travel cot best price

Best travel cot 2023: lightweight cots for travel

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

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

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

How to buy the best travel cot

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel cots you can buy today:

1. Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

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

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

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

• Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjorn Travel Cot Light

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

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

3. Nuna SENA Aire

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

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

4. Inovi Cocoon Folding Moses

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

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

5. Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Cot

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

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

6. SpaceCot Travel Cot

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

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

7. LittleLife Arc 2

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

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

8. Pop Up Bassinet Koo-Di

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

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

9. Chicco Lullago Zip Crib

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

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

10. Joie Excursion Change & Rock Travel Cot0

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

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

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

• Carys Lowry-Carter

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Best travel cots 2024: real parents' verdict on the best cots to pop up and down wherever you are

Whether used at home, at the grandparents' or as a playpen, a travel cot can be a familiar place for your baby to sleep, wherever they are. After rigorous research and testing, we reveal the best travel cots to buy in 2024.

By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated Sep 4, 2024

While you may have dedicated a lot of time to finding the best crib , moses basket or cot bed for your child, we tend to give less thought to which travel cot to buy. But getting the best sleep possible is just as important while you're away from home, so we've put some of the best travel cots on the market through their paces.

While it's not recommended to use a travel cot in place of a permanent cot or crib for your little one, they're ideal for overnight stays at a grandparent's house, or longer holidays as well as use as a playpen for both babies and toddlers. They are portable, easy to carry (often coming with their own storage bags), fit in your car boot and should be fairly lightweight too. Pack your travel cot along with a baby monitor and your little one's best baby blanket and you're good to go.

Best travel cots at a glance

Best travel cot for quick assembly: Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot | £225

Best travel cot for air travel: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light | £220

Best travel cot budget buy: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot | £35

Best travel cot for newborns: Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot | £100

Best larger travel cot: BabyDan Extra Large Travel Cot | £85

Best travel cot to use as a playpen: Silver Cross Slumber Travel Cot | £195

Best easy-fold travel cot: Graco FoldLite LX Travel Cot | £85

Best lightweight travel cot: LittleLife Arc 2 | £110

Best travel cot with a changing table: Joie Commuter Change | £100

Best travel cot for toddlers: Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot | £250

How we chose the best travel cots

We put several of our best travel cot picks through their paces with real parent-testers and their babies and toddlers. We also turned to the Mumsnet forums - home of the UK's largest network of parents - to seek out authentic recommendations and honest reviews of the travel cots they'd used with their own children. Referring to expert review sites for extra information, we collated all the information to bring you our top picks, of the best travel cots 2024.

Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

Great quality mattress

Takes just one second to unfold and three seconds to fold

Can be folded with the mattress left in

Carrycot insert for newborns

On the expensive side

Only suitable up to 2 years

Price on writing: £225 | Suitable from: Birth to two years | Weight: 6.7kg

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Rebecca Roberts: Read our in-depth Bugaboo Stardust travel cot review

For those considering a travel cot to use from birth, the Bugaboo Stardust is a great option. It comes with a carrycot insert which means the cot can be used as a bedside crib - perfect for co-sleeping away from home.

It has a height-adjustable mattress and an incredibly easy fold up and down. When folded up, the travel cot is nice and slim, making for easy storage. The mattress is great quality and thicker than the others on our list. At just over £200, it's on the premium end of the spectrum, and the manufacturer recommends only using it up to 2 years, so it doesn't have quite the longevity of most other travel cots, which generally can be used until the age of three.

Great for parents who

Want to co-sleep safely away from home

Are expecting to use the cot frequently for sleeping

Related: The best breast pumps, as recommended by Mumsnetters

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

Durable construction

Very comfy mattress

Mattress and fabric is removable and machine-washable

Mattress is fairly close to the floor – one side can be unzipped for easy access though

It’s one of the more expensive cots around

Price on writing: £220 | Suitable from: Birth to three years | Weight: 6kg (including carry bag)

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Laura Westerman: Read our full BabyBjorn Light review

If you have a little extra to spend, then the luxury and comfort of BabyBjörn's Light will make sleepovers fuss-free no matter where you go. Our tester found it sturdy, simple to set-up and really easy to transport. The mattress is considerably more comfy than those you'll find in cheaper travel cots, and all the fabric parts are removable and machine washable.

The main drawback is the price tag, but if you have the means, then this cot won't let you down.

Need a small portable crib that can be taken on short or long trips

Want to invest in a travel bed that can stand heavy use

Related: The best teddy bears and soft toys for kids of all ages

Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot

Lift and lower side panel means baby can be picked up and placed down without hassle

Compact frame that packs down into a travel bag

Mesh panels on all four sides

Padded top rail

Too small to be used as a playpen

Material isn't machine-washable

Price on writing: From £94 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (15kg) | Weight: 8.79kg

Reviewed by Mumsnet: Read our full Joie kubbie™ Sleep review

The Joie kubbie™ Sleep is a real steal and a brilliant choice for new parents who want something that covers all bases - that's why we've named it our best travel cot overall for 2024. Versatile in style and cocoon-like in the way it nurtures and grows with newborns, the kubbie™ Sleep also comes with a bassinet that can easily be attached and detached.

A unique feature of the kubbie™ Sleep that our tester was impressed by is that when your baby is in the bassinet, you can tuck the cot close to your bed and adjust the height of the crib so that it acts like a co-sleeper. It's a lovely feature if you're travelling with a tiny baby, it provides extra peace of mind and easy access for changing and breastfeeding .

Have a newborn

Like the idea of a co-sleeper and want to keep their baby close during the night

Want a cot that can last up to three years old

Read next: The best changing bags Mumsnetters swear by

Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot

Lightweight and folds down compactly into a travel bag

Quick to assemble and fold away

Easy to clean

Mesh sides make it easy to see baby

The mattress is thinner than some other baby travel cot mattresses on the market, such as the Joie kubbie™ Sleep

Doesn't have wheels

Price on writing: £35 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (or able to climb out) | Weight: 8.5 kg | Dimensions when assembled: 76 x 103 x 73cm

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott : Read our full Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot review .

Robust and simple in design, the Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot is a basic, practical travel cot that you'll be glad to have for the odd night away from home with your little one. With breathable mesh on four sides, a carry bag and padding over the poles and edges, it's got everything you need for a safe night's sleep - or a handy play pen.

Mumsnetters say the mattress could be thicker and better quality, which is often the case with cheaper travel cots. If you're looking for a separate mattress, this one from Mother Nurture fits the Red Kite perfectly and folds up for extra practicality while on-the-go.

Need a bed for short trips or as a secondary for the grandparents' house

Are on a tight budget

Read next: The best cabin bags to buy for your next family holiday

BabyDan Extra Large Travel Cot

Extra large (120 x 60 cm) so you can use your cot mattress for extra comfort

Travel bag included

Has a handy storage pocket

No stand-out features such as newborn insert

Quite a basic design

Price on writing: £85 | Suitable from: Not specified | Weight: 8 kg | Size when assembled: 60 x 120 x 80cm

Looking for a travel cot under £100 big enough to last at least as long as your little one's cot ? Look no further.

The BabyDan Travel Cot may not feature all the bells and whistles of the likes of Bugaboo or Babybjorn, but at the same size as most standard cots, it's large enough to keep going until your toddler is ready to make the switch into a bigger toddler bed .

Similar in design to the Red Kite, you get a little more space for your money here as well as little extra touches such as the handy side pocket in which you can store nappies , blankets or toys during your travels. Sure, its larger size may be an issue if you're short on space, but being able to fit a standard cot mattress is also a big bonus - as most travel cot mattresses are known for being quite thin.

Silver Cross Slumber travel cot

Has a 3-in-1 design so works as a newborn co-sleeper, a playpen and travel cot up to three years

Sloped sides mean toddlers less likely to climb out

Has a zip-up door

Can be a bit tricky to put up for the first time

Sloped legs can take some getting used to - you may trip on them at first!

Price on writing: £190 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (or able to climb out) | Weight: 6.25 kg | Size when folded up : L88 x W34 x H17cm | Size when assembled: L112 x W80 x H67cm

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott : Read our full Silver Cross Slumber travel cot review

If you're looking for a travel cot you can use right from birth up until your toddler is three, the Silver Cross Slumber offers a sleek, simple solution from a trusted brand.

The sloped sides mean toddlers are less likely to be able to climb out but still have plenty of space to play, and there's also a little zip-up door in the side which makes it feel more fun (and less like a 'baby cage'!)

While our tester found it slightly tricky to assemble the first time around, this was a minor niggle as she pointed out that she's likely to get so much use out of the Slumber travel cot, putting it up and down will soon become second nature.

Our tester was also particularly impressed with how lightweight the Slumber was to carry, despite its robust sturdiness when assembled.

Want a travel cot and playpen combination

Have a larger space to put the travel cot in

Are looking for a travel cot which will last them years

Read next: Discover the best pregnancy pillows and pregnancy tests according to Mumsnetters

Graco FoldLite LX Travel Cot

Lightweight and easy to fold up and down

Collapses to just 26 cm wide

Comes with a removable infant bassinet

2 wheels for easy manoeuvring

The mattress could be thicker

Price on writing: £85 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (or able to climb out) | Weight: 6.78 kg

Tried and tested by Mumsnet: Read our in-depth Graco FoldLite LX Travel Cot review

With two ways to fold, the Graco FoldLite LX is a brilliant cot for frequent use. The quick fold is designed for speed, while 'Home Fold' is ultra-thin at just 26cm wide - perfect for storing away at home.

We love the two-wheel design that makes the cot easy to drag around, and it's not bad to look at either. The base is one of the lowest to the ground on our list, making it a good option for using as a playpen. It also comes with a removable infant bassinet for smaller babies.

Graco are well-loved by Mumsnetters thanks to their good-quality, affordable baby gear, and this travel cot is no exception.

Want a cot that can be put up and down frequently without too much hassle

Have limited space for storage

Read next: The best nursing chairs to buy, as recommended by mums

LittleLife Arc 2

Insect-proof mesh for hot weather and the outdoors

Has a front panel with a safety toggle that can be zipped open or closed, making it a great option to use as an outdoor playpen

Colour-coded poles make assembly simple

Lightweight option

Thin mattress

Sunshade must be bought separately

Price on writing: £106 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (15kg), but we'd recommend it for toddlers | Weight: 2.5kg

Reviewed by Mumsnet: Read our full LittleLife Arc 2 review

The LittleLife Arc 2 is extremely lightweight (practically featherweight, really, at just 2.5kg), is designed just like a tent and can be folded down compactly to fit into a backpack, which comes with it. This makes it perfect for use on public transport, holidays and camping.

It works just as well outdoors as it does indoors and is great for those grab-and-go moments. Our tester really liked its tent-like design - close to the floor means there's no risk of kids falling out and the cosier sleeping space makes it ideal for younger babies. She was also impressed by the mosquito net - perfect for travel wherever you're headed.

Use public transport when travelling

Want something that could double up as a playpen

Read next: The best baby carriers, tried and tested

Joie Commuter Change, £100

Two wheels make this cot easy to move around

Easy to fold and unfold

Bassinet and changing unit don’t fit into carry bag

Side of the cot can’t be pulled down like the new Joie kubbie™ Sleep

Price on writing: £100 | Suitable from: Birth to 15kg | Weight: 12.3kg

Reviewed by Mumsnet: Read our full Joie Commuter Change review

Winner of the Mumsnet Best Travel Cot 2018 award, the Joie Commuter Change didn’t quite make our top five this year, but it’s still a great product and definitely worth considering.

Our tester loved all the added extras that come with the Commuter Change. Not only is there a full-size bassinet, which will save your back when reaching down to your child, but the cot also comes with a changing table which handily clips onto the top.

Read next: The best cot mattresses for a safe night's sleep

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot, £250

Easy to assemble

Plenty of space for toddlers inside

Comfortable

Designed for maximum airflow (ideal for summer holidays!)

Not a lot of outstanding features

Price on writing: £250 | Suitable from: Birth to 15kg | Size when assembled: L103cm x W76cm x H73cm | Size when folded: L30cm x W24cm x H86cm | Weight : 12kg

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott : Read our full Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot review

Although it's one of the more premium travel cots on our list, our parent-tester was particularly impressed with the sturdiness of the Nuna Sena Aire travel cot, saying she had no worries about it moving when put through its paces by her toddler daughter.

The Nuna features breathable mesh sides and a ventilated mesh mattress, which is particularly useful if you're travelling to sunnier climes - and it's very simple to put up, even if you're on the petite side. If you need a reliable, premium travel cot for frequent use, the Nuna is a solid option on a cost-per-use basis, but if you're looking for something to use once or twice a year, there isn't anything particularly remarkable which makes this one stand out above its cheaper peers.

Related: The best swaddles , Moses baskets and blackout blinds for peaceful nights

What age is a travel cot for?

This type of cot is usually used from the newborn stage up until toddlerhood – or until the little wriggler can climb out by themselves.

Do I actually need a travel cot?

The short answer is: no, not necessarily, but that depends entirely on your lifestyle.

Portable beds can be expensive and can take up unnecessary space in an otherwise baby-filled home, so if you think you'll only get use out of one for two weeks of the year, then you could probably do without.

If you already have a co-sleeper , Moses basket or carrycot that you use with a travel system , you might be able to use that when you're away from home with a smaller baby.

If, however, you tend to travel often or think your little one will have regular sleepovers with the grandparents, then a travel cot is a great solution.

It'll not only be easier to cart around, but it'll offer a familiar and comforting environment for your child no matter where they rest their head.

Are travel cots safe?

Safety is crucial when considering one of the best travel cots for your little one so, while all products should have some sort of testing certification, be sure to check the safety features out yourself.

If you plan to buy in-store, ask to see it being assembled

Check how sturdy it is – could it withstand being knocked into?

Look for safety locks on wheels if there are any – can they also be tucked away when not in use?

Choking hazards are also something to look out for so make sure that small parts, like zips, are well covered

Check for sharp corners and padded rails

Assess whether your child would be able to climb out easily – check that the side panels are high enough

Safe sleeping and travel cot mattresses

The Lullaby Trust says that all cots need to comply with British Standards Institution (BSI) safety standards regardless of how old they are. If there is no safety standard number visible then you shouldn't buy it.

When it comes to safe sleeping, they also insist that the bed's original mattress needs to be firm, entirely flat and waterproof with no soft or cushioned areas, particularly around the baby's head. Babies should be placed on their backs with their feet at the foot of the cot.

Soft mattresses are known to increase the risk of SIDS as they make it harder for babies to lose body heat, which can cause them to become too hot.

Sleep positioners and pillows must not be used and there should also be no loose or bulky bedding inside the crib as this can cause a baby to overheat.

Even if the mattress feels thin, don't be tempted to place folded blankets underneath your child. Go for a baby sleeping bag or a well-fitted swaddle instead.

The Lullaby Trust also advise that portable cribs aren’t placed against radiators and remain out of reach of blind cords.

If you're finding that your baby really doesn't sleep well in their travel cot, check out our guide to the best travel cot mattresses according to Mumsnet parents.

How much does a travel cot cost?

Prices range from £35 to over £200, and your budget will probably depend entirely on how much you think you'll use it.

As with anything, the most expensive option won't necessarily be best suited to you and your child. Some cheaper models may do just the trick and will last well into the toddler years too.

Can I buy a travel cot secondhand?

Yes, you can, but make sure you always follow the manufacturer's instructions before using.

Make sure it isn’t damaged or broken, that the frame is intact and that there aren’t any sharp edges that could cause injury. If possible, ask to assemble and fold it down before you buy to check it works as it should.

Secondhand travel cots can go from anywhere between £10 and £80.

Other things to consider when buying a travel cot

1. portability.

Check the size and weight. Can it be folded down compactly? Is it likely to fit into the boot of your car?

If you tend to travel by public transport, you'll want a bed that's lightweight and easy to carry. For planes, some small cots may even be able to fit into an overhead locker.

2. Assembly and storage

By nature, travel beds are usually easy to put up and fold down. Pop-ups are, of course, the easiest, but check to see if your chosen product is quick to assemble, fold and pack away.

When it comes to storage, the amount of space you have at home will influence your decision.

Some models have mattresses that fold with the frame before they go into a bag, and most will fit into the back of a cupboard or under a bed when stored away.

3. How to clean

Babies create mess – and a lot of it too. Look for a removable mattress that comes with a fitted sheet, which you will be able to stick in the washing machine.

Some cots have removable side panels, but if they don’t then you can always wipe them clean with warm water.

4. Extra features

Many larger models double up as a playpen which is great for keeping your child safe at all times no matter where they are. Some even come with changing tables, mobiles and bassinets for newborns.

You’ll find that the added extras will usually need to be carried separately once the frame is folded down. Brands that offer attachments like these include Joie (the Joie Commuter Change won Mumsnet Best Travel Cot 2018), BabyBjorn and Graco.

Some, like the Arc 2, also come with added extras like built-in mosquito nets for camping.

What's the best travel cot to buy?

All the travel cots on our list are someone's favourite - there isn't really a one-size-fits-all approach, as with many parenting items. For ease of popping up and down, the Bugaboo Stardust is a great option. If you're looking to spend a little less on a great all-rounder, we like the Joie kubbie Sleep travel cot . For a reliable, no-frills budget buy, you can't go far wrong with the £35 Red Kite Sleeptight .

How we tested and why you should trust us

All our travel cots reviewed on page were put through their paces by real parents using them with babies and toddlers over testing periods ranging from weeks to years. Our shortlist was initially created using the recommendations of Mumsnet parents - the UK's largest network of online parents - and then whittled down using the following testing criteria:

Safety and stability

Comfort and day-to-day use.

Ease of cleaning

Value for money

We looked at a number of factors including:

Durability and materials – how well was each product made and finished?

Safety features – did the product have padded rails, lockable wheels, mesh ventilation, firm bedding, a locking system etc? And could a baby's fingers become trapped?

Choking hazards – were there any parts that could come loose?

Sturdiness – our reviewers tested each cot by walking into them, knocking against furniture and dropping when assembled and packed away. Could each cot withstand the weight of both an adult and child if accidentally fallen into?

Safety standards – all appropriate safety labels and instructions were examined

Height of side panels – could a child climb out easily?

Assembly and folding

How straightforward was it to assemble and fold?

Were written or visual instructions clear and precise? Could the instructions also be accessed online and were there video tutorials to guide you through?

Each cot was assembled and taken down several times

We also wanted to see which products might cause difficulty for people with mobility issues and which were the easiest to assemble and take down

Our reviewers also considered how easy it would be to access spare parts and whether each cot came with a warranty

Each tester looked at how much space the cot took up in a room – did it slot in easily, and was it more suited to indoors or outdoors?

Could it be moved around easily, particularly through doorways, from one room to another, and up and down the stairs? Did it have to be folded in order to do so?

How easy was it to place the child inside? Could the side panels be lowered?

When inside, was the little one comfy? Did they like it and was there enough room to sleep and to play?

Was it heavy to carry and did it fit comfortably in the boot of an average-sized family car? Could it be taken on public transport easily?

Each tester analysed looks, including colours, fabrics and overall design

Did the bed fit in with the décor? Was the design attractive and user-friendly?

Were there different colours to choose from?

Cleanliness

The likes of mud, sand, peanut butter, milk and orange juice were smeared and spilled onto the interior and exterior to see how easy stains were to remove

Our testers also checked for removable bedding that could easily be thrown into the washing machine

We tested products with a variety of price tags and compared the more expensive models to those that were cheaper

If pricey, was it worth the price tag?

And were there any extras included to make the investment more justified?

How real-life comparative testing makes Mumsnet Reviews unique

At Mumsnet, we believe parents should be able to access impartial and honest advice about products and services they may purchase.

We consult real parents as well as experts so we can offer the benefit of honest experience and we don’t take payment for our reviews from companies.

Our team of writers is made up of experienced consumer and parenting journalists who between them have a wealth of experience and knowledge at their fingertips.

About the author

Jenny Wonnacott has been working as a Content Editor for Mumsnet since 2022 with a particular focus on pregnancy, child and baby care product guides, articles and reviews. As a mum of three, Jenny has extensive hands-on experience in all of the Mumsnet content she writes about. She is passionate about sourcing, testing and thoroughly researching the products which make every stage of parenting easier, from the best pregnancy pillow to the most reassuring baby monitor as well as top kids' toys , games and tech .

The best travel cots to buy in 2024 all tried and tested by parents

Our no-nonsense guide to the best travel cots — rated on the ease of assembly to how much space it'll take up in the boot

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Best travel cots 2023 at-a-glance

The best travel cots - tried and tested, how to choose the best travel cot, are travel cots safe for babies, at what age can babies sleep in travel cots, can babies sleep in a travel cot every night, can i change the travel cot mattress.

The best travel cots should be three things: lightweight, compact and easy to assemble. 

If you're heading away on holiday, staying overnight at a friend's house or visiting family far, far away, the best travel cots offer a safe and secure place for your baby to sleep in comfortably, when you're away from home. 

Unlike the best bedside cots , a travel cot is made to be portable. Therefore, many of today's travel cots are lightweight and very quick to assemble so when you reach your destination, you can construct it in minutes. The best travel cots enable you to do this with just one hand. Let's face it: after all that travelling — be it by train, car or plane — a long journey is bound to take it out of you. So your baby will most probably be tired (and so might you)!

Along with being easy to pop up, these handy sleep solutions will also be easy to disassemble and can be packed down neatly into their own storage bag so you can carry them easily to the car or stow them as luggage. To find out what we believe to be the best travel cots keep scrolling. We've included a range of the top options all tried and tested by parents and their little ones. 

• Best travel cot overall: Joie Kubbie Sleep, £99.99 | Very
• Best travel cot for assembly: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £220 | Amazon
• Best budget travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £36 | Amazon
• Best travel cot for camping: Little Life Arc 2, £119.99 | LittleLife
• Best travel cot for a plush mattress: Nuna Sena Aire, £249.99 | Very  
• Best travel cot for entertainment:  Graco Contour Electra,  £114.99 | Amazon
• Best travel cot for co-sleeping: Micralite Sleep & Go, £120 | Micralite

1. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

What we thought: The Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot gets our vote as the best travel cot to buy. 'Not only is it excellent value for money at just under £100,' says our Deputy Editor (and mum of three), Heidi Scrimgeour , 'but we also love that it comes with a newborn insert that zips into place inside the travel cot so that you don't have to bend all the way down to the ground to lift your baby in and out.' 

What our tester thought: ‘Having a tiny baby positioned up higher feels much safer than travel cots that place them on the ground, plus, it’s much easier on mums like me who’ve had a C-section,’ says our mum tester, Charlotte Clarke, who reviewed this travel cot with her 20-month-old daughter, Adelaide.

In co-sleeping mode, the cot sides drop down with a few simple clicks and the cot can be attached to a bed with straps, which are provided. But the innovation doesn’t stop there; the Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot also converts into a playpen with a zippable entrance so that toddlers can roam freely in and out. 

Overall verdict: No matter how you’re using this travel cot, it’s easy to assemble. ‘I like that this has been designed with common sense in mind,’ adds Charlotte. ‘There’s nothing too complicated or hi-tech about it, so it's perfect for sleep-deprived parents.’ Her daughter seemed to agree and slept well in the Joie Kubbie Sleep.

• Read our full Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

What we thought: BabyBjörn's take on a travel cot is an easy-to-assemble design with mesh sides and a surprisingly soft and thick mattress. Our tester Hollie was able to put up this travel cot one-handed while holding a baby and without reading any of the instructions - a pretty impressive feat. The is the best travel cot to buy if quick and easy assembly is your number one priority.

What our tester thought: Mum Hollie Bond and her 10-month-old daughter Margot, aged ten months, reviewed this travel cot for Goodto. Margot slept well in the cot and had ‘enough space to move around in her sleep,’ but Hollie doesn't think it will be big enough for her to sleep in up to the age of three, as the brand claims. Hollie also had some reservations about using this travel cot as she found the base very low to the ground. ‘I wouldn't want to have the cot positioned anywhere that might be draughty or cold as I felt that Margot was a little vulnerable being so low to the ground.’ However, the low base does mean that the cot is multi-functional and can be used as a playpen at home or on holiday.

Overall verdict: When the holiday is over, everything can then be folded up and put into the handy bag that’s included. ‘When packed up the bag definitely feels sturdy enough to withstand any rough handling in transit,’ adds Hollie. ‘It'll make my holiday less stressful too because it's so easy to assemble. And I can use it as Margot's playpen to keep her safe if we're near a swimming pool.’

• Read our full BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light review 

3. Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot

What we thought: The Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot is a classic, stylish design with supporting legs that are easy to assemble. Its mesh sides are fully padded to avoid injury but also allow babies to see out easily.

What our tester thought: Mum Darryl Baker put this travel cot to the test with her 10-month-old daughter, Cole. Darryl tells us she couldn’t get over how easy this travel cot was to put together. In the past, she has struggled with travel cots borrowed from friends. ‘Kneeling on them, pushing them, and mostly pleading with them to just PLEASE fold down,' she says. But there were no such dramas with this. ‘The knack for putting up and down a travel cot can be tricky, but it's not an issue with the Red Kite Sleep Tight travel cot,’ she says. In terms of comfort, Darryl's daughter Cole slept well, waking just once and settling easily after a feed.

Overall verdict: Weighing just over 7kg, this is a relatively lightweight option, so it's one of the best travel cots to buy if you're looking for something super portable but also sturdy enough for older babies to sleep in. At just £36 (yes, we've double-checked the price), this is definitely the best travel cot to choose if you're looking for a good quality budget buy.

• Read our full Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot review

4. Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot

What we thought: The Little Life Arc 2 is not your average travel cot. It’s one of the lightest in our buying guide, coming in at just 2.5kg, so it's hands down the best travel cot to buy if you're keen to take your baby with you on camping adventures. It's probably not right for you if you're not a fan of the great outdoors, however.

What our tester thought: ‘It comes in a neat, portable rucksack which it is easy to pack the cot in and out of,’ says our mum reviewer Charlotte Clarke, who put this to the test with her 19-month-old daughter Adelaide.

The Little Life is more of a tent than a travel cot and has to be put together with poles and a single specially-designed sheet. Once the poles and sheet have been bent into position, you insert a surprisingly thick, waterproof mattress into the cot via Velcro strips. 

‘This wasn’t the easiest cot to assemble but I think you’d get quicker with practice,’ adds Charlotte. Her daughter tested the cot during one of her naps and after initially finding the mesh sides fun to pull and push, she settled down on the mattress and snoozed for a decent period of time.

Overall verdict: This isn’t really a travel cot for a weekend away – its features include a ventilated, anti-insect mesh, ground pegs for outdoor use, and zip-down panels. ‘This would be perfect if you're travelling in a hot country, attending a summer festival, or going on a UK camping trip,’ said our tester. ‘But for indoor use, you need to attach it to a suitable piece of furniture, which we found a bit difficult to find.’ It's good value for such a niche item - but you’ll probably still need a standard travel cot for indoor overnight trips.

• Read our full Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot review

5. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

What we thought: Once you’ve got this travel cot up, you’ll see why it justifies its £200-plus price tag. Firstly, it comes with a newborn insert that sits up high and saves your back from extra bending – especially good if you’ve had a C-section. And when your baby has outgrown this stage, the insert can be removed and the baby sleeps on a luxuriously thick, padded mattress over a cushioned base. There are lots of other noteworthy stand-out features too such as skid-proof feet, an organic cotton sheet to pop over the mattress, and soft, padded edges.

What our tester thought: The Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot has a unique assembly system which our tester Darryl - who reviewed it with her 10-month-old daughter Cole - found a cinch to use. ‘I’ve read up on it and it’s to do with a zig-zag leg design, which means it pretty much just pushes into place and can be folded away with one hand,’ she says. Easy!

Overall verdict: The Aire doubles up as a playpen, which is always handy, but our tester did find it quite bulky - something that you’d need to think about if you plan to regularly move it around. ‘The only downside is how big it is but if space isn’t a problem in the car, then this can’t be faulted,’ she adds. At 10kg, this isn’t a light travel cot but the design is more focused on the baby’s comfort than on portability. As the most expensive travel cot in our lineup, this will appeal to anyone willing to pay extra for the plushest travel cot mattress we've ever seen.

• Read our full Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot review

6. Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

What we thought: This travel cot isn't especially portable as it's large and robust - but that does allow your baby lots of space to move around, plus it doubles as a playpen. It comes with a newborn insert, a changing mat, a nightlight with music and vibrating features, and a toy bar so there’s lots to keep your little one entertained and to (hopefully) help send them off to sleep.

What our tester thought: ‘Other than it being heavy and a bit bulky to store and travel with, I think the Graco Contour Electra is an excellent travel cot that has some fabulous features,’ says our tester Hollie, who reviewed it with her ten-month-old daughter, Margot. ‘It folds out really easily into a full-size cot.’

Hollie found this a doddle to assemble and says she didn’t even have to read the instructions. ‘I love that two of the legs are on wheels so, although it was big, I could easily move it around the room to put it in the place I wanted without trying to pick it up and carry it.’

Overall verdict: The Graco Contour Electra is a mid-priced travel cot, well suited for trips around the UK rather than holidays abroad as it’s difficult to carry on and off a plane. ‘I wouldn't want to carry this far or have to pick it up off the airport conveyor belt by myself,’ adds Hollie. ‘And people with small cars might want to consider a travel cot that is more compact.’ It's a brilliant choice if you have other children and need somewhere to pop your baby, knowing they'll be safe and occupied while you fix snacks or oversee bathroom visits.

• Read our full Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot review

7. Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot

What we thought: This is a multifunctional travel cot that can also be used as a playpen and co-sleeper (the latter when the newborn insert is added). It’s extremely easy to put up (and down) with a couple of clicks and zips. Our tester Amelia, who's expecting her second baby, described this as absolutely game-changing. 

What our tester thought: 'This is a very good-looking travel cot with hardy, dark-coloured fabric that looks stylish and neutral and shouldn’t show wear and tear readily,' says our reviewer, Amelia. ‘It’s easy on the eye, and on the back - even when you’re pregnant - and it's even easy on the pocket since you can use it from the day your baby is born right up until they're three years old. 

Overall verdict: One obvious plus point is that it includes a high-quality, ‘very firm’ and wipe-clean mattress, which, when disassembled, folds neatly inside the bag along with the frame. This travel cot only weighs 7kg but Amelia found it a bit bulky, mainly because it comes with such a good-quality mattress included. In terms of value for money, we recommend spending the extra £25 for the newborn insert as it transforms this product, giving you more functionality and sleeping options. A superb choice if you're used to co-sleeping and want to continue doing so safely while away from home.

• Read our full Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot review

When picking the best travel cot for your needs, consider where and how frequently you're likely to use it. If you frequently travel with your baby, the weight and portability of the travel cot are the main priorities. But if you just need it for occasional overnight use, then a comfortable mattress and sturdy construction are more important than the travel cot's dimensions. Alternatively, if you'll be using a travel cot for a newborn, it's well worth choosing one with a newborn insert and an integrated changing station to help make nights away from home a little easier.

Here's what to consider when choosing a travel cot:

• Age - Most travel cots can be used from birth, and many come with an in-built bassinet to make things a little cosier for very small babies. Travel cots can usually be used up till the age of three or until the child is able to climb out - at which point it's no longer safe to use.
• Portability - A travel cot should be easy to carry and compact enough to stow in small places. Some cots are small enough to fit in an aircraft's overhead locker or in a small car boot.
• Weight - While lighter than a traditional cot, travel cots vary in weight. The lightest come in at around 3kg, while the heaviest ones weigh as much as 11kg. These extremes offer different benefits depending on how you’re planning to use your cot. A lighter cot is more practical for travelling, but a heavier model will likely be sturdier and longer-lasting.
• Assembly - Putting a travel cot together and taking it down should take a matter of seconds. If it’s taking longer or isn’t staying up, make sure you re-read the instructions before putting your baby to sleep in it to make sure you’ve done everything correctly.
• Mattress comfort - Don’t be surprised at the thickness of a travel cot mattress – they’re much thinner and less plush than the cot mattress you have at home in order to keep the travel cot light and portable. But just because the mattress is harder, doesn’t mean that your baby won’t have a good night’s sleep. Baby mattresses are meant to be firm and younger babies, in particular, can benefit from sleeping on a harder mattress surface. 'To comply with safety regulations you should avoid switching the mattress to ensure that the size is exact and there are no gaps around the edges,' says Baby Sleep Trainer Vickie Bowles of The Baby Academy.
• Extra features - Many travel cots have additional extras such as an in-built changing station for easy nappy changes and the option to use it as a playpen for daytime use. They might also have soothing musical features or a newborn insert to boost comfort for younger babies. Consider which of these features are worth paying extra for, and which ones you can do without. It's a bonus if you can get the extra functionality you want without paying more!

Yes - all travel cots on sale must adhere to British safety standard BS EN 716. The Lullaby Trust advises that parents use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that is in good condition. In addition, a baby’s sleeping space should be kept clear, with no loose bedding. As with a normal cot, babies should be placed in the ‘feet-to-foot’ position so they can’t wriggle down under any blankets. 

For young babies under one year old, avoid placing all duvets, soft toys, and pillows inside the cot. When deciding where to put your travel cot, don’t put it near to a radiator, draughty window, or blinds with cords that might pose a strangulation risk. 

If your travel cot comes with wheels, make sure they are locked in place before putting your little one down. 

Travel cots are extremely safe for babies but Vickie Bowles flags that they should not be used for long periods outside of travel / occasional use: ‘It is always good to remember that travel cots do not offer the same amount of support and comfort for your baby and therefore are not designed for regular sleep over an extended period.’

Most travel cots are suitable for babies to sleep in from birth. If you wish to use a travel cot for a newborn, choose one with a newborn insert. This offers younger babies a smaller space to sleep in than the full-sized travel cot and it's elevated off the ground to save parents’ backs as you don’t have to bend down to floor level to reach your child. 

‘If you have a young baby, I highly recommend using a travel cot with a newborn insert which makes life much easier to settle your baby while travelling,’ says Vickie Bowles. 

A sturdy travel cot will suit an active toddler and most can be used up until the age of three but check the manufacturer's instructions for the upper age or weight restrictions.

No, a travel cot is not suitable for your baby to sleep in every night. Designed for use when you're away from home such as on holiday or visiting friends or family overnight, travel cots are much lighter than standard cots so they're not robust enough for permanent use. The mattress supplied with a travel cot is thinner than a standard cot mattress because it's designed to fold compactly for travelling, so it's unlikely to provide sufficient support for a baby to sleep on every night.

No, this is not recommended. Use the mattress supplied with the travel cot at the time of purchase. Replacing the mattress is dangerous because it could make the structure less sturdy and create a safety risk if the mattress does not fit the travel cot frame exactly.

How we tested the best travel cots

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

We only include products in our buying guides that we have thoroughly tested and reviewed. We use a robust and consistent testing methodology to review all the products, and we use a pool of parent reviewers to ensure all items are appropriately tested by a child of the relevant age. 

• Read more about how we test and review the products in our buying guides

Heidi Scrimgeour joined GoodTo after a 16-year freelance career as a parenting and lifestyle journalist. She has written features for various publications including The Guardian, Telegraph, Daily Mail, Red, Psychologies and Stylist. She was a parenting columnist for AOL’s Parentdish and baby gear editor of Mother & Baby magazine for six years. Heidi has taken part in various parenting debates on This Morning, The One Show and BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. She has a degree in English & Media Arts and gained a Masters with Distinction from the University of Westminster.  Find out more

Planning a holiday with your little one? You might also be interested in our buying guide on the  best travel strollers or, if you prefer to leave the buggy at home and travel light, our guide to choosing the best baby carriers is worth a read.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How we tested travel cots

With the help of a seven-month-old and a two-year-old, we tested the travel cots for size, comfort and safety. The toddler has a habit of swinging their leg up and escaping their regular cot, so we tried to find ones that kept them contained. We also tested each cot for speed of assembly and disassembly and picked it up when folded, to see if it was something that could be carried around an airport.

The best travel cots for 2024 are:

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

Graco foldlite travel cot

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

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

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

Red Kite sleep tight travel cot

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

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

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

Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce

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

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

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

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

BabyBjörn travel cot light

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

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

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

Nuna sena aire

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

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

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

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

Silver Cross slumber carbon travel cot

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

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

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

Kinderkraft lovi 3-in-1 baby crib

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

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

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

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

Bugaboo stardust travel cot

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

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

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

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

Halo flex portable bassinet

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

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

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

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

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

Fisher-Price on the go travel baby dome

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

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

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

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

ergoPouch easy sleep portable crib

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

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

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

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

Travel cot FAQs

What age is a travel cot for.

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

Can a baby sleep in a travel cot every night?

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

What to look for when buying a travel cot

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

Do travel cots need a mattress?

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

The verdict: Travel cots

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

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

Provide extra comfort by investing in the best cot mattresses

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10 best travel cots in 2022

Are you planning on travelling with your baby? Travelling as a parent comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to sleeping. Baby travel cots are perfect for parents who want to carry their little one on a plane, bus, or even train. They’re lightweight and can be folded up and stored away easily once travelling is over.

But what are the best travel cots in 2022? We have listed the best travel cots for you to use and what features each has so that you can choose which one is right for you.

Why do we need travel cots?

As a parent, you pretty much have your hands full, so it doesn’t make sense to drag a crib around and a travel bag. Additionally, airport security tends to frown on cribs. Whether it’s a few days away for a weekend break or a week-long holiday, baby travel cots can offer those precious few moments of rest and relaxation before or after an important journey.

READ MORE : We select the 8 best travel kettles in 2022

All babies are different. In fact, many parents will tell you their child is unique; it is not just something they say but the truth. Each baby has a distinctive personality and particular ways of reacting to stimuli.

These reactions can cause problems during travelling times if not catered for properly. How can we stop this? Baby travel cots have been designed to make carrying your baby easier and safer for you and your baby.

It isn’t just for long trips

With so many travel cots available in the market, it is only fitting to ask who uses baby travel cots and what they are used for. Travel cots are used for the safety of the baby or toddler when sleeping away from home.

The portability makes them ideal to use on holiday, on weekends, or to have on a boat. They are also useful for people with limited space at home or whose home is not suitable for overnight stays.

Here are our top 10 travel cots for smart travellers

Milliard portable toddler bumper bed, chicco lullago travel bed, pack and play, ounuo 2 in 1 portable playard, babybjorn travel crib light.

• Pamo Babe 2 in 1 Bassinet Quick Foldable Travel Crib

SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Travel Crib

Baby delight go with me, tectake travel cot, regalo my cot, guava family lotus travel crib, what to look for when purchasing a travel cot.

Travel cots are available in various sizes, from cots for when your baby is very young to larger sizes suitable for toddlers. When looking for a travel cot, it is really important to know what you are looking for. There are many different types and sizes available on the market, so make sure to compare before you go out and buy one of those quite expensive products!

Make sure you look for these things when purchasing a travel cot:

• Safety (it should have a suspension system)
• Lightweight and easy to carry
• A durable frame (should also be comfortable)
• Foldability (compact and takes up less space)
• Unfolding way and dimensions
• Weight and size

Also, keep in mind that the mattress must be made of high-quality materials and body-safe to avoid chemical burns, allergies or rashes from using the product. This will protect both the baby and the mother’s health.

The top 10 travel cots in 2022

The Milliard Travel Crib is a portable, bassinet-style travel bed that allows you to keep your newborn close as you get some well-deserved rest while travelling. The adjustable carry bag makes storage and transport easy.

Features include: – Portable Crib – Built-in sleeping bag – Machine washable cover – Teething rail for chewing relief – 5 point safety harness – Made from soft plastic crib sheets material.

The Chicco Lullago Travel Bed is the next generation of travel cots and is suitable for home, hotel or car. It draws heavily on traditional travel cot designs but with a modern twist.

Ingeniously designed to be used both as a travel bed and a cot at home, this versatile product has been rigorously crash tested to ensure baby’s safety every step of the way.

UNUO’s 2 in1 Portable Playard is the only portable play-yard providing sleep and safety. The first and only convertible travel cot can be changed from a playpen to a portable bed and used at any time.

The air mattress has a blower, making it easy to inflate and deflate, with the valve having an auto-lock function for quick deflation. The mattress is made of clear PVC material, thus can be washed by water or wet wipes.

The removable cover is made of waterproof material, so you do not have to worry about your baby being wet throughout the day or night.

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light folds to a small and easy-to-carry size, making it perfect for parents who travel with their babies.

Made from breathable mesh, this travel cot provides the same comfort and safety as a regular crib but with adjustable height so you can always make sure your baby has a clear view of your face.

The cot can be used by children up to six months old at the highest sleeping setting.

Pamo Babe 2 in 1 Bassinet Quick Foldable Travel Crib 

Pamo Babe is the travel bed that makes it easy to take your baby on an adventure.

Compact and lightweight, the travel bed folds into a flat pack for storage and transport. Once unpacked, it simply unfolds into a cot, no tools required.

Its adjustable height legs ensure you can set up in virtually any space, and its waterproof mattress keeps the cot dry through the rain as well as long naps.

SnoozeShade™ is a revolutionary, patented travel crib that helps create the perfect environment for your child, allowing them to sleep soundly and peacefully while you travel.

Made of extra-thick padding and a motion-activated light sensor, SnoozeShade™ enables babies to sleep at the ideal temperature as they are shielded from light and noise. Your baby will sleep longer, and you will have more time to enjoy your limited vacation time.

The Baby Delight Go with Me Bungalow Deluxe Portable Travel Cot is an innovative hard-wearing travel cot that is both lightweight and compact.

Made with a padded mattress, carry handle, and detachable mosquito net, this travel cot is suitable for children up to 15 months old.

Although ideal for babies, it can also be used as a bedside crib or extra bedroom in the house during its life.

The Travel Cot from TecTake is a premium quality product that can be used for every stage of your baby’s life.

It allows you to keep your baby close while getting a good night’s sleep. This travel cot has a double layer of mattress – at the top, there is a little pillow which always contains the child and at the same time ensures safety.

The Regalo My Cot is a lightweight, portable and compact travel cot made from a breathable mesh fabric ideal for babies, toddlers and children aged 12 months or older.

The convenient size allows it to be taken on excursions and trips as a comfortable place to nap, rest or play.

The Lotus Travel Crib from Guava Family is a safe and supportive travel bed that follows you wherever you go.

It features a washable cotton mattress, easy folding, and small folding size so that it can be stored in the car on the way to the cabin or on top of your luggage.

The cot meets industry safety standards for infant travel beds and is safe for children up to 20 lbs (9.07 kg).

Whether it’s a day trip or a week-long vacation, when you are bringing your child along, be sure to check out the best travel cots in 2022.

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Best Travel Cots For Babies And Toddlers

Traveling with little ones in your family often means having a few must-haves for families immediately accessible and travel-ready everywhere you go at a moment’s notice, including a portable cot. Nap time or sleep can strike at any moment, and having a safe place for your baby to sleep is a requirement. These portable cots are easy to carry, set up, collapse, and store, making them helpful for setting up your baby’s sleeping spot on vacation.

Portable travel cots are perfect for when your little one needs a break to sleep or calm down after an exhausting day. Portable travel cots also help your little ones stay safe during sleep (they won’t have to share a bed with you or someone else) and provide a germ-free environment to play, rest, and sleep. On day trips, cabin stays, or other excursions, portable travel cots are a true lifesaver for families packing for a baby . These reviews cover some of the best travel cots on the market, creating the best option for families and babies everywhere.

Table of Contents

Best Portable Cots For Traveling With A Baby Or A Toddler – Our Picks + Reviews

Lotus comfortable travel crib.

This popular travel cot is a favorite pick for the best travel cots by parents everywhere. This multipurpose travel cot is sturdy and certified baby-safe, offering a comfortable play-yard and mattress that is lightweight and backpack portable. Each crib is a safe and non-toxic certified rest and play place that features full-height mesh with best, breathable airflow to cool off your baby.

The Lotus Travel Crib is designed to withstand all kinds of travel. It fits into a compact, light backpack carrying case and set up takes less than fifteen seconds to complete. Featuring an innovative quiet side zipper door that you can use to lay down your baby without waking them up. The easy-to-adjust mattress folds and is full of thick, soft foam that’s been approved for newborns and infants to sleep in safely. At $209, this is a fairly priced crib that will last you and your baby a lifetime.

4Moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard

This all-in-one care station is designed to set up with one hand as a portable playard with removable bassinet and changing station that’s the perfect solution to moms and dads’ needs. This easily accessible and collapsible design creates instant comfort and sleep as well as a place to take care of all of your baby’s needs. The playard is easily transportable and packs into a travel bag for carrying and packing in cars, airplanes or other stowaway containers.

Your baby can sleep, play, or bounce around in this sturdy portable playard that sets up anywhere. Drop them off at a caretaker, bring it on vacation, or set it up in the living room to hold your kiddo while you do your chores. Made from strong, durable polyester and heavy-duty support beams, this is the best travel crib for flying with, as it packs up conveniently for travel and set up. Priced at $600, this is an extremely expensive option, but its durability and flexibility as well as its removable bassinet and changing table make it a good investment.

BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light

Made for simple and busy parents on the move, the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is designed to be adventure-ready and convenient to set up and collapse at a moment’s notice. Made of soft and sturdy polyester fabric, the lightweight, water resistant fabric of the BABYBJORN Travel Crib light can handle any kind of spills or stains and makes the crib perfect for any kind of restless baby. Designed with travel in mind, the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is definitely the most comfortable travel crib there is.

The BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is a multifunctional and versatile baby play pen that’s a game changer for parents of active babies. Your baby can play, rest, stand, toss, and turn within the safe and comfortable confines of this travel crib that packs up into a light bag that transports safely everywhere. Ergonomic and stable, the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light is designed to provide comfortable support and supervision of your baby from wherever you’re traveling. The BABYBJRON Travel Crib Light has a price of $300, a fairly midrange price for the durable and reliable crib you’re getting.

Flisko 2 in 1 Travel Crib & Bassinet

Known as the baby play yard that does it all, the Bassinet and Travel Crib is constructed with a supportive structure and solid frame that keeps your baby safe at all times. Built with high-quality rugged materials that prevent collapsing or folding and completely non-toxic. This lightweight and easily portable crib has a comfortable lifting weight and small size that’s perfect for when you’re on the go. A sleek design and foldable build are perfectly sized to fit anywhere.

The crib doesn’t require extensive setup and can be set up or disassembled in just a few minutes. It folds into a simple bag and can double as a bassinet and a full-sized playpen or crib, making it a 2 in 1 travel set that’s great for flexible and versatile families. Super soft and comfortable, the travel basset is lined with soft fabric that pads and protects your baby, as well as a plush, insulated foam mattress pad and sheet. For just $110, this is a great bargain on a versatile and multifunctional travel cot that’s the best travel crib for 2-year-olds or other children as they age.

Graco Pack and Play on the Go with Bassinet

The Graco Pack and Play on the Go is designed to function everywhere with flexible and durable use around the clock. With dual-function sleep and play as well as an insertable bassinet for holding younger children or changing diapers, the Graco Pack and Play is a useful and multipurpose construction that works well for every family. If you are traveling, you might also want to invest in a good portable diaper changing kit to make things easier and change your baby on-the-go wherever you are. Travel has never been simpler than with the Graco Pack and Play, which is extremely affordable at a price of just $75.

The Graco provides comfort and support for all your baby with sturdy mattress pads that support firm sleep and rest. Breathable mesh side panels let you supervise your baby’s play from a distance allowing for you to get some work done while still keeping an eye on your little one. Your baby can fall asleep gently and comfortably in this padded and supported playpen that provides levels of comfort, changing, and sleep for best results for you and your baby, making it one of the most comfortable travel cribs on the market.

Funny Supply 3 in 1 Pack and Play Travel Cot

This Funny Supply 3 in 1 Pack and Play is convertible, functional, and designed to grow with your baby. Converting from baby bassinet to playpen and play tunnel, children of all ages can enjoy and use this fun pack and play. Each travel pen can be assembled in less than 15 seconds without any tools, creating an easy fold inside a carrying case you can haul with you anywhere. It also features comfortable and ergonomic carrying options and can tuck into trunks or stowaway containers, making it one of the best travel cots for flying.

The Funny Supply Pack and Play creates hands-free convenient baby support that will let you take baby along on vacations or set them up while you run errands without having to worry about cradling or protecting your baby at every moment. Set them down for a nap in the bassinet as a baby and once they grow out of it, set it in a larger play pen. As toddlers, unfold the wall to create a play tunnel you can crawl through or use as a fort. Create opportunities for bonding and developmental benefits at all times with this adjustable and magical play pen that will engage your baby at all times.

Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard

Promising multifunction, user-friendly, and flexible sleeping and play spaces for babies and caregivers, the Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard is a comfortable and actively designed travel crib made with soft mesh and a thick and comfortable foam mattress pad. Simple to set up and easy to disassemble, the travel crib creates a comfortable and soft place for your baby to rest, play, and sleep. Safe and useful for newborns and toddlers alike, the Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard is a versatile and convertible space for sleeping and playing alike.

Made to last through the childhood of active and growing babies, the Baby Delight Deluxe Portable Crib & Playard converts into a bassinet for smaller babies, a playard, and a crib. A shaded hood allows for easy sleep and hanging mobiles for baby’s entertainment. A removable sun and insect canopy means you can even set this playpen up in your yard or outside. Your pen packs up neatly and is a great travel cot for toddlers for a very affordable price.

Pamo Babe Lightweight Portable Travel Cot

Comfortable, functional, and built for versatile use by parents and babies alike, the Pamo Babe Lightweight Portable Travel Cot creates a comfortable rest and play space for wearer and baby. Offering a comfortable mattress pad for additional support while your baby sleeps, your cot is a restful and relaxing place for your little one. You can also convert it into a trampoline for diverse and exciting entertainment. Four supporting feet at the bottom of your crib maintain balance and stability while your baby moves around and prevents the crib from tipping over.

Equipped with a movable mattress to provide the most comfortable sleeping environment for the baby, your mattress can also be easily removed and washed depending on stains or damages. The breathable mesh allows your baby to breathe easily and lets you keep an eye on your baby from afar. Adjustable, comfortable, supportive, and versatile, the Pamo Babe is a budget choice and all yours for a very affordable price, a portable and convenient travel cot for babies and parents.

Skip Hop Portable Playard And Travel Cot

This gentle and comfortable baby cot is designed to swaddle and cradle your baby to sleep with a gentle mattress pad and comfortable space for sleep or play on their own. This soft and sturdy travel cot offers airy mesh fabric sides for visibility and ventilation and expands from a travel crib to a play yard in mere seconds. You can also tuck this cot into its travel bag and carry it with you anywhere for additional on the go sleep support for you and your baby.

The expanding base grows as your little one does, expanding from small to large based on the size of your child and the space they need to sleep or play. Because the travel cot is so portable it’s easy to swap between caregivers or other people looking after your little one. Easy to maintain and machine washable, the Skip Hop is also washable, stain-treatable, and packs tightly into a storage pouch to sit in your car. At $100, this is a sturdy and trustworthy purchase your baby will feel safe in at all times.

BABY JOY Baby Foldable Travel Crib

Gentle, soft, and comfortable, the BABY JOY Foldable Travel Crib features simple and spacious sleeping and playing space for babies from newborns to three years. The mattress is protected with a soft and thick mattress pad that allows your baby to sleep comfortably. Machine washable fabric and sheets keeps your baby warm, swaddled, and comfortable while also easily treatable for spills, and other stains that naturally accumulate over time. The travel crib is designed with full-height mesh cloth that allows full visibility, breathability, and protection for your baby.

The comfortable and firm structure is built with sturdy aluminum and iron tubes that are safety certified. The four feet are evenly balanced to prevent your playard from tilting or tipping while your little one is in it. With a comfortable and cooling design and a secure base for support, your baby will rest easy as you go about your day thanks to this affordably priced $80 BABY JOY foldable crib.

A Buyer’s Guide to the Best Baby Travel Cots

Purchasing a travel cot is a great way to secure your little one no matter where you’re visiting, but there’s a few different things you’ll want to keep an eye on as you shop around for the perfect fit. Your baby needs to be able to sleep and play in a secure and safe environment so make sure your cot meets all of these important requirements to be a good fit!

Flexibility and Versatility

Babies are an exciting but expensive addition to your family, so a flexible and versatile travel cot that will last you through your baby’s initial growth spurt, their changing sleep and play needs, and even a few different babies is a great choice. Look for a cot that converts from bassinet to play pen to larger sleeping pen for the best value!

Stain-Resistant yet Soft

Babies are messy, and accidents happen. A cot that can withstand quite a few accidents from your baby is a great choice. Look for a mattress pad that can be removed or washed and a polyester material that wipes down easily. A cot that can comfortably handle the outdoors, stains, sweat, rain, and more will be a versatile and functional part of your family routine, but you’ll also want to make sure it’s still soft enough that your baby can rest comfortably inside.

Travel cots for babies are a big part of ensuring your baby is comfortable sleeping and at play r while you go about your day whether you’re at home or traveling. Picking a sturdy, soft, secure, and reliable travel cot that lasts your child a long time is key to easing your transition into new parenthood and ensuring a happy and healthy sleep and play balance in your baby’s life.

I'm Angela Corrias, an Italian journalist, photographer, and travel writer located in the heart of Italy's capital. Welcome to my website, your comprehensive source for your travels and expert guidance for crafting your dream travel experience.

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11 best travel cots for babies that are going places

Tried and tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute

When you have a new baby, the list of potential purchases is huge (and many just aren’t essential), but one you may want to consider is a travel cot for those much-needed family trips away. It can make the whole thing less stressful, and means you won’t have to rely on what the Airbnb has rustled up.

The best baby travel cots need to be lightweight, easy to carry, and quick to pack away. They should provide a cosy place for baby to sleep and play (entertainment features are a definite bonus).

But there’s lots to consider. So, to help you decide which travel cot is best for you, our parenting expert got their Allen key out and has been busy putting them to the test at the GHI . These are their top picks at a glance, but read on for the detailed reviews and everything you need to consider before buying.

Best travel cot

Silver cross slumber travel cot.

Best for quick unfold

Bugaboo stardust travel cot.

Best travel cot for ease of use

Babybjorn travel cot.

Best for smaller homes

Maxi-cosi iris travel cot.

Best for warm weather

Nuna sena aire travel cot.

Best travel bedside crib

Joie kubbie sleep bedside travel cot.

Best budget travel cot

Red kite black sleep tight travel cot.

Best for portability

Ergopouch portable bassinet with mattress, net and backpack.

Runner-up travel bedside crib

Red kite dreamer bedside crib.

Best for versatility

Hauck sleep n play center travel cot, what is a travel cot.

It’s a portable sleep space where your baby can play, rest and snooze while you’re away. You can also use it around your own home and garden when you want to move your baby from room to room, either for sleep or as a play space. They tend to have lightweight metal frames and fabric or mesh sides, along with a firm, flat mattress.

Do I need a travel cot?

This really depends on how often you’re planning to be away from home. But, if you often visit friends and family overnight or you love to get away, a travel cot makes sense. If you're a committed jet-setter, it’s worth considering something with a bassinet and perhaps a changing station and entertainment centre too.

Even if you’re a less frequent flyer, it can still be a good buy, as you can use it at home or away and it’s a safe space for your baby to play in. If you're not going to use it a lot, opt for a simple, inexpensive design that just has one mattress height.

One thing to bear in mind is that even if you are going to a location that says it offers cots or travel cots, you don’t know what condition the equipment will be in, so travelling with your own infant bed will give you peace of mind. Make sure you’ve used it at home a few times so it smells and feels familiar to your little one, and take your own sheets.

What features to look out for

Travel cots come with a range of different functions and accessories, so think about what you would find useful.

• Different sleep levels : Check if it comes with a bassinet that sits in the upper section, as this is very useful when you have a tiny baby.
• Folding : You want something that folds and unfolds easily for travel.
• Changing station : Some models have a cot-top changing table, which is useful for very small babies.
• Toy arch : A toy arch is great for entertaining your baby when you’re changing them, or for playtime generally.
• An opening section : You can get designs with a panel that zips open so older children can crawl in and out by themselves.
• Entertainment centre : Some have lights, music and vibrations, which can be handy for soothing little ones.
• Ease of cleaning : Most travel cots can be spot-cleaned with water and a mild detergent, using a cloth or sponge. Some will also have fabric that can be removed and machine washed.
• Weight : Obviously, the lighter it is, the easier it is to travel with. However, if you travel a lot, you may want to consider a slightly more robust model as it will last longer.
• Case: It should have a carry case that’s comfortable to lift.
• Wheels : Some come with two wheels, which means they’re easy to move around the room or pull along when folded.

Think about how often you’ll use the travel cot to decide whether these are worth the extra money you’ll have to pay for them.

How long can I use a travel cot for?

Many travel cots can be used from newborn up to around three years. Check the specifications to see their upper weight limit if longevity is a key requirement.

Travel cot safety essentials

Make sure your mattress fits well, with no space between it and the travel cot’s sides where little arms or legs could get caught. Never be tempted to add cushions or extra padding – the mattress should be firm and flat and this is the safest for your baby.

Follow the same safe baby sleep guidelines as you would for your crib or cot.

Can I take my travel cot on a plane?

If you’re flying, check with your airline about luggage restrictions before travelling. Most airlines will allow you to take the travel cot as hold luggage and some will even allow you to have it as a carry-on item. Either way, make sure it has a good, protective case.

How we test travel cots

We first ensure every product we feature adheres to the required British safety standards. You can rest assured every travel cot on our list is compliant.

When testing in the lab, we assess design, style, size, build quality and overall comfort – how easy is it to add additional attachments; is it light enough to carry, yet strong enough to be durable; is it large enough for a baby to lie in, even if they are tall for their age?

We award points to cots that are sturdy with frames that are either padded or clear of the sleeping area with nothing sticking out that clothes could get caught on. Finally, we see how easy the cots are to clean – can you wash the covers, do fabrics come off for cleaning and does the mattress have a removable and washable cover, or can it be sponged or wiped clean?

Taking all that into account, we award each one a final score out of 100. These are the ones we’ll be jetting off with this summer.

For more tried and tested parenting products, check out the results of the GHI's Parenting Awards where you'll find our experts' top-rated pushchairs , cot beds , nappies and more.

Parenting Awards 2024

Score: 98/100

Designed to make travelling with your little one effortless and stress-free (music to our ears!), this three-in-one design can do it all – it’s a bassinet, travel cot and playpen. It also delivers on form and function. There’s a neat carry bag that you can lift onto your shoulder or carry in your hand, and it’s easy to set up – just click the legs into place – while the non-slip feet and frame that angles out at the bottom make it incredibly stable, even if you have an active little one!

The bassinet is easy to add in and visibility is great all the way around in cot mode, thanks to the mesh panels. Once you know how, folding the cot away is also straightforward (the legs have a push button at the top that’s concealed under the padding.) It may be pricey but this is a popular buy.

Key specifications

Score: 96/100

There’s a lot of hype around this travel cot thanks to its ‘instant unfold’ claims and it definitely delivers, according to our expert. It’s really simple to use, lightweight and, yes, it unfolds in seconds. It also comes with a neat carry case, complete with handle (although a shoulder strap would be a handy addition).

You can add a bassinet for newborns by zipping it into the cot – take care going around corners as this bit can be tricky. The mattress is then secured with Velcro straps. The cot can also be folded with the bassinet in place.

The bassinet is a good size for babies up to around six months and could also be used as a bedside crib. The mattress is firm and flat with a machine-washable cover, while the cot has non-slip feet to stop it moving around on hard floors. Overall, this is a great bit of kit that would make a lovely gift for first-time parents. It’s super easy to travel with and takes up minimal space when not in use.

Score: 93/100

This cot comes with its own well-designed carry case and mattress, which our tester felt made a stylish, neat package. The case is easy to carry in your hand and isn’t too deep, so it doesn’t touch the floor even if you’re quite short. It’s easy to unfold – just take it out of the bag, give it a flip and the legs pretty much lock themselves into place (although do check to make sure).

There isn’t a bassinet section, so this is better suited to a child over six months. The outer mesh wall and mattress cover can both be zipped off and popped in the machine for easy cleaning. It also has a generous sleep space, is incredibly stable, and can be used as a playpen as well as a travel cot. A smart, simple buy.

This is a compact, contemporary cot that can be used as a bassinet from birth and then as a travel cot up to three years, switching easily between the two modes. It comes with a comfortable carry case and the instructions and washing guidelines are handily attached to the inside of the cot, so you won’t lose them.

It’s intuitive to assemble and the bassinet position is nice and high for putting your baby down. It’s also suitably cosy and snug. The cot isn’t the biggest, so may not be suitable as a playpen longer-term, but it does make it a good bedside crib option in your bedroom due to its compact size. It’s also made with 100% recycled materials.

Overall, this is ideal for smaller homes and for babies from birth, with a stylish finish that uses touches of wood and eco-friendly materials.

Score: 90/100

This is our pick for breathability as it allows plenty of air flow through all surfaces thanks to its innovative mesh fabrics, which also extend to the mattress, helping to keep your baby cool in warm weather. The mattress is made up of three layers of mesh material, which also makes it really comfortable and its cover can be removed for cleaning. As the bottom of the cot is raised off the floor, it should also help keep them cosy on cooler nights.

There’s a bassinet that zips inside the top, which can be used for newborns, and the cot can be folded with this in place, making travelling with a tiny baby easier. While it is an investment, the aluminium frame is sturdy and will last you a long time. A great choice for warmer climes.

This combines the best of a travel cot, bassinet and bedside crib in one easy-to-use, lightweight product. Weighing in at under 9kg, it looks at first like a traditional style travel cot inside a neat carrying case. (Sadly, there are no slits for the wheels, so you have to carry it rather than being able to wheel it along.)

It’s relatively compact, so while your baby will be able to sleep in it happily for around three years, it may not have the same longevity as a playpen. The bassinet is zipped inside the cot and the mattress fabric feels soft and luxurious.

However, what sets this design apart is that you can use the bassinet as a travel bedside crib thanks to the drop side and webbing straps that clip onto the cot and attach around your bed's frame, making it secure and safe. This is a good price for a product that does three jobs.

Score: 85/100

If you don’t think you’ll use a travel cot that much or just don’t want to spend a lot of money, this Sleeptight model from Red Kite fits the bill. It’s quick and easy to unfold by clicking up all four sides, then pushing down the base. There’s a mattress that slips inside and the cot’s four mesh sides offer great visibility and airflow.

The mattress is fairly hard, but it would be fine for occasional use. The top rails are well padded to avoid knocks and bangs and it’s large enough for a toddler to use as a playpen or as a spot to sleep. It also slips easily inside its carry case, which has a simple elasticated opening. There are no bells and whistles, but it does the job.

This is a great buy for anyone who wants something easy that they can take on holiday, use in the garden, or take out to the park or festivals. It comes with a handy case you can wear like a backpack and is very light at just over 2kg. To set up, simply open it out and click in place. The washable mattress is firm and flat and attaches to the base with a Velcro strip.

There’s also a mosquito net to keep your baby safe from insects outdoors – although note that there’s no sun protection. It’s fully breathable and you can see your baby at all times; it is also a safe place to lay them for tummy time. It will only have a short lifespan due to its size, but if you have a lifestyle where you will use this a lot, it's a good buy. The carry case also has storage pockets, which means you can slip some extra clothes and nappies in, and it will even go into the overhead locker on the plane.

This is another affordable travel cot from Red Kite and there are a number of bonus features that make it more than worth the price. It can be used until your child is three or four and doubles as a playpen with an opening panel in the side that little ones will love crawling in and out of.

It is on the small side, so would be best for occasional use or for those with smaller homes, but this also makes it ideal if you’re staying in a hotel or rental where space may be at a premium. It’s light and easy to carry in its case, which also has wheels so you can pull it along.

If you have a newborn, you can also use it as a bassinet by attaching the internal higher crib section, and you can even use it as a bedside crib, as it comes with a strap to attach it to your bed and a side that drops down. Plus, it has a storage pocket at one end for baby essentials and you can even stash items below the bassinet. This is a decent product with lots of extras for the price.

Score: 84/100

There’s very little this cot doesn’t claim to do. As well as coming with a bassinet section for newborns, it also has a built-in changing table and, thanks to the high sides, it’s good for older toddlers to use as a playpen.

It is large and quite heavy, but it has a really generous sleep space, making it a good option for tall babies. You can even rock it slightly to soothe your baby to sleep. The changing table does take quite a lot of assembly so you’ll probably want to leave it up when it’s not in use.

Handily, the cot has two wheels and there’s a slit in the travel case, so you can wheel it along. If you travel a lot and want a from-birth solution to last several years, this is a good option.

Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

Score: 81/100

This is another large and fairly heavy cot, but it provides a sturdy, versatile sleeping, changing and entertaining space for your little one from birth to around three years, so it’s great for frequent travellers who want reassurance they’ll have everything they need when they get to their destination. It’s best for those travelling by car – with a big boot! – or if you’re travelling with plenty of help.

There’s a vibration unit under the mattress, which will give them the sensation of travelling in a car, as well as a nightlight with three brightness levels, and a music centre that plays soothing sounds. Finally, there’s a changing table that clips to the top of the cot and a toy arch to keep them entertained while you change them. It's tricky to fit all the accessories into the travel case, so we suggest practising before leaving home.

Sally J. Hall is a parenting tester for the GHI, reviewing everything from bedside cribs and pushchairs to nappies. She has written extensively on pregnancy, birth and the health and development of both pregnant mums and their babies. She has in-depth knowledge of the parenting world, has tested thousands of products and is passionate about finding those that make parents’ lives easier.   

Sally has worked on many major UK parenting titles and was previously editor of both Emma’s Diary and Bounty. With extensive contacts across the parenting industry, she published B Baby Magazine for eight years, which covered the private maternity market across the UK and is the author of books Plant Based Baby and Eco Baby. 

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The best travel cots & how to choose one

Before I had a baby, I never realised quite how much variety there would be in every product you ever needed – and it was just the same when I came to work out which were the best travel cots for Minnie.

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After testing out some for work, as well as trying various ones at different hotels (including one with such high sides, I got a bruise bending over to soothe my then three-month-old daughter), I’ve come up with my own pick of the best travel cots, the one I hated and tips on how to choose your own.

Choosing the best travel cot: my favourites

The baby bjorn travel cot light.

My ability to love the most expensive option continues unabated but the Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light was easily my favourite of the six I tested. It’s over £200 but is one of the few that’s genuinely light enough to take on a plane but still decent quality.

We used ours for years until Minnie finally grew too big for it. The legs do stick out a little, unlike most others which are a standard rectangle, but it’s easy to open, has a comfy mattress, mesh sides so you can see in easily and it was easy to carry.

• Fits all travel cots from BABYBJÖRN
• Soft & comfy for your baby
• Made of soft organic cotton
• Easy to put on
• Machine wash at 60°C

The NSA Sun Essentials Deluxe Travel Centre

The NSA Sun Essentials Deluxe Travel Centre  – my runner-up was less than half that price, although the tent-style design is one you’ll love or hate. It weighs practically nothing (around 1kg) and is spring-loaded so there’s no effort in putting it up. Putting it down is definitely not as simple!

The Nuna Sena  – sleekly stylish with a bassinet attachment, this gave me one of the best night’s sleep of my life when Minnie snoozed on it until 6am for the first time ever (and, alas, still only one of a handful of times in her first nine months).

It was also easy to assemble and cheaper than the Baby Bjorn (although also a bit heavier so would be better if you’re travelling by car than by plane).

Choosing the best travel cot: the bargains

I also tested a more basic Babies’R’Us travel cot and printed Baby Weavers Sleepy (both now out of stock – these  Red Kite and Hauck models are similar) – these are the kind you’ll come across in hotels so quite honestly, I don’t see the point in buying one yourself if you’re staying somewhere which will provide a cot (though take your own sheets).

• Suitable from birth
• Includes slotted mattress
• Fully padded top rails
• Easy and fast to assemble
• Carry bag for out and about trips

If you’re looking for something cheap to transport around, these definitely do the job. They’re heavier but fold up well into a carry case, they do the job and if you’re not sure how much you’ll use them, they do the job well.

Choosing the best travel cot: the one I hated

The graco contour on the go.

The Graco Contour On The Go almost reduced me to tears of frustration [EDIT: now out of stock – unsurprisingly! ]. 

Most cots are (thankfully) very straightforward to assemble and pack away but this model seemed almost completely counter-intuitive to put up, and so needed taking apart repeatedly after the instructions failed to help at all.

The changing mat attachment was worryingly precarious and the bassinet was only suitable for up to three months.

As I thought I was travelling fairly early with our first trip before 4 months, it came as a bit of a surprise to discover Minnie had already outgrown that. And despite all the bells and whistles, none of them actually seemed particularly helpful or useful.

A reminder that more isn’t better. I’d trade a great night’s sleep and something I can assemble one-handed with jetlag for all the mobiles, tunes, interesting lights and non-essential attachments in the world.

How to choose the best travel cots

When all you need is somewhere for your baby to sleep while you’re away from home, it seems like it shouldn’t be that complicated. But once you start looking at travel cots, there’s more to take into account – these are my top 10 tips to consider before you choose yours.

• 1.    Where are you going to use it? A travel cot that’s light and portable enough to take on a plane or train is completely different to one which stays with the grandparents or which goes in the boot of the car.
• 2.    How long are you going to use it for? If you’re travelling from very early on, you might want a bassinet attachment – but if you want it to last for years, think about whether it will be comfortable for a toddler as well.
• 3.    How easy is it to use? Some models can genuinely be opened (and, more rarely, packed away) with one hand. Others will need much more effort – fine, perhaps, if you’re only doing it twice a year, less so if you’re going to be doing it on a regular basis.
• 4.    How easy is it to carry? This comes back to point 1 but there are travel cots out there that weigh over 10kg – I struggled to get one up the stairs to the nursery so along with being above the infant baggage allowance, I doubt I could have got it through an airport at all. Many come with bags, but does it have shoulder straps? Is it compact or bulky to manoeuvre?
• 5.    What extras does it come with – and do you really want them? Toy bars, nightlights, lullabies and changing mat attachments might all sound great, but only if you’ll use them. You might decide you don’t want toys distracting a baby when they sleep or realise that a changing mat attachment is no good once they’re over about 5kg…
• 6.    How comfortable is it? Some of the budget travel cots come with very thin mattresses, and while you could buy an extra cushioning one, it starts to defeat the point of a light-weight fold-up option.
• 7.    How practical is it? Can you put a newborn or young baby into it comfortably, or will you be bent double trying to pick them up? Will an ordinary fitted sheet work or will you have to buy an oddly-shaped branded one ( Baby Bjorn , I’m thinking of you)? Do the legs stick out so you’ll fall over them in the dark? Do you have to pack a screwdriver every time you travel?
• 8.    What is it made of? This is likely to get bashed around in transport, so if the is material good quality, it’s likely to survive better. And consider that some mesh in the sides makes it easier to see in (and out) and provides ventilation.
• 9.    Any bonus features? Will it double as a playpen, for example – which usually means a larger, sturdier model to cope with inquisitive crawling babies. The NSA Sun Essentials Deluxe Travel Centre , even has UV protection so you can use it as a sun tent on the beach.
• 10.    What’s your budget? Travel cots can cost from around £30 new for the basic models, but these are no-frills, heavier options. At the other end of the scale, some of the big names cost over £200 for fairly simple options but with the advantage of being lighter or a nicer design.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission

Image courtesy of Depositphotos

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

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21 best lightweight, portable and cost-effective travel cots for babies and toddlers

The best portable cribs to keep babies and toddlers safe and cosy away from home

New to the world of parenting? Once your bumper online order of cots, baby changing bags , buggies, pram organisers , nursing bras and the kitchen sink has arrived, surely it must be time to relax? Sorry mamas, there is one more key item you need to add to your arsenal of baby gear and that's a travel cot.

If you’ve already splashed out on a fancy crib and a Moses basket you might be wondering why you need yet another bed for your little one. But a travel cot is an essential piece of kit and, trust us, when you're away from home and wrestling with a tired baby at bedtime, you will come to treasure it.

Here is everything you need to know about hitting the road with your tot in tow, including the benefits of a portable crib and the best travel cots on the market right now...

Best travel cots to buy in 2024

In a hurry? Here's our pick of the best travel cots at a glance. Keep scrolling for the full list.

BEST NEUTRAL TRAVEL COT

My babiie blush quilted travel cot.

BEST STYLISH TRAVEL COT

Silver cross black rise by tinie travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT BY UK BRAND

Joie baby roomie go travel crib.

BEST CHIC TRAVEL COT

Maxi-cosi tori beyond bedside travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR STYLE

Maxi-cosi iris compact travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR TRAVELING ON PLANES

Babybjörn travel cot light.

BEST TRAVEL COT AND PLAYPEN

Maxi-cosi swift 3-in-1 travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR SMALL SPACES

Graco foldlite unique fold travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR COMFORT

Airpod travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT WITH WHEELS

Graco contour bassinet travel cot, what is a travel cot.

A travel cot is essentially a portable crib to use when you’re staying anywhere that isn't your home. Most models are designed with speedy assembly in mind, so you can chuck it in the car boot for a weekend at granny’s house or even take it on a plane. Traditional travel cots also come with high mesh walls, so you can keep an eye on your sleeping tot and they won't get too hot.

While lugging an extra bed around might sound like a faff, if you’re staying in a hotel, visiting friends or camping with a baby in tow and chaos reigns, once you've popped up your travel cot you will breathe a sigh of relief. Babies love routine, especially when it comes to bedtime. The safe confines of a portable crib will provide a comfortable and familiar place to put your tired infant wherever you might be in the world, so everyone can get a better night's kip.

‘There’s no guarantee that your destination will have a safe sleeping space for your baby,’ says Paediatrician and child development expert Dr Harvey Karp . ‘While a plush, pillow-loaded hotel bed may sound like a dream for Mum and Dad, it’s not a safe spot for your little one to rest their head. By bringing your own cot, you can rest easier knowing that your bub will have a safe place to sleep.’

Travel cot shopping guide

Not sure where to start? Jumaimah Hussain from Kiddies Kingdom has outlined the following key features to look out for when buying a travel cot.

• Ease of use : check the size and how the cot folds to make sure it is compact and easy to assemble, as well as quick and easy to fold away. It should also be a suitable size for your home and car. 
• Age suitability : travel cots differ with upper age and weight limits, so make sure you take this into account depending on your child and how long you are planning to use the travel cot.
• Type of travel cot : there are typically two main types: the traditional travel cot that consists of a fabric cot on a frame that collapses for transportation, or a pop-up cot which tends to be lighter and allows for a quick set up.
• Easy to transport : some travel cots can be heavy, so look for one that suits your needs. Some cots also come with a carry-bag or wheels which can make it easier to transport.
• Mattress : travel cot mattresses tend to be thinner and harder than normal cot mattresses to allow for compact fold and easy storage. Make sure that the mattress is firm, flat and is covered in waterproof material. You can also buy a new mattress separately, but make sure it is the correct size for the cot and that you have space to carry it.
• Bassinet attachment : if you have a newborn, you’ll benefit massively from this feature which fits across the top of the travel cot, providing a crib for your newborn to sleep in.
• Washable covers : it is inevitable that the cot will need washing from time to time, if the cover is easily cleaned and removable this is great. 
• Mesh window : a good travel cot should have at least one mesh window so that you can always see the baby.

21 best travel cots to buy

At under £60, this blush travel cot from on-trend baby brand My Babiie is a great budget-friendly neutral option. It’s easy to assemble and doubles up as a playpen making it the ideal travel companion.

This stylish travel cot also comes with a handy carry bag and padded bumper rails, plus it’s suitable for babies from birth up to a weight of 15kg.

Key details

Who knew a travel cot could look and feel this luxe? Part of a limited edition collab between Tinie Tempah and heritage brand Silver Cross, it doubles up as a co-sleeper and playpen and can be used from birth to aged three. Made from brushed titanium, organic bamboo and breathable mesh, you can feel the quality in every part of the sleek, ergonomic design, with tactile ribbed cushioning and leatherette accents.

Despite its sturdy feel, it’s lightweight and quick to assemble with an easy pop and shake mechanism, and zips away neatly into a weatherproof carry case.

The Joie baby travel crib is popular thanks to its super-compact size once folded. It also has a clever sliding side panel that can be operated with one hand allowing you easy access to your little one the minute you hear those middle of the night cries.

It’s been designed by UK brand Joie to have a tilt that keeps your baby at an optimum angle for avoiding acid reflux. Mesh windows offer good ventilation, whilst the cushioned mattress will give your bubba the comfy snooze they (and you!) deserve.

If you expect your travel cot to get plenty of use, then might we suggest this Maxi Cosi one that comes in a graphite colour? It's perfect for disguising marks.

This bedside crib and travel cot also looks super chic, and is lightweight with a thick mattress for your little one to rest on after a day of exploring their new destination.

One of the most aesthetically pleasing travel cots on the market, this two-in-one crib comes with a bassinet option for newborns that can then be lowered for growing tots.

It's easy to assemble in just one click, the lining is machine washable and the wood-effect legs give it extra style points. At 6kg it's light enough to carry about and our panel of mum testers gave the mattress a thumbs up too.

If you're a frequent flyer with cash to spare, this brilliant travel cot from premium Swedish brand BabyBjörn is one of the best portable beds for bubbas that we've tried.

Yes, it's at the pricier end of the spectrum, but it assembles in seconds, is incredibly light to carry and the accompanying mattress is just the right thickness to keep your tot cosy all night long.

Best of all we love that it collapses down into a briefcase shape, making it much easier to carry on planes and trains compared to traditional bulkier travel cots.

Another great travel cot from Maxi-Cosi, this one also doubles up as a play pen, or a great place to pop your wriggly toddler when you need a pee/cuppa tea.

It boasts the famous one-second fold, which basically means you can dismantle it in a flash. And at only 7kg in weight, it's also surprisingly light and easy to transport, making it perfect for weekends away, holidays and visiting the family.

If space is at a premium and you need a travel cot that tucks easily away, this dinky crib from Graco is a great shout. It comes with a double fold design, so it can be carried around easily or made even smaller for storage at home.

Better yet it comes with a handy bag and wheels for easy transportation. And if keeping the cost down is a concern, it's also one of the cheaper travel cots on our list.

When it comes to shopping for travel cots, thin mattresses are often the biggest bone of contention for parents, as there's not much we won't do for a good night's kip!

You'll be pleased to hear that this nifty little travel cot has a considerably better quality mattress than you would expect for the price, boosting everyone's chances of sleep wherever you happen to be. It's also really easy to assemble and super light. Sold.

Looking for a spacious and well-ventilated crib that doubles up as a playpen for the toddler years? This roomy travel cot comes with two wheels so you can easily move it about the house, plus the push-button fold makes it really simple to pack down when you're ready to hit the road.

Joie Commuter Travel Cot - Change & Bounce

Weighing in at 12.3kg this travel cot sits at the bulkier end of the portable crib spectrum, so it's better suited to family holidays with access to a car boot than public transport.

But once you have arrived at your villa/hotel and erected your temporary baby nest, the removable bassinet and vibrating bouncer complete with toy bar will make relaxing on holiday a breeze.

Our panel of mum testers were impressed with how simple it was to assemble, plus integrated wheels made it easy to keep baby close by at nap times.

LittleLife Arc 2 Lightweight Travel Cot

Looking for the perfect baby bed for your summer hols? Your search is over! This clever and remarkably light travel cot works like a pop-up tent, with an integrated roof to keep baby safe from the sun's harmful rays during daytime naps and hungry mosquitos at night.

It's really quick to assemble and the handy rucksack is light enough to carry from your hotel to the beach, leaving your hands free to hold your baby/picnic lunch. Plus once your little one has dropped their daytime naps it will still make a great playhouse or sun shade.

ReadyBed Junior ReadyBed Air Bed and Sleeping Bag

So, what's the protocol for that tricky in-between stage when your toddler is too big for a travel cot but not quite ready for a real bed? This fun inflatable option from ReadyBed is just the ticket for bedtime on the move. It comes with a built in cover that works like a sleeping bag but also stops wriggly tots from rolling out. It's also light enough for air and train travel, or you can pop it in the car boot for a weekend at granny's and summer camping trips too.

Dimensions : 62 x 150 x 20 cm Weight : 1.4 kg

Dooky Portable Pop-Up Travel Cot

Weighing just 1.2kg, this dinky travel bed is one of the lightest portable cribs on the market and ideal for parents on the move.

In the absence of high walls it's best for babies who can't yet sit up, but if you need a foldable bed to put your little one down for a nap almost anywhere, this is a great lightweight option.

Bugaboo Stardust

Best known for premium prams, Bugaboo's travel cot offering has the same quality we've come to expect from the brand. (If you're not familiar, we love the Bugaboo Bee pushchair!)

Featuring a bassinet for little ones up to 9kg and a portable carry case, this travel cot is sleek, stylish and incredibly easy to assemble.

Stokke CloudSleeper Inflatable Kids’ Bed

It's not often we get overexcited about a blow-up mattress for kids here at WH , but this clever travel bed from Norwegian baby brand Stokke has raised the bar.

It inflates easily in 60 seconds using an integrated pump, the cosy mesh cover means it just doesn't feel like a normal camping mattress, and when fully inflated it is genuinely comfortable. We also like the full-length side bumpers for keeping wriggly kids in place.

What's more, the double-layered zipper packing cube means it folds up small enough to pop into your hand luggage while you're travelling. Our only complaint is that they don't make this brilliant bed in adult sizes too!

Nuna Sena Travel Cot

At 14.95kg this travel cot from Dutch baby brand Nuna is at the heavier end of the portable scale. But our panel of mum testers were impressed with the handy centralised pulley system that can be assembled in seconds with no tools required, plus it’s raised off the ground to increase airflow and keep your baby cool throughout the night. It also folds up small enough to store away easily in a cupboard and most importantly, the padded mattress was cosy enough to get the little one's vote.

Pop this cute super-cute SnüzCloud Sleep Aid in your shopping trolley too and boost everyone's chances of a good night's kip.

Dimensions : 74 x 107 x 73 cm Folded size : 85 x 36 x 34 cm Weight : 14.95kg

Cuggl Grey Travel Cot

We bought this to take our three month old baby camping last summer and we've used it religiously ever since. At 9kg it's slightly bulky, but if you're flinging it in the back of the car for a weekend away it does the trick. Admittedly the sleeping base is a bit hard so we have since added this cot mattress , but if you're looking for a sturdy and cost-effective portable crib, I can't recommend this enough.

Dimensions : 74 x 100 x 74cm Folded size : 75 x 21 x 21cm Weight : 9kg

Bloomsbury Mill All-In-One Nap Mat

This all-in-one day bed with a built-in mat, pillow and blanket is great for sleepovers, camping trips or just to cosy up at home. At 1.1kg it's light enough to throw into your handbag, while the soft animal print fabric make it comfy enough to convince your tired tot they need a daytime nap . My toddler gave it the thumbs up for watching cartoons on the living room floor too.

Dimensions : 50 x 135cm Folded size : ‎47 x 23 x 21cm Weight : 1.1kg

DERYAN Air Traveller - Airplane Bed

This isn't a traditional travel cot, but frequent flyers will love this dinky inflatable day bed for use on aeroplanes. Designed to keep your baby in a cosy natural sleeping position on your lap, it's small enough to pop into your hand luggage and comes with a zip-up cover to keep wriggly tots secure.

We can't promise it will make your little one sleep for an entire long haul flight, but anything that minimises disruption (and side-eye from fellow grumpy passengers) gets our vote.

Dimensions : ‎75 x 45 x 6 cm Weight : 500g

Rhalou is a senior digital editor specialising in health and wellness with over fifteen years’ online and print publishing experience.   

Rhalou has worked for various health platforms including Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Runner’s World, Netdoctor, Women’s Running, Men’s Running, The Running Bug and Women’s Fitness.   

Covering everything from sexual health to fitness, parenting, marathon running and self-care, Rhalou loves creating fun and accessible lifestyle content and feels strongly about demystifying complex medical jargon and empowering people to better understand their health.   

Previously, Rhalou was a freelance social media specialist for several major sporting events and race listings including The London Marathon, Breca Swimrun, Findarace, The Westminster Mile and Prudential Ride 100. She has also been a reporter on a local newspaper in remote Scotland, penning breaking news stories about killer otters, cats stuck up trees and the Scottish hill racing scene.    

Over the years, Rhalou has been lucky enough to run 15 marathons and even a few ultra-marathons. She is still a passionate runner, but these days she can mostly be found at her local parkrun or chasing after her young son.  

 Jessica is a freelance shopping writer specialising in fashion, beauty, and interiors. Jessica was previously a shopping writer at BuzzFeed and has also had work published on Huffington Post, More!, and Reveal. Her most recent role was as a senior e-commerce writer for Women's Health UK covering everything baby and parenting. Jessica is also a fashion content creator under the name Lifebyjess_x .Jessica has an eye for trending products and scouring the internet for great deals, covering everything from practical home buys to the latest fashion finds. She loves checking out TikTok and Instagram for the latest must-haves, as well as cutting through the noise to share the best new launches and sale finds.When not working, Jessica is passionate about finding the best places for a Sunday roast and cuddling her rather spoilt miniature dachshund, Waffle! 

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• First Year Products

The best travel cot for babies and toddlers for comfort on the go

Venture Airpod Travel Cot

Graco FoldLite

Joie Kubbie Travel Cot

Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Graco Contour Electra

Ergo Pouch Easy Sleep Portable crib

Tutti Bambino CoZee Go

Silver Cross slumber travel cot

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

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

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

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

The best travel cots at a glance:

Best travel cot overall, best travel cot for compact fold, best compact travel cot, best budget travel cot.

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

How we tested and chose these travel cots

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel cot 2024

1. Venture Airpod Travel Cot

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

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

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

Read our full Venture UK Airpod Travel Cot review .

• Mesh sides provide ventilation and make it easy to check little one
• Lightweight and compact, less bulky than others
• A comfortable mattress for baby
• Unfortunately, there's no raised bassinet
• Lightweight aluminium frame – Just 6kg
• Compact design when folded
• Strong storage bag 
• All round mesh sides
• High-quality, thick mattress
• Suitable from birth to 36 months
• Proudly Designed here in the UK, tested to all British and European Safety Standards BS EN 716-1:2017, all fabrics treated with Fire retardant.

2. Graco FoldLite

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Graco FoldLite review .

• Two ways to fold, including an extra compact fold when space is limited
• A light weight cot makes it really portable
• The carry bag is very convenient for travel
• Assembly not totally straightforward as one tester had trouble when dismantling the product fully
• Tricky to fit in the travel bag with the mattress
• Two ways to fold for home and easy travel
• Carry bag included
• Fast pop-up assembly
• Super lightweight
• The cot has two wheels for easy manoeuvrability
• Mattress included

3. Joie Kubbie Travel Cot

If you're looking for a travel cot that's a doddle to set up and folds away in seconds, this is it – no more grappling with unwieldy parts when you arrive at your destination with a tired baby. We love the clever design, which gives a seamless experience on the go. One reviewer, said, "lovely travel cot good size but not too big should last a while as you can move the mattress to the bottom, but can be used for storage first." While another added, "it was easy to assemble and perfect for what we need, compact style so will be really useful for travelling which is what we wanted! Love that it has the raised option for a more "next to me" style."

It is a sturdy and compact travel cot, ideal for travel, however, some parents thought it was smaller than expected. We love the carry cot to make it easier on your back and reviewers agreed. One mum said, "initially bought it as an alternative to the next to me crib and travelling. It has worked great for both, we love that we could lower the side to easily watch the baby from bed during the night. It's easy to put up and take down, and packing it up for travelling." She added, "as the baby gets a bit bigger we also use the crib as a playpen when travelling." However, while it is compact, reviewers did find it heavy with one reviewer commenting, "it's a little bit heavy to carry for a small person." Another reviewer was disappointed there were no handles on the case to make carrying it easier. That said, it is easy to move from room to room with one reviewer saying, "the wheels and breaks made it easy to move from room to room."

• Includes carrycot insert and mattress
• Wheels and brakes to make it portable
• Compact for travel and easy to assemble
• Heavy despite being compact
• Easy to assemble
• Includes carry cot and mattress
• Suitable from birth
• Wheels to make moving it easier

John Lewis & Partners

4. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

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

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

Read our full Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot review.

• Can be used for nappy changing with the removable changer and bassinet
• Four airy mesh sides provide all-round ventilation and baby viewing
• Lightweight aluminium legs make it easy to fold the cot down in seconds
• The wheels mean you can easily move the cot from room to room
• The design of this cot means it's quite low to the ground
• Removable changer and bassinet
• Very lightweight - at just 6kg
• 4 mesh sides
• Compact size after folded
• Thick padded mattress included – size L104, W60cm
• Stylish lightweight aluminium legs
• Carrying bag included
• Suitable from birth to 3 years
• 1-year guarantee

5. Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Best lightweight travel cot.

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

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

Read our full BabyBjörn Light Travel Cot review .

• Can be assembled in one simple movement
• The mattress cover and cot fabric are easy to remove and are machine washable
• It's lightweight but a built-in base means it is sturdy
• Reviewers found it hard to dry
• Machine washable at 40°C
• Made from organic cotton
• Fitted sheet included

6. Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

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

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

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

• Fast transitions from changing unit, to cot to bouncing seat
• Includes sounds and lights to entertain or soothe your baby
• Quick assembly and folding with a simple push button
• Folds away compactly in a carry bag for convenient storage
• The elevated base helps combat draughts
• With so many features, this cot is quite heavy
• The extra accessories aren't suitable for older babies
• 3-in-1 portable changer and snoozing seat that can be used on or off the cot
• Full-size bassinet that clips quickly snaps on and off included for naptime options
• One quick click – changing unit, snoozing, or bouncing seat
• One quick click – turn the sound & lights module pop on or off
• SecureClick snoozing seat that doubles as a portable bouncer when used off the cot!
• Set up and fold down in seconds
• Packs away in the included carry bag
• Compact folded package for simple storage in even the smallest spaces
• Includes a full-size removable bassinet
• Ultra secure frame with modern exposed tubing
• 2 integrated wheels
• Mesh lined for ventilation on all four sides with an elevated, draught resistant base
• SecureClick changing unit

7. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Best newborn travel cot.

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

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

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

Read our full Nuna Sena Aire review.

• The cot is easy to set up and hold with one hand
• Cot folds with the upper cot still attached
• The advanced air design™ with mesh sides, allows air flow from every angle
• The cot is very easy to clean because it is machine washable and dryer safe
• The ventilated triple-layered mattress is comfortable for baby
• Doesn't fold very neatly or small
• A bit fiddly to detach the bassinet
• One-handed set up and fold
• Upper cot folds with the frame
• Draft-proof with above-ground base
• Skid-proof feet
• Unique zigzag frame
• Advanced air design™
• Mattress's zip-off design is machine washer and dryer safe
• Ventilated triple-layered mattress with removable panels
• Organic sheet is included
• Padded edges
• Travel bag included with easy carry handle

8. Graco Contour Electra

Best value travel cot.

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

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

Read our full Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot review.

• This is a cot that is designed to grow with your child from newborn to toddler
• There is an integrated changing station for added convenience
• The hanging toy bar provides entertainment for little one
• Includes a night light, music and vibration feature to soothe little one
• Some reviewers struggled to assemble it
• Very heavy and quite large for a travel cot
• Removable changing table
• Raised bassinet for newborns
• Removable toy bar with toys 
• Nightlight, music and timer 
• Removable vibration unit
• Sturdy base mattress
• Graco® signature easy-fold
• 2 wheels for easy manoeuvrability 

9. Ergo Pouch Easy Sleep Portable crib

Best back pack travel cot.

For ultimate convenience, this travel crib doubles as a back pack. Suitable from birth until 8 weeks, or when babies start to roll, this makes travelling with a little one really easy. We love the net to protect your baby from mosquitoes too. One reviewer said, " We used this for our son’s first camping trip. He is currently 3 months old and this travel cot was perfect. He actually had the best sleeps he’s had so far ! So easy to pop up and take down. Super slim so can be stored away neatly."

Another reviewer commented, "we love this bassinet! We’ve been using it since we brought our daughter home from the hospital. It’s perfect for safe naps during the day for our little girl. We can easily bring it with us to the park, friends houses etc. In my opinion it’s a better, safer (and cheaper) than a lot of other loungers." However, some reviewers mentioned that it is hard to keep clean.

• Easy to transport as a back pack
• Includes a mosquito net to protect little one
• Convenient for naps on the go, or outdoors
• Only able to use until 8 weeks
• Can be used as a back pack
• Includes mattress
• Extremely lightweight
• Includes mosquito net
• Ideal for outdoor naps on the go

10. Tutti Bambino CoZee Go

Best travel cot with a playpen.

Ideal for use on the go and at home, this 3-in-1 playpen is perfect for sleeping and playing. It can be used as a bassinet, a playpen and a travel cot. We also love that it is extremely lightweight so ideal for travel, plus it can be assembled in seconds. One reviewer said, "it's light enough so I can travel with it on a train, but wish it was a bit lighter. Design isn't as ugly as others. Overall really happy with it."

Reviewers like the zip design which makes it easier to put baby inside the cot if they fall asleep outside of it. One reviewer commented, "the standout feature for me is the zip side. So much easier to put baby down if she falls asleep outside of the cot, and to pick her up too."

It is convenient to use at home, and away with one reviewer saying, "I have been using this crib for my 12 week old when staying with grandparents and it’s brilliant. It’s easy and quick to put up and down and stores flat for putting in the car. Most importantly my baby is really cosy and comfy using the newborn bassinet part for naps and night time sleep. I wish I had just bought this instead of the next to me crib for our house as I don’t keep the side down anyway." However, some reviewers were frustrated by the velcro at the sides, commenting, the "only downside is that you can’t out a cot sheet around the mattress due to Velcro strips that secure it and it doesn’t fold down compactly."

• This crib is easy to assemble in seconds
• Can be used as a playpen or cot
• Extremely compact and lightweight for storing or travelling
• Difficult to fit a sheet on the mattress
• Easy to assemble crib 
• Suitable for use as a playpen, crib and travel cot
• Zip side for convenience

11. Silver Cross slumber travel cot

Best long-lasting travel cot.

www.johnlewis.com

This travel cot represents good value for money, especially because it can be used from birth up to approximately three years of age. It's also very sturdy, which means it doubles up as a playpen for smaller babies.Reviewer Will said, "surprisingly sturdy. This travel cot folds away really nicely, it doesn't take a lot of time to set up either which is a bonus. Really grateful for the design on this one, from the zip at the side to the easy fold away touch points."

We love that the fabric is made with recycled plastic bottles making it more sustainable but still stylish. It is also extremely practical with an integrated newborn insert, ideal for having little one close to you. One reviewer said, "as soon as we assembled this cot we loved it. Sturdy, easy to put up and incredibly stylish and lightweight. The newborn insert is perfectly snug for little ones and it can be gently rocked which is a bonus. Took it abroad on a family holiday and it was easy to travel with, only 7kg."

Another reviewer was impressed by how comfortable it is, commenting, "Mattress feels thicker than usual travel cots. My little one slept really well on it and it was perfect for him to play in whilst we unpacked." However, while it is easy to travel with, there are no wheels for easily moving it from room to room when assembled.

• There is plenty of space for baby to stretch out and grow
• Includes newborn insert
• Mesh sides allow great air flow and you can see baby
• Comfortable, thick mattress
• Tricky to move once assembled.
• Full cot size (60cm x 120cm)
• Versatile – can be used as a playpen
• Travel bag included
• Newborn insert included

12. Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Best simple travel cot.

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

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

• The cot has a central locking base for extra safety
• It's easy to fold and store in the storage bag
• The see-through mesh sides allow airflow and let you see baby easily
• The instructions are printed on the underside of the mattress, so you won't lose them.
• Mattress is very thin
• No waterproof sheet included for the mattress
• Fully safety tested
• Includes carry bag
• Padded top rails
• Padded mattress secured with straps
• Central locking base
• Large mesh panels

13. Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Best 4 in 1 travel cot.

Rrp: £ 139.99

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

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

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

Read our full Kinderkraft SOFI review.

• The cot doubles as a playpen too
• The cot can be used with or without the rocking function
• The mattress can be used at two different levels
• Attractive design for your home
• Slightly narrower than standard travel cots
• Bit fiddly to fit the sheets
• 4-in-1 – cot, travel cot, playpen and cradle.
• Rocking function
• Easy to store
• Mattress can be set at two different heights
• Lightweight
• Simple to fold

Travel cots – All you need to know:

Choosing the right travel cot for you and your child.

While we know that travel cots are primarily used for sleeping while away from home, there are other uses for them which makes choosing one an important decision to ensure it is suitable for everything you need. Some things to consider include:

How long do you plan to use it for: Different travel cots have different age ranges and some might be suitable from newborn up until 6 months or even just 3 months, while others will last much longer, up until 3 years, and you may not need another travel cot. However, the larger the travel cot then the heavier it might be, and it also might not be as compact. Typically a travel cot should last from newborn until 18 months, but there will be some suitable beyond this.

Do you need it for more than sleep: Travel cots are brilliant for visiting family or friends or when on holiday to help little one sleep comfortably. However, they are also useful for doubling up as playpens , or even changing units. If you are visiting a house, or staying somewhere which hasn't got any baby proofing products then your travel cot can double up as a playpen. This type of travel cot has added value as you can get more use out of it than a standard travel cot but check the manufacturer's guidelines before you buy to ensure it's safe to use as a playpen. Also, some travel cots have changing mat attachments which can clip on the top and make changing nappies when away much easier because you will have a portable changing table .

How much room does it take up when folded: Think about where and when you'll use a travel cot. If you are throwing it in the car boot when you're going to Granny's, check how bulky it is when folded and make sure it fits along with your pushchair and still leaves enough room for your luggage. If you're buying for your holiday and you'll be travelling to your destination by plane, boat or other public transport, choose one that folds very compactly to make it easier to pack, and ensure it has a travel bag too. Once your holiday is over don't forget you'll need to store it at home, so consider how easy it is to store when it's not in use.

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

Portability: Think about whether or not you will need to carry the travel cot, either through an airport, or to a friend's house. It might be that you will want to move it from room to room too. Check the travel cot has a travel bag which will make it easy to carry, especially if it has as shoulder strap or strong carrying handles. Also consider if it has wheels which will make moving the travel cot from room to room much simpler.

Features to consider before purchasing a travel cot

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

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

Fold mechanism

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

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

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

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

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

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

What age are travel cots advised for?

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

Can I travel on a plane with a travel cot?

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

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

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

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

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

How to assemble a travel cot

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

Where can I buy a travel cot?

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

Mamas & Papas

Can I buy a travel cot second-hand?

If you're looking to buy a second-hand travel cot, there are a few things to check before you make your purchase to ensure comfort and safety for your little one.

•Firstly, all travel cots should comply with British Standards Institution (BSI) safety standard BS EN 716:1 2008. Make sure you can see this number on your travel cot. If you can't, then it is best not to buy it.

• Check that it assembles and folds down correctly. Perhaps even ask the seller for a demo to check that it is easy to fold and unfold. Overtime the lock mechanism can wear and become tricky.

• Make sure it's sturdy and inspect the frame, which will likely be metal, for any sharp edges.

• Make sure the seller provides you with the original instruction booklet, but also check the base of the cot because some brands print the instructions there.

•It's also worth purchasing a new mattress for the travel cot. However, if the second hand cot does come with a mattress then check it over and ensure it is waterproof.

How to clean your travel cot

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

Make sure to leave it out in the fresh air and sunlight to dry. Another tip when purchasing a travel cot is to choose dark colours which will get less stained than a light grey or beige, especially with all that travelling, a dark colour will hide scuff marks and general wear.

Travel cot safety

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

Some other safety features to consider include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe sleeping in a travel cot

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

Here's what The Lullaby Trust have to say:

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

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

About the expert

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

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

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

• Baby & kids

Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers

• Catherine Hufton
• Chris Martin

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

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

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

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

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

READ NEXT: The best prams to buy

Best travel cot: At a glance

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

How to choose the best travel cot for your child

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

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

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

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

Can a travel cot double as a playpen?

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

READ NEXT:  The best baby cot to buy

What else do I need to consider?

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

How we test travel cots

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

READ NEXT: The best baby toys to buy

The best travel cots you can buy in 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check price at Boots

2. Silver Cross Slumber: Best lightweight travel cot

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

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

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

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

Check price at Silver Cross

3. Tutti Bambini CoZee: Best travel cot for style

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. BabyBjörn Travel Cot: Best luxury travel cot

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

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

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

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

Check price at BabyBjörn

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

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

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

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

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

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Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot (Grey)

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• Suitable from birth
• Easy and fast to assemble
• Padded mattress for a comfy nights sleep
• Full padded top rails
• Carry bag for easy travel

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Product description.

Description specifications whats included the sleep tight travel cot has been designed to be super simple to assemble and take down making it the perfect choice for holidays, visiting friends and family or for your own home. the cot is easy to fold away and store and has padded top rails to ensure your child is protected from any sharp/hard materials, and as an added benefit; the side panels are see-through mesh, giving you an easy view of the child. easy to collapse and fold away – making the red kite sleep tight cot easy to store and transport fully padded top rails – to help keep your little one safe within the sleep tight cot easy view mesh – helping you keep a close eye on your child suitable from birth – great for letting them play around in a safe environment mattress included – for added comfort for your child free carry bag – fold it and pack it; take it with you – simple and easy! suitable for babies from birth up to a maximum of 15kg in weight and who are unable to climb out. cleaning fabric covers, trims and the carry bag may be sponge clean with a mild detergent and warm water. dry in the open position in a ventilated area and out of direct sunlight. the covering fabric is not removable. metal parts metal parts can be cleaned with a damp cloth then wiped dry plastic parts clean plastic parts with a mild soap and water solution. the red kite sleep tight cot is ideal for anyone looking to buy a quality cot at an affordable price. Box Contains 1 x Travel Cot

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Review of Award Winning Red Kite Travel Cot

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8 Best Travel Cots for Babies and Toddlers

We independently research our recommended products. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our links .

When you’re travelling overnight with a toddler, a good travel cot is your best friend.

We all know the chaos that’s caused when your little one refuses to sleep or doesn’t get their normal number of hours.

Some sleep disruption should be expected when you’re sleeping somewhere new (for both you and your child!) but you can minimise this by providing them with a comfortable, safe and familiar place to sleep — i.e. the best travel cot.

As with all things baby related, there are a huge number of travel cots on the market and it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your circumstances.

We’ve compiled this guide to the best travel cots – including all the things you need to consider before buying, as well as the best products on the market right now.

Let’s get into it…

Graco Compact Travel Cot

Extra features, how much to spend on a toddler travel cot, what are the best travel cots, venture airpod.

The Venture Airpod has long been one of our number one picks for the best travel cot for toddlers.

It’s a dead ringer for the (much more expensive) BabyBjörn cot, feels sturdy and is really easy to assemble — an absolutely essential quality when you’re travelling with little ones. It folds down very compactly so is a good pick if you’re low on space or on public transport. It’s suitable for kids up to 36 months so should serve you well for a long time.

Why We Chose It

• Nicely lightweight, compact and portable
• Looks very similar to the BabyBjörn, at a fraction of the price!
• Comes with a quality mattress and strong carry bag
• Easy to assemble and take down
• Feels sturdy and high quality
• Excellent price
• Stylish design (designed in the UK!)

Potential Cons to Consider

• If we’re being super picky, the fact that the cover isn’t machine washable

Maxi-Cosi Iris

Maxi-Cosi is a prestige brand when it comes to baby and child equipment, and this travel cot really lives up to their reputation.

Is it expensive? Yes, but it’s worth the cost if your budget allows. It’s very lightweight, comes with a high quality mattress and has the brilliant feature of offering two different height-adjustable levels — a bassinet level for newborns and young babies, and the full depth for older kids up to age 3. It’s easy to take up and down and even comes with a stylish travel bag for maximum portability.

• Contains two height-adjustable levels — a top one for newborns and a lower one for toddlers (great for recent c-section mums who can’t bend down too far!)
• Really lightweight and portable
• Very easy to set up and take down
• High quality mattress included
• Comes with a carry bag for extra portability
• Feels very sturdy and durable despite light weight
• Stylish design

Potential Con to Consideer

• A little expensive (although worth the investment if your budget allows)

Micralite Sleep and Go

The Micralite is another much-loved toddler travel cot that offers a lot in the way of features (although does come with a higher price tag).

Like the Maxi-Cosi, it has the two different height levels and comes with a good mattress and a travel bag. One of the things we really like about it is that it can be transformed into a playpen for toddlers and even has padded sides so they won’t get hurt if they’re bouncing around! It’s not quite as lightweight as some of the others on this list but still folds down to a compact size.

• Two different height levels for newborns and toddlers
• Transforms into a playpen with a zipped side panel
• Heavily padded frame to protect overzealous toddlers!
• Easy to set up and take down
• Folds down reasonably compactly to fit in a car boot
• Comes with a quality mattress
• With newborn insert, can be used as a side sleeping crib
• Comes with a travel bag for portability
• Sturdy and durable
• Not super lightweight or compact

Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot

The Red Kite Sleep Tight is one of our favourite budget travel cots.

It’s easy to assemble, folds down neatly and feels very sturdy to touch. It also comes with its own travel bag for transportation. At just over 7kg, it’s not the most lightweight cot and the included mattress isn’t of the best quality in our opinion — we’d definitely recommend buying another one if you can as fussy sleepers may not find it the most comfortable sleeping position.

• Great budget price
• Easy to assemble and fold up
• Comes with a mattress and carry bag
• Reasonably compact when folded down
• Large mesh ‘windows’ allowing you and your child a good view!
• Feels very sturdy and stable
• The included mattress doesn’t seem comfortable – we’d recommend investing in another one if you can
• Not particularly lightweight

Nuna SENA Aire

Nuna have made a name for themselves as a really high quality baby brand and the SENA Aire travel cot very much lives up to the hype.

You can take it up and down with just one hand, which is absolutely invaluable for parents and carers dealing with toddlers! It’s got dual height levels, comes with a quality mattress and boasts very good air flow — this definitely feels like one of the best travel cots you can buy right now. But on the flipside, it’s very expensive and really quite heavy at almost 10kg.

• Super easy to set up and take down — with just one hand!
• Quality mattress included
• Very sturdy and durable
• Excellent air flow and ventilation
• 2 height levels for newborns and toddlers
• Feels spacious
• A lot heavier than the other cots on this list
• Quite expensive

Hauck Dream’n Play

One of the most popular and budget friendly toddler travel cots is this Dream’n Play from Hauck.

It feels very similar to the slightly cheaper Red Kite — easy to assemble, feels sturdy and folds up somewhat compactly. Much like the Red Kite, we’d recommend investing in another mattress as the one that’s included doesn’t feel particularly comfortable.

• Comes with a folding mattress and carry bag
• Reasonably compact – will be fine if you’re transporting it in your car
• Large mesh ‘windows’ give you a good view of your child and allow them to see out
• Feels durable and sturdy
• A few different colour options
• It’s worth investing in another cot mattress as the one included doesn’t feel comfortable
• Not the most lightweight option available

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

BabyBjörn is probably the best known brand when it comes to travel cots and, for many parents, remains the best on the market thanks to its prestigious reputation.

Lightweight, stable and durable with a quality mattress, this is definitely one of the highest quality toddler travel cots we tried. It also looks really good so is definitely a good choice if you’re conscious of the aesthetics! It’s not perfect though — alongside being expensive, we found it could potentially be a little draughty in certain conditions as it mounts directly onto the floor.

• Really easy to set up and take down (no loose parts)
• Lightweight so highly portable
• Comfortable and safe mattress included
• Soft sheet also included
• Some airlines will accept it as a carry-on in the included carry case
• Highly durable — even with mischievous toddlers!
• Feels very stable despite the lightweight
• Mattress cover can be machine washed
• No weight limit – suitable until your toddler is able to climb out (around 3 years)
• It’s expensive
• It mounts directly onto the floor so please consider suitable sleepwear for your toddler according to the floor temperature
• The sides are high — great for keeping your toddler in but parents on the shorter side/mums still recovering from a c-section should bear in mind it’s a long way to bend down!

The Graco travel cot is another good low-budget choice that would also work as a playpen due to its spacious feel and transparent mesh sides.

It has a push-button fold that makes it easy to put up and bring down and feels very sturdy and stable on the ground. Although it folds down well, it is on the heavier side at almost 9 kg and the included carry bag doesn’t have a handle for some reason, which makes it a little hard to lug around. The mattress has a folding mechanism which, while great for space efficiency, isn’t the most comfortable.

• Excellent low price
• Easy push-button fold to assemble and fold down
• Very sturdy and stable
• Feels spacious and would work as a playpen
• Folds down reasonably compactly in a car boot
• Large mesh ‘windows’ provide great views for you and your child!
• Heavy compared to most of the other cots on the list
• Unfortunately there’s no handle on the carry bag which makes it an awkward carry
• The included folding mattress is a little uncomfortable – we’d recommend getting another one if your budget allows

How to Choose

Do you actually need a toddler travel cot.

As you can see, toddler travel cots vary hugely in price but some of them can be a real investment, depending on your budget.

If you’ve had a quick glance at Amazon and furrowed your brow at some of the prices, you might be thinking, ‘ Do I even need one?’

The answer could well be ‘no’.

Travel cots are mostly used for, well, travelling.

But most mid-range and above hotels and holiday rentals already come equipped with a cot for your little one, so if you’re only intending to use it for holiday travel then it might be worth checking if the types of places your family usually stays at already has one available. Chances are, they do.

But if you often stay over in people’s homes or if Granny and Grandad have the kids to stay occasionally, then a travel cot will most definitely come in handy.

Where a mattress on the floor might provide a simple place to sleep for your toddler when they’re away from their bed, it doesn’t do much else.

A good travel cot, on the other hand, will be safe and inviting for your little one to fall asleep in and will keep them contained.

Very important when they’re staying somewhere new…

They can even function as a playpen — or a little den for your toddler to play by themselves.

What to Look for in a Travel Cot

If you’ve decided that your family will benefit from owning a travel cot, then there are a few things worth considering before you buy.

There are 3 key things that make for the best travel cots:

Weight and Footprint

Ease of use.

The number one thing that most parents are looking for in a travel cot are that it’s lightweight and compact.

The smaller and lighter the cot, the easier it is to carry around and store.

If you wanted a large and heavy cot, you’d just buy a normal cot instead, right?

Exactly how light and compact will depend on your circumstances.

Some people are simply happy with a product that can easily fit in the car boot and isn’t too heavy to carry to the front door. Others want something truly lightweight and compact that can be taken on a plane or carried around easily on the bus. Size is important, especially if you’re carrying a pushchair too !

If weight is really important to you, take a look at the Maxi-Cosi Iris, Venture Airpod and BabyBjörn Light above.

When we say ‘ease of use’, we mean how easy it is to assemble, pop up and then collapse down again.

The easier and quicker the better — especially when you’ve got a wriggling toddler to put down or even a screaming newborn.

And if the travel cot is destined to be at Granny and Grandad’s house, you want one that’s simple enough for them to be able to work out too.

All the cots in our list score highly on the ease of use metric, although the Maxi-Cosi Iris, Graco Compact, BabyBjörn Light and Nuna SENA Aire are leading the pack. The Nuna can even all be done with one hand!

Another major feature to look for in a travel cot is durability — you want it to last well.

The cots on our list are all suitable to be used until around 3 years of age/15 kg/when they decide they want to climb out of it, which is a good lifespan for such a product.

If you decide to go for a super budget version or one that isn’t well made, you might find that the cot doesn’t reach that point and you’ll need to replace it before your toddler has outgrown it.

It can be hard to judge durability when you’re buying online, so look out for reviews that reference how sturdy and stable the cot is, the quality of the brand you’re buying, and just generally how other users have found it.

Less important than the big 3 factors above but still worth noting are what little extras are provided with your travel cot.

Generally speaking, the more you spend, the more features you’ll get.

They might not all be useful for your circumstances, however, so don’t feel like you have to spend a lot if you’d be satisfied with less.

• A bassinet insert/height adjustability depending on your child’s size and age
• Good ventilation and airflow
• Machine washable covers
• A great mattress
• A handy travel bag

How much to spend on a travel cot will entirely depend on your family’s circumstances — budget, what you’re looking for in a cot, and just generally how much you want to spend.

There’s no right answer here.

A good starting point for determining your budget is to decide how much you’re likely to use a travel cot and what you need from it.

If you’re planning on your toddler using it multiple times per month at your parents’ house, for instance, you’ll probably want to invest in something that you know your kid will love and your parents will be able to use easily.

But if you’re buying a cot for only occasional or sporadic use, you probably don’t want to spend a lot — maybe the Red Kite or Graco Compact will be a better fit at well under £50.

As we mentioned earlier, the more you spend, the more you can usually expect in terms of features. Similarly, the big luxury brands (BabyBjörn and Nuna) are inevitably more expensive than the midmarket ones on the list.

Regardless of how much you have and want to spend, however, we’re certain you’ll be satisfied with the travel cots on our list.

Let us know which ones are your favourites!

Head over to our  advice section  for more tips on travelling with a toddler!

AUTHOR PROFILE

Stephanie Osborn

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The Best Travel Cots (Reviewed by UK Parents) In 2023

• January 19, 2023

Table of Contents

Comparison table.

Maxi-Cosi Iris

• Has a comfortable foam mattress
• Comes with a travel bag
• Lightweight travel cot (6kg)

Graco Compact Travel Cot

• One of the best budget travel cots
• Cost is significantly lower
• Has a secure hold

Buy this product if want to make sure your travel cot can be used as your baby grows and changes.

• Has a comfortable foam mattress for a better night’s sleep.
• Comes with a travel bag for easier transportation
• This lightweight (6kg) travel cot is easy to carry and it folds to a compact size
• Not suitable for children over three years of age

Check out the last deal for this product

Buy this product if you are looking for a quality product, that is easy to assemble, but has a lower cost attached.

• The easy-view mesh means you can see your child when they are sleeping.
• This is one of the best budget travel cots. The cost is significantly lower than other cots.
• The travel bag has a useful handle and strap fastenings for a secure hold.
• A mattress is not included with this travel cot

Red Kite Sleep Tight

Buy this product if you are looking for an award-winning travel cot for a very reasonable cost.

• Great value for money
• High-quality cot for a reasonable cost
• Has easy-view mesh sides
• This travel cot is great value for money. You get an award-winning, high-quality cot for a reasonable cost.
• The top of the cot has padded edges and top rails to keep little hands safe.
• The easy-view mesh sides are great for easily checking on your little ones as they sleep.
• The fabric of the cot is not removable and is not machine washable

Hauck Disney Dream n Play

Buy this product if you are looking for a cot that doubles as a playpen.

• Suitable up to 15kg
• Mickey Mouse Design
• Only weighs 7kg

This travel cot is great for Disney fans! Mickey is printed onto the side of the cot making for a nice-looking design.

The sides of the cot are made from mesh and measure 128 x 69cm and 76cm high.

When you fold this travel cot up and put it in the travel bag that’s included, its measures 22 x 21 x 76cm.

It’s nice and quick to set up and pack away and you can use it up until your baby is 15kg.

There is an included mattress that comes with the cot but a different one is recommended.

• Not suitable for babies above 6 months of age

Babylo Natura Folding Travel Cot

Buy this product if you are looking for style and substance with the added bonus of a rocking feature.

• Comfortable mattress included
• Floor base pedals
• Folds away quickly and easily
• A comfortable and supportive mattress is included.
• Floor base pedals allow parents to utilise the rocking feature or they can set it to immobile

Hauck Travel Cot

Buy this product if you are looking for travel cots for babies that will grow with them

• Six-part travel cot
• Changing mat is detachable
• Has mesh sides
• The changing mat is detachable and can simply be clicked into place
• Mesh sides allow increased visibility and ventilation
• It can be difficult to assemble and put down and may require extra strength

The Best Travel Cots buying guide and FAQ

What is the best cot to buy.

Choosing the best travel cot from so many fantastic options was difficult. We considered several factors to help us make our decision, including the design, the ease of transport and assembly, and the mattress. The clear winner for us was the Maxi-Cosi Iris 2-in-1 Compact Travel Cot.

Not only is this one of the best travel cots for babies it can also be adapted as your child grows. The cot is simple to use and folds compactly into a useful traveling bag. It is also super lightweight – a huge bonus for parents traveling with multiple bags and suitcases.

The elegant colours and wooden frame make this cot stylish and luxurious.

One of the stand-out features of this travel cot is the mattress. At 4cm thick, it is comfortable and will make your child feel like they are sleeping in their bassinet at home.

What Makes the Best Portable Cot?

Deciding what makes the best travel cot depends on what is important to you. Different families have different uses and needs for their cot so what is important to one family may be less important to another.

Portables cots are used more frequently by some families than others. Some families use them in the same location every time, whereas others use them only for travel purposes. Below are some of the most popular things people look for when choosing a portable cot.

Pack down Speed:

If you plan to use your portable cot when traveling or when your child visits family, a cot that is easy to take down and quick to pack away may be the best option for you. Many travel cots come with an easy-fold design that enables the cot to be packed away in seconds.

If your baby is going to be using the cot frequently and sleeping in there overnight, comfort is likely to be one of your top priorities. Many of the best travel cots come with a mattress for a more comfortable sleep. Some do not have a mattress but instead have a padded base. Although these can also be comfortable, you need to decide what you prefer for your baby.

Can it be used as a playpen?:

A travel cot that doubles as a playpen is preferable for many parents. The opportunity to use the cot for sleeping and play can make life much easier for parents who are traveling. A cot that can be used as a playpen should be larger than average and have a soft and comfortable base. Some of the more popular options will also come with additional features such as a zip-down side and toy basket.

There are several things to consider in regards to material. Firstly, you want to make sure the material is designed to be kind to your baby’s skin and contains no hazardous materials or chemicals. You may also want to consider whether the material is machine washable or wipe clean.

The weight of travel cots can vary greatly. The weight should be stated in the product description so always consult this beforehand. Generally, the weight of a travel cot will be between 6kg-8kg.

Things to consider when buying a travel cot

Portability:.

If you plan to travel on public transport or by aeroplane, you may want to make sure that your travel cot is portable. Many cots are small enough and light enough to carry easily and these are the best option for many parents.

It is also possible to purchase travel cots that come with a bag that has a shoulder strap or carrying handle for increased portability.

You may also want to consider a travel cot that is easy to move around once it is assembled. You can consider having wheels underneath the travel cot. Lightweight cots with wheels are easy to move from room to room, meaning you don’t have to take it down and reassemble it every time you want to use it.

How to Clean:

Choosing a travel cot that is easy to clean can be a lifesaver for many parents. We all know how messy children can be! Look for a cot that has a removable frame cover and a removable mattress cover for the easiest clean.

Additional Features:

There are several additional features to consider when buying a travel cot. These include a changing table, a nightlight, a rocking feature, a detachable side for co-sleeping, a side that zips down, a toy basket, or hanging toys – there are so many features to consider! Think about what is important to you and your baby and which of the features you are most likely to use.

Are Travel Cots Worth it?

Deciding whether a travel cot is worth it really depends on your lifestyle and how much you are likely to use it. Many parents find them worthwhile because, not only can they be used as a bassinet, many of them can also double up as a playpen.

Some travel cots can be pricy, and although they are more likely to be made from luxurious materials, have a stylish look and come with additional features, if you are not likely to use the cot often, you could always invest in one of the best budget cots. These are relatively low in price but are still functional for your baby.

What Age Can a Baby Sleep in a Travel Cot?

The answer to this question varies with each travel cot. Some cots are suitable for newborns and have a detachable bassinet that can be taken out as your baby grows. Some are only appropriate from 6 months of age but can last until your child is three or four years of age.

Some are only suitable for a younger baby and cannot be used once your baby has exceeded a particular weight or length. Consult the product description or manual carefully to ensure that the cot is the correct size for your child.

Are Travel Cots Safe?

This is a question we hear often. Let’s face it, the safety of our children is always paramount.

All cots in the U.K. must meet the European Safety Standards. This means a cot cannot be sold to you unless it is fully compliant with safety rules .

However, as with any cot, you should make sure that you are following safe sleeping practices. Use the original mattress that comes with the cot. If you are required to buy the mattress separately, always choose one that is recommended by the manufacturer or fits exactly with the size specifications.

Additionally, ensure you use a fitted sheet and that there is no loose material that can find its way onto your baby’s face.

How to Get Your Baby Used to a Travel Cot

Going on a trip to find that your baby doesn’t like sleeping in their travel cot can be a disaster for many parents. As a matter of fact, it is more likely that your baby is confused by the change in their sleeping arrangements and isn’t used to sleeping in a different bassinet.

To help your baby get used to their travel cot , you should put your baby into the cot to sleep for a few nights before your trip. This gives them a chance to test out the cot and you’re likely to find that they like it just as much as they like their cot at home.

Having a familiar sleeping area that they like being in will also make it much easier for your baby to adapt to their new environment – making the trip much less stressful for you and your child.

The author: Jose Martinez

At www.toddlerreview.com, we take a data-driven approach to our product reviews. Our team of expert reviewers spends hours conducting online research, analyzing product specifications, and comparing products to identify the best options available. We also take into account feedback from other parents and users to ensure that we’re recommending products that are tried and true. Our reviews are based on a combination of objective data and subjective opinions, so you can feel confident that we’re providing you with the most accurate and reliable information possible.

We know that as parents, you want to be sure that you’re making the best choices for your little ones. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. Our team of reviewers conducts extensive online research to identify the top-rated products in each category. We then compare these products based on factors like safety, durability, ease of use, and practicality to determine which ones are the best options for parents. We also take into account feedback from other parents and users to ensure that we’re recommending products that have been tested and approved by real people.

At www.toddlereview.com, we understand that not everyone has the time or resources to conduct hands-on testing with every product they’re considering. That’s why we rely on feedback from other parents and users to inform our reviews. We scour online reviews and ratings to get a sense of how products perform in real-life situations. We also take into account feedback from our own team of reviewers who may have tested the product firsthand. Our testing process is based on a combination of objective data and subjective opinions, so you can feel confident that we’re providing you with the most accurate and reliable information possible.

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Last Updated on January 19, 2023

Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot review

• Jessica Brown

In a nutshell

An award-winning travel cot - it's lightweight, easy to assemble and collapse, and even though you may have to buy a comfier mattress, it's still great value for money.

What we tested

• Easy to assemble and fold away, hassle-free with no instruction booklet, sturdy, great quality mesh and good value for money.
• The mattress is hard and flimsy - you definitely need to buy an additional mattress for it..

Showing item 1 of 6

Key features of the Red Kite Sleeptight travel cot:

• Age suitability: Newborn to 15kg
• Weight : 8.7kg
• Features: easy and fast to assemble, fully padded top rails, easy-view mesh panels
• Accessories: Carry bag and mattress included
• Colours: Black

The Sleeptight Travel Cot from Red Kite is an award-winning travel cot that's suitable from birth and extremely easy to assemble - making it perfect for holidays or visiting friends and family overnight. It can be used as a play-pen for toddlers too. A good quality cot at a very affordable price of £30.

If I was looking for a cheap, easy and hassle-free travel cot for occasional use, I would definitely recommend this to friends, but I would also recommend they buy another mattress, as the one included isn’t very comfortable. Despite this, as one of the cheapest travel cots on the market, The Red Kite is excellent value for money.

I am a mum of two. I have an 11-month-old son, Barnaby, and a 2.5 year old daughter, Alannah. I tested out the product during a family trip to Devon.

10 of the best travel cots

What were your first impressions of the Red Kite Sleeptight travel cot?

I really like the sleek black bag it arrives in. It's lightweight and easy to carry. I also like the fact that the cot is black, which means it won't look dirty along the top edges after sticky little fingers and mouths have been touching it. The Red Kite travel cot is very light and compact.

What was it like to assemble, and how long did it take?

Once you know what you're doing, it's incredibly easy to assemble. In fact, it's so simple there wasn't even an instruction booklet, although there are a few instructions written on the inside of the cot. You simply pull up the shorter side-bars first and click into place. It’s essential you do this before you push the bottom down, otherwise they won’t snap together, which can be quite frustrating. It was equally easy to collapse, although you need to pull the bottom up first.

How many parts does it have?

There are only two parts; the actual cot and removable mattress.

What is the mattress like?

Unfortunately, the mattress is flimsy and too hard - there is very little padding. You will definitely need to buy an additional mattress to make it more comfortable. However, this seems to apply to all makes of this style of travel cot, and is not just specific to this one. I suppose that’s what makes it so portable and easy to pack into a compact bag.

11 of the best baby mattresses

Does it feel comfortable for your little one?

It feels very sturdy and robust, my son loved playing with his toys in it. The padded edges around the top are great too.

What do you think of the mesh side panels?

The white mesh side-panels are great, and very easy to see through when your baby is asleep. The holes are small enough so little fingers can't poke through.

You can buy the Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot at Kiddicare , Amazon , Asda or eBay .

How portable is the Red Kite Sleeptight travel cot?

It packs up very neatly, and fits perfectly into a lightweight carry-bag, great for overnight stays and trips away.

Award-winning travel accessories

What is the weight of the travel cot?

It feels very light – weighing 8.5kg

Would you use it from newborn?

Yes, it's suitable to use for a newborn, although for me personally, I feel it's a bit too big for a very young baby.

How long do you think it will last?

I think it will last until your child is around 3 years old - it says a maximum of 15kg. The cot feels quite sturdy, but I think a boisterous toddler would possibly knock it over if they were jumping up and down and rocking against the side, or if they were big enough to roll over the sides.

How easy is it to clean?

The dark colour makes it very easy to conceal any general dirtiness or wear and tear. However, if needed, the fabric cover can be sponge cleaned with a mild detergent. The fabric is not removable.

How easy is it to fold and get into the carry bag?

Once you have pulled up the handle in the bottom and un-assembled the cot, it is very easy to fold shut and put into the carry-bag. Hassle-free and very quick.

MFM's verdict

In conclusion, I think this is a good, robust travel cot. It fits compactly into any car boot, which is ideal when travelling anywhere with a baby and all the extra things you need to pack. It may be a lot cheaper than some travel cots on the market, but it’s not poor quality. Saying that, I think it would be better with a deeper, more comfortable mattress included, and I'd have been happy to pay a little bit extra for that. It was time-consuming having to go to the shop to purchase an additional mattress to use, and as anyone with kids knows, time is precious!

Read on for more travel cot reviews...

• Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light
• Graco Compact Travel Cot
• Oomo Roomo 2 Travel Cot
• Samsonite Pop-Up Bubble Cot

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The 9 Best Camping Cots of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The best camping cots have trouble-free setups and are noticeably comfortable to sleep on.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Other Gear You May Need
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Ben Anderson

If you’re ready to upgrade your sleeping arrangements while spending time outdoors, consider getting a camping cot to (literally) elevate your sleep. A camping cot is the closest portable thing to a typical bed, so it’s a must-have for campers who don’t feel like roughing it on the ground.

Our team of outdoor enthusiasts tried 21 camping cots to find out which ones are the most comfortable, durable, and easiest to put together for your next camping trip. Our favorite camping cots are exceptionally easy to put together and comfortable to sleep on so you wake up feeling refreshed. We've gathered here our top picks for campers looking to splurge on an ultralightweight option and a double cot for pairs. We even found a cot that is so comfortable, it could easily replace the air mattress you use for house guests. 

Best Overall

Mission mountain a4 camping cot.

Its compact size and low weight makes this a perfect option for backpackers and drive-up campers alike.

The material may feel a bit taut at first, but stretches out as you sleep.

This lightweight cot is incredibly easy to set up and break down, which is perfect after a long day of adventuring. Our favorite part of setting up the cot is the EZ lock leg design: you don't have to stretch springs like other cots — you just press on the handle until the leg locks in place. The instructions are easy to follow, but we didn't even need to use them since the design is so user-friendly.

Since the whole cot weighs just 4.4 pounds, it's also a great option for backpackers, day trippers, and every other style of camper. It fits in most day packs and is light enough that you can carry it for a full day of hiking. At 75 inches long, it's comfortable for even tall campers, but still fits well inside most tents. The cot's main fabric also felt durable and breathable, which is great for warmer weather. It even has a side pocket where you can easily store a cell phone and a flashlight for easy access .

The Details: 75 x 27.5 x 7.8 inches unfolded | 18 x 5 inches folded | 4.4 pounds | 330 pound weight limit

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Ben Anderson

Best Overall, Runner-up

Osage river standard folding camping cot.

The cot is a breeze to set up and is long enough to comfortably fit campers over six feet tall.

It’s a little too big to carry long distances.

From setup to breakdown, the Osage River Standard Folding Camping Cot was a favorite, earning the highest scores in every one of our testing categories over our six-month testing period. We discovered that the cot can easily be assembled by stretching out the canvas fabric over the metal frame that folds out, and it simply folds back down when the time comes. It's super convenient and easy to get in and out of its storage bag and it takes less than a minute to set up and fold up. The cot fits perfectly in its carrying bag and is easy to transport to and from the car. Although it might be a little big to carry far distances, it’s extremely portable for car campgrounds or to use around the house.

We used the cot during a camping trip and were impressed that the size is convenient for both placing in a tent and getting a comfortable night’s sleep. One six-foot tall camper said it was plenty long enough for them to fit comfortably on it. The build and materials of the cot feel exceptionally sturdy and durable, so we’re confident it will last for years to come. And if you weren’t already sold, the affordable price of this cot makes it a no-brainer. 

The Details: 75 x 28 x 18.5 inches unfolded | 40 x 8 x 5 inches folded | 12.45 pounds | 300 pound weight limit

Most Durable

Rei co-op campwell folding cot.

The stretchy, thick materials mold comfortably to your body and are sure to last.

The folded cot weighs just under 20 pounds.

The REI Co-op Campwell Folding Cot is made with high-quality, durable materials that take little effort to set up. Simply expand it from the middle of the cot and the legs fold out automatically. Then secure the legs by tightening the straps. The cot has a wide foot at the base of each leg that swivels to adjust to any uneven ground even when it's inside your tent. We also love that the cot folds up and fits into a carrying pack with a strap to sling it over your shoulder for easy transport (although the cot does weigh just under 20 pounds, so is best for those driving to their campsite).

While it does take up a significant amount of room in your tent , it's high enough off the ground that you can store gear underneath the cot. The cot also does not come with cushioning, but is still quite comfortable to sleep on as the material has a bit of stretch that adjusts to your body. With a plush sleeping bag on top, your camp set up will take on a homey feel.

The Details: 76 x 25 x 18 inches unfolded | 8 x 37 inches folded | 17 pounds | 300 pound weight limit

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kristin Cleveland

Best for Car Camping

Byer of maine easy cot.

The setup instructions are straightforward and it took just seconds to put the cot together. 

The heavy weight makes it impractical for some trips.

Setting up a tent can be no small feat, so for additional ease while car camping , the Byer of Maine Easy Cot is your best option. Out of all the cots we tested, this one had the easiest setup by far, and it only took a matter of seconds to have the bed ready to go. The instructions are easy to follow and they’re printed on the side of the bag to make the setup that much more trouble-free. Keep in mind that the cot itself weighs 21 pounds, which is on the heavier side, so we think it’s best suited for campers who don’t have to carry the cot far (or at all for car camping). This cot was set up in a matter of seconds, making it one of the easiest cots we've ever used. It's definitely bulkier than some backpacking cots, but it didn't take up a ton of room in the back of a car and was easy to stack with other similar-sized gear.

The Details: 78 x 18 x 31 inches unfolded | 21 pounds | 330 pound weight limit

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kate Donovan

Best Splurge

Helinox camp cot.

The cot is extremely lightweight at just 2.13 pounds, and the comfort it provides is unmatched. 

It takes some extra strength to unfold the cot the first few times.

If you have some wiggle room in your camping cot budget, the Helinox Lite Cot is worth the splurge thanks to its ultra-light weight and comfortable design. Helinox is known for its lightweight outdoor gear, and we found that they deliver on expectations with this 2-pound cot. Although the width is on the smaller side at 23.5 inches, we loved that two cots could easily fit in a smaller tent if needed. The cot doesn't weigh much more than backpacking pads and definitely weighs less than some more plush air mattresses . The long thin design of it when it's in its carrying case is ideal for sliding long-ways into a backpacking backpack. The only downside is that it takes some extra strength to unfold the cot the first few times, but after a while, it gets less strenuous to put together. 

The Details: 73 x 23.5 x 5 inches unfolded | 21 x 5 inches folded | 2.13 pounds | 265 pound weight limit

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham

Best Lightweight

Fe active folding camping cot.

It’s noticeably lightweight, and the carrying bag makes it even easier to transport. 

There's a learning curve for setting it up and breaking it down.

We think the lightweight FE Active Folding Camping Cot is ideal for hikers, backpackers, or campers looking for a cot with superior portability. It only weighs 4.6 pounds, and we particularly liked the carrying bag it came with for additional portability. The bag is the perfect fit to carry all of the items for the cot. It is hard to break down the cot, but the portability portion is prime for a hike. The tautness of the canvas makes it slightly tricky to attach it to the base, but after the first few times of putting it together, we found that it gets easier. And even though the canvas is tight around the base, we found the cot very comfortable to sleep on with the perfect balance of stiffness and cushioning. It feels sturdy and didn’t wobble when we sat or slept on it, and we felt confident in its durability.

The Details: 74.5 x 27.5 x 6.5 inches unfolded | 18.8 x 5.9 x 5.1 inches folded | 4.6 pounds | 250 pound weight limit

Best Multi-use

Mountain summit gear horizon cot.

The cot is so comfortable and easy to set up that house guests could sleep on it.

It feels heavy to carry around in the bag.

Whether you’re going on a camping trip or looking to add an extra place to sleep in your guest room, the versatile Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Cot is a solid choice. We found the setup to be simple and quick as it only took a few minutes to get the four-piece set put together. The size of the cot is perfect for a good nights' sleep since it’s not too big or too small. The material is taut and the legs give great stability, even when on uneven ground. There was no sinking when sleeping on the cot for hours. The cot weighs 18 pounds, which was noticeably hefty when we carried it in the bag, so we think it would be best for campsites that are close to the car or to set up in your home. The comfort matched with the simple setup makes this cot the best option for a multi-purpose cot that’s long-lasting. 

The Details: 75 x 27.55 x 14.5 inches unfolded | 18 pounds | 300 pound weight limit

Best Double

Kamp-rite double kwik-cot.

The setup is incredibly intuitive and simple. 

It's too large for small tents, so make sure you're checking your tent capacity before camping with this cot.

For pairs that like to go camping together, the Kamp-rite Double Kwik-cot is a must-have. The two-in-one style cot is impressively easy to put together and take apart thanks to its intuitive design. Because the cot is the size of two put together, you’ll need quite a bit of space to set it up, and since it weighs 33 pounds, you might need two people to carry it. Although it’s a little heavy, it was still portable enough to transport between the car and the tent, but you might not want to go much further with it. We used the cot to camp in a four-person tent and found that the cot was a little too tight to fit comfortably, so we recommend only opting for this cot if you plan to use a six-person tent or larger. Sleep was comfortable and sturdy throughout use thanks to the plastic reinforcements. The materials feel high-quality enough to last even through many camping trips over the years.

The Details: 85 x 55 x 19 inches unfolded | 42 x 11 x 11 inches folded | 33 pounds | 500 pound weight limit

Best for Tall Campers

L.l.bean easy cot.

The frame and canvas material feel exceptionally sturdy and durable, and its the longest cot on this list.

Keep in mind that it's on the larger side if you need to carry it far.

L.L.Bean’s Easy Cot was super easy to set up, requiring the same low effort as unfolding a camping chair or table. When the cot is unfolded, we think there’s plenty of room for one person thanks to the generous 79-inch length. This was one of the biggest camping cots we tested, so even when it’s folded up, it takes up a little more space than we wish, but it still fits nicely in storage closets in an apartment. The canvas material is especially taut and the frame is sturdy, and we got a good night of sleep while laying on it with just a blanket. Although the heftier size and price aren't great for every camper, we still think it’s an excellent option if you have extra storage space for it. 

The Details: 79 x 30 x 17 inches unfolded | 40 x 6 x 7 inches folded | 21 pounds | 330 pound weight limit

Other Camping Cots We Liked

While we tested a variety of great camping cots, there were some designs that didn't feel as high-quality and durable as others, but could still be good choices depending on your needs.

Coleman Pack-away Camping Cot : It was easy to put together, and the size is ideal for a four-person tent, but it wasn’t as comfortable as we hoped it would be. 

Coleman Trailhead II Cot : We found this cot to be very comfortable to sleep on, but it does require two people to set it up and it’s on the heavier side. 

Luno Air Mattress 2.0 : We love that the air mattress comes custom-fit to your car, but we’re worried that it could possibly tear or get a hole over time. The price tag also felt a bit steep for an air mattress.  

Coleman Airbed Cot : Although it takes a bit of time to assemble, the cot is easy to put together and it was extremely comfortable to sleep on. Still, because it comes with a cot and an air mattress, we found it to be a bit cumbersome to carry and transport.

Travel + Leisure / John Somerall

Our expert outdoor gear testers tried 21 different camping cots from popular brands like Coleman, L.L.Bean, and Helinox. Whether we used the camping cots to sleep in a tent, a car, or at home, we evaluated the product based on portability, ease of use, comfort, size, and durability. 

Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham

To test portability, we were tasked with carrying the cot in its case and placing it in a car or rooftop carrier to get a feel for the weight. Our favorite cots for portability were noticeably lightweight and their carrying bags made them even easier to carry the cot around. Next, we took the cots out of the bags and set them up to see how easy (or difficult) it was to put together and break down the camping cots. Since cots can require some extra elbow grease, we paid close attention to the time it took to unfold the cots and how much effort was needed to spread the canvas over the frame. Once the cots were unfolded, we judged the size of the cot, with our top performers being those that are the perfect size for someone to sleep on while not taking up too much space in a tent or room.

Then, we spent at least one 30-minute nap and a full night on each cot to gauge the comfort of the canvas and the sturdiness of the frame. The best cots for our comfort category provided us with enough support and cushioning for a restful night of sleep. The cots that felt the most durable didn’t wobble when we moved around and the canvas felt tough and durable when we spread it over the base of the cot. After completing the tests, we uncovered the price of each cot to judge the fairness of the cost compared to its performance. 

Travel + Leisure / Jennifer May

Other Camping Gear You May Need

To ensure you have a fun and restful night out under the stars, be sure to pack the proper gear. From sleeping bags to camping stoves, we've selected the best camping gear for all users — you just need to add the s'mores.

Spark 30F Sleeping Bag : This sleeping bag (that comes in both regular and long sizing) is versatile enough to be used for three-season camping. It also weighs less than three pounds, so it's a great option for light packers who don't want to sacrifice on comfort.

Nemo Dagger Osmo 2 Person Tent : Whether you're a solo camper or heading out with your best friend, this tent is a high-quality and lightweight option that can withstand even heavy downpours. It comfortably fits two adults and their hiking packs and has doors on both sides for ventilation and convenience.

Solo Stove Lite Gear Kit : This compact and portable camping kitchen comes with everything you need for making coffee, heating dinner, or taking a little time to warm up. The full kit takes up the same amount of space as a large water bottle, so backpackers and weekend campers alike are sure to love this mini, yet powerful, setup.

Tips for Buying a Camping Cot

Consider the size of your space.

It’s important to double-check the dimensions of your cot and the space that it will go in whether that's a tent, car, or room in a home. We found that while one cot might fit in a two- or four-person tent, it might be difficult or impossible to fit another in the same space.

Simple setups and breakdowns are essential

The best cots we tested were notable for being trouble-free to set up since no one wants to wrestle with a camping cot during a weekend enjoying the outdoors . While some cots might have a slight learning curve at first, it’s ideal to have one that can be unfolded and folded up in a matter of minutes to make camping easier. 

Think about the distance the cot will travel

Some cots can be cumbersome to carry far distances due to the weight, so if you like to hike into the campsites or backpack, be sure to pick a cot that doesn’t weigh a lot. If you’re planning on transporting the cot a few feet from the car to a campsite, the weight and size may not be a crucial factor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, a good camping cot should be comfortable enough to sleep on with just a sleeping bag or a blanket — though you may want to add a camping pillow . However, if you want to upgrade your sleeping arrangements, another layer of cushioning like a foam pad or Therm-a-rest can add a little extra comfort . 

While it ultimately depends on your sleeping preferences, a camping cot might be more comfortable to sleep on, especially if you prefer a stiffer bed. An air mattress or a hammock is easier to store, but you run the risk of an air mattress deflating or getting a hole, which can happen when you’re camping or using the mattress often. Plus, you can always add more cushioning to a camping cot, but you can’t make an air mattress tauter. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She spent every summer camping in Oregon with her family growing up and has a keen eye for camping gear, especially for getting a good night of sleep. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best camping cots based on a series of tests completed by our expert outdoor gear testers.

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How Much it Cost to Travel to Saint Petersburg: Detailed Prices

Saint Petersburg is easily Russia’s most popular tourist city, with classic architecture and old world charm that is hard to find in Moscow . The Hermitage Museum itself is an enormous draw and a must-see for art lovers.

Travel Costs to Saint Petersburg

What is the average price of a hotel in saint petersburg.

Hotels come in all price ranges, with the cheaper places often being of lower standards than European travelers are used to. There are now quite a few hostels in Saint Petersburg, and the private rooms in those could be a good call for budget travelers.

Saint Petersburg Hotel Seasons

With such a short period of nice weather each year, it’s no surprise the Saint Petersburg hotels all have their high season running from around May through September. If you come during the cold months you can usually get a great deal, especially at some of the upper-range hotels.

Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices

Recommended hotels, saint petersburg hostels prices, recommended hostels, how much does it cost to visit top attractions in saint petersburg, what’s the average price of food and drink in saint petersburg.

Food and drinks are relatively cheap as long as you focus on local places, especially fast food places, rather than restaurants in hotels and those with English-language menus out front.

Featured articles

What are the costs of transportation in saint petersburg, when to visit saint petersburg, temperature and rainfall, saint petersburg weather advice.

St. Petersburg has milder weather than one might think considering its latitude, but still most people only find it pleasant from May through September, and winters can be downright miserable. Summers do tend to be pleasant, and while it does get humid, the temperatures usually don’t get high enough to make it felt much.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.

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Prices & travel costs in Saint Petersburg

Are restaurants expensive? How much does a coffee cost? How much money should you bring for a few days in Saint Petersburg ? Discover how much it costs to travel to Russia and plan ahead to save money on your trip!

Saint Petersburg is generally a relatively affordable city to travel to, and there are plenty of ways you can save money while you're there too. Booking hotels in advance often means you can get significant discounts and offers; the  public transport network  is decently cheap - plus, the  metro is a museum in itself; free walking tours are a fantastic way to see the city on a budget, and it's possible to find deals at  restaurants to suit all budgets.

Tipping in Russia  is not as widely expected as in other countries of the world. Tip tour guides around 10% of their daily rate, but in taxis, hotels, and restaurants only if the service warrants it.

Check out the currency conversions from the Russian Rouble here .

A few examples

Food and drink.

• Coffee: 65 - ₽ 150 ( US$ 1.70)
• Beer: ₽ 300 ( US$ 3.30)
• Small bottle of water: ₽ 100 ( US$ 1.10)
• Two-course meal in a restaurant: ₽ 1.20 ( US$ 0)
• Fixed-price lunch menu deal: 400 - ₽ 600 ( US$ 6.60)
• Single  metro  ticket: ₽ 60 ( US$ 0.70)
• Taxi from  Pulkovo Airport to the center: from ₽ 1,000 ( US$ 11.10)

Accommodation

• Single bed in a shared dorm room: from ₽ 500 ( US$ 5.50)
• Double room in a budget hotel: from ₽ 1.50 ( US$ 0)
• Well-rated, central hotels: from ₽ 3 ( US$ 0)
• Luxury hotels: from ₽ 10 ( US$ 0.10)

Entrance fees

• Entrance to the  Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood : ₽ 350 ( US$ 3.90)
• Entrance to the Hermitage Museum : ₽ 500 ( US$ 5.50)
• Entrance to  Saint Isaac's Cathedral : ₽ 350 ( US$ 3.90)

Welcome to St. Petersburg!

Welcome to Saint-Petersburg - the Northern capital of Russia, its historical, architectural and cultural centre! It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and is often called "The Northern Venice".

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Travel Budget for Saint Petersburg Visit Saint Petersburg on a Budget or Travel in Style

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• How much does it cost to travel to Saint Petersburg? (Average Daily Cost)
• Saint Petersburg trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Saint Petersburg expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Saint Petersburg?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Saint Petersburg?

You should plan to spend around $66 (₽5,904) per day on your vacation in Saint Petersburg. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $19 (₽1,708) on meals
• $7.56 (₽680) on local transportation
• $74 (₽6,696) on hotels

A one week trip to Saint Petersburg for two people costs, on average, $918 (₽82,656) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 66 ₽ 5,904
• One Week Per person $ 459 ₽ 41,328
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 918 ₽ 82,656
• One Month Per person $ 1,968 ₽ 177,120
• One Week For a couple $ 918 ₽ 82,656
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 1,837 ₽ 165,312
• One Month For a couple $ 3,936 ₽ 354,240

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Saint Petersburg cost?

A one week trip to Saint Petersburg usually costs around $459 (₽41,328) for one person and $918 (₽82,656) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Saint Petersburg on average costs around $918 (₽82,656) for one person and $1,837 (₽165,312) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Saint Petersburg will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Saint Petersburg on average costs around $1,968 (₽177,120) for one person and $3,936 (₽354,240) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Saint Petersburg has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Saint Petersburg is a reasonably affordable place to visit. Located in Russia, which is a reasonably affordable country, visitors will appreciate the relatively low cost of this destination. It falls in the average range in the country for its prices. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint Petersburg is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Novi Sad, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Avignon.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Saint Petersburg Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Saint Petersburg?

The average Saint Petersburg trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Saint Petersburg travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Saint Petersburg

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Saint Petersburg is $37 (₽3,348). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Saint Petersburg is $74 (₽6,696). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 37 ₽ 3,348
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 74 ₽ 6,696

Hotel Prices in Saint Petersburg

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Transportation Budget in Saint Petersburg

The cost of a taxi ride in Saint Petersburg is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $7.56 (₽680) per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint Petersburg.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 7.56 ₽ 680

Flights to Saint Petersburg

Rental cars in saint petersburg, what did other people spend on transportation in saint petersburg.

Typical prices for Transportation in Saint Petersburg are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Saint Petersburg, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Metro Passes ₽ 125

Food Budget in Saint Petersburg

While meal prices in Saint Petersburg can vary, the average cost of food in Saint Petersburg is $19 (₽1,708) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Saint Petersburg should cost around $7.59 (₽683) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Saint Petersburg is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 19 ₽ 1,708

What did other people spend on Food in Saint Petersburg?

Typical prices for Food in Saint Petersburg are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Saint Petersburg, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Lunch for Two ₽ 430

Entertainment Budget in Saint Petersburg

Entertainment and activities in Saint Petersburg typically cost an average of $19 (₽1,692) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 19 ₽ 1,692

Alcohol Budget in Saint Petersburg

The average person spends about $10 (₽904) on alcoholic beverages in Saint Petersburg per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 10 ₽ 904

Water Budget in Saint Petersburg

On average, people spend $0.68 (₽61) on bottled water in Saint Petersburg per day. The public water in Saint Petersburg is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 0.68 ₽ 61

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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