Travel Cots Guide
Portability
Look for cots that are lightweight and easy to carry, such as the phil&teds Traveller Portable Travel Cot which weighs just 6 pounds and comes with its own carrying bag. Another great option is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard, which is lightweight and folds into a compact backpack for easy transport. For parents on the go, the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is a popular choice as it weighs only 13 pounds and has a practical carrying case with handles. These cots are designed with travel in mind and ensure convenience and ease of use when transporting your little one from one place to another.
Ease of assembly
Nobody wants to spend precious time struggling to set up the cot while on a vacation. Look for travel cots that have a straightforward and intuitive assembly process. One excellent option is the Lotus Travel Crib which can be set up in less than 15 seconds using the zipper function. Additionally, this cot features clear and easy-to-follow instructions, making it a breeze to assemble and disassemble. Another great choice is the Phil&Teds Portable Traveller, known for its ease of assembly due to its unique lightweight aluminum frame design that snaps easily into place. This cot can be set up in just a few minutes, making it hassle-free for busy parents on the go.
Weight capacity
This refers to the maximum weight the cot can safely support. It's crucial to check this specification carefully to ensure that the cot will accommodate your child comfortably. For instance, the 'Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard' is a popular travel cot that can support a weight capacity of up to 30 lbs. Another option is the 'Lotus Travel Crib Portable Playard', which has a weight capacity of 35 lbs.
In terms of weight capacity, travel cots on the market can be segmented into different groups based on their capabilities. Some cots are designed for infants and may have a weight capacity of around 15-20 lbs, while others are suitable for older toddlers with weight capacities ranging from 30-45 lbs. For example, the 'BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light' is ideal for newborns up to approximately three years old with its weight capacity of 33 lbs. On the other hand, the 'Joovy FooDoo Room2 Travel Playard' is designed for older children up to 48 inches tall and 35 inches wide, making it suitable for toddlers who need more space and can handle a weight capacity of up to 50 lbs.
Safety standards
Look for travel cots that meet the highest safety standards such as the British Standard EN 716-1 and 716-2, which ensure that the product has undergone stringent testing to guarantee the safety of your child. One example of a travel cot that meets these safety standards is the Joie Kubbie Sleep Plus Travel Cot. It features a sturdy frame with a secure locking mechanism to keep your little one safe and snug. Another option is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light, which is designed with breathable mesh sides to prevent any suffocation risks. Both of these travel cots prioritize safety and are perfect choices for peace of mind during your travels.
Group 1: Budget-friendly options:
- Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard - This travel cot offers a durable frame with four mesh sides for ventilation, and it is designed to meet safety standards.
- Cosco Funsport Playard - With a compact and lightweight design, this travel cot still ensures safety with padded rails and a firm mattress.
Group 2: Mid-range options:
Phil&Teds Traveller Crib- This travel cot is lighter than most and meets British Standard EN 716-1:2008 and ASTM F406 safety standards, providing adequate protection for your child.- Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Playard - This travel cot has GREENGUARD GOLD certification, ensuring safe air quality and use of non-toxic materials.
Group 3: Premium options:
- Nuna Sena Aire Travel Crib - Built with advanced air design, this travel cot complies with safety certifications, including ASTM, FSITA, and CFR.
- BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light - Designed to meet strict safety standards and crafted with baby-friendly fabrics, this premium travel cot ensures comfort and security during your travels.
Comfort
One product renowned for its comfort is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard with a plush, thermally insulated mattress that provides optimal cushioning, while also being ultra-soft against your baby's skin. Additionally, it features breathable mesh sides that enhance ventilation for a cozy sleeping environment while maintaining full visibility. Another option is the Nuna Sena Aire Mini Travel Cot, equipped with a soft, organic cotton sheet and an innovative zigzag frame for unparalleled stability and durability. It also incorporates a unique 'Aire Changer' accessory, comprising a wipe-clean, water-resistant changing pad that effortlessly mounts on top for convenient diaper changes without having to carry an extra item.
Size options
It is crucial to find one that provides enough space for your child to sleep comfortably. Most travel cots indicate their dimensions, which typically range from 40 inches in length to 60 inches in length, and a width between 20 inches to 30 inches. If you need a compact and lightweight travel cot, the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard is a great option, measuring 42 inches in length, 32 inches in width, and weighing 13 pounds. For those with taller toddlers or children, the Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard is a popular choice with its 40-inch length, 28.5-inch width, and adjustable mattress height for added convenience. There are various size options available on the market, including larger cots designed for twins or toddlers, such as the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light which measures 45 inches in length and 31.5 inches in width.
3-in-1 functionality
This means that the travel cot can serve multiple purposes, providing versatility and convenience for your travel needs. One example of a travel cot with 3-in-1 functionality is the Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard. This travel cot not only acts as a comfortable sleeping space for your child but also features a removable bassinet that ensures your baby can sleep close to you during the first few months. Additionally, it has a detachable toy bar that provides entertainment and stimulation for your little one. Another option is the Joie Allura Travel Cot, which also offers a 3-in-1 functionality. This travel cot not only serves as a comfortable sleeping area for your baby but can also be used as a playpen and a changing station, making it a versatile choice for traveling families.
Adjustable height
This feature allows the cot to be adjusted to different heights, catering to the needs and comfort of your growing baby. One great example of a travel cot with adjustable height is the Graco Nimble Nook, which offers a two-level adjustable mattress platform. This cot allows you to easily switch between the higher bassinet level for newborns and the lower playard level for older babies who are able to sit and stand. Another option to consider is the Lotus Travel Crib, which not only offers adjustable mattress height but also has a unique side zipper that allows you to easily access your baby while still maintaining a safe play area. These cots provide versatility and convenience, allowing your baby to sleep comfortably at different stages of development.
Breathability
It ensures that your little one stays comfortable and cool while sleeping, especially during hot summer days or in stuffy hotel rooms. Look for travel cots that offer excellent air circulation and breathability features.
One standout product in the market that emphasizes breathability is the Lotus Travel Crib by Guava Family. Constructed with a breathable clear-view mesh fabric, this cot provides maximum airflow to keep your baby comfortable throughout the night. Additionally, it has been independently tested and rated as one of the most breathable travel cots available. Another notable option is the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light. Featuring mesh sides and a mattress with a built-in air-permeable design, it ensures optimal breathability for a peaceful night's sleep for your little one.
Summary: Make sure to assess the breathability of different travel cots before making a decision. Products such as the Lotus Travel Crib and the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light excel in this aspect, with features to maximize air circulation and keep your baby comfortable throughout their sleep.
Durability
A durable travel cot will withstand regular use, ensuring that it will last for many trips to come. Look for products made from quality materials that are both strong and resilient. For example, the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard is constructed with a heavy-duty aluminum frame and reinforced cross beams, making it exceptionally durable. It has also been tested and certified to meet stringent safety standards, providing peace of mind for parents. Another option is the Phil & Teds Traveller Portable Travel Crib, which features a sturdy and lightweight aluminum frame, providing both durability and portability. It offers excellent stability and can withstand the wear and tear of frequent travel. Both of these travel cots prioritize durability, ensuring they will stand the test of time.
Folding mechanism
It is crucial to choose a travel cot that is easy to pack and unfold. Look for a cot that features a folding mechanism that is quick and effortless, allowing you to set up and pack away the cot with minimal hassle. One excellent example is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. This travel cot uses a unique folding mechanism that enables it to easily open and close with just one hand. Another great option is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard, which utilizes a unique central hub system that allows for quick and easy assembly and folding. Both of these travel cots offer a hassle-free folding mechanism, making them ideal choices for busy parents on the go.
Other Products:
- Group 1: Travel cots with simple folding mechanisms that use a standard design, such as the
Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playardand the Chicco Fast Asleep Full-Size Travel Playard. - Group 2: Travel cots with advanced folding mechanisms that offer additional convenience, like the
Phil&Teds Traveller Portable Baby Criband the Joie Kubbie Sleep Compact Travel Cot.
Mattress thickness
A mattress with a thicker depth not only provides better cushioning for your baby or toddler, but also ensures that they are comfortable and supported while sleeping. Look for travel cots that come with a mattress of at least 3cm in thickness.
For those seeking a lightweight and portable option, the 'Lotus Travel Crib' offers a 3cm thick mattress that effortlessly folds into a compact size, making it easy to carry on your travels. Similarly, the 'Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Cot' features a 3 cm thick mattress, highlighting its lightweight design and easy-to-fold structure, making it perfect for families on the go. For enhanced comfort and support, the 'BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light' comes with a 4cm thick mattress, providing an extra layer of coziness for your little one.
Removable covers
Travel cots with removable covers offer a convenient solution for easy cleaning and maintenance. A great example is the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light. It features a removable and washable mattress cover, allowing you to freshen up the cot after each use. Another option is the Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard, which not only has a removable cover on the mattress but also on the playard itself, making it easy to keep the cot clean and hygienic. Overall, travel cots with removable covers provide a practical and hygienic solution for parents on-the-go.
Age/weight suitability
Many travel cots on the market are designed with specific age and weight limitations to ensure the safety and comfort of your child. For newborns and infants, Graco Pack 'n Play Newborn to Toddler Playard is a popular choice, providing a secure and cozy sleeping space. It offers an adjustable bassinet that can be used from birth up to 15 pounds. Another option is the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light, which is suitable for children from birth to approximately three years old. It has a weight limit of 35 pounds, making it a lightweight and versatile choice for long trips. For older children, the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard is recommended, as it is suitable for toddlers weighing up to 35 pounds and even comes with a backpack carrying case for easy transportation.
Travel case included
A travel case provides a convenient and protective way to transport and store the cot. Some travel cots come with a travel case that is specifically designed to fit the cot, ensuring that it stays clean and free from damage when not in use. One such example of a travel cot that includes a travel case is the 'Graco Pack 'n Play Playard'. This travel cot comes with a specially designed travel case that features a handle and wheels, making it easy to transport. Another example is the 'Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard', which also provides a travel case with backpack straps for easy carrying.
Multifunctional pockets
These pockets allow you to store essential items close at hand, ensuring convenience during travel. One excellent example is the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard. It features eight multifunctional pockets, allowing you to store diapers, bottles, and other necessities easily. Another notable option is the MiClassic All Mesh 2in1 Stationary & Rock Bassinet. It comes with two elasticated pockets on the side, providing easy access to baby essentials. The Chicco Lullago Portable Bassinet is another great choice that includes a large storage pocket to keep everything organized. By considering travel cots with multifunctional pockets like these, parents can simplify their travel experience and have everything they need within reach.
Machine washable
Look for travel cots that are machine washable, as this will allow you to easily remove and clean the cot's fabric components, ensuring a hygienic sleeping environment for your child.
One example of a travel cot that is machine washable is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard. The fabric used in this cot is made from a breathable mesh material that is not only easy to clean but also provides good visibility for parents to keep an eye on their child. Additionally, the fabric is certified to be free from harmful chemicals and substances. Another option is the Guava Family Travel Crib and Bassinet. This travel cot is also machine washable and features a removable mattress cover that can be easily cleaned in the washing machine. Both of these cots provide a convenient and hygienic solution for parents on the go.
Side access
Side access allows for easy in and out access to the cot, whether it's for placing or removing the baby, or simply for reaching in and comforting them. Having this feature saves parents from bending over the top of the cot and ensures convenience and safety.
One great option with side access is the Guava Lotus Travel Crib. This travel cot is not only lightweight and easy to transport, but it also has a zippered side door that allows for quick and easy access. This feature comes in handy during night feeds or if the baby needs comforting without having to fully unzip the top of the cot. Another excellent choice is the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light, which includes a side zip that provides effortless access to the baby and offers a cozy and secure sleeping environment. The side access feature on these travel cots makes them a practical and convenient choice for parents on the go.
Height adjustment mechanism
This feature allows you to adjust the mattress height according to your baby's growth and development, ensuring they are safe and comfortable throughout their journey.
One great example of a travel cot with a height adjustment mechanism is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. It offers two different mattress heights, allowing you to set it at a higher level for younger infants and lower it as they grow and start to sit up. This cot is designed for newborns up to approximately three years old, and the height adjustment ensures that they are always within easy reach, making for efficient care.
Alternatively, for those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard also offers a convenient height adjustment feature. With two different levels to choose from, this cot provides flexibility for both newborns and older infants.
Choosing a travel cot with a height adjustment mechanism is essential to meet your baby's changing needs, and options like the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light and Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard provide reliable and adjustable solutions for different budgets.
Mesh sides
Mesh sides not only allow for better airflow and ventilation inside the cot, but they also provide visibility for both you and your little one. This can be especially useful if you want to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep or play. A great example of a travel cot with mesh sides is the 'Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go Playard'. This cot features mesh sides that offer excellent breathability and visibility, ensuring optimal safety and comfort for your baby. Another option to consider is the 'Phil & Teds Traveller Portable Travel Cot', which also has mesh sides. The Traveller cot boasts of ultra-quiet fabric, a removable/changeable mattress, and its mesh sides are certified to standard safety requirements, making it an excellent choice for parents seeking a portable travel cot with breathable mesh sides.
UV protection
Look for cots that come with a canopy or a built-in sun shade, providing adequate protection from the sun's UV rays. A great example is the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light. It features a specially designed mesh fabric that provides 50+ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to protect your baby's delicate skin. Another excellent option is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Playard which comes with a zippered side door and a removable shade that blocks 97% of harmful UV rays.
Some travel cots even come with a detachable UV protection cover, like the CoZee Lightweight and Compact Travel Crib. The cover is made from a special fabric that blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays, ensuring maximum sun protection for your little one. Other travel cots, such as the Phil and Teds Traveller Portable Crib, feature a breathable mesh fabric that not only provides good air circulation but also offers UV protection. These travel cots are a great choice for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and want to prioritize their baby's safety from the sun.
Sturdiness
A sturdy travel cot will ensure that your baby stays safe and secure while you are on the go. Some key factors to consider for sturdiness include the materials used, design features, and weight capacity. Look for travel cots made from durable materials such as steel or aluminum frames, with reinforced corners for added stability. Additionally, check for features like lockable wheels and a strong base that can support your baby's weight.
One example of a travel cot known for its sturdiness is the Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard. It features a steel frame that provides a stable foundation. The playard also has four mesh sides that not only allow for better air circulation but also provide visibility for both you and your baby. Another great option is the KidCo PeaPod Plus Portable Baby Travel Bed. This travel bed has a lightweight steel frame that offers excellent stability while weighing only a mere 4.45 pounds. It also comes with anchor straps for added safety during use. Both of these travel cots exemplify the importance of sturdiness and provide a secure and dependable sleeping environment for your little one.
Easy clean
Since travel cots are used on the go, they are more likely to gather dirt and stains. Look for travel cots with removable and machine washable covers, as they are convenient and ensure a hygienic sleeping environment for your child. One great example of an easy-to-clean travel cot is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. It features a removable and washable mattress cover that can be easily zipped off and tossed in the washing machine. Another good option is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard, which also has a removable cover that is machine washable and includes a quilted mattress with a removable, waterproof cover that can be wiped clean for quick and easy cleaning. Make sure to check the specifications of the travel cot you are considering to ensure easy cleaning.
Non-toxic materials
Many travel cots on the market are made from materials that may contain harmful substances such as phthalates, lead, or BPA. To ensure your baby's safety, opt for travel cots made from non-toxic materials.
One excellent example of a travel cot that is built with non-toxic materials is the Lotus Travel Crib by Guava Family. It is made with breathable mesh sides that provide a safe and comfortable environment for your baby. The crib is also free from flame retardants, phthalates, and lead, ensuring that your baby is not exposed to any harmful substances.
Another option to consider is the Nuna SENA Aire Travel Cot. This travel cot is Oeko-Tex-certified, meaning that it is made from materials that have been tested and proven to be free from harmful substances. This provides peace of mind knowing that your baby will not come into contact with any toxins while using the cot.
Quick setup
Nobody wants to waste precious travel time struggling with complicated instructions or spending unnecessary effort assembling a cot. The Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib is an excellent option for hassle-free setup. With a simple two-step setup process, this travel cot can be ready for your little one in just 15 seconds, allowing you to maximize your vacation time. Another great choice is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. This cot's straightforward setup involves simply opening the case, unfolding the legs, and setting the mattress in place – all in just one smooth motion. Its intuitive design makes it ideal for parents who prioritize quick and effortless setup.
Compact storage
A compact cot is ideal for parents who are always on the go or have limited storage space at home. Look for cots that are designed to fold up easily and efficiently, taking up minimal space when not in use. One example of a travel cot that excels in compact storage is the Lotus Travel Crib. This crib is designed to be portable and easy to set up and fold down. It features a unique folding mechanism that allows it to fit into a backpack-style carry bag, making it incredibly convenient for travel. Another option to consider is the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light. This cot is known for its sleek design and simple one-step set up and fold down process, allowing for effortless storage and transportation.
Travel-friendly design
Look for features such as lightweight construction, compact foldability, and easy-to-carry handles. One example of a travel-friendly travel cot is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard which weighs only 13 pounds and folds into a compact backpack for easy transportation. Another option is the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light, which weighs only 13 pounds and unfolds with a single easy motion. These cots are designed specifically for travel, making them convenient and hassle-free for families on the go.
Non-skid feet
Non-skid feet ensure that the cot remains stable and securely in place, even on smooth surfaces. This is especially important to prevent any accidents or injuries while your baby is sleeping or playing in the cot.
One excellent option that includes non-skid feet is the Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib from Guava Family. This travel cot features a sturdy aluminum frame with four non-skid feet, ensuring stability on various surfaces. Another great choice is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. This cot is equipped with non-skid feet to keep it secure, and also includes a comfortable mattress for your baby to sleep on. These travel cots are both highly regarded for their safety features and ease of use, making them excellent options for parents on the go.
Reinforced edges
Reinforced edges provide added stability and durability to the cot, ensuring that it remains secure and safe for your little one. One great option that features reinforced edges is the Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard. This travel cot is designed with a durable frame and reinforced corners, providing a sturdy and reliable sleeping space for your baby. Another option is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light, which also features reinforced edges for added stability and long-lasting use. Both of these products have received positive reviews for their strong and secure construction, making them excellent choices for a travel cot with reinforced edges.
No sharp corners
One of the most critical factors to look for is a design with no sharp corners. Sharp corners can pose a risk of injury, especially to babies who are just learning to stand or trying to move around in the cot. One excellent option is the Phil & Teds Traveller Crib. It boasts a tubular aluminum frame that is lightweight yet robust and comes with no sharp edges. Additionally, the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light is another fantastic choice with a sturdy design that ensures there are no sharp corners that could potentially harm your baby. Both of these professional-grade travel cots provide a safe environment for your little one to sleep or play on the go.
Waterproof mattress
This is particularly helpful in case of any spillages or accidents that may occur while on the go. One excellent option to consider is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard which comes with a waterproof mattress cover. The mattress is made of non-toxic foam and has a 1-inch thick square-rounded design, providing both comfort and support for your little one. Another option is the Graco Pack 'n Play Playard with Cuddle Cove Removable Seat, which features a convertibility feature. Its removable infant bassinet has a cozy, quilted mattress pad that is also waterproof to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable travel experience. Both of these products not only offer the convenience of a portable travel cot, but also provide a waterproof mattress for added comfort and peace of mind.
Converts to a playard
A travel cot that converts to a playard offers versatility and convenience for parents on the go. One such example is the Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard. This travel cot easily converts to a playard by simply removing the bassinet feature. With a removable full-size bassinet, this travel cot can be used from infancy to toddlerhood.
Another option is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard. This travel cot not only converts to a playard but also features a zipper side door, providing easy access for parents and serving as a fun play space for the child. Constructed with mesh sides, it is both cozy and breathable, ensuring a safe sleeping environment.
It is worth noting that there are several other travel cots on the market that also offer the functionality of converting to a playard. Some popular brands to consider include Chicco, BABYBJÖRN, and Joovy. Remember to review the specifications of each product to ensure it meets your specific needs.
Zippered entrance
This feature allows for easy access to your child while keeping them safely contained in the cot. One great option that offers this feature is the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard, which has a zippered side door for convenient entry and exit. Another versatile choice is the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light, which features a sleek zippered opening that allows you to reach in and interact with your baby without moving them. Both of these travel cots offer secure zippered entrances that provide convenient access to your little one while ensuring their safety and containment.
Anti-collapse structure
This feature provides added stability and ensures that the cot remains secure and sturdy, preventing any accidents. Look for a travel cot with a reinforced steel or aluminum frame that can withstand the weight of your child. The Joovy Gloo is an excellent example of a travel cot with a strong Anti-collapse structure. It features a heavy-duty inner steel frame that provides maximum support, making it a safe option for your little one. Another option is the Lotus Travel Crib which has a reinforced structure and meets the safety standards set by ASTM and CPSC, ensuring peace of mind for parents.
Price
There are a variety of options available in different price ranges to fit your budget. For a budget-friendly option, Hauck Sleep N Play Center is worth considering. It offers a durable steel frame, a compact size for easy portability, and it comes with a changing mat and a toy bar, providing excellent value for its affordable price.
If you're willing to invest a bit more, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is a high-quality option. This travel cot is known for its lightweight construction, weighing just 13 pounds, making it extremely easy to carry. Its safety features include a sturdy base and soft walls, and it meets all safety standards. Although it is comparatively pricier, its superior design and lightweight nature make it convenient for long-term travel.
Variety of brands
Some popular brands include Graco, BabyBjörn, and Dream On Me.
Graco travel cots often offer features such as a removable diaper changing station and a convenient carrying bag. They are known for their durability and safety features, like lockable wheels and sturdy construction. One example is the Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard, which is a versatile option suitable for both sleep and play.
On the other hand, BabyBjörn offers lightweight and compact travel cots that are easy to set up and fold down. They focus on design and simplicity. The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is a great option for those who prioritize portability, as it weighs only 13 pounds and can fit into a convenient carrying case.
Dream On Me specializes in affordable travel cots without compromising quality. Their products often come with a variety of features, including a bassinet for newborns and a changing station. The Dream On Me Travel Light Playard is a noteworthy option that stands out for its affordable price and lightweight design.
Each brand has its own unique selling points, whether it's durability, portability, or affordability. It is important to consider these pros and cons when choosing the right travel cot for your needs.