress on the floor, there’s no maximum weight on it.
Why you should consider the Lotus baby travel crib: While it’s pricey, you’ll get what you pay for. This portable crib has all the features we love when it comes to looking at the best travel cribs for baby. It has a quick setup with no assembly, it has extra features like the quiet side zipper and it’s easy to travel with.
If you are considering the Lotus, buy it early so you get the most value for your dollars.
With over 2000 reviews on Amazon and a very high star rating, this traveling crib for baby is sure to please everyone!
PROS
- Very easy set up.
- Side zipper goes all the way down (crucial if baby needs direct skin to skin to fall asleep, which can make bedtime much, much easier)
- Backpack straps on carrying case.
- Very lightweight.
CONS
- Smaller than other pack and plays but still bulky.
- Expensive if you aren’t getting a lot of use out of it.
- It can be hard to get everything back in the travel bag.
- Bassinet isn’t included like other similar products.
2. BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
Along with the Lotus travel crib, the BabyBjorn travel crib is the cream of the crop when it comes to a travel bed for babies and toddlers. This is reflected in the price, given it’s one of the most expensive in this list of best baby travel cribs.
While it also only weighs 13 lbs, it does not fit as a carry-on with folded dimensions of 23.5″ x 19″ x 5.5″, but it can still be gate checked. It does have an added benefit of having a removable mattress cover and crib fabric that is machine washable. This travel crib is available in both silver and black.
This travel baby bed can be used from 0 to 3 years old, so if you buy it early you’ll get years of use as you can continue to use it as a travel bed for toddlers.
Best for: Parents who don’t want to mess with assembly and the best build quality in a baby travel bed.
Safety: The Babybjorn is also free of any harsh chemicals and uses Okeo-tex Certified fabrics.
Ease of use: With one move to set it up, it doesn’t get any easier to set up a travel bed for baby.
Size for travel: With an included travel bag and a similar weight the Lotus travel crib, the BabyBjorn is also travel friendly. While you won’t be able to fit it in the overhead bin, you can check it with your luggage. The BabyBjorn travel crib folded dimensions are 23.5″ x 19″ x 5.5″.
Price: Just so you don’t get sticker shock, while this is the second most expensive portable travel crib on the list (the Silver Cross Slumber being the most expensive), know that the price of the BabyBjorn price reflects the build quality and that the set up and fold down take just one move.
Recommended age: The BabyBjorn bed is recommended from newborn to around 3 years old (or when your toddler is showing signs of crawling out of it). Because the mattress rests on the floor, there is no maximum weight limit.
Why you should consider the BabyBjorn portable travel crib: If you are planning to use it from newborn to toddler stage, you’ll get enough use out of the BabyBjorn baby travel crib to justify the price. And you’ll be happy you have the quick set up and take down.
As long as you don’t have your heart set on the side zipper access, then this is the best baby travel crib for frequent travelers who want a super quick set up and take down.
PROS
- Mattress thickness is better than Lotus travel crib.
- Assembly and packing it are both fast and easy.
- Great for use in the airport.
- Very lightweight.
- Quality materials make it very durable.
CONS
- The shape of the crib once it’s folded isn’t as small as we’d like.
- Also expensive if you aren’t going to get a lot of use out of it.
- No infant bassinet option.
- No front or size zip panel.
Parent feedback on the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light: “Love this crib. We take it everywhere! It comes in handy in hotel rooms but it especially comes in handy when we are in the airport. People are always amazed to see a crib at airport terminals. This crib really gives me the chance to sit and catch my breath while waiting for our flights. We have traveled so much with it and it still looks in good condition.”
For our Canadian parents, check prices at West Coast Kids.
3. Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard
The Chicco Alfa Lite travel crib is very budget friendly option at less than $200. It doesn’t have many frills, but it has all the key features that parents look for in a lightweight travel crib.
If you are looking for ease of set-up, you’ll love the snap-open function. This is ideal for getting to a hotel late and needing to get your baby to sleep quickly.
It also has the zip-open side panel and a travel bag. Like many others, the zip-off mattress cover and other crib fabrics are machine washable.
Best for: Parents who want an affordable lightweight travel crib for traveling without the extra features or a travel bassinet.
Safety: The Alfa Lite meets the safety requirements and can be used for overnight sleep. It also has good airflow with mesh on all four sides.
Ease of use: This is easy to use with a snap-open to set it up and a quick fold down. The machine washable fabrics make cleaning up easy too!
Size for travel: The standard weight for a lightweight travel crib seems to be 13 lbs and the Chicco Alfa Lite comes in at that same weight. The folded dimensions are 26” L x 23” W x 9” H which won’t meet carry-on size requirements.
Price: As mentioned previously, the Chicco Alfa Lite is one of the most affordable options for travel cribs.
Recommended age: Up to 30 lbs and 35” tall (while the mattress is on the floor, this limit is around the time when your toddler may be attempting to crawl out).
Why you should consider the Chicco Alfa Lite Travel Crib: If you are looking for a simple but well rated travel crib with a price to match then the Chicco Alfa Lite is well worth a look!
PROS
- Snap open function makes for quick setup.
- Lightweight at 13 lbs.
- Open side panel plus washable mattress cover and fabrics.
- Cheaper option compared to other travel cribs.
- No bassinet option.
CONS
- Smaller mattress than others so not the best option for tall babies.
4. Silver Cross Slumber 3 in 1 Travel Crib
If you take some time to browse the rest of our baby travel website, you’ll notice that we really love multi-purpose baby travel gear. We get excited about products that can be used at home and for travel, because nobody wants to be buying multiple items!
While the Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib is the most expensive item on this list, the price is easier to swallow when you can replace it with other items you may have bought.
This 3-in-1 travel bed can be used at home as a bedside bassinet, as an infant travel bassinet, a travel crib for babies and toddlers, plus as a playard.
You’ll love the easy “shake open” setup and how easily it folds into the weatherproof bag. The travel bag has both a carry handle and a shoulder strap to make getting it through the airport easier.
Once you are done with the bassinet, you unzip it and move the expandable mattress to the base for use as a travel crib.
Best for: The Silver Cross travel crib is best for parents who don’t mind spending a bit more on one item, but plan to use it at home and while traveling.
Safety: Like all the others, this baby travel bed has mesh sides for good airflow. It’s also approved for overnight sleep.
Ease of use: Set-up couldn’t be easier – just shake it open. Plus the Silver Cross has an easy fold to get it back in the weatherproof bag.
Size for travel: This travel crib weights slightly more than most on this list at 15.4 lbs. It’s folded dimensions are 35” X 13.4” X 6.7”, so unfortunately you’ll have to check it as a baby item.
Price: This is the most expensive item on the list, but while it’s pricey you do need to compare it to others that either have a bassinet or what it would cost to buy a bassinet kit (like for the Lotus travel crib).
Recommended age: The bassinet is suitable from birth to 4-6 months (when your baby is starting to roll over or push up on hands and knees).
In travel crib mode, it can be used until your toddler is showing signs of trying to climb out.
Why you should consider the Silver Cross Slumber Travel Crib: If you want a bassinet for your newborn at home and you also have the need for a travel crib, then this is a great option.
PROS
- Includes a newborn bassinet.
- Good for children up to 50 lbs.
- Mattress is 40.15″ X 28.54″ – wider than any other travel bed giving more sleeping space.
CONS
- Heavier than other travel cribs at 15.4 lbs.
- Most expensive option.
- Folded dimensions are larger than any other travel crib in this list.
For our Canadian parents, check prices at West Coast Kids.
5. Lumiere All-in-One Lightweight Travel Crib and Bassinet
We love the Lumiere All-in-One travel crib & bassinet because you really do get everything you need from newborn through the toddler stages. This lightweight travel bed has a removable bassinet, so you can begin using it right away.
It also comes with a travel bag that can convert from using carry handles to a backpack, but the list of features doesn’t stop there. The Lumiere All-in-One travel crib & bassinet also comes with a fitted sheet and a white noise machine.
The mattress has a waterproof cover and the crib fabrics can be thrown right in the wash. Parents will love that clean up is a breeze!
Best for: Parents who want to get the most use out of their purchase. Parents can even use this at home to have their baby in a bassinet for not newborn months and still have a lightweight travel crib for traveling.
Safety: Along with mesh sides and an OEKO-TEX certified mattress cover, this travel bassinet and crib is compliant with the US safety regulations. It is safe for overnight sleep.
Ease of use: This travel crib for baby has quick and easy set-up and fold down that doesn’t require any tools. It also has a front flap that can be zipped open for easy access to your baby.
Size for travel: It’s similar in size to all the other portable beds for babies and toddlers, with a weight of 13 lbs including the travel bag.
The folded size of this baby travel bed is 23.5″ x 22″ x 6”. While it doesn’t meet carry-on size requirements, you might get it in a suitcase or check it as a baby item.
Price: The Lumiere travel crib is on the higher end for price, but it does come with additional items like the white noise machine, which will save you money elsewhere.
Recommended age: The Lumiere travel bassinet for infants can be used for babies from birth to 15 lbs (or if your baby is showing signs of getting up on hand and knees).
The travel bed can be used up to 3 years old (or when your toddler is showing signs of climbing out). There is no maximum weight limit as, like other travel cribs, the mattress rests on the floor.
Why you should consider the Lumiere All-In-One Travel Crib and Bassinet: If you want one-stop-shopping where you get everything you need in one package! While on the more expensive side, this baby travel crib comes with all the features (and more) than some of the similarly priced baby travel beds.
PROS
- Weights only 13 lbs.
- Two different ways to carry (including backpack carry straps).
- Side opening is the entire width.
- Includes infant bassinet and white noise machine.
CONS
- Doesn’t pack small enough to make it a carry-on.
- Smaller in length compared to similar priced options.
6. MiClassic Travel Bed
This Miclassic travel crib is another great option to consider for parents who are looking for a budget option with a lot of features. The MiClassic baby travel bed weighs the same as the more expensive brands at 13lbs, has a side zipper and quick set up and take down.
This versatile baby travel bed is also suitable for newborns & infants for overnight sleep, all the way to toddlers up to 3 years old.
Best for: While you’ll give up the ability to bring this baby portable bed on the plane as a carry-on, it’s the perfect option for parents who don’t want to pay the high price of the premium travel cribs but still want the features.
Safety: Similar to the baby travel cribs mentioned above, it has breathable mesh and meets the required safety standards.
Ease of use: This portable travel crib also has a feature that makes it easier to move from room to room, with a quick fold. It does require more assembly, but once you know what you’re doing it’s quick to set up and take down.
Size for travel: The MiClassic travel crib packs down similar to a traditional pack n’ play in a long rectangle, though it’s still very lightweight at 13 lbs and comes with a travel bag. It packs down to 29 x 9 x 9 inches.
Price: This is the most budget friendly of the travel cribs that is approved for overnight sleep.
Recommended age: The MiClassic travel crib is recommended from newborn to 3 years old.
Why you should consider the MiClassic baby travel bed: This is the least expensive portable crib for babies that also has a side zipper door. If that’s a feature that’s important to you but you won’t be using it enough to justify the price of a Lotus travel crib, then this is a good option for you to consider.
PROS
- Budget price at under $100.
- Lightweight at only 13 lbs.
- Easy to move without fully disassembling.
CONS
- No bassinet option.
- Takes up a lot of space when fully set up without the benefit of a larger sleeping area.
- Sometimes hard to find.
7. Phil&Teds Traveller Travel Crib (2021+)
The original phil&teds Traveller has now been replaced with this Traveller (2021+) travel crib. The new version has been updated to be a 4-in-1 which now has the option of being used as a newborn bassinet, a travel crib or playard. It has a zipped side that can be opened up to let your baby play.
The Phil&Teds Traveller Crib is one the best travel beds for babies, right up there with the Lotus and Baby Bjorn travel cribs.
It’s the lightest travel crib at 8.5 lbs in bassinet mode and 7.5 lbs in the baby or toddler travel bed mode. PLUS it rolls up to the size of a yoga mat. It also comes with a self-inflating mattress and the fitted sheet is included with this portable bed for baby.
The Phil&Teds is suitable from birth until about 4 years old. With these added features and with it being super lightweight and portable, the Phil&teds traveller crib does come with a high price tag, but if you buy it early, you can spread the expense over 4 years.
Best for: Parents who want to pack light because they move around a lot!
Safety: Also made with Okeo-tex Certified fabrics. Some negative reviews claim this baby travel bed isn’t quite as sturdy as it should be and there’s the risk of it tipping over. Make sure you aren’t using it with a baby who will try to climb out.
Ease of use: Given how small the Phil&teds traveller crib packs up, it is going to require more assembly than the other portable travel cribs. Watch the YouTube video prior to traveling with it.
Size for travel: Aside from some of the travel tents, this is the lightest of the portable travel bed and can fit in the overhead bin on airplanes. It will be the easiest one to carry around.
Price: Priced at just under $300, this is as expensive as the BabyBjorn travel crib.
Recommended age: In bassinet mode, you can use this travel bassinet from newborn until around 5 months old (or until your baby is showing signs of going of pushing up on hands and knees).
In travel crib mode, use this travel bed until around 4 years old (or until your toddler is showing signs of trying to climb out).
Why you should consider the phil&teds travel crib: If you want to have a portable crib for baby that you can bring everywhere, then the phil&teds Traveller is for you. Given that it rolls up to the size of a yoga mat, you could set it up practically anywhere indoors or out. You could bring it for naps in the airport or even on a picnic on the beach! You can even get a mesh shade for outdoor use.
We do feel that the Phil&teds traveller crib is better for smaller babies who won’t stand or try to climb out, given the reviews on the risk of it tipping.
PROS
- Has a bassinet mode.
- Very lightweight and compact at 8.5 lbs.
- Easy to assemble once you’ve had some practice.
CONS
- Not as sturdy as it should be.
- Mattress isn’t very firm.
- Small overall.
For our Canadian parents, check prices at West Coast Kids.
8. Dream On Me Travel Light Playard
Unfortunately, DOM does not recommend their travel light playard for overnight sleep. They only recommend it for supervised naps for babies 6 months old and up.
For parents who are looking for one of the best travel playards but at a lower cost, this is for you. The Dream on Me Travel Light Playard is the lowest priced portable playard for travel in our list.
It’s comparably light at 13 lbs.
Best for: The Dream on Me playard can be used for babies 6 months and up to 30 lbs and 35 inches. Parents looking for a budget option will love this one.
Safety: Made with a sturdy aluminum frame and a locking system, this playard also has fabric and mesh free from any harmful allergenics.
Ease of use: At this price point, this travel playard requires some assembly, but it’s still a quick no-tool assembly.
Size for travel: While this portable travel playard won’t fit in the overhead bin, it does fold flat with a sturdy travel bag that could be checked with your luggage. At only 13 lbs, it won’t be too cumbersome to travel with and might even fit in a checked suitcase. Folded dimensions are 23.75″ x 19″ x 6″.
Price: As mentioned previously, the Dream On Me Travel Light Playard is perfect for parents on a budget. It’s about 5 inches shorter than the Lotus crib, so you’ll only get to use it until your toddler is around 35 inches.
Recommended age: The Dream On Me Travel Light Playard is recommended for babies 6 months old and up.
Why you should consider the Dream on Me Travel Light Playard: If you are looking for a place for your baby to play and for supervised naps, this is an excellent choice at a budget price.
PROS
- Lighter than a Pack n Play
- Can fit inside a checked suitcase.
- Small footprint for tight spaces when traveling.
- Great for budgets.
CONS
- Set up isn’t as straightforward as a pack n play and requires some practice.
- Not as compact as other travel cribs like the Guava Lotus travel crib.
- Not recommended for overnight sleep.
Best Baby Travel Tents
Different than the portable travel beds, these baby travel tents are another alternative for your baby or toddler to sleep in. They are super lightweight and easy to pack.
9. KidCo Peapod Plus Portable Travel Tent
If you are looking for a travel bed for 6 month old (or older), the PeaPod and PeaPod Plus make an excellent travel bed for older babies and toddlers. It’s weight (3.5 lbs for the larger PeaPod Plus) and size make it super compact and allow it to be packed right in the suitcase.
The larger PeaPod Plus can be used up to 5 years old, ensuring you will get plenty of use out of it. This toddler travel tent is also good, since you don’t need to worry about the possibility of your toddler trying to climb out like the other portable cribs for babies and toddlers above.
Best for: Parents who are looking for the lightest and most compact option for older babies and toddlers.
Safety: The entire tent is surrounded with lightweight mesh to promote airflow. It also has UV protection if used outside.
Ease of use: It couldn’t be easier to use a travel tent, you just need to take it out of the bag and it pops open. Once you figure out how to pack it back up (watch this video), it’s also a cinch and takes under a minute.
Size for travel: Aside from the phil&teds travel crib, you won’t get something as light and compact as this for a travel bed for babies and toddlers. It’s super lightweight and fits in a suitcase or can fit in the overhead bin on airplanes. Folded dimensions are 19″ L x 19″ W x 3.5″ H.
Price: This is also a great budget option, especially when you consider the ability to use it on the beach, for travel or as a portable crib for camping with babies and toddlers.
Recommended age: 6 months to 5 years old for the Kidco PeaPod Plus.
Why you should consider the PeaPod Plus travel tent: This is one of the easiest portable travel beds to travel with. It’s light and fits in a suitcase plus it’s one of the least expensive options. Some toddlers love their tents and will even want to sleep in it at home!
For the majority of our travel with babies, the PeaPod Plus travel tent was our go-to baby travel bed. We loved its versatility and compact size. Our kids always slept well in the PeaPod Plus. We share our experiences in our review of the KidCo PeaPod Plus.
PROS
- Most lightweight baby travel bed option.
- Fits in a suitcase or as carry-on.
- Compared to Joovy gloo, the PeaPod Plus has an easier fold (especially the mattress).
CONS
- Not as well ventilated as a travel crib.
- Doesn’t have a removable mattress cover making messes harder to clean
*For our Canadian parents, you’ll be directed to Canadian retailers with this product.
10. Joovy Gloo Portable Baby Tent
The Joovy Gloo travel bed is a pop-up baby travel tent, similar to the popular KidCo PeaPod. The Joovy Gloo also comes in two sizes, regular and large, that are rated up to 3 years old and 5 years old, respectively.
The big difference between the Joovy Gloo and the KidCo PeaPod is that the Joovy Gloo is more expensive and heavier than the KidCo PeaPod. The Joovy Gloo Large weighs 5.5 lbs compared to the 3.5 lbs of the KidCo Peapod Plus.
It has UPF 50 sun protection, making it a baby beach essential, and a self-inflating mattress.
We do recommend going with the large size if you plan to purchase a Joovy Gloo Travel tent, since you’ll spread out the cost over more years, getting you the most value out of it for your money.
Recommended age: 6 months to 5 years old for the large.
Why you should consider the Joovy Gloo: Given that this is such a similar option to the PeaPod Plus, here’s why you might want to consider the Joovy Gloo over the PeaPod Plus. The Joovy Gloo has a self inflating mattress that has a cotton sheet that zips over the mattress.
Our biggest complaint on the PeaPod Plus was that we didn’t love the sleeping surface and would have preferred a cotton sheet that was removable. The Joovy Gloo also comes in more fun colors.
Things we like better about the PeaPod Plus: There’s no need to push air out of the mattress, you just fold it up when it’s time to go. We also like that the PeaPod Plus is two pounds lighter and cheaper, these are more important to us than the color.
PROS
- Self-inflating mattress.
- Has a removable mattress cover that can be washed.
CONS
- Another lightweight option but slightly heavier than the Peapod Plus.
- More expensive than the Peapod Plus.
- Not as well ventilated as travel cribs.
Best Travel Bassinets for Infants
If you are looking for a newborn travel bassinet, here are the best options. However, since most of the top rated baby travel beds above are suited for newborn and infant overnight sleep, you’ll get the most value out of one of those options.
11. Joovy Coo Portable Infant Bassinet for Travel
The Joovy Coo, though expensive at over $250, is a good option for parents traveling with a newborn who prefer to have their baby up near them. This portable travel bassinet is suitable from birth up to 15 lbs, which can then be transformed into a regular baby travel bed.
The Joovy Coo newborn travel bassinet can also be set to rock and it comes with a travel bag and mattress cover. The mattress cover is machine washable.
One other benefit for small spaces (like many hotels rooms), is you can use the bottom portion as storage while your baby is using the upper bassinet.
The biggest complaint about this travel bassinet is that the mattress cover isn’t the easiest to remove and it’s not waterproof. The mattress is very difficult to clean. A waterproof mattress cover would be much better.
Best for: The Joovy Coo portable infant bed is best for parents who also want to use it at home for room sharing with their newborn. Assembled the dimensions are 41.3″ L x 25” W x 28.4” H compare that to the Guava Lotus Travel Crib which is 45.5″ L x 31.5″ W x 25.5″ H.
Those extra inches can make a big difference in tight spaces. It folds flat and can be used for travel as well, rather than having to purchase a separate travel crib.
Safety: The entire newborn travel bassinet is surrounded with mesh walls.
Ease of use: It has an easy two step fold, without having to remove the mattress.
Size for travel: The Joovy Coo travel bassinet for newborns weighs 17 lbs and folds to 38.6” X 25” X 6”. It also comes with a travel bag. Unfortunately, this infant bassinet for travel wouldn’t fit in a large suitcase so it would need to be checked as a baby item.
Price: This travel bassinet for infants is one of the most expensive products on the list, but it does come with additional features like the storage underneath when the bassinet is in use and the rocking feature.
Recommended age: The Joovy Coo travel bed for infants can be used for newborns up to 15 lbs. Once your baby is pushing up on hands and knees (or reaches 15 lbs), you move the mattress to the bottom.
It can then be used up to 35” tall or until your baby is showing signs of trying to climb out.
Why you should consider the Joovy Coo baby travel bassinet: If you plan to stay in hotel rooms or have limited space at home, this bassinet is for you. This travel bassinet is perfect for room sharing and having your baby near you.
PROS
- Most benefit for use at home and for travel.
- Can be used as a rocker too.
CONS
- Expensive for just a travel bassinet.
- No waterproof mattress cover.
12. Dream On Me Poppy Traveler Portable Bassinet
If you are looking specifically for an infant travel bed, a cheaper option than the Joovy Coo is the Dream On Me Poppy Traveler Portable Bassinet. At less than a third of the price, you’ll have to give up the rocking feature and the ability to use it as a travel crib once your baby grows out of the bassinet.
We prefer the Poppy Traveler over the Traveler because it’s smaller, lighter, and the mesh is all around the entire bassinet.
The biggest complaint about this travel bassinet is that getting the legs on and off can be tricky.
Best for: The Dream On Me Poppy Traveler portable bassinet is best for parents who are looking for a portable bassinet for travel at a budget price. It folds flat and comes with a travel bag.
Safety: The entire newborn travel bassinet is surrounded with mesh walls.
Ease of use: This newborn travel bassinet sets up quick with legs that just need to be snapped on to the top piece. It also has an easy fold frame.
Size for travel: The Dream On Me Poppy travel bassinet for newborns weighs 12.5 lbs and folds to 22” X 18” X 8”. It also comes with a travel bag. Unfortunately, this doesn’t meet the strict guidelines for carry on, but it should fit in a suitcase or it can be checked as a baby item.
Price: This travel bassinet for infants is one of the least expensive products on our list of the best baby travel beds.
Recommended age: The Dream On Me Poppy travel bassinet can be for infants up to 25 lbs (around 3 months of age) or if your baby is starting to push up on hands and knees.
Why you should consider the Dream On Me Poppy baby travel bassinet: If you want a travel bassinet for infants without breaking the bank! While many travel cribs above come with an infant bassinet option, they definitely come at a higher price. You can also use this at home and easily move it around your house to keep your baby close by.
PROS
- Much cheaper than the Joovy Coo.
CONS
- Weighs as much as the travel cribs above.
- Only good up to 3 months.
Best Newborn Travel Bassinets (for Supervised Sleeping)
Though these ARE NOT RECOMMENDED for overnight sleep, they are great options for parents who want to give their infant a place to rest or have a nap wherever they are. They are recommended for supervised sleeping only.
With the introduction of the Infant Sleep Products Safety Standard in June of 2022, infant sleep products for babies 0 to 5 months old need to comply with the Safety Standards for Bassinets and Cradles (or one of the other consumer product safety standards for cribs or playards). Otherwise, the product can not be marketed for sleep.
13. SafeFit Portable Baby Travel Pod by Munchkin
Previously known as the Munchkin Brica Fold n’ Go, the SafeFit Portable Baby Travel Pod is an ideal place for your infant to rest and play. While this infant travel bassinet is not approved for overnight sleep, you can easily take it with you on picnics, outdoor adventures and stops at the park.
This infant travel pod has mesh sides, a firm mattress and fitted sheet to create a safe environment for your baby. It folds flat in seconds and includes convenient carrying handles, but can also fit in a suitcase.
At only 2.4 lbs, it’s a great option for your 0 to 3 month old (discontinue use at 3 months or 15 lbs and if your baby is up on their hands and knees). If your baby is up on their hands and knees, it’s time to move on to other options!
Why you should consider the SafeFit infant travel pod: It’s great for parents who are looking for a lightweight travel pod where they can safely let their baby have supervised naps anywhere! If it’s for when you are sightseeing or on the move, one of these infant travel strollers also works to give your baby a place to nap anywhere!
PROS
- Weight only 2.4 lbs.
- Can fit in suitcase.
CONS
- No mosquito net for outdoor use.
- Not approved for overnight sleeping.
- Only good up to 15 lbs or when baby is pushing up on knees.
14. Dream On Me Niche On The Go Portable Travel Pod
The Dream On Me Niche On The Go Portable Travel Pod is a safe resting spot for your infant. It has mesh sides and a mesh canopy, for airflow on warm days and protecting your baby from pesky bugs when enjoying time in parks or picnics. You can use it in your hotel room as well for diaper changes, tummy time or play.
With a 1” thick waterproof mattress pad plus a mattress cover for this portable floor bassinet for newborn, you can easily clean up messes.
While the Dream On Me Portable Travel Pod for infants isn’t approved for night sleep, you could use it during supervised sleeping like naps
This travel pod should only be used until your baby begins to push up on hands and knees or has reached 25 lbs weight (around 3 months).
Why you should consider the Dream On Me travel pod: The same reasons as the SafeFit Travel Pod above, the Dream On Me portable travel bassinet is a great option for taking with you to a friends place, a picnic or anywhere else that you’d like to have a safe spot to lay your baby down for a nap. It folds down flat and could even be packed in a suitcase.
PROS
- Has mosquito net.
- Lightweight and portable.
CONS
- Not approved for overnight sleeping.
- Only good up to 15 lbs or when baby is pushing up on knees.
What to Look for in a Baby Travel Bed, Tent or Bassinet
1. Safety
Safety is of the utmost important when it comes to your baby and traveling with your baby. You want the best baby travel bed made from a reputable company that meets or exceeds safety standards.
Look at the full descriptions of the travel beds for babies, they should list all the safety features. Included in those safety features should be full mesh sides that are breathable and the sleeping surface should be firm.
Some of these baby travel tents, travel bassinets and portable cribs for travel have very clear guidelines on age, size and weight. You’ll also find clear guidelines on the mattress and where it should be positioned. Adhere to these guidelines, they are there for the safety of your baby.
2. Ease of Use
You want your baby travel bed to be easy to set up and take down. This is especially important if you are trying to sneak in that nap while you are packing up – we’ve all done it! Or you arrive at your Airbnb late at night and need to get your crying baby down.
The last thing you want is to be struggling setting up your portable baby bed for travel while reading instructions and watching a YouTube video to try to figure it out (we recommend doing this at home well before your trip).
3. Size and Weight for Packing
If you have just one direct flight and are getting right into a rental car, then this might not be a big concern. We’ve traveled with our large Graco pack n’ play and it wasn’t all that difficult. We checked it for free, picked it up from the luggage carousel and got right into the car.
However, a very different scenario is when you are on an extended trip and are moving several times on your trip. You’ll want to pack as light as possible and minimize the pieces you are carrying. This is where the lightweight portable baby cribs for travel will really shine! For trips like this, we really enjoyed our PeaPod Plus.
4. Age Range
Some travel beds for babies can be used from the newborn stage right up to 3 years old. If you plan to use a portable baby crib for travel over several trips, it will be well worth your money to buy the best crib for travel with a quality build that covers all age ranges.
5. Price
There’s a big range on the price of baby travel cribs. Some come with extra features that make the higher price tag more than worth it. We recommend buying the best portable crib within your budget.
If you plan to use your portable travel bed from newborn through toddler stages, then you’ll get the most value by purchasing a travel bed for baby that can cover this age range.
6. Extra Features
Other features to consider when purchasing a portable crib for travel are the comfort of the mattress, included accessories (i.e. travel bag, bassinet inserts or fitted sheets), washable mesh, and a side zipper for easy access.
Do you Need a Portable Travel Crib?
The first step in deciding if you need a portable travel crib is deciding what type of accommodations will work best for your family.
We’ve tried everything from hotel rooms to Airbnb apartments. We were happy with sharing hotel rooms with our baby, until our daughter was able to stand and see us over the top of her travel crib.
I wish we had one of these SlumberPods then – one of our 10 must have items to help baby sleep on vacation.
Use BABYCANTRAVEL$20 to get $10 off the SlumberPod when you buy direct from SlumberPod!
Still not sure if you need one for traveling with a baby? Read my full review of the SlumberPod here.
There are still ways to make this work (ahem, hotel bathroom or closet), but we also really enjoy staying in an Airbnb with a baby or toddler. This is more our style especially now when we are traveling with a toddler. It gives us more space and gives us the ability to separate our kids so they aren’t waking each other at night.
What does this have to do with finding the best travel crib?
It’s important to understand what your style of travel is before buying a portable baby bed. Though we want to help you find the best baby bed for travel, it’s good to know the other baby travel bed options before buying and for this, you’ll need to know where you plan on staying.
Now that accommodations are booked, it’s time to start thinking about the best travel bed for baby or toddler travel bed. Before you go out and purchase the best portable baby travel bed, there are several other great options to consider. Not every baby travel bed will work for every family, so choose which is best for yours.
If buying a travel baby bed is the best option for your family, head back up to the portable crib options for infants, babies and toddlers we listed above or see our full list here on Amazon.
If you plan to have your baby sleep in a portable crib for travel, but aren’t interested in the extra weight or luggage while traveling we recommend the following:
1. Contact your hotel to see if they can provide a baby crib for travel.
If they can provide a travel crib, send them an email a few days before you arrive to confirm that one will be available for your stay.
2. Contact your Airbnb or VRBO host.
If you are staying in a vacation rental like Airbnb or VRBO, contact your host to see if they have a baby or toddler travel crib available. Even though it is not part of the listing, they may still have a baby travel crib available or can access one for you.
3. Find a reputable baby equipment company in the area.
Often you will find you can get a safe, sanitized baby travel crib or toddler travel bed delivered right to your hotel or apartment. Don’t forget to read the reviews to make sure others have been happy with their service.
4. Get a travel crib delivered.
Depending on where you are traveling, consider having a baby travel crib delivered right to your destination from Amazon. Make sure to contact your hotel or apartment host to see if this is possible (in case it arrives before you do). This is also a great option if you are visiting family who you visit frequently.
If none of the options above are a good fit for your family, if you plan to move around a lot or if you prefer to bring your own crib for your baby, we hope our list above helps you find the best baby travel bed for your little one!
Parent Tested Travel Cribs and Baby Travel Beds
We reached out to our audience on Instagram. Here’s their feedback on the best travel cribs and baby travel beds:
We LOVE our Lotus travel crib and it’s been all over with us! After 3 kids, I can say it’s the best thing ever! My daughter actually prefers to sleep in it at home too!
@bellarosetoombs
The Baby Bjorn travel crib was easily one of our best purchases ever! We love how it’s so lightweight and easy to set up. It works for both our kids (1 & 2.5 yo) and we see ourselves using this for a long time!
@raisingmylittlekays
We love our Baby Bjorn travel crib! It’s so easy to fold and very lightweight. Ramona slept great in it while in Mozambique! If you are looking for a sturdy and modern looking portable crib, this is the one to buy.
@Coloma.farre
We traveled Europe with a baby for 8 weeks with our Phil and Teds Travel cot. I initially purchased it for sailing Italy as a safe play pen for our crawling 10 month old. I love the bag, easy assembly and it weighs under 3 kilos!
@rileys_travels
Photo courtesy of Riley’s Travels
We love the Phil&Teds travel crib! We traveled full time with twin toddlers and the Phil&Teds is the smallest, lightest travel crib we could find. We could pack two in a suitcase and still have room left over. The mattress is thin and light, but our kids slept great on them every night for over a year. When they moved to “big kid beds” I was so sad to say goodbye to the Phil & Teds!
@familytimeout
We had always used the hotel crib or rented a crib on previous trips, but these weren’t options when we traveled to Japan with a toddler. We tried the KidCo PeaPod Plus and were hooked. It was so easy to travel with and our toddler loved it! We used it on several trips until he was 4 years old!
@familycantravel
We absolutely LOVE this PeaPod Plus! It’s super small, compact, lightweight and so easy to set up. Our son loves sleeping in his own tent at night and love playing in it during the day.
Bonus: We have a Baby Bjorn travel crib and this one fits INSIDE the same case!!
@raisingmylittlekays
FAQs About Baby Travel Beds
What is the best portable baby bed?
The best portable baby beds for travel are the Lotus travel crib and the BabyBjorn travel crib.
Can babies sleep in travel cribs?
Yes, babies can sleep in travel cribs as they are designed specifically for infants, babies and toddlers to sleep in while traveling. Look for one that is safe for overnight sleeping.
Do you really need a travel crib?
Whether you need a travel crib or not depends on your travel habits and preferences. If you travel frequently with your baby or don’t want to depend on the hotel having a crib for you, then we recommend traveling with your own portable baby bed. This is especially helpful if you move around a lot as it will give your baby a familiar sleeping environment.
What should baby sleep in while traveling?
While traveling, your baby should have a safe place for sleeping, which could be a portable travel crib that has full mesh sides for complete airflow and a firm sleeping surface.
Are portable baby beds safe?
Yes, there are safe portable baby beds. Research your portable baby bed options to ensure they meet safety standards and have safety features like a sturdy frame, mesh sides, appropriately sized mattress that is firm and meets the guidelines for safe sleeping.
Can baby sleep in a travel bassinet?
Yes, there are travel bassinets available for babies. A portable travel crib that’s suitable from birth for overnight sleep is also another good option.
How do you travel with a baby in a hotel room?
Either bring your own travel crib or request a crib from the hotel. This will give your baby a safe space for sleeping. A SlumberPod is one of the best products to create a dark sleeping space for your baby in a hotel room.
Do hotels provide baby cribs?
Some hotels can provide a baby crib for you to use. Always call the hotel to confirm they will have a baby crib available during the dates of your stay. We also recommend calling the day before you arrive to confirm.
How long can a baby use a travel crib?
The age and weight limit for a travel crib can vary depending on the model, but generally, travel cribs are suitable for babies up to 3 years old or 35 inches tall. When your baby or toddler begins to show signs of trying to crawl out, it’s time to move on to a toddler travel bed.
What should I look for in a travel crib or portable baby travel bed?
When choosing a baby travel bed or travel crib, consider factors such as weight, portability, ease of setup, safety features, comfort, and durability.
How can I make a baby travel crib more comfortable?
You should never add any extra blankets or anything else to your baby’s travel crib. the surface may seem firm but it’s recommended that babies sleep on a firm surface without any extra blankets or pillows.
What is the difference between a Pack N Play and a travel crib?
While pack n plays are also portable, they are much bulkier and heavier than a travel crib. A travel crib is made to be lightweight and portable for travel.
Best Toddler Travel Bed
No longer want a travel crib for a toddler? Or perhaps your toddler is trying to climb out or doesn’t like the toddler travel tent?
There may become a point where a travel crib for toddlers just doesn’t work for your toddler, but he just isn’t quite ready for an adult bed yet. We have all the best toddler travel beds in this post and the best portable bed rails in this post .
More Baby Travel Gear Recommendations
- Do you have a long haul flight for your family vacation? A toddler airplane bed will make the experience so much better for everyone!
- For getting around, here are our best baby carriers for travel and the best lightweight strollers for travel.
- Don’t forget these top toddler travel essentials or our favorite must-haves for traveling with a baby.
- Enjoy meal time with your baby or toddler with one of our recommended portable travel high chairs.
- Pack all your daily essentials in one of these best diaper bag backpacks.
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This post was written & edited by:
Celine is the owner of Baby Can Travel. Not only does she have years of experience traveling with babies & toddlers, but she's been helping new parents travel with their babies and toddlers for over a decade.
Celine also writes about family travel on the site FamilyCanTravel.com, which she co-owns with her husband. Being from the Canadian Rockies, she shares her passion about her home and travel to Banff National Park and area on their site TravelBanffCanada.com.