camping travel cot for baby

• First Year Products

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

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

Venture Airpod Travel Cot

When 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 or visiting friends and family on weekends? 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 five 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:

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 cots 2024

1. Graco FoldLite

Best travel cot for compact fold.

www.argos.co.uk

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 had 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

2. Joie Kubbie Travel Cot

Best compact travel cot.

www.johnlewis.com

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. Our mum tester, Clare, said, "I opted for the Joie Kubbie Sleep travel cot because it has a similar ‘next to me’ style of bassinet to her bedroom crib. Sleeping side-by-side with my baby since birth has allowed me to check on and feed her without leaving my bed, so I really liked the idea that I would be able to do that when not at home too."

We love the clever design, which gives a seamless experience on the go. One reviewer said, "Lovely travel cot, a 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." 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! I Love that it has the raised option for a more "next to me" style." Our mum tester added, "The Kubbie is simple but stylish, has a removal bassinet and mattress, and it can double up as a playpen. Eva is too young to use the cot as a playpen, but I’m sure it will come in handy once she starts to crawl."

It is a sturdy and compact travel cot, ideal for travel; however, some parents thought it was smaller than expected. We love the carrycot 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 of us. 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 pack 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

3. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Best budget 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

4. 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 a 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 being 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

redirect.viglink.com

5. Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

www.very.co.uk

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 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. Our mum tester, Lauren, said, "The entire unit is neat, compact and fits neatly together, so they are efficient for saving space. The overall design is a simple grey colour with cartoon animals on the entertainment system; the design is simple and modern, suitable for girls and boys, so perfect for those planning on a growing family."

Despite all the extras, it still folds compactly and comes with its own travel storage bag. Our mum tester, Lauren, said, "The changing mat has a nice flat design that can easily fit when packed into a car boot and is very portable. Also, considering the various items included in the travel cot set they are all built to a lightweight design, that's easy to carry for the family on the go!" However, 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

6. 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 takes 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

7. 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, easy to assemble, and compact enough to fit into smaller spaces without taking up too much room. Our mum tester, Nicolle, said, "The travel cot was very easy to assemble and also to put away. It is lovely and lightweight, so you will not need to worry about carrying it to the car or elsewhere. Artie really enjoys the vibrations and music it settles him, but also it’s great to put him in to play so I know he is safe. The light is also handy if I need to use it at night to check on him. It is also great that it has wheels to move it around easily to make more space."

However, another 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, 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 

8. Ergo Pouch Easy Sleep Portable crib

Best back pack travel cot.

For ultimate convenience, this travel crib doubles as a backpack. Suitable from birth until 8 weeks, or when babies start to roll, this makes travelling with a little one really easy. Our mum tester, Nicole, says, "This crib is not only ideal for moving around the house and garden during newborn daytime naps, but it also shines as a travel crib. Whether camping or packing it into a suitcase for international travel, it's a convenient choice."

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 three months old, and this travel cot was perfect. He actually had the best sleep he’s had so far! So easy to pop up and take down. Super slim so can be stored away neatly."Our mum tester, Nicole, added, "Setting up and taking down the crib couldn’t be easier—it takes a matter of seconds. Aside from the mosquito net, which is a separate piece, the entire crib folds in one motion."

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. Overall, Nicole said, "the superior quality and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for families who are frequently on the go."

• 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

9. 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 it is ideal for travel; it can be assembled in seconds. One reviewer said, "It's light enough so I can travel with it on a train, but I 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, "The12-week-old when staying with grandparents, 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 nighttime 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 put 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

10. Silver Cross slumber travel cot

Best long-lasting travel cot.

This travel cot represents good value for money, especially because it can be used from birth up to approximately three years of age. Our mum tester, Carly, said, "With a newborn insert and a place for a flat mattress at the bottom, this will easily last my little one through their toddler years, I’d say, until I’m comfortable with them being in a proper bed!" 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. I'm 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. I 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 while we unpacked." However, while it is easy to travel with, there are no wheels for easily moving it from room to room when assembled. Our mum tester, Carly, loved how lightweight it was and commented, "There are no heavy parts to get it set up, nor is carrying it around in its travel bag an issue. We’ve got a lot of weddings next summer with our little one, so this is going to come in handy!"

• 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

11. 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. Our tester, Joe, said, "We tested the product while we were on a family holiday in Cyprus. We were slightly nervous when looking for a travel cot as our daughter loves sleeping in her own cot at home! The Red Kite travel cot is a fantastic product. Straight from opening the box, you can tell the quality of the product. Even though it is priced competitively, it feels like it is made from premium products_._" 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 it 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!" Joe also commented that it is very stable, saying, "Our daughter moves quite a lot during her sleep, and the travel cot didn't move whatsoever, even being on a titled floor."

Overall our tester, Joe, said, "The product served its purpose as our daughter had fantastic sleep whilst on holiday and the transition back into her cot at home was a lot easier due to the familiarity of the product." However, he did comment that "the travel cot comes supplied with a mattress which is great for travelling, but if I was to use the cot within the UK, or had more space to travel with, I would invest in a separate mattress to put in the travel cot as it is not the thickest - especially for young babies." Our tester, Joe, said, "The product served its purpose as our daughter had fantastic sleep whilst on holiday."

• 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

12. Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Best 4 in 1 travel cot.

A practical travel cot that 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 the 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

13. Venture Airpod Travel Cot

Best travel cot overall.

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 the quality feel of the cot once it was up. It felt steady and secure when lifting my child in and out of the bed. They were 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 were staying in hotels without lifts.

All of our testers agreed that a bassinet option would have been great with this travel cot, especially for 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 six 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 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.

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 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 that can clip on the top and make changing nappies much easier when away 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 it 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 close if you'd like 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, 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. There's generally a pay-off between how light it is, 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 and when away on holiday. If your child is in a sleepsuit, ensure that the tog of the 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 six 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.

7 Best Camping Beds for Babies UK Reviewed [2023]

Having covered the top camping beds for adults (including those who, like me, have a bad back), it’s now the turn of the smallest member of the family. While older kids can do fine with a regular air mattress or folding camp bed – the kind I spent one of my Brownie pack holidays on during the 80s – it’s different for infants.

Hence this article on a specific kind of outdoor gear – the best camping beds for babies. If you’re camping with a baby, then you need to find a comfortable, safe infant camping bed for your little one.

You may also want to consider camping beds for toddlers – babies soon grow, so why not invest in one that will last for longer if it will also do the job while they’re an infant?

Click here to view my top pick baby bed for camping

I’ve selected the Venture Airpod because it’s a Mother & Baby award winner that folds flat, is ultra lightweight and even looks super stylish. It’s also ideal from birth to age 3.

We’ve used a couple of these options ourselves – and not only for camping trips. Missy used a Moses basket as her nightly bed at home and away, until she grew out of it and moved into her cot.

We also had a travel cot which had a lot of use for staying overnight anywhere as well as when camping. A big bonus of those is their secondary use as a safe playpen. But really it’s down to what works best for you.

A range of products is featured here, with no two offering the same benefits. All have great ratings and reviews at the time of writing, so you can be confident of picking out a top quality, great value product.

Read on to find the best travel cot for camping – for you and your child.

Best camping beds for babies contents

• Best baby camping cot comparison chart
• Best bassinet for camping top options
• Best camping bassinet – what to look for
• Best camping cot for a baby – recommendations
• Best baby camp bed – FAQs

Best baby camping bed comparison chart

Best camping baby cot – top options.

• Kinder Valley moses basket – Best for newborn babies
• Deryan pop-up travel cot – Best for portability
• Venture Airpod travel cot – Best for folding flat
• Costway travel cot & pen – Best multi-purpose product
• Beberoad travel bassinet – Best for air travel
• Babylo bedside crib – Best bedside crib
• Bloomsbury Mill sleep mat – Best for toddlers

Best infant camping bed – What to look for

The first thing to think about is how long you’d like your portable camping crib to last for. You can pick between small options that suit newborns up to around 6 months old, or larger ones that can fit a 3 year old.

Obviously the portability of a small one is better, but the bigger options have the advantage of longevity – and therefore, perhaps, value for money.

Size & portability

How portable is your chosen products? Like anything, baby camp cots vary in size plus how they can be packed down, transported and stored. Some come with carry bags, handles or even wheels for moving around.

Options range from the perfect camping cots for babies that you can take on a plane to a full-on camping travel cot complete with changing table and toys. Consider how you’ll carry it – and how much room it will take up in a tent, caravan or campervan.

All of the products here can be used at other times. The moses basket or bedside cot can be used as a permanent bed at home in addition to during trips away, while the toddler camping mat is great for sleepovers.

Larger travel cots can also be used as a play pen, and one option even doubles up as a changing table too. The pop up product may also be useful in the garden, park or at the beach.

Best camping baby bed – Reviews & recommendations

Kinder valley moses basket.

Best for newborn babies

A classic Moses basket with a pretty, washable broderie anglaise cover. Ideal for use at home as well as while you’re away.

This was the first kind of baby camping bassinet we used, as we had one anyway and used it nightly – even at home – until our daughter outgrew it.

Moses baskets are fabulous – they’re affordable and portable. This is one of the highest rated, yet is very competively priced. It’s a classic, unisex design which could easily be used again by a sibling or cousin, with pretty white broderie anglaise.

It has a removable, washable cover and is water resistant beneath – an absolute must when you have a baby, trust me!

High points:

• Great value for money
• Attractive unisex design
• Water resistant mattress with washable cover

Low points:

• Only for babies aged up to 6 months

Click here to view this broderie anglaise Moses basket

Check eBay price

Deryan pop-up travel cot

Best for portability

A portable, lightweight pop-up travel cot for under-fives, complete with a carry bag and sleeping mat. Six colours are available.

This travel bed is good for camping with infants, toddlers and even pre-schoolers, so it’s something that will last a while. It also makes a reasonable pop-up beach tent, although it doesn’t provide as much shade as other kinds. (If you’re visiting the beach here in the UK, that may not matter so much unless there really is a heatwave…)

In fact it’s a little like a mini pop-up camping tent in itself, and apparently can be put up in seconds. You can choose between six colours, including a rather glam shade of gold.

A sleeping mat and carry bag is included, and as it weighs under 2.5kg it’s pretty easy to transport and store too.

• Lasts up to age 4
• Pop-up tent style design
• Sleeping mat & carry bag included
• Noisy zip fastenings

Click here to view this pop-up baby travel cot

Venture Airpod travel cot

Best for folding flat

A Mother & Baby Award winner, this Venture Airpod cot is uber sleek-looking and packs down flat into the carry bag supplied.

This was a 2021 winner at the Mother & Baby Awards, so it comes highly recommended. I love the fact that the sides slope inwards a little, as I’m sure it would make a baby or toddler feel more secure.

This lightweight, portable baby camping crib is suitable up to age 3, so it will last for a few years until they can move onto the next stage. The cool grey design would look good anywhere – no spoiling the aesthetic of your stylish Airbnb with this beauty!

It packs down flat into the included carry bag and fits into even a narrow gap for storage. The weight is just 6kgs too.

• Mother & Baby Award winner
• Folds flat into carry bag
• Cool grey design
• Up to age 3 only

Click here to view the Venture Airpod cot for travel

Costway portable travel cot

Best multi-purpose product

This travel cot with lockable wheels includes a music box and a trio of hanging toys. It can also be used as a changing table.

This product provides many of those camping with a baby essentials in one package. It can be used as a cot or play pen, and also has a changing table built into the design. There are even 3 dangling toys and a music box to keep the litte one entertained.

This camping pack and play cot can be stored and transported in the included carry bag, and has breathable mesh walls so you can see your baby or toddler at all times.

It’s easy to put together and feels reassuringly sturdy once built, and even has a pair of lockable wheels to make it simpler to move around.

• 2 lockable wheels for moving
• Hanging toys & music box included
• Use as cot, playpen & changing table
• Heavier than other options

Click here to view the Costway travel cot for babies & toddlers

Beberoad baby travel bassinet

Best for air travel

Ideal for newborns, this travel bassinet is ultra portable and perfect for plane trips. It has a comfy 4-layer sleeping pad.

If you want a newborn baby camping mattress and need something more compact than a moses basket, then this Beberoad travel bassinet could be ideal. It’s very lightweight, folds flat and can then be carried via the handle.

You can pick between light and darker grey, and it’s suitable for a baby weighing up to 10kg. It also has a removable mosquito net and sunshade, so it’s great for travel to warmer climes than the UK.

I love the fact that the sleeping pad has 4 layers to protect a developing spine: with my own problems in that area it’s something I’m very conscious of.

• Ideal for flying
• Ultra lightweight & portable
• 4 layer sleeping pad to protect spine
• Will soon be outgrown

Click here to view the Beberoad travel cot for babies

Babylo Natura folding crib

Best bedside crib

A foldable crib that folds up flat for portability. It has a sound mattress and a rocking motion to send the little one to sleep.

Again this is one of those products that could be used at home as much as for a camping baby crib. If you’d like your baby to sleep beside your bed, then you may prefer this to a Moses basket.

The great thing is that it folds completely flat for taking away with you, making life easy and meaning you only have to buy one product rather than separate ones.

There is also a rocking feature to help lull a small baby to sleep, which can be turned off by turning the pedals back to the locked position. it also has good ventilation and visibility and includes a comfortable, supportive mattress.

• Ideal bedside crib
• Folds flat for travel
• Rocking option to lull baby to sleep
• Only for young babies

Click here to view the Babylo folding bedside crib

Bloomsbury Mill toddler sleeping mat

Best for toddlers

This one is aimed at toddlers rather than babies. There are three colourful designs to choose from and it comes with a pillow.

Available in pink unicorn, jungle safari or a dinosaur design, this is not really a baby camp bed cot. Rather it’s made for toddlers, so it’s a good one to take a look at when you’re thinking about the next step after a small camping cot for a baby like a bassinet or moses basket.

Bloomsbury Mill is a multiple award-winning company committed to offering safe, comfortable top quality products that are genuinely useful – and this toddler bed set is ideal for sleepovers as well as camping.

Happy owners rate this very highly and it’s won or been shortlisted for numerous awards. It comes with a storage pouch, detachable pillow and carry handle.

• Multiple award-winning company
• Ideal for camping & sleepovers
• Bag, pillow & handle included
• Not ideal for longer stays

Click here to view this Bloomsbury Mill toddler nap mat

Best camping bed for a baby – FAQs

Can babies sleep in tents.

As long as the tent is comfortable, with good ventilation and your child’s body temperature is stable then of course they can sleep in a tent.

Taking a suitable, cosy bed for them is essential, and to help them drift off also take some familiar toys and try to stick the sort of routine they’re used to where possible.

At what age can you take a baby camping?

A baby can go camping whenever you like, as long as you’ll have everything they’ll need. In fact beginning at a young age is ideal, as they’ll get used to outdoor life from the start.

For their first trip, try to choose a time when the weather will be calm and warm but not hot, to see how they cope before experimenting with wilder or colder conditions.

Where do babies sleep when camping?

Planning ahead is essential when you’re taking a baby camping. There are various kinds of beds for infants, and it’s a question of storing it at home when not in use, getting it there and setting it up.

Options range from a regular bedside crib or moses basket to a travel bassinet, a pop-up cot or a bigger travel cot that will also suit a toddler.

What age can a child sleep on an air mattress?

The next step is worth thinking about when buying a portable baby sleeper. Opinions vary a little – age 2 to 3 is a good rule of thumb to go by based on my experience.

Thus the best baby bed for travel may be one that will last until they’re that age. At that point they can use an airbed like the rest of the family!

Which is the best camping bed for your baby?

I hope this guide has helped you find the right portable outdoor bassinet or travel cot for your baby or toddler. The sooner they embark on their first outdoor adventure the better, and the best portable sleeper for your baby may have numerous other uses too!

Why not check out some of my other guides to camping gear:

• Recommended inflatable tents
• Best reclining camping chairs
• Sleeping bags for all seasons
• Top camp beds for back pain
• Sleeping bag liners rated
• Camping cool boxes & fridges

Note – This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy via these, I may earn a small fee. This has absolutely no effect on the price you pay. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

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

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Best Kids Camping Cots, As Chosen By an Outdoorsy Mom

Let’s be clear: your kids probably don’t need a cot for camping.  For years,  my kids just slept on a cheap $15 foam pad and never once complained about being uncomfortable (they fall asleep so quickly when outdoors all day long that comfort isn’t really an issue; adults are another story though!). 

But there are some situations where you might want to get your kids a camping cot.

Why You Might Want a Camping Cot for Your Kids

• Kids Keep Rolling Off their Pad: Not only do they end up on the cold ground, but kick you in the face! Also read how to keep kids on their pads .
• Hot Weather: Air circulates underneath a cot, so it’s more comfortable than a sweaty mattress or pad when camping in hot temperatures.
• You are sleeping on a cot: It can feel crappy to have a comfy cot while your kids are on the ground. It’s also nice if everyone is on the same height level when sleeping.
• Storage Space: Cots have storage space underneath them, which is particularly useful when glamping or long-term camping.
• Can Use It At Home or When Traveling: If you need a bed for sleepovers, then it might make sense to get a cot instead of a pad.

Quick Picks

• Best Overall:  Regalo My Pals Cot 
• Best for Very Little Kids: Baby Delight Go with Me Cot
• Sturdiest: Redcamp Extra Long Kids Cot
• Splurge Pick: Disc-O Kid-O Bunk Bed Cots (also on Amazon and Campsaver )

Comparison Table

Choosing the right cot, what length cot.

A camping cot should be at least 6 inches longer than the user’s height.  This allows room for a small pillow (you don’t sleep with your head at the very top of the pillow, do you?).  The extra length also means your feet don’t rest on the bottom of the cot, which isn’t exactly comfortable.

Starting at age four, kids grow an average of 2 inches per year.  So, you might want to add another 6-8 inches to the cot length to get more use out of it.

Also read: Best Camping Beds for Toddlers

Consider Using an Adult Cot

Most kids camping cots are only 48″ long.  Factor in some extra room for the pillow and your kid will likely outgrow the cot by age 6.  For this reason, you may just want to get an adult-sized cot for your child. This way your child can still use the cot even as they grow.

The downside is that putting several full-size cots in your tent is going to take up a LOT of room.  It will also take up lots of space in your vehicle. So, if you are limited for space, then a kids-sized cot might be the only option. See these best adult camping cots .

You’ll need a giant tent if you want to fit 3+ full-sized cots inside!

Warning: Cot Legs Can Destroy Tent Floors

Cots, especially ones designed for sleepovers and not camping, can have small, pointy legs. These can destroy a tent floor! You’ll need to put coasters, pieces of Styrofoam or plywood underneath the legs.

Best Kids Camping Cots

1. regalo toddler cot my pals.

Verdict: Best Overall

The reason this cot gets the top pick is because it’s cheap and lightweight yet still sturdy enough to survive a lot of use. I love that the fitted sheet goes over the pillow, so the pillow actually stays in place.

• Open size:  48 (L) x 24.5 (W) x 9 (H)
• Folded size:  24 x 9 x 8
• Weight Limit:  75lbs
• Cot Weight:  6.5lbs
• Fitted sheet
• Removable pillow

2. Baby Delight Go with Me Bungalow Portable Cot

Verdict: best for really little kids.

This camping cot has mesh side rails.  These are perfect if you worried about your little one falling off the cot.  However, the side rails can’t be removed, so two children won’t be able to sit on the cot together.  There is also a canopy which actually is removable, so the cot can be used for outdoor naps in sunny weather.  There’s a storage pocket but its where your child’s feet will be.  This isn’t a deal breaker but it would be better to have the pocket on the head side.

The cot 50″ long, 26″ wide,  and 11″ off the ground.  The height with the rails is 16″ and it’s 41.5″ tall with the canopy.

• Open size:  50 (L) x 26 (W) x 13 (H)
• Folded size:  29x 9 x 7.5
• Weight Limit:  220lbs
• Cot Weight:  11.6lbs
• Storage pocket

3. Redcamp Extra Long Kids Cot

Verdict: Sturdiest while still being affordable

Most kids camping cots have six legs.  The Redcamp cot has four additional legs.  This makes the cot a lot sturdier.  It also adds extra support for the fabric so the cot doesn’t sag nearly as much.   Redcamp also uses Oxford fabric, which is a heck of a lot stronger than canvas.  At 600 denier, it’s thicker than the Oxford used on other cheap camping cots.

The only downside is that the frame and material make the cot heavier and bulkier than other options, but it’s a good choice for older kids or when the cot needs to withstand a lot of abuse.

• Open size:  53 (L) x 26 (W) x 12.6 (H)
• Folded size:  28.4 x 12.6 x 12.6
• Weight Limit: 110lbs
• Cot Weight:  14lbs

4. Ever Advanced Cot with Canopy

Verdict: Good canopy cot for slightly older kids

This cot is a good choice for older children for a few reasons.  Firstly, at 54″ long, it will fit older children.  The product description lists two weight limits: 110lbs and 140lbs.  It’s still  more than the 75lb weight limit of most cots!

It’s also different from other cots in that it is made with a padded fabric.  The fabric does make it more comfortable, but it makes the cot bulkier and heavier.  The padding also means that the cot will take longer to dry if it gets wet, so not ideal if you’ve got a bed wetter.  There is a removable canopy which has UV protection.

• Open size:  54 (L) x 27.5 (W) x 12.6 (H)

5. Joovy Foocot

Verdict:  Lightweight cot with a storage pocket

This cot is basically the same as the Regalo cot in terms of size, weight, and sturdiness.  The difference is that the Joovy Foocot doesn’t come with a fitted sheet or a pillow.  For this reason, the I recommend the Regalo.  However, the Joovy cot does have a storage pocket and may be cheaper or on sale.

• Open size:  48 (L) x 25 (W) x 9.5 (H)
• Folded size:  24.5 x 8 x 6
• Available in several colors

6. Disc-O Kid-O Bunk Bed Cots

Verdict:  Awesome solutioin for two kids but expensive

Disc-O Beds makes camping cots that can be used separately or stacked together to make a bunk bed.  Putting the cots together is surprisingly easy and they are definitely sturdy.  The kids cots hold up to 200lbs  each.   The sturdy construction does mean that the cots are heavy.  The entire setup is 23lbs, but it comes in two carrying cases so is manageable.

These are definitely not cheap.  If you go camping very often, then the investment may pay off — especially since the beds are 65″ long so your kids will get a lot of use out of them.  Note that there is a bottom and top rail on these bunks, so there’s no way someone can sleep on them with their legs hanging off.   It’s really best for kids under 5 feet tall.

The brand also makes adult-sized bunk bed cots.  There’s an option to get a kids-size trundle bed which fits underneath the adult bunks. Again, not a cheap setup, but a good solution for families who camp a lot.

• Open size:  65 (L) x 32.5 (W)
• Height off ground:  9.5″ (bottom bunk); 28″ (top bunk)
• Folded size:  34 x 16 x 9
• Weight limit: 75lbs
• Cot weight: 6.5lbs
• Storage organizer
• Available at Amazon ,  REI ,  Campsaver

Read my full review of Disc-O Bed Bunk Cots here

https://etc.usf.edu/clipart/42500/42517/body_prop_42517.htm , https://www.magicfoundation.org/Is-My-Child-Growing/

Image credits:

“ Inside the tent ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  CseaWillis , “ Camp set up ” ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) by  elliemcc11

About the author /

Diane Vukovic grew up camping and backpacking in upstate New York. Now, she takes her own daughters on wilderness adventures so they can connect with nature and learn resiliency. With dozens of trips under her belt, Diane is an expert in minimalist camping, going lightweight, planning, and keeping her kids entertained without screens.

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