travel sleep options for 2 year old

• Trying to Conceive
• Signs & Symptoms
• Pregnancy Tests
• Fertility Testing
• Fertility Treatment
• Weeks & Trimesters
• Staying Healthy
• Preparing for Baby
• Complications & Concerns
• Pregnancy Loss
• Breastfeeding
• School-Aged Kids
• Raising Kids
• Personal Stories
• Everyday Wellness
• Safety & First Aid
• Immunizations
• Food & Nutrition
• Active Play
• Pregnancy Products
• Nursery & Sleep Products
• Nursing & Feeding Products
• Clothing & Accessories
• Toys & Gifts
• Ovulation Calculator
• Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
• How to Talk About Postpartum Depression
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board

The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds, Tested by Our Editors and Their Mini Explorers

With the right travel bed, your tot will sleep (almost) anywhere

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Verywell Family / Nick Kova

Traveling with toddlers isn't easy, but you can still have a wonderful time exploring new places with your family—you just need to be prepared. Toddler travel beds provide consistency and protected sleep space, resulting in a well-rested child and a smoother trip for everyone. 

For some parents, portable toddler travel beds are must-haves to provide young children with a secure place to sleep while on vacation. “Simpler is always better, especially when thinking of traveling with toddlers . So, when it comes to a toddler travel bed, you don't need all the bells and whistles,” says Anjuli Gans, MD, a pediatrician at the Karabots Pediatric Care Center in West Philadelphia. “There are a lot of fancy ones out there on the market, but your baby really just needs a safe and comfortable place to sleep ." 

We spent hours testing these products (20 total) in the lab and our homes by assembling and disassembling them—sometimes with one hand—and timing the whole process. We also studied the beds' features, how well they hold a toddler's weight, and how easy they are to clean. Our list shows the best toddler travel beds we’ve tested, which we’ll continue to update as we test new models.

• Our Testing Process And Experts
• Factors To Consider

Your Questions, Answered

Best overall, jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

• Assembly 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

Why We Like It

If you plan to hit the road with your little one and need a toddler travel bed that is comfortable and easy to travel with, then the JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper Kids Inflatable Bed is our top pick for you. Designed for children ages 3 and up, this travel bed features side bumpers to keep your child from rolling onto the floor. There's also an air mesh cover to keep your child cool at night. 

We loved this inflatable bed's unique design, which is very easy to fill up and took us only five minutes to put together and inflate, which is great when traveling with little kids. And since it's light and comes with a small bag with handles, so it's easy to move around. The mattress also has a removable and washable cover that can be spot-cleaned and dries quickly, so your little one can get back to bed. 

When you’re done with it, deflate the mattress, pack it back into its packing cube, and you're good to go!

But Take Note

Setup is incredibly easy, thanks to an integrated pump that lets you inflate the mattress in minutes by using your hands or feet. It’s meant to lie on the floor, so there’s no additional assembly required. Although we noticed it can sound a bit noisy when a child moves on it. Otherwise, we didn't experience any additional issues.

The Details

• Material: Nylon
• Weight: 4.1 pounds
• Size: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches inflated; 15 x 11 x 4 inches in travel bag
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Ages 3 years and up; up to 68 pounds

Verywell Family / Vicky Wasik

Best Inflatable

Eltow inflatable toddler bed.

 Amazon

• Assembly 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed is portable and easy to set up, and it comes at a lower price than our top pick, the Stokke. Unlike other inflatables, the Eltow toddler travel bed consists of an outer section with bumpers on two sides and a mattress that fits snugly inside the outer shell. It's not sitting directly on the floor but is at floor level.

We love that it took us just five minutes to set up and is lightweight and portable . It comes with a high-speed pump, two patches in case of punctures, and a travel bag for storage. And thanks to a vinyl layer that protects against punctures, it's well-equipped to withstand wear and tear. Plus, it comes with a bag, so it's super portable. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a sheet, so you'll have to pack one in your luggage. 

One flaw is that the mattress has a plastic smell that sticks around for a few hours once the mattress is removed from its packaging. (It should go away if you allow the product to air out for a day or two before use.) Assembly is straightforward, but removing the pump nozzle without losing air can be difficult when done alone, so we recommend getting a partner to help you out.

• Material: Vinyl
• Weight: 10.21 pounds
• Size: 63 x 40 x 12 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 310 pounds

Best With Pump

Hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4.5 /5

The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is ideal for parents who want their toddler close to the ground with bumpers on all sides of the bed. A removable mattress rests in a higher outer shell that ensures your little one cannot roll off. It's designed for kids making that transition between cribs and big-kid beds, and it's easy to deflate and pack into its carrying bag before moving to your next destination.

Setup is relatively quick once you get the hang of detaching the electric pump, and it's easy to move around with the handles. Another plus: It comes with a patch kit. The handles are not as easy to clean as the rest of the bed, but we do appreciate that the removable mattress comes in three different colors for kids who definitely have their design preferences. 

The mattress has a faint chemical smell at first, but it's not as eye-watering as some of the other inflatables we tested. It's also very durable due to its thick vinyl material .

• Weight: 8 pounds
• Size: 62 x 39 x 12 inches inflated

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

Best for Camping

Enerplex kids inflatable travel bed.

This puncture-proof toddler travel bed can be used during trips or at home as a transitional bed for toddlers who are still in that in-between stage. A 120-volt electric pump (and three universal nozzles) is a game changer and makes inflating the bed a breeze. We love how quickly and easily this bed can be put together: It took us five minutes to blow up both parts of the bed and attach a fitted sheet. Best of all, we didn’t even need to glance at the instructions while doing so.

In case you worry about your toddler rolling off the mattress, the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed has bumpers along three sides. The removable coil-beam mattress rests snugly inside the outer shell and fits a standard crib sheet. 

Even though the bed is bulky, it comes with a large carry bag that you can wear as a backpack, freeing your hands for luggage or a kid. We also like that the electric pump comes with an adapter for your car, making it ideal for camping. It can be wiped down and the crib sheet can be tossed in the laundry for cleanup. One downfall: It has a chemical smell.

• Material: Not listed
• Weight: 11.88 pounds
• Size: 66 x 44 x 13 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 36 months and up; up to 150 pounds

Best Pop-Up Crib

Babybjörn travel crib light.

• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.2 /5
• Design 5 /5

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib is a great option for parents who prefer more of a crib design than an inflatable mattress. Toddlers who need more than bumpers to keep them safe in bed can benefit from this travel crib’s high mesh walls and a mattress that sits low to the floor—which means it's difficult to climb in and out of, let alone roll off of. You won’t need to worry about messes or nighttime accidents because the fabric can be wiped down quickly, and the exterior fabric can be removed from the frame and washed.

The BabyBjorn is a dream to assemble: Setup takes two minutes, and you can put a standard crib sheet on the bed without a struggle, even after attaching the mattress to the four corner safety latches. The mattress is comfortable and a standard crib size . It is also a good pick if you need a travel bed that isn't hard on your back. It is very light, it comes with a carrying case, and it fits into a car trunk. However, the mattress does lie low to the ground, so picking up your child may be tough on your back if they are lying down.

The main reason this crib isn't our top pick is that it's much more expensive than most of the other products on this list, but it's a worthwhile investment if you have the room in your budget.

• Material: Polyester
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Size: Mattress 23.5 x 41 x 1.2 inches; assembled crib 32 x 44 x 24 inches; 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches in bag
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until your toddler can climb out of this travel crib

Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Hugbino inflatable toddler bed.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5

The Hugbino provides a lot of the same features as other inflatable mattresses on this list, but at a lower price. The removable mattress is coated in soft velvet flocking to keep your little one comfortable while they snooze, and bumpers along all four sides of the outer shell keep them in bed. It's also a cinch to clean. We appreciate that the mattress can be spot-cleaned, and a sheet can go over the mattress for extra protection.

This inexpensive bed does come with an electric pump, but the setup is not as easy as with other travel beds we tested. We had to use two sets of hands to get the nozzle on before it started to deflate. However, it is light and easy to store and comes with a carrying bag .

• Material : Polyvinyl chloride
• Weight: 6.63 pounds
• Size: 63.6 x 42.5 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit : Not listed

Best Crib to Fly With

Guava family lotus travel crib.

• Ease of Setup 4.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Value 3.8 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4 /5

This crib can’t make traveling on a plane with a toddler less challenging, but it can simplify your life when you get to your destination. In terms of ease of use, this travel bed only took us five minutes to set up and didn't require too much prep work to understand how to put it together. The setup process isn't as straightforward as other travel beds we tested, but it's not difficult.

An access door makes it easier to get to your little one without leaning over the side. You can use the entrance to lay them on the padded, waterproof mattress inside the mesh enclosure or let them go in and out of the crib when they are awake. The mattress is easy enough to wipe, but the fabric around the top of the crib is so absorbent that it's tough to give it a good cleaning. You can also unzip the bed cover and throw it into the washer for a deep clean. This convenience does come at a higher price than a lot of competitors, however.

We like the travel crib's packaging, which comes with shoulder and backpack straps that make it easy to carry around in an airport. It is a tad heavy, however.

• Material: Polyvinyl chloride
• Weight: 13 pounds, 15 pounds with bag
• Size: Mattress 41.5 x 23.5 x 1.4 inches; crib 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches; 24 x 12 x 8 in backpack
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until child can climb out

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

Best for Naps

Milliard toddler nap mat.

The Milliard Toddler Nap Mat Tri Folding Mattress can be used for napping anywhere. Simply unfold it at the hotel, a relative's house, or a camping tent, and your little one is good to get their sleep on. It doesn't come with a carrying case, which may make it a pain to carry. But if your toddler spills a drink or has an accident on this mattress, the good news is that it's effortless to clean: It has a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed and a foam mattress that can be spot-cleaned. Plus, it's got a cozy, thick mattress that's comfortable for naptime.

This folding mattress doesn't require any assembly—just take it right out of the box. However, after unboxing, it takes 48 hours to reach the highest comfort level.

• Material: Foam mattress, bamboo cover
• Weight: 8.74 pounds
• Size: 58 x 24 x 3 inches unfolded; 24 x 19 x 9 folded

Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress

• Comfort 5 /5
• Effectiveness 3 /5

The Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed is a good pick for families who want a larger travel bed without bumpers that’s a little higher off the floor (16.5 inches) than the toddler beds on this list. A built-in pump makes for easy assembly, since you just turn the panel to either inflate or deflate, and you’re done! When it needs a cleaning, just wipe down as needed.

The mattress comes with a duffel bag for storage and travel, but it's not the most compact, and the bag isn't as comfortable as others we tested. On the plus side, the bed has a built-in pillow rest , so you won’t have to pack an extra pillow for your kid when you travel.

• Weight: 10.16 pounds
• Size: 75 x 39 x 16.5 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 300 pounds

Our Testing Process and Experts

To find the best toddler travel beds, we tested 20 beds in the Parents Testing Lab and in our own homes. We first tried to assemble the travel beds—with one hand, if possible. After that, we noted whether we needed to use both hands or had to get another adult to help. We also timed just how long the setup took for each bed. We then tested how well the toddler travel beds hold a toddler's weight using a 25-to-30-pound sandbag.

Next, we looked at how hard it would be to clean messes on the beds, examining hard-to-reach areas and taking note of the material and what it felt like to wipe it. We tested whether we could use a standard crib sheet as well, and then we tried to disassemble the beds one-handed. After breaking them down, we considered how long it took us and how difficult it was to place the beds inside their carry bags, if bags were included. Finally, we lifted the carrying bags to assess the beds’ portability. 

In addition to lab and real-world testing, we spoke with medical experts to gather their input on how to choose a toddler travel bed. We spoke to the following experts:

• Anjuli Gans , MD, a pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center, West Philadelphia
• Lynelle Schneeberg , PsyD, a pediatric sleep psychologist and author

Factors to Consider in a Toddler Travel Bed

• Comfort: As you’ve probably realized when getting a kid to sleep at home, comfort is key. Comfort for some toddlers may mean a favorite blanket, while others require a crib. Parents should consider various must-haves to make traveling easier and smoother when trekking across the country—or a few hours away—with your little one.
• Safety: Dr. Gans recommends researching products on the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) website to determine their safety and ensure that they haven't been recalled. When purchasing a crib or bassinet, parents of babies should also practice the same safe sleeping rules they implement at home. "Every toddler travel bed has age and weight requirements, so I would definitely check those first and make sure it matches up (with your toddler's age and weight)," she explains. Then, stick to simple beds without all the added features. "The less they have, the better.” Once you've narrowed down your selection to simple beds, make sure there are no bumpers or parts that can potentially trap your baby, and check corner points and sharp corners. "Corner points are sometimes a place where kids can get clothing caught or get injured, so make sure it doesn't have sharp corners," explains Dr. Gans. "And remember that pillows and blankets are still recommended for toddlers age 2 and over."
• Ease of Use: If you need a toddler travel bed that is easy to carry, quick to assemble, and doesn't require much work, then ease of use and portability must be considered when selecting a toddler travel bed. Some toddler travel beds can be assembled using one hand and only take minutes to assemble. That is very helpful if you arrive at a destination with a sleeping or cranky tot . You may want to look for bags that allow hands-free carrying. Another consideration is whether the bed is easy to put in those bags so you don’t find yourself fighting to pack it back in when it’s time to go home. If you are in a situation where you don't have a toddler travel bed, don't worry. "If you are staying somewhere, and they allow you to request a crib, you can pull out the mattress and just lay it on the floor," Dr. Gans adds. "If it's in a safe place for your toddler, then it is perfectly fine. Make sure it is somewhere they can have adult supervision at all times and within eye view, because you may not be able to safetyproof rooms the way you can at home."

How can I keep my toddler in bed while traveling?

A pack-and-play or travel bed with inflatable bumpers (which are not recommended for babies, of course!) can help keep a toddler from rolling onto the floor. You can also bring along some of their favorite items from home to help them want to stay in bed in a strange new place.

"The best thing to do when traveling is to bring along items from the child's home bedroom," recommends Dr. Schneeberg. "Parents can bring along the child's favorite pillow, 'bedtime buddy' (security object), and favorite books, for example. If the child is used to a certain night light or a sound machine , these can be brought along as well."

Can my 2-year-old sleep in a travel cot?

Certain travel cots are appropriate for 2-year-olds, but young 2-year-olds who haven't yet transitioned to a toddler bed may be more comfortable and safer in more crib-like pack-and-plays or travel beds with safety rails.

Can I put my 3-year-old in a toddler cot?

Unless a manufacturer suggests otherwise (usually based on a child's weight or height), most toddler travel cots are appropriate for 3-year-olds who have already transitioned from a crib to a bed.

How much is a toddler travel bed?

A high-quality travel toddler bed will generally cost between $60 and $100, although some can be cheaper, and certain models can cost upwards of $200. Pricier travel beds often come with more accessories and features, although not every family will need extra bells and whistles.

Ambrosia V. Brody is a California-based editor, journalist, and mother of three. She has worked as a professional journalist for more than 16 years. You can find her at the library, Starbucks, or the park with her kids when she isn't writing.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Family Travel

The 7 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 20 toddler travel beds to find the most safe, secure, and comfortable options.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Traveling with kids is an incredible experience, but also a challenging one — for everyone involved. And sleep can be the most challenging aspect of the experience. New environments present toddlers with distractions, temptations to explore when they should be sleeping, and at worst, safety risks. Having the right sleep setup can make the whole experience more enjoyable, and for many parents, this means investing in a dedicated travel bed for your toddler.

The ideal one should be easy to set up and break down, comfortable to sleep on, and above all, safe. We tested 20 toddler beds in a range of styles for their ease of use, portability, ease of cleaning, and overall value, and will continue testing them over the next six months. Our top picks to suit any type of travel are here.

As you’re perusing our picks and choosing your own toddler travel bed, remember: the actual sleep surface is just one component of better sleep while traveling. Keeping [a] routine is important too, says Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatrician at Golisano Children’s Hospital at the University of Rochester Medical Center. “Trying to incorporate a regular bedtime routine can be helpful as maybe the exact sleep surface/surroundings will be different, the routine will be familiar,” says Dr. Murray. “Bath, brush, book, bed is a great routine (bath might not happen every night, and that is OK!).”

Keep in mind that the picks below are for toddlers and up (at least 1-3 years old). “All infants (up to one year) need to be in their own safe sleep space,” says Dr. Murray. “For travel purposes, this will be some type of crib/travel crib. Nothing inflatable.” Remember to consider the age and developmental needs of your individual child when selecting a travel bed, and to make sure any product you use adheres to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s safety standards .

Best Overall

Jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

• Assembly 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

This bed’s built-in pump is unique and user-friendly, with no potentially dangerous loose parts.

The product is pared down by design for safety and portability, which means it doesn’t boast any luxury features for the higher price tag.

The JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper earned our top slot for its unique design and ease of use. While many travel toddler beds come with an external air pump, this one features a hidden pump built into the mattress that’s operated by hand or foot — ideal if you’re traveling somewhere without easy access to power outlets. Setup took a little longer during our testing than the one minute boasted by the brand, but we still had it inflated and ready to go in less than five minutes. The one-piece mattress has a removable and machine-washable cover and a water-repellent bottom, and we felt like the whole mattress would hold up well to spot-cleaning.

Stokke is known for its kid-friendly travel products; the brand’s ride-on suitcase and in-flight bed is the best we’ve seen. While the CloudSleeper isn’t designed to be used during air travel, it is small and light enough to fit inside your carry-on. This model is pricier than many options we tested, but its high-quality design and easy setup make it our top choice.

The Details: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches (open) | 15 x 11 x 4 inches (packed) | 3.1 pounds | Nylon mattress with polyester cover | Ages 3 years and up; up to 149.9 pounds

Best Inflatable

Eltow inflatable toddler bed.

 Amazon

• Assembly 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The mattress and bed frame inflate and deflate quickly and easily.

The bed gives off a strong plastic smell when it’s first unpacked.

Inflatable mattresses can be a headache to set up without a high-functioning pump, especially when you have a tired and cranky toddler waiting in the wings. The Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed comes with an effective pump, and had one of the easiest setups of all the models we tested. The mattress and the inflatable “bed frame” were both ready to go in less than five minutes, although we did note that a setup partner was helpful to keep the mattress from losing air after the pump nozzle was removed.

This model’s mattress and “frame” with bumpered sides are two separate pieces, which makes it easy to tuck a crib sheet around the mattress. The removable mattress piece also means it’s easy to access all corners of the vinyl frame to wipe it down after messes or before storing. We did notice a strong plastic odor when the bed was unpacked, so we recommend airing it out before using it for the first time.

The Details: 63 x 40 x 12 inches (open) | 10 pounds | Vinyl, velvet | Up to 310 pounds

Most Durable

Hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4.5 /5

The bed’s double plug and included patch kit make it extra resistant to leaks.

The secure double plug can also make it tricky to inflate.

One major disadvantage to inflatable mattresses? They have a tendency to puncture or lose air overnight. At best that leaves your toddler uncomfortable on a hard floor; at worst, it can be a safety risk if the mattress’s sides trap your child. This Hiccapop model impressed us with its durability and thoughtful features meant to prevent leaks. The bed has a secure double plug, which is very resistant to curious little fingers and unlikely to spring open on its own during the night. (Important to note: the secure plug also makes the bed trickier to set up than some.) It also comes with its own patch kit, so any punctures that do occur can be quickly sealed off.

This bed’s inflatable “frame” is thoughtfully designed, with bumpers on all four sides and a handle for moving it from room to room while inflated. The vinyl material is easily wipeable, and the plastic odor on first use is milder than many models we tested. Overall, this bed is a durable option and a great value.

The Details: 62 x 39 x 12 inches (open) | 8 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride | Up to 310 pounds

Best for Car Travel

Enerplex kids inflatable travel bed.

The high-speed pump with a car adaptor makes this bed a versatile choice for car travel.

When packed, this bed is heavier and bulkier than most models.

The EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed is our pick for car travel, when size and weight are less of a consideration but comfort is still key. Although this bed is bulkier and heavier than most when packed, it’s incredibly easy to set up, and easy to fold back up and pack into its included carry bag. The high-speed pump is a game-changer — we didn’t need the included directions for setup, and the bed inflated quickly. The pump also comes with a car adaptor, making it a great option for camping.

Like many inflatable mattresses, this bed has a plastic odor and needs to be off-gassed before use. The two-piece bed wipes down easily and the mattress is durable: the bed didn’t shift or deflate during our sandbag test. Because this mattress is on the heavy side when deflated, it’s best for older toddlers who are less likely to be pinned down if it unexpectedly loses air.

The Details: 66 x 44 x 13 inches | 12.3 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride | Ages 3 years and up; up to 150 pounds

Best Pop-up Crib

Babybjörn travel crib light.

• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.2 /5
• Design 5 /5

We love this stylish travel crib for its easy setup and durability.

The price point may not be affordable for all families.

If you’re traveling with an infant or a younger toddler, or if keeping your child contained in a new space is your top priority, a travel crib is your best bet. We love the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light for its easy setup and durability. It took us less than two minutes to set up, and once set up, the bed is extremely secure and stable. The crib legs lock into place, and the mattress attaches to four corner straps to keep it from shifting.

Unlike some portable cribs, this one is very easy to clean. The exterior fabric and the mattress cover can be removed from the frame and machine-washed, and the rest of the bed is easily wipeable. Although this travel bed option isn’t as compact as an inflatable mattress, we found it surprisingly light. When packed into its included carrying case, it fits easily in a standard car trunk. This crib is significantly pricier than other similar options, but its durability means it can be used for multiple kids and handed down.

The Details: 32 x 44 x 24 inches (open) | 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches (packed) | 13 pounds | Polyester, polyether foam, painted steel | Ages 0-3

Best Lightweight

Hugbino inflatable toddler bed.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5

This mattress is extremely portable and light when packed.

Setup requires two people to keep the mattress from losing air before it’s sealed off.

Inflatable mattresses can feel bulky and unwieldy when deflated and packed, but at just over six pounds, this Hugbino portable mattress is lightweight and extremely portable. The mattress comes with its own pump, and is easy to assemble in less than five minutes. We did find that inflating the mattress was easiest with two people — otherwise it was a challenge to close the nozzle plug before air started escaping. Like many toddler beds, this one has bumpered sides to keep little ones from rolling off during the night; these bumpers are slightly lower than some models, so if you have an incredibly active sleeper, you may want to consider bolstering the sides with additional pillows or stuffed animals for security.

We also found it just as easy to store as it is to set up: the mattress packs easily into its included carry bag. This bed’s small footprint when packed and light weight make it a great option for stashing at a frequent travel destination like grandma’s house.

The Details: 63.6 x 42.5 inches (open) | 6.6 pounds | Vinyl, faux suede | Up to 100 pounds

Best Folding Mat

Milliard toddler nap mat.

• Portability 4 /5

This memory foam mat is an extremely comfortable naptime option.

The case for this mat has to be purchased separately.

For a quick naptime solution, or for travel destinations where durability is key (like camping), a foldable mat is a great choice. This memory foam mat from Milliard is a light and comfortable option for toddler sleep. The mat comes with a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed, and the mat itself can be spot-cleaned as needed. It folds up easily and stacks nicely, but since it doesn’t deflate, it’s not as compact as an air mattress and does take up storage space. Milliard sells carrying cases for this mattress, but they need to be purchased separately.

Because this mat is memory foam, it needs 48 hours with all zippers open to reach its highest comfort level before using it for the first time. The process is worth the wait, however, as we found this to be one of the more comfortable options for naptime we’ve seen.

The Details: 58 x 24 x 3 inches (open) | 24 x 19 x 9 inches (packed) | 8.9 pounds | Polyvinyl chloride, CertiPur certified foam | Ages 3-6

Other Toddler Travel Beds We Liked

These toddler travel beds did not make our final list yet still stood out from the pack. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed : This bed is durable and comfortable, and the price is hard to beat. But because it’s built like a standard twin bed — it’s on the large side, with no bumper or sides — it’s better suited for older kids versus toddlers.

Guava Baby Lotus Travel Crib : We loved the Guava’s attractive and easy-to-use carry bag. However, it is heavy when packed, and we were torn on the usefulness of the zippered opening in the side, which makes the bed less secure for mobile toddlers. Ultimately we preferred the setup and breakdown on the similarly priced BabyBjorn model.

The team spent a day in our New York City lab, putting 20 toddler beds to the test. We tested for ease of use, portability, ease of cleaning, and overall value, rating each category on a scale of 1-5 and selecting top choices based on their scores.

To get a sense of how easy these products would be to use with a cranky toddler on hand, we practiced setting up each bed one-handed, watching a timer closely — then did the whole thing in reverse and broke each bed down. Testers laid down on the beds, weighted them down with sandbags, and evaluated their durability. They considered the hidden nooks and crannies on each bed that might become filled with crumbs or worse, and evaluated how easy it was to get each one spic and span again. Our testing is ongoing for an additional six months to ensure each bed stands the test of time when used by actual children, too.

Tips for Buying a Toddler Travel Bed

Consider your toddler’s sleep needs.

The most important consideration when choosing a toddler travel bed is your individual child’s sleep style and needs. If your child is an active sleeper and tends to roll off of surfaces, you’ll want to choose a bed that has higher bumpers to keep them on the mattress. And if your toddler is a wanderer, you may want a fully contained space like a travel crib to keep them safe. If you can, try to approximate your child’s home sleeping environment as closely as possible. If they’re still in a crib at home, purchase a crib for travel; if they’re using a convertible toddler bed with a railing and high headboard, look for a travel bed with a similar cozy feel.

Balance comfort with packability and safety

A plush, soft sleeping surface might seem like a recipe for better sleep, but when it comes to traveling with a toddler, simpler is usually better. A thinner inflatable mattress, for example, will not only pack down smaller, but will be safer if it malfunctions and deflates on your child overnight. “Remember, many of the inflatable mattresses are made from thick or stiff material that a toddler might not be able to push off of themself,” Dr. Murray notes. “The thinner or more standard mattress size inflatable mattresses are better for those 1-3 years of age.” And most packable cribs have thin mattresses for a reason: a firm sleeping surface is safest for younger kids. “You want to choose something that is sturdy but has the normal safety features of a relatively firm mattress and stable sides,” says Dr. Murray.

Match size, weight, and age recommendations to your child

Most travel toddler beds have clear recommendations for age range and maximum height and/or weight for use. Pay close attention to these guidelines and match them to your child, but use your own judgment as well to ensure you’re choosing the safest option. Although most inflatable mattresses are designed for ages 3 and up, some will claim to be suitable for any age. If your toddler is on the younger side or moves around a lot while sleeping, you’ll want to avoid mattresses altogether — even those that claim to be safe for littler ones — and opt for a portable crib-style bed.

Factor in your final destination

Another crucial consideration when you’re purchasing a toddler travel bed is what type of environment you’re traveling to. “Are you staying in a hotel room, which is usually pretty sparse but might have loose or stray electrical cords? Or are you staying at grandparents' where there may be stairs that aren't protected by a baby gate or other low hazards since the house might no longer be child proof?” Dr. Murray notes. Travel locations with more potential hazards might require portable cribs or mattresses that better contain your toddler, whereas a fully childproofed friend’s or grandparent’s house might offer more flexibility for your toddler to roam and explore.

Where you lay your child down to sleep while traveling will heavily depend on the age and needs of your child, your family’s preferences, and your travel circumstances. Some families choose to bring a dedicated bed for their toddler when they travel, while others prefer to co-sleep or use available extra beds at your destination (i.e., pullout sofas or cots). Also consider the sleep environment that works best for your child: do they need a dark, quiet room, or are they more comfortable within earshot of hustle and bustle in the house? Whatever sleep setup you choose for your toddler, make sure they’re in a safe, supervised location and adhere to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ guidelines for safe sleep.

Toddlerhood spans a whole range of developmental stages — technically a toddler is anywhere from 1 to 3 years old. There’s no hard and firm age when a child becomes ready for a toddler bed, but you should consider where they fall on the spectrum of toddlerhood. “Those who are still close to 1 year old will need an environment that is more crib-like,” Dr. Murray notes. “A 3-year-old will have more escape skills and perhaps more interest in wandering, but can likely be safe in a hotel bed or pull-out couch.” Always consult the age limits noted on any toddler bed to make sure the manufacturer recommends it for your child’s age.

You may not be in the habit of wiping down your full-size air mattress after every set of overnight guests, but trust us, you’ll want to clean your toddler travel bed frequently. Luckily, most products have accounted for this, and include either removable covers, wipeable surfaces, or both. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before purchasing to make sure the bed’s washability suits your needs, and follow instructions closely when cleaning to ensure the bed lasts.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Mandy Harris is a contributing writer at Travel + Leisure , and has vetted hundreds of parenting products over the last decade. For this story, she analyzed in-house testing insights, manufacturer details, and her own experience as a frequent toddler wrangler to determine the best toddler beds for every type of travel.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

• Second Trimester

10 Best Toddler Travel Bed Options for Safe Slumber on the Go

Sleeping arrangements for your little one can get a bit complicated when your family is traveling—especially as your child enters toddlerhood. Travel cribs are typically recommended for use up until 3 years old, but many children outgrow the height and weight limitations well before then. Typically, portable cribs have a weight limit of around 30 pounds, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends children no taller than 35 inches use them for sleep or play. Travel cribs can also become unsafe at an early age if your little one discovers how to climb out. So if they’re too big to sleep safely in a travel crib and too small to slumber in a regular bed, what’s the in-between?

The answer: Toddler travel beds. These portable beds for toddlers come in a variety of styles, but they’re all designed to provide a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your growing tot. In addition to accommodating children who have phased out of travel cribs, toddler travel beds are also a much more portable option, as they tend to be both lighter and more compact than a travel crib. Many also have a high weight capacity and can be used for older children, making them a versatile choice. Here’s a closer look at the different options and what factors to consider when choosing—then, shop our top picks for several categories.

How We Chose the Best Portable Toddler Beds

As tots get older, they need a lot of new gear to keep up with their rapid development, like appropriately sized travel beds. To help you pick out the best portable toddler bed for your kiddo, we browsed designs from leading brands and online retailers, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling online. When choosing beds to include in our roundup, we considered a list of criteria, such as quality and durability, value, style, size, portability, material and, of course, safety. We also read user reviews to get the lowdown on how these portable toddler beds have worked for real families—plus, we didn’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating.

To make sure we’re highlighting products that are safe and effective, we chatted with two pediatric sleep consultants to understand essential features and safety considerations to keep top of mind when you’re shopping. We also followed the safety recommendations of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Lastly, some of these toddler travel beds were reviewed by our team of independent product testers, providing additional insight for our roundup.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here .

The Best Portable Toddler Beds To Shop

Read on for our top picks in toddler travel beds, from budget-friendly to easily portable and everything in between.

Overall best portable toddler bed

• Washable, temperature-regulating mesh cover
• Integrated pump for easy inflation
• Water-repellent bottom wipes clean
• May deflate over time

The folks at Stokke thought of everything when they designed this portable bed for toddlers. It easily inflates in less than a minute—thanks to a built-in manual pump—and only takes one adult to operate. Rest assured that full-length bumpers along the sides will keep your little one secure at naptime or nighttime. It also has a weight capacity of up to 150 pounds, making this a travel option you can use well past toddlerhood. The real standout feature, though, is the fold: Guidelines help show you exactly how to fold up this inflatable travel bed (no having to stuff it back into the bag), and the double-layered zipper bag is compact enough to fit into a backpack or purse.

Dimensions: 59.1" (L) x 29.5" (W) x 6.7" (H) | Weight: 3.1 lbs. | Material: 100% polyester | Age/weight limit: 3+ years/149.9 lbs.

Best inflatable toddler bed

• Bumpers offer extra security
• Patch kit included
• Easy to transport
• Odor reported by some users
• Doesn’t come with a sheet

The Hiccapop Inflatable Travel Bed will keep even the most active sleepers secure, thanks to four sides of extra-long and extra-tall bumpers. Welded seams and ultra-thick vinyl mean it can withstand the roughest of circumstances, and it’s covered by a lifetime guarantee, even against accidental damage. Plus, with a weight capacity of up to 310 pounds, this is a travel bed that will be with you for the long run.

Dimensions: 62" (L) x 39" (W) x 12" (H) | Weight: 8 lbs. | Material: 100% vinyl | Age/weight limit: 310 lbs.

Best toddler travel crib

• Super easy to set up and break down
• Plush, built-in mattress
• Comes with a carry bag
• Not suitable for older toddlers

If your little one still needs a crib , this portable toddler bed is sure to meet your family’s needs. As your tot snoozes, you’ll be able to keep an eye on them thanks to the ventilated, mesh sides—plus, the soft, built-in mattress will ensure they’re supported and comfy throughout the night. This sleek toddler travel bed can be opened and set up in seconds. Our product tester agreed, telling us, “after taking the crib out of the carrying case, I was shocked at how easily I could set it up by myself. It folds in and out so easily, I could almost do it with one hand." Then, when it’s time to get back on the road, simply fold it back up and pop it into the convenient carry bag—easy peasy.

Dimensions: 44" (L) x 25" (W) x 32" (H) | Weight: 13 lbs. | Material: Polyester/steel | Age/weight limit: 0 to 2 years/35 lbs.

Best toddler travel tent

• Lightweight and easily collapsible
• Great for infants, toddlers and kids
• Self-inflating mattress
• Can be tricky to fold
• Loud zipper, according to some

Sleeping outdoors comes with its own set of challenges, particularly around keeping your child protected from the elements. That’s where the Joovy Gloo Portable Kids Travel Tent comes in handy. It’s ideal for everything from naps on the beach to a full-on family camping trip. The breathable zippered enclosure offers UPF 50 sun protection as well as a barrier from bugs and moisture. A self-inflating mattress pad will make your little one forget they’re snoozing on the ground, or just keep them comfy while they play. An added bonus: This toddler travel tent is machine-washable (which takes care of any and all outdoor messes).

Dimensions: 51.5" (L) x 28" (W) x 24.5" (H) | Weight: 5.5 lbs. | Material: Polyester/nylon | Age/weight limit: 6 months to 5 years

Best toddler travel cot

• Quick and easy setup
• Washable fitted sheet
• Doesn’t come with a carrying bag

Next up is a versatile cot that's a great non-inflatable toddler bed option. The durable frame unfolds to provide a sturdy yet comfy resting place. At nine inches off the floor, it keeps your little one comfortably away from the ground, but it’s not high enough that they can injure themselves. The cot is made of a durable nylon material that’s also washable, and it comes with a fitted sheet for comfort. Whether it’s a sleepover, camping trip or even a nap at daycare, this toddler travel cot is a versatile and convenient pick. No wonder it has thousands of glowing reviews!

Dimensions: 48" (L) x 24.5" (W) x 9" (H) | Weight: 7 lbs. | Material: Cotton/steel | Age/weight limit: 2 to 5 years/75 lbs.

Best portable toddler bed with sides

• Included electric pump
• Sheet not included

This inflatable toddler travel bed from Enerplex checks all the important boxes: 13-inch bumpers on three sides for security, puncture-resistant material for durability and a coil-beam inner mattress for comfort. But where this toddler travel bed separates itself from the pack is the included car adaptors for the electric pump, making it perfect for camping trips (or anywhere you find yourself caught without a plug).

Dimensions: 66" (L) x 44" (W) x 13" (H) | Weight: 12.6 lbs. | Material: Vinyl | Age/weight limit: 3+ years/150 lbs.

Best portable toddler bed with bumpers

• Soft, puncture-resistant vinyl
• Comes with a high-speed pump and a travel bag

If your tot moves around a lot while they snooze, an inflatable toddler bed with bumpers can offer added security and peace of mind. Take this durable design, for instance. No matter how wiggly your little one is, you can ensure they won’t roll off the bed, thanks to the safety bumpers on each side. You’ll also appreciate how it can be inflated and deflated in seconds, and that it comes with a high-speed pump. Another unique feature: The inflatable mattress is detachable, meaning you can snugly tuck sheets onto it. Lastly, this toddler travel bed has a weight limit of 310 pounds, so it can be used for many future trips.

Dimensions: 63" (L) x 40" (W) x 12" (H) | Weight: 9.7 lbs. | Material: Vinyl | Age/weight limit: 18+ months/310 lbs.

Best toddler travel nap mat

• Promotes independence
• Comes with a blanket and a pillow
• Easily rolls up and unfolds
• Indoor use only

This toddler travel nap mat from Lovevery is ideal for short-term snoozes on the go. With this soft set, you’ll receive everything you need to create a comfy sleep space for your kiddo, including a padded nap mat, a blanket and a pillow . Plus, custom buckles (designed with teeny tiny hands in mind) will encourage your child to set up, roll and carry their mat themselves, promoting independence. For added peace of mind, know that it’s made from OEKO TEX-certified organic cotton—and that it’s machine-washable to boot.

Dimensions: 55" (L) x 20.5" (W) | Weight: 11.6 oz. | Material: 100% cotton (outer)/poly (filling)/plastic (buckles) | Age/weight limit: 18 months to 5 years

Best affordable portable toddler bed

• Super lightweight
• Comes with a carry bag and patch kit
• Doesn’t come with a pump

This inflatable air bed from Intex is no-frills, but if you’re looking for a solid, budget-friendly option, it’s sure to check all of the boxes on your list. It comes with a carry bag and patch kit for added convenience. What’s more, it can handle children up to 10 years old (lasting you well beyond the toddler years). Not bad for an inflatable toddler bed ringing in around the $20 mark!

Dimensions: 62" (L) x 34.5" (W) x 7" (H) | Weight: 3.5 oz. | Material: PVC | Age/weight limit: 3 to 10 years/100 lbs.

Best fun toddler travel bed

• Available in several fun designs
• Not suitable for younger toddlers
• Doesn’t come with an air pump

Last but not least on our list of the best toddler travel beds is this super-fun option from FUNBOY. Whether you’re planning a special sleepover for your little one or are often on the road with your kiddo, this car-shaped air mattress is sure to bring a smile to their face. It features a cozy surface for comfy snoozes and has a low design that’s easy for kids to get in and out of independently. This delightful toddler air mattress also comes in several other styles, including a castle and a speed boat . We’re obsessed!

Dimensions: 74" (L) x 40" (W) x 15" (H) | Weight: N/A | Material: Vinyl | Age/weight limit: 3 to 12 years

Types of Portable Toddler Beds

There are a variety of portable toddler beds on the market. Here’s a breakdown of the different types:

Inflatable. The most common type are inflatable toddler beds, which resemble air mattresses. These are a popular choice because of their easy portability (since they can be deflated when not in use) and comfort—but they often require a pump to inflate, which may or may not be included. Additionally, children 15 months of age or younger should never sleep on an inflatable mattress, per the CPSC .

Folding cots. Foldable travel beds offer one of the easiest setups (no inflation necessary) and are commonly used in childcare settings for naps. They keep your little one off the ground while sleeping, but they typically don’t have any side protection (which may not work for all sleepers).

Portable bed rails. Another great option in terms of portability, bed rails are an easy way to make any bed safe and secure for a toddler to sleep in. Make sure there’s a mechanism to secure them in place and that they don’t lose inflation when in use.

Tents. For little ones who like to block out the world while they sleep, tents are a solid choice. They’re one of the few toddler sleep options that provide an enclosed location for your child to sleep, making it ideal for little escape artists. However, note that the interior mattresses are often not super thick or padded.

What To Look For In a Portable Toddler Bed

Not sure where to begin when it comes to picking out a toddler travel bed? We’ve got you covered. Keep these factors top of mind before deciding on a portable bed for toddlers:

Lifestyle. First things first: Figure out what type of travel you’ll be doing and where you’ll be using the bed, suggests Jillian Thistel, a certified pediatric sleep consultant and founder of Twinkling Stars Pediatric Sleep Consulting in Ontario, Canada. By doing so, you can get an idea of what size and shape bed will work best for your needs.

Setup. Check out how simple it is to both set up and break down the toddler travel bed you choose. Also, take a look at what’s required (any additional pumps or parts) to make sure you’ll have it on hand if it’s not already included.

Height and weight limits. Thistel advises parents to “check out the height and weight limit of the travel bed when making a decision." This way, you can create a safe sleeping spot for your little one, even while you’re on the go.

Padding. Padding is another feature to look out for as you shop; most inflatable or portable toddler beds vary in levels of firmness, so this will largely depend on your and your child’s preferences. Rachel Mitchell , a certified sleep specialist and the founder of My Sweet Sleeper , suggests “testing this out before you travel to make sure that your child is comfortable and adjust as needed."

Portability. Many toddler travel beds fold down to a compact size and come with their own travel bags for easy transport. For families on the go, this is essential.

Care. Whether it’s a nighttime accident or a camping mess, you’ll want a toddler travel bed that’s easy to clean. Look for materials that can be wiped down or protective sheets that are machine-washable. For added comfort and safety, Mitchell also recommends that caregivers opt for a toddler travel bed made from breathable, lightweight materials.

Portable Toddler Bed Safety Tips

A safe sleep environment is the top priority, whether at home or elsewhere. Before purchasing a portable bed for toddlers, Thistel advises parents to “make sure that it meets the CPSC requirements, and that there haven’t been any recalls on the product." As you set up the bed, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it’s properly assembled. It shouldn’t be too far off the ground—ideally, no more than 24 inches, says Mitchell. Once it’s put together, Thistlel adds, check that there are no loose parts or pieces that could pose a risk. The bed should also be placed in a safe place away from cords, outlets and wall hangings, and the surrounding area should be childproofed in case your tot gets up in the middle of the night. “This is especially true if your toddler normally sleeps in a crib or more secure space," Mitchell advises. Lastly, Thistel reminds caregivers that “toddler travel beds are specifically for toddlers, and it isn’t safe for an infant to sleep in a toddler travel bed."

Plus, more from The Bump:

The Best Toddler Floor Beds to Promote Independence

The Best Toddler Sleeping Bags for Campouts and Sleepovers

The Top Airplane and Car Toys for Toddlers on the Go

Jillian Thistel is a certified pediatric sleep consultant in the Greater Toronto Area in Ontario, Canada. She is a member of the Association of Professional Sleep Consultants and founder of Twinkling Stars Pediatric Sleep Consulting .

Rachel Mitchell is a certified sleep specialist and former night nanny based out of Denver, Colorado. She is also the founder of My Sweet Sleeper , a business that provides pediatric and maternity sleep consulting services and coaching sessions.

Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), New Play Yard Standards , February 2013

CPSC, Air Mattresses Are Not For Infants

Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process .

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Next on Your Reading List

Toddler won’t Sleep on Vacation? 9 toddler travel sleep options

Your toddler won’t sleep on vacation, and you’re looking for the best travel sleeping solutions for toddlers?

If so, you’ve probably come across post after post on the “best travel beds for toddlers.” While these can be useful resources under the right circumstances, they don’t really solve the real problem.

Toddlers will still be in a different environment, overstimulated, and probably jetlagged, so having the best travel beds will not solve all those problems. It will simply have you carry a bag.

Now, to be clear, there’s  nothing  wrong with bringing a travel bed for your toddler. But for toddler travel sleep options, we don’t think buying a travel bed should be your first plan of action.

Instead, we think you should try these 9 travel sleeping solutions for toddlers to get a good night’s sleep.

Before we do, though, let’s get clear on why sleep is even more important when you’re traveling than it is at home.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

Why Toddler Sleep REALLY Matters

Every new parent knows how precious a good night’s sleep is. For many, the idea of having 8 hours of uninterrupted time in dreamland almost sounds like a dream itself.

When you’re at home in your normal routine, this is annoying.

When you’re traveling, though, the amount of sleep you get will have a direct impact on your trip. That’s because getting a full 7-9 hours of sleep will affect your:

• Weight control
• Brain function
• Immune system
• Length of life

That last one is no joke. For more information on how getting enough sleep will affect you, check out this post by the American Sleep Association: How Important Is Sleep?

But let’s be honest: the biggest reason you need your kids to sleep while traveling is so you can enjoy your kids while traveling .

When you’re tired, it’s much easier to lose your temper, get annoyed with toddlers (for being toddlers), or start little arguments with your partner.

Plus, being exhausted makes it harder to handle high-stress situations like losing luggage, fighting heavy crowds in public, or simply breaking through that 2:00 PM slump.

Now, for you, this isn’t a problem. All you need is a bed and 8 hours of quiet to float through your REM cycles.

The problem is that your kids don’t sleep well at home, let alone while traveling. So what should you do?

Let’s turn to our 9 travel sleeping solutions for toddlers that don’t require you to buy a new bed.

After all, buying a bed just to help your kid sleep would be like putting shoes on a newborn, hoping she’ll start walking. The problem isn’t the equipment… it’s the routine.

9 Toddler Travel Sleep options when your toddler won’t sleep on vacation

Before starting, I want to make something clear from the get-go: our kids are NOT (and never have been) great sleepers.

From the time both kids were young, they’ve had loads of energy and wake up frequently at night. To be honest, I can’t remember the last time we had a FULL night’s sleep without waking up to one of our boys hoping to crawl into bed.

Most nights, this means walking them back to their own room and lying down for a few minutes with them.

But, surprisingly, Emilie and I have both noticed that our boys actually sleep better while traveling. And we think it’s because we naturally do each of these 9 tips when traveling but forget to do them at home.

Let’s get started. 😉

1. Bring Portable Blackout Curtains

Having a dark room is one of the most important aspects of a good night’s sleep for toddlers, at least for our kids. As soon as summer comes and the days are longer, our kids have a hard time going to bed. But then, they wake up at 5:00 AM ready to go.

“But mom… it’s not even dark outside”.

So at home, we installed blackout curtains in every room. But then, we have a problem when we travel. Sleepout Curtains came out with the perfect solution for toddlers who won’t sleep on vacation when it’s too bright: a portable blackout curtain.

Sleepout blackout curtains come in a small bag, so it’s super easy to carry . The curtain is easily installed on a window with a suction cup system, so it can work on pretty much all windows. ( You can read our detailed review here .)

Plus, they are machine washable!

Try Sleepout Curtains, Buy Now!

2. Bring a travel bed

This is by far the most popular option for parents of toddlers . Investing in a portable, lightweight travel bed. When travel ing, we always make sure the bed is just like the one in their own bedroom so it keeps them feeling secure and familiar during nap time.

Travel beds come in many different sizes and styles , making them perfect for whatever space you have. Some even have features like a thick mattress, an inflatable pillow, optional covers or sheets, and of course, an electric pump .

And they are usually lightweight, and easy to pack up and set up , so you can quickly get your toddler settled in for the night wherever you’re staying. It’s been a lifesaver for us! 🙂

Make sure to put it in a safe spot, away from any hazards or sharp objects.

Traveling light and don’t want to bring a toddler bed? Have you heard of  BabyQuip ? BabyQuip  is a platform that allows you to rent baby gear for travel, such as a toddler travel bed. It offers a wide range of items, including car seats,   strollers , cribs, high chairs, and more. No more need to pack and transport bulky items like car seats and strollers, you can simply rent them through the   BabyQuip platform  and have them delivered directly to your destination.

3. Start in the Afternoon

When many people think about bedtime routines, they imagine starting at 7:00 or 7:30. Most routines go like this:

• No screen time 30 minutes before bed.
• Kids play calmly .
• They take a soothing bath with lavender soap.
• They drink a glass of milk.
• Parents read a bedtime story .
• Kids drift off to sleep in under a minute.

Our thoughts on that? Yeah. Freakin’. Right.

It sounds great on paper, but we haven’t had much success with the structure listed above. Inevitably something comes up to disrupt the routine, and then we end up feeling like we’re “bad parents.”

I mean… it’s working for everyone else, right?

We’ve actually had much more success preparing for naptime in the afternoon. By that, I mean we make sure to plan activities where the boys can burn up some energy.

When we go for a walk, for example, we try to get the kids out of the stroller. Let them chase each other around or play “tag” with Mom and Dad.

In other words, pay more attention to how active your kids are throughout the day . This will help you figure out the best ways to put them down at night.

4. Plan for Jetlag

Again, there are tons of articles online on how to adjust a baby to time-change travel.

I can’t honestly say we’ve found the silver bullet for that problem, but here’s how we handle it: push yourself to be more “present” and active in the first few days .

It takes time for the body to adjust to different time zones. And most kids don’t have any real conception of time, let alone what “jetlag” is.

They just know they’re tired, grumpy, and probably hungry (but that last one’s par for the course).

You’ll need to load up on coffee and plan lots of engaging activities for the first 2-3 days. And this is true for all children’s ages. Rather than hitting all the sites, find a few things that are designed specifically for kids.

Playgrounds, indoor recreation centers, public pools, spray parks, and other similar activities will be enough to get your kids’ adrenaline pumping. And when their excitement is up, they can start burning up some of that energy we talked about in the last tip.

Remember : your toddlers won’t be as excited to “sight-see” as you are. In the first few days, make the trip more about them until their body adjusts.

Then you can drag them around your favorite sights while they are (hopefully) in a better mood.

This is harder to do when you’re only visiting a city for a couple of days. That’s another reason why we prefer to slow travel as a family rather than jump from time zone to time zone.

5. Create a Travel Bedtime Routine

We already talked about the traditional bedtime routine at home.

Now I’m going to share a bit of advice for creating a travel bedtime routine for toddlers that, we found, is more realistic.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Kids play alone 30 minutes before bedtime starts (let them get a little crazy).
• Kids play a calm game with a parent for 15 minutes before bed.
• Kids brush their teeth.
• Mom or Dad reads 1-2 bedtime stories.
• Mom or Dad hugs them for a few minutes before leaving with the door open.

One thing to mention about this routine: there’s no bath time.

Emilie and I scratched this from our travel bedtime routine because we couldn’t be consistent with it. On rainy days, we’d take a bath in the morning or afternoon just to kill some time (how sad is that?).

So we took this away from the routine and took baths either before the routine kicked off or at other parts of the day when it was more convenient.

Now, you might change the routine above depending on your parenting style. We’ve had some family, and friends tell us this routine “coddles” the kids too much. Some suggested we take 2 nights and let them cry it out until they adjust.

Who knows? Maybe they’re right.

But traveling can be really hard on little kids. They’re so new to life that they never know where they’re going, why they’re going there, or if they’ll come back with you.

The routine we mention above still encourages independence (the kids play alone, that’s non-negotiable), but they still get plenty of love from mom and dad.

That said, you still need clear boundaries , which leads us to the next point…

6. Set Clear Boundaries

Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you need to give up on all the rules.

You and your partner should decide on clear boundaries while traveling. This mostly means either allowing or preventing the kids from sleeping with you at night.

Sometimes, you won’t have a choice (unless you buy one of those fancy toddler beds listed in other articles).

If you’re in a 1-bedroom hotel room, get ready to be cozy for a few days. But other times, you may use AirBnB or a site like Home Exchange to stay in a house with a few bedrooms.

You should tell your kids your stance on them sleeping in your bed a few hours before bedtime to prepare them.

Then comes the hard part: sticking to it.

If you say, “No sleeping in bed with mom and dad,” there’s nothing wrong with that. But you need to enforce the rule so your kids know it’s clear.

And just so we’re all on the same page: Emilie and I kinda’ suck at this one, too.

At 2:00 AM, it’s hard to get up and walk your kids back to their room. It means helping them get back to sleep and then stumbling back to “the big bed” afterward.

We’re getting better at this now, but it’d be silly of us to pretend like we nail this 100% of the time.

Plus, sometimes we’re so tired that we don’t even notice them crawl into bed with us until it’s morning!

7. Lay Down With Them for a Few Nights

This might seem counter-intuitive to my last point, but schedule some time to lay down with your kids for 10-15 minutes for the first few nights.

This can be hard when you want to spend your evenings having a romantic dinner or planning out tomorrow’s activities.

But, again, travel can be tough on kids . It comes with lots of changes that are difficult to adapt to. This is obviously more true for some kids than it is for others.

Make sure to have a few kids’ books on hand and read 1-to 2 before bed every night. Then stick around for a bit and let your kids know how long you’ll stay.

The key, I think, is vocalizing your plans so your kids understand what’s going on. Let’s be clear, though: by “vocalizing” your plans, I don’t mean negotiating.

Once kids know that you’ll stay longer if they cry or ask nicely, you’ll never leave.

Again, Emilie and I learned this the hard way, and while we have the theory 100% locked in, putting it into practice is often another story.

8. Try Essential Oils

I know… I know… I can feel the eye-rolls. And I’m really not pretending like essential oils are the miracle solution that a surprising amount of parents think they are.

We put some lavender oil in their bath and a few droplets on our youngest’s pillow (he has a tough time sleeping).

I can’t honestly say whether or not it worked for us, but we know 2 things for sure:

• It certainly didn’t make things worse
• It’s worked for a lot of parents

Essential oils have tons of health benefits that are often exaggerated but still exist. You might find that the right essential oil helps to get put your toddler to sleep at night.

Plus, it’s a less expensive solution than buying a travel bed for toddlers.

9. Increase Your Patience

This is probably the most important tip on the list: you need to push through the fatigue and work on your patience.

Is it annoying when kids wake up? Yes, for everyone.

Does being tired put a grey cloud over your life? Yes, and sometimes it brings out the thunder.

But did you sign up for this when you brought a little human into the world? 100%.

Keep in mind that no matter how tired you are, the goal of your trip is to spend more time together as a family. If your attitude gets negative, you can be sure theirs will, too.

Prepare yourself mentally and leave a glass of wine on the counter as a reward for when they’re down. And use the knowledge of that reward to boost your patience and help your toddlers get to sleep.

F.A.Q.S: What to do when A Toddler Won’t Sleep on Vacation?

Where do toddlers sleep when traveling.

Toddlers typically sleep in a car seat , stroller , travel bed, and travel cot when traveling . Car seats are the most common option as they provide familiar comfort and safety features.

Where does a 2-year-old sleep on vacation?

On vacation, 2-year-olds typically sleep in the same accommodations as their parents . Depending on the specific circumstances, this may mean a hotel room, a rental house, a camper trailer, or something else.

How to get toddler to sleep in hotel

To help toddlers sleep in a hotel, it is important to establish a comfortable and familiar sleeping environment. The best way to do this is to bring items from home, such as their own sheets, blankets, and pillows. You should also make sure the room temperature is comfortable for them and they have access to their favorite toys or stuffed animals.

How to get your toddler to sleep on vacation

A consistent bedtime routine is one way to get your toddler to sleep on vacation. Before the trip, establish a routine for your child, including a set wake-up time, meals, and activities. In addition, make sure to keep the same bedtime with your toddler’s naps or rest periods while you are away from home.

What to do when your toddler won’t sleep on vacation?

If your toddler won’t sleep on vacation, maintaining a consistent bedtime routine is the first thing to do. It will help signal your toddler’s body that it is time for sleep. You should also make sure that their sleeping environment is comfortable and familiar. Consider bringing items from home like sleepout curtains , their favorite stuffed toys , a comfortable travel bed, and a blanket , as these can provide comfort during their sleep.

What should a toddler sleep in when traveling?

A toddler should sleep in an Inflatable travel bed . I recommend using the Shrunks toddler travel bed when traveling. They are designed to be lightweight, compact, easy to set up and take down, and comfortable to use. Travel cots are also the best sleeping options for toddlers to sleep when traveling.

Final Thoughts: Toddler Won’t Sleep on Vacation?

It’s important to remember that traveling with kids, as awesome as it is, can be hard on toddlers (and all children’s age, for a matter of fact). It disrupts their routine and can make sleep harder.

While bringing a travel bed can be seen to be the ultimate solution, we believe that there are other sleep travel solutions that will help your toddler go to bed more easily.

Will they all work 100% of the time? No. Nothing will.

But these strategies will at least give you a starting point that’s more practical than buying a brand-new bed. 🙂

Related Articles

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like to read the following articles:

• Best Type of Stroller for Travel: Jogging VS Regular
• The Best Road Trip Snacks for Kids
• Best Type of Stroller for Travel

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024 Categories Kids Travel Gear

By: Author Kate

The Ultimate Guide to The Best Toddler Travel Beds

This post may contain affiliate links.

Sharing is caring!

Are looking for the best toddler travel bed? Do you want a travel bed That will last a long time and fit a tall toddler? This was exactly our dilemma when we were evaluating the best portable cribs for travel. We wanted something that wouldn’t need to be replaced every time our kids grew a few inches!  

We wanted a portable toddler bed that would allow us to keep our kids precious sleep and give us peace of mind on vacation. When looking for a portable travel crib we wanted something that would be easy to set up, lightweight, and large enough for our son to grow into.

So here it is: I’ve done all the research for you, and picked out the best toddler travel beds for family vacations that meet these requirements below!

The Best Toddler Travel Beds: Quick Comparison

Check out my list below to learn about the best travel cribs for toddler travel sleep on the go.  These are the top rated travel cribs for toddlers around!

What to look for in a Toddler Travel Bed

There are a lot of things to consider when purchasing a toddler travel bed. Here are the 5 factors that we have taken into consideration when ranking our toddler travel beds:

• Overall product weight
• Compact fold and ease of set up

Toddler Playpen vs. Toddler Inflatable Beds

If your toddler is still IN the crib, chances are you want to keep her that way on vacation! My eldest son (the escape artist) definitely needed the constraints of his crib for as long as possible, and there was no way I was giving that up on vacation. Also, having always slept in the crib, my son would not have even known what to do if I tried to put him in a bed! There was no way I was going to try to make such a transition on vacation. We wanted to look for a travel bed for a toddler still in the crib.

The problem I’ve found is that most portable cribs for toddlers are too small for taller and older kids. We wanted a large toddler travel bed so we wouldn’t be stuck replacing this item when our toddler turned 3 or 4. I’ve broken down my review below to include toddler travel beds for kids who are still in the crib and toddler travel beds for kids who are out of the crib.

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Tall Toddlers

Phil and teds traveler.

This is my favorite  toddler travel bed and is the perfect travel crib for a tall toddler.  We used this travel toddler bed until our son was 3 years old and transitioned to a ‘big boy bed.’  This playpen is longer than traditional playpens so it accommodates taller toddlers. This will be a great travel crib for a 3 year old and for many would still work for a 4 year old or 5 year old.  I love that is still like a crib, keeping your little one contained.

The Phil and Teds kids travel bed is really lightweight and will easily fit in a suitcase. It’s the best travel crib for flying as it can be brought on as a carry-on. We often store it in the overhead compartment of a plane and it fits perfect.  Also, it’s lightweight, it weighs only 6 lbs! We have gotten so much great use out of this tall playpen, and it’s still in great shape.

The one negative when rating this portable toddler crib is that the setup is not instant. There are some other toddler travel cribs like the Guava below that set up in just a few seconds. Although it’s not a one-step setup, once you’ve set it up once it’s really easy to set up and take down after that. It takes me about 2 minutes to set it up now that I have the hang of it. For me, this little bit of hassle is worth it for the extra length and lightness!

We’ve used this portable travel bed not only just for sleeping – we have also used it as a makeshift beach tent and fort in our backyard. I love that this compact travel crib is not just for sleep, it’s also a space for our kids to play and stay safe when we are on vacation.

As you can see above, the length of this travel bed is the big selling point! I brought it out to take pictures for this blog and was surprised to find that my 4.5-year-old son STILL fits in this large toddler bed. Now he’s not the tallest 4-year-old out there, but STILL, I was really impressed. My 18-month-old is much taller than my first and he still has PLENTY of room in the Phil and Teds traveler. This is definitely the best travel crib for a 2 year old and up!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for a Play Space

Joovy room 2 play pen.

If you are wanting extra space in your portable toddler travel bed, this extra-sized playpen is perfect for you. The Joovy Room 2 is 50% larger than a standard playpen making it great for large toddlers and also great as a play spot during the day. It still packs up compact and can be checked with your luggage depending on your airline regulations.

It’s definitely heavier than some of the other options on the market, but that might be worth it for the extra room! I love that this playpen is large enough that you can throw some toys in and your little one can also play safely in here without feeling too cramped. Especially on vacation, this can be useful because the places we stay aren’t always baby proofed how we like them! I’ve also heard this playpen is great for twins!

The Best Travel Bed For The Toddler that is Still in the Crib

Guava lotus travel crib.

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib and the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib are both popular options for toddler travel beds. If you check out Amazon there are lots of head-to-head reviews comparing these two options. The setup for the Guava playpen is really simple and intuitive and the crib folds up very compact for easy portability. There is even a backpack carrier which is a really nice feature for airports and more adventurous trips.

The dimensions are not as long as the Phil and Teds travel crib above which is why it’s not my first choice for a portable travel crib. It may work fine as a portable bed for a 2 year old but will be pushing it as a travel bed for a 3 year old . I like the longer length of the Phil and Ted’s traveler crib for my growing toddler.

The Guava Lotus crib is Greenguard certified meaning that it is non-toxic without the use of harmful chemicals. The cover is removable and machine washable which knowing my toddler is an absolute necessity! Overall, I love the design of this portable crib. Although I haven’t tried it myself, I asked my friend Emily over at Henry and Andrew’s Guide for her review. Here’s what she had to say:

‘The Guava Lotus is the best toddler travel bed because it’s easy to carry, it’s so light, and it’s perfect for even the bigger toddlers. We took ours on our 5 countries in 14 days trip in Europe. That meant we carried it through 5 plane rides, 1 train ride, and numerous car trips. We didn’t mind it at all! You can carry it as a backpack so your hands are free, or it folds up in a perfect rectangular shape, so it can be easily stacked on top of your rolling bag. Another perk is that even though it’s not a stroller, we’ve never been charged for checking it through the airlines as a “baby itemâ€. This was the best travel bed for our 2 year old, until he grew out of his own crib at home! Their customer service is excellent too.’

The Most Compact and Lightweight Toddler Travel Bed

Peapod plu s:.

The PeaPod is a popular option that is particularly marketed as a travel bed for baby. It’s one of the most compact toddler beds as it folds down into a small bag that’s easy to throw in a suitcase. It certainly has small size in it’s favor but it’s otherwise impractical as a long term solution for more mobile toddlers and preschoolers.

I’m happy to have my friend Jill from This Harry Life drop in to give her review of this popular toddler travel bed. You may be surprised to see what she has to say!

‘The most appreciated aspect of this baby travel bed is it’s compact size. Folded up, it’s 18 inches in diameter by about 6 inches deep (this compresses to about half that depth when packed). It was extremely reasonably priced compared to other travel sleep accessories we considered, and with the zipper closed you can keep your child safely contained inside. We purchased this thinking it was the best option for a portable travel bed for baby. There are drawbacks to the PeaPod , though it works OK for us. My primary issue is the interior. Safe sleep guidelines dictate the included mat be snapped underneath, and there is no option to secure it inside. This is fine, but the interior is a a harsh polyester surface to place my child directly on. Anything I put underneath to soften it shifts and bunches as my child moves. It is also incredibly bright, and I have occasionally had to drape towels over it in an attempt to provide darkness to nap in bright spaces. Further, this item only has a single use: for your child to sleep in. It is not a space that I can safely place my child to play or be occupied, which is necessary sometimes when in non-baby-proof settings. For that reason if I were in the market for a travel bed for baby again, I would not likely buy another PeaPod, despite it being the most affordable option.’

The Best Travel Bed For The Toddler that is Out of the Crib

Once our toddler was out of his crib the options for sleep were so much easier! Depending on where we were though, I did worry about him escaping his sleeping quarters at night. To solve this I have rented baby gates at my destination on multiple occasions. This gave me peace of mind that if my toddler woke up in the middle of the night he would be safe until we got to him.  (You’ll find more toddler travel hacks here!)

A Mattress on The Floor

Nothing wrong with simplicity when it comes to kids travel beds! There are lots of great travel toddler beds out there but when push comes to shove, a mattress on the floor is really all you need for toddler sleep. We often rent Airbnbs and in these places, it is usually quite easy to do this. In hotels, space is tighter so we have had to use inflatable bed rails (see below). Once my eldest had transitioned out of the crib it was great not to have to pack an extra piece of equipment. A mattress on the floor works great and means you can keep your packing minimal!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Compact Spaces

Regalo my cot.

Another great option for toddler travel beds is a portable cot. Travel cots for toddlers are generally easy to fold up and store and provide a more comfortable surface than the ground. I love this as a toddler camping bed. We bought this for my son when we were going camping knowing that we wouldn’t have access to a mattress to put on the floor. We used a kids sleeping bag like this one and it made it a bit comfier for him to sleep on. He enjoyed having a special ‘big boy bed’ on the trip and we loved the portability and easy setup.

The portable kids travel cot folds up compact and is extremely simple to set up. I’m not sure that I would take it on an airplane because it would definitely need to be checked! We got lots of use with it on road trips. It’s certainly not the comfiest thing in the world, but my son didn’t seem to mind it. This thing work as a portable travel bed for a toddler and wins points on easy set up and storage.

Now that my son can sleep in a real bed we aren’t using it as much as a child travel bed. I have, however, found a great hack for it – we bring it to the beach and we use it as a raised platform for the kids to sit on when we eat. It keeps us somewhat out of the sand and is comfier than sitting directly on the ground. I love a product that can be used for longer than a few months. I’m glad I’ve found ways to make this purchase worthwhile!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Grandma’s House

Milliard portable toddler bumper bed.

This portable toddler bed is perfect for toddlers transitioning from the crib to an adult bed. The travel bed bumpers on the side are a really nice feature which keep little ones safe and comfortable inside this bed. I think this bed is best portable crib for grandma’s house or a cottage that is tight on space. It would also be great for camping, I wish they made it in adult size!! It’s not carry-on size so it would need to be checked for flying. I think this makes it less desirable for this type of trip.

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for a Hotel Room

Inflatable bed rails by the shrunks.

These are definitely the best travel bed rails for toddlers! I find that hotels always have beds that are sooo high off the ground! I was constantly worrying that my son was going to fall out of the bed until I found this product . These inflatable bed rails are the perfect travel option. They keep my restless sleeper from taking a tumble in the night. Since they are inflatable, they are super easy to set up and pack. You just slip them under the sheets and kids won’t roll off the mattress in their sleep.

Having recently slept with my toddler on our last trip, he is a little MOVING MANIAC. I felt like I was getting kicked all night. I’m glad to have these bumpers to turn our bed into a portable toddler bumper bed and to keep him from Karate kicking right off the bed. If I don’t have these available I will unusually throw some extra pillows on the floor JUST IN CASE 🙂

Sleeping on a real mattress in a nice hotel is so much better than a thin pad in a travel toddler bed so I like that these rails give me peace of mind to let my toddler sleep on the ‘big bed’ and have a really comfortable sleep!

The Best Toddler Travel Bed for Camping

The shrunks toddler travel bed.

The Shrunks also makes a  Shrunks inflatable toddler bed that has gotten rave reviews from my friends who own one! An inflatable toddler bed is a great option especially for things like camping or hotel rooms where there aren’t extra mattresses lying around.

This award-winning inflatable toddler mattress has some really cool design features that make it a great option. First, it has raised edges that act as toddler bed bumpers and keep your little one safely on the mattress. As well the inner mattress within this inflatable toddler travel bed raises up allowing you to tuck in standard size crib sheets. This is a really nice feature that makes keeping the mattress clean super easy. It’s also nice to be able to use standard crib sheets as this will likely be a familiar comfort for your little ones.

The Shrunks inflatable mattress comes with an electric pump which is essential for inflating quickly on the go. It comes in a compact case that’s easy to carry from one place to another. Keep one of this toddler air mattress at grandma’s house, its a convenient option for places that are short on space.

The Best Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Bumpers

Intex kids travel bed.

Another inflatable mattress for toddlers is the Intex kids travel bed . It has built-in bumpers as well that make it perfect for little ones.  It also has the ability to tuck in sheets by pulling out the inner mattress. I’m more of a ‘glamper’ than a true camper, so we bring an inflatable air mattress when we are camping. The Intex kids travel bed is perfect for camping with kids! It’s also great in a hotel room where space is tight. The Intex toddler travel bed comes with a pump included

Let’s hear your toddler travel bed reviews!

What do you think is the best portable travel cribs for toddlers?? I’d love to hear your favorites! Drop me a line in the comments below and let me know! I always love to hear what you think. Before you head on vacation, be sure to check out my other posts on the best car seat for travel , the best kids suitcases , and my (completely free!) downloadable packing list to keep your packing organized on vacation. Safe travels and wishing everyone a good nights rest! xo Kate

Pin for later!

Ryan Biddulph

Wednesday 27th of September 2017

Nice list of toddler beds here.

Although her fam will not be traveling anytime soon - big-time home bodies - my 15 month old niece could definitely fit nicely in a few of these beds.

Thanks for sharing.

Sunday 8th of October 2017

Thanks for stopping by Ryan! These are perfect for a 15-month-old :)

Recent Posts

• Five Walt Disney World Experiences that Are Overrated
• 5 Important Reasons to Take a Family Vacation
• Best and Worst Buffet Meals at Disney
• Walt Disney World Resorts with the Best Restaurants
• Disney World Vacation VS Universal Orlando: Which is Better?

Close Search

Transparency Disclosure — We may receive a referral fee for products purchased through the links on our site… Read More .

10 Highest Rated Toddler Travel Beds 2024 reviews and ratings

Last Updated on January 10, 2024

Written by Melanie Kassel

Written by Melanie Kassel, Performance Editor

Our testing process.

Here at Sleep Advisor, our Sleep Certified experts use a refined mattress and product testing process to give you unbiased product suggestions… Read our full product review process .

.st0{clip-path:url(#SVGID_00000046340743257271907690000000964648354283835324_);} In This Article

Looking for a handy travel bed for your toddler? We considered everything and made a selection of the ten best-rated picks to choose from.

Traveling with kids can be stressful, but figuring out where your little one will sleep shouldn’t be. It can be a struggle to create a safe sleeping space for your child while away from home.

Having a cozy space to lay their head can make all the difference in getting them the zzz’s they need so you can all enjoy your trip.

There are many options to consider when it comes to choosing a travel bed for your child. Keep reading for all the details you need to know so you can find the top rated toddler travel bed for your family.

10 Top Toddler Travel Bed Reviews

Hiccapop – ideal quality.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Inflatable bed with bumpers
• Plush removable mattress
• Electric pump included
• Travel bag included

CLICK TO SEE PRICE

The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed has unmatched quality and durability, designed with the modern family in mind. With inlay-enforced™ vinyl that is 40% thicker than similar models, the Hiccapop was created to resist punctures and leaks.

The velvety-smooth mattress is removable and fits all standard crib sheets (although it is comfortable enough that a blanket on top may be all you need). The extra-large, built-in bumpers are 2″ taller and longer than most others and offer extra peace of mind for parents.

The Hiccapop comes with a powerful electric pump and was designed to inflate in just 30 seconds for a fast and easy set-up.

The quick-release valve is meant to make deflating simple, so you can be packed and ready to go in no time. The extra-large storage bag should allow you to take this airbed virtually anywhere.

Safety is a big concern for many families. This model exceeds all federal standards for child safety, according to the manufacturer. The vinyl is BPA, lead, and phthalate-free, and is made with no harsh chemicals.

With a 310 lb weight capacity that is greater than most others, this inflatable choice may last you longer so you can keep using it as your toddler grows.

Butterfly Craze – Best Alternative

• Pillow bed / Nap mat
• Plush and comfortable
• Machine washable fabric
• Easy to store away

For an easy solution for travel, school, or nights when scary monsters send your little ones running for safety, this Butterfly Craze Kids Floor Pillow Cover may come in handy. Simply use extra pillows you already have in your house for stuffing into the 5 zipper compartments, and your comfy bed will be ready to use!

The Butterfly Crave comes in many fun and kid-friendly prints and makes a great nap-mat for school, sleepovers, or visits to Grandma’s house. This bed comes in two convenient sizes, making it suitable for children, teens, or even adults.

The smaller lounger fits 5 standard pillows and measures 26″ W X 75″ L. The larger lounger fits 5 king-sized pillows and measures 32″ W X 75″ L.

If you are looking for an alternative to bean bag chairs or floor pillows, this may make a great spot for lounging. Pillow forts and other fun activities could take on a whole new dimension with this foldable and portable design.

This product makes a great solution for schools, daycares, or slumber parties! The soft, plush fabric is machine washable for easy care. This cover can be packed into just about any suitcase, so you can travel with it anywhere and just add pillows at your destination!

Eltow Inflatable Toddler Air Mattress – Best Safety

• Inflatable bed with protective bumpers
• Puncture-resistant layer
• Leak-proof valve
• Pump and travel bag included
• BPA and Phthalate-free

Your toddler will be ready to hit the road with this inflatable air mattress from Eltow that should give them a restful night’s sleep while also keeping them safe and sound.

This bed’s design, which features protective bumpers on the side, should help relieve any concerns you may have about your little one rolling off the mattress during the night. Plus, the health-conscious construction includes a BPA & Phthalate-free product, further assuring the safety and well-being of your child.

What stands out?

• For families who plan to use this bed outdoors, you’ll be pleased to know that this bed comes with a leak-proof valve and puncture-resistant layer, which means you won’t have to worry about your kid’s bed deflating during the trip. 
• Additionally, a pump and convenient travel bag are included with your purchase. The travel bag, in particular, should make transporting your toddler’s travel bed much easier. 

Intex – Best Comfort

• Manual pump included

The Intex Travel Bed was designed to be a comfortable, convenient, and versatile option for families with small children. This durable travel product may make a great solution for camping trips, sleepovers, naps, or wherever life may take you!

Weighing in at under 10 lbs, this lightweight bed could be easily packed into the included carrying bag for travel by car or plane.

The inner airbed can be conveniently separated from the frame to create an additional sleeping space if you are traveling with multiple children.

For younger toddlers or preschoolers, the frame should provide safety and stability to ensure little ones won’t roll out of bed. This travel option was designed for kids aged 3-6 or those up to 48 inches tall.

Having a separate mattress can make tucking in standard crib-sized sheets much easier. This model includes a high-output hand pump for quick and easy inflation and deflation. When inflated, the Intex frame measures 66″ X 42″ X 10″ and the inner mattress measures 28″ x 52″ x 4″.

The kid-friendly light aqua color and enclosed design should make this an inviting space for little ones on-the-go. Having a familiar, cozy spot can help kids to feel safe and secure so everyone can get the sleep they need.

The Shrunks – Best Noise Reduction

• Inflatable bed with guard rails
• Soft flocking and sheet tuck feature
• Included pump

Nothing is worse than the squeaky sounds of a toddler, tossing and turning on a noisy blow-up mattress. The Shrunks Toddler Traveler Bed features soft flocking on the top, designed to eliminate night time squeaks. This award-winning model has been a favorite choice by many families for over ten years.

This mattress is safe from phthalates, lead, and BPA. A repair kit is conveniently included so you can easily patch up any small holes or leaks.

The comfortable mattress is built into this model and has a signature tuck-in feature so you can easily keep any standard crib-size sheets from moving around.

This portable air-mattress has built-in security rails, designed to prevent your little one from falling out of bed so they can feel confident and safe. The low to the ground design should allow young children to easily climb in and out.

A compact yet powerful Jetaire electric pump is included and was designed to inflate this mattress in under 30 seconds. The Shrunks may be a convenient, portable option for travel, sleepovers, or kids who are just transitioning out of their crib.

Regalo – Best Lightweight

• Foldable cot design
• Steel frame
• Sleep surface made with waterproof nylon canvas
• Includes Fitted Sheet

The Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed is made with a durable, all-steel frame that is lightweight and can hold up to 74 lbs. This bed weighs just over 6 lbs and can easily fold up for travel or storage.

The sturdy nylon material is waterproof and easy to wash. This cot can be covered with the included fitted sheet for added comfort.

The product is meant for children ages 2-5 or up to 48 inches long. It was designed to be easily set up in seconds with one fluid motion, making it a quick and easy option for parents.

This cot was created for portability and could be a great option for naps, travel, camping, or sleepovers. You may even use it for extra seating space at a sports event or take it to the beach!

For little ones who like to roll around, The Regalo My Cot has a generous sleeping space that measures 48” x 24” x 9”. When folded down, this cot measures 9” x 8” x 24” and can be easily packed into the carry case for storage or travel. If you are looking to keep luggage weight down, this may be a great option to consider.

Leachco – Most Convenient

• Polyurethane Foam bed with bumpers and headrest
• Machine washable cover
• Folds into included storage bag

The Leachco Bump ZZZ Travel Bed may make a convenient option for families with children ages 3 and up. This spacious and lightweight model is designed to be ready to use, with no need for inflation or any extra equipment. It can also be conveniently folded into the included travel bag for a great fold and go option.

This model features a comfortable foam padded interior with cushioned outer bumpers for comfort and safety. Customers can use the BumpZZZ fully extended as a portable bed, or fold it over to make a convenient lounging spot. This spacious product could also make a great play space for little ones while traveling or at home.

Both the center foam pad and the outer bumper pads can be removed for easy washing. This versatile bed was made in the USA and measures 58” x 39” x 7” when fully assembled. The BumpZZZ packs into a compact travel bag with handles, so you can use it as your carry-on luggage item or take it anywhere you need to go.

If you are looking for a travel option for napping, lounging, reading, playing, or just a comfy spot for your little one to land, the BumpZZZ is a convenient and lightweight option that you don’t have to worry about inflating.

USHMA – Best All-Around

• Two pricing options, with or without air pump
• Comes with two color options
• Bumper rails
• Pillow included
• BPA, phthalate, and lead-free

USHMA’s inflatable bed is our pick for the best all-around travel bed for toddlers. Depending on your budget, you can choose to purchase this item with or without a foot-operated air pump for a difference of six dollars – though both price points are very budget-friendly.

Each bed comes with two color choices for your toddler; they can opt to sleep on either the blue or gray side, both of which feature a comfortable fabric cover. A pillow is also included and can be flipped to either the blue or gray side as well.

A child’s safety is always important, especially when they are away from their regular bed, and this product is conveniently designed to include bumper rails on each side to help your child feel secure throughout the night. You should also feel comfortable knowing that this bed is free of chemicals BPA, phthalate, and lead.

Baby Seater – Best Budget

Whether your tot is spending the night at grandma’s house or joining you on a long road trip, the Baby Seater inflatable toddler bed is a great value for the price. The bed comes with its own pillow, carrying case, and patch repair kit, should your toddler get a little too rambunctious.

Made with reinforced vinyl to be tear-resistant, the bed should be able to withstand up to 310 pounds of pressure and be easy to move around on. With a high-powered air pump, this bed should inflate in less than a minute, so when those eyelids start to droop, your little one should be off to dreamland in no time.

This two-piece design should make it simple to create a home away from home without too much effort as it allows you to tuck the sheets and blankets into the mattress portion. This creates a cocoon effect and could help your baby to drift off easier and stay warmer throughout the night.

AeroBed – Best Heavy-Duty

• Washable mattress pad included
• Included hand-held AC pump

The AeroBed Air Mattress is meant for kids ages four and older. It was designed to support weights up to 300 lbs and features a spacious 50 x 25-inch sleep surface in case your little one wants you to lay with them until they fall asleep. The 4-inch high safety cushions surrounding the mattress were created to prevent children from accidentally rolling off of the bed.

This mattress was created with heavy-duty PVC material with welded seams for added stability, durability and long-lasting use. The horizontal channel construction was designed to prevent sagging and provide extra support for your child.

The thick fitted mattress pad is washable and features a cute, kid-friendly design with moons and stars.

This blow-up mattress is designed to be quick and easy to use, inflating in under one minute using the included hand-held AC pump. When you are ready to put your mattress away, it deflates in less than 15 seconds and can be conveniently stored in the matching travel bag. The AeroBed is a cozy and portable option that can be used for traveling, sleepovers, or a safe space close to Mom and Dad.

How To Choose The Best Toddler Travel Bed In The Market

Kid’s weight.

Some options are meant for younger children who weigh less, so be sure to check the weight restrictions.

If you are looking for a sleeping space for use at home or the occasional road trip, weight probably will not be an issue. However, if you will be traveling, especially by air, it may be important to look for a lighter-weight option. Some designs are incredibly light and could even be packed in carry-on luggage.

Comfort Level

If this is a bed your toddler will be using frequently, choosing a comfortable sleeping spot may be very important. Sturdier designs may be more durable, but inflatable choices tend to offer more in the way of comfort. If you are unsure, read some reviews to see what other parents have said before purchasing.

Includes A Carrier Bag?

While not essential, a carrying bag can make traveling much easier.

Toddler beds come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which may be an important factor if you have a taller child.

Portability

Some designs can fold up easily into a carrying bag for ease of transportation. Other factors like a pump for inflation may take up additional space.

What Is A Toddler Travel Bed?

A toddler travel bed is a kid-sized, portable bed for families who like to travel or need an in-between option for children who have outgrown their cribs. They are usually designed to be lightweight and easily transportable for travel by car or airplane. There are many different styles to choose from including cots, foldable options, and inflatable air mattresses.

Traveling with younger children can be more challenging since toddlers love routine. Many are accustomed to sleeping in their own space at home and may find it difficult to transition into an unfamiliar setting. Having a comfortable space of their own to play or sleep in may help to ease some of their fears and ensure that everyone gets a good night’s sleep.

Many toddlers are still learning how to sleep in a “big kid” bed. Choosing a design with built-in security rails may provide reassurance for parents who are worried about their little ones falling out of bed.

Different Types of Toddler Travel Beds

Air mattress/inflatable.

Inflatable air mattresses offer a compact option that can easily be transported or stored. Most air mattresses come with a separate pump for easy inflation, but for those options that do not include a pump, they can easily be purchased separately. Air mattresses are easy to inflate or deflate, taking on their full shape in under 30 seconds in many cases.

While many options have a soft flocked surface for sleeping on, your little one may prefer to have separate sheets on top as these mattresses can have a slight plastic odor. Air mattresses are also more prone to tears and leaks, but many come with a repair kit so you can easily fix them.

Many toddler designs include built-in bumpers so you shouldn’t have to worry about your little one falling out of bed. Some also have a “tuck-in” feature or a separate frame so you can keep their sheets from moving around. Toddler mattresses typically fit standard or twin sized-sheets which you may already have at home.

A ready bed is a convenient option for toddlers that comes with a built-in sleeping bag so there is no need for extra bedding. For families who travel a lot or need a ready-to-go sleeping space for their toddler, these portable all-in-one designs give parents one less thing to pack.

Some require inflation and simply need to be unfolded. Many of these ready models come in fun, kid-friendly prints featuring their favorite television characters. For convenience and an all-inclusive option, ready beds may be a good choice.

Folding toddler beds are typically a “cot” design that can be folded up quickly for storage or travel. Most feature a canvas top with steel legs, similar to the popular stadium or camping chairs. These sit higher up off of the ground, so they may be a better option for camping, sleeping outdoors, or even a trip to the beach.

Many schools and daycares use sleep cots for naps or rest-time since they can easily be stacked or stored. Most folding cots do not have side rails, so they are better suited for older children or those who aren’t prone to falling out of bed.

Folding cots also make a convenient option for travel since they are very lightweight and can be easily packed into luggage. They also offer versatility because you can use them as extra seating space for little ones outdoors or around the house.

Why You Need To Have a Toddler Travel Bed

Toddlers are in a unique “transition” time in their lives, just moving out of the baby stage and into a phase of discovery. As they switch from a crib to a “big kid” bed, many toddlers prefer to have a more enclosed space similar to what they’ve been used to. Traveling with little ones can be challenging, so having a familiar space of their own may help young children to feel safe and secure.

Child Travel Bed vs. Travel Crib vs. Pack N Play

As you begin researching the best portable sleeping options for your toddler, you may find all of the different terms confusing. While travel beds, travel cribs, and pack-n-plays can all be used as sleeping spaces for little ones, there are unique considerations that you may want to keep in mind before deciding which is the best choice for your family.

Typically, travel beds are designed for toddlers and children who have already outgrown their cribs. They come in various options such as foldable, “cot” style, inflatable, and ready-beds.

Some may include built-in bumpers for younger children, and others include unique features such as bedding and carrying cases. Different sizes are meant to accommodate younger guests with a crib-size mattress, while others feature twin-size or double mattresses for older children.

Travel cribs are designed for little ones aged two and under, although some come in bigger sizes meant for toddlers. While travel cribs are the best choice for babies, you may want to consider a travel bassinet for infants under four months of age. There are different styles of portable cribs including pop-up types or ready-to-use cribs.

Another style of a portable crib is a co-sleeper that is meant to be used in-between parents in bed. While co-sleepers can only accommodate younger babies up to a certain age or weight, they allow parents to keep their tiny child close and are a good option for places with limited floor space. Co-sleepers are very light-weight and are usually easy to pack and travel with.

A pack-n-play is a foldable playpen or play yard that can easily be packed up for storage or to take on-the-go. While pack-n-plays are a lot bulkier and tend to weigh more than travel beds, they are a convenient option for little ones since they offer a safe place for both sleep and play. Many also include removable bassinets and/or change-tables for an all-in-one option for traveling with babies.

Many families with young children have a pack-n-play in their home for their little ones to nap or play in. These are also a popular choice for storing at Grandma’s house for overnight visits and sleepovers.

While they are a convenient option, they are generally too heavy to take on longer trips since they do not fit into luggage and are too big to use as a carry-on. Deciding which option is best for you will depend on the age of your child and your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Toddler Travel Beds

What is the age range for toddler beds.

Depending on your child’s age, weight, and development, they made be ready to transition out of their crib between the ages of one and a half and two. While some parents choose to keep their toddlers in a crib until as late as age three, many children have learned how to climb over the sides of the crib by this time, possibly putting them in danger.

Toddler beds all have different age ranges depending on their design, but most are generally meant for children aged two through five. Some toddler options may extend up to age six or seven, but be sure to check the recommendations first.

Are they really safe?

Safety is a big concern for parents, especially for those with toddlers who love to climb. The benefit of most toddler beds is that they don’t have sides like cribs do so they can easily get up and move. Toddlers are also more prone to rolling out of bed, so many designs feature built-in sides or bumper pads to keep little ones secure.

When considering various options for your child, look for manufacturers that verify they have met American Safety Standards. Many also offer foams that contain safe levels of chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, and lead.

Toddlers are special, and their sleeping space should be special too! Finding a safe and secure option is a big concern for parents, and thankfully there are many varieties to choose from.

Portability, weight, and convenience are all important factors to consider for families looking for the perfect toddler bed for traveling.

Traveling with kids may require more planning to accommodate their unique needs, so having a bed you can take with you may make a world of difference while you travel the globe. Having a familiar spot to lay their head should help your little one to get the rest they need so you can too!

Melanie Kassel

Performance Editor

About Author

As Sleep Advisor’s Performance Editor, Melanie writes and edits content throughout the site to ensure it’s accurate, engaging, and up-to-date.

Combination Sleeper

• WORK WITH US
• MEET THE FAM
• BABY + TODDLER TIPS
• TRAVEL ESSENTIALS + GEAR
• TRAVEL STORE

On a desperate hunt for the best toddler bed for plane travel so that your little one can catch some snooze, and you can get around to enjoying some Vino and in-flight entertainment?

We got your back on this one. Having miraculously survived a 22-hour plane trip from Australia to Germany without a wink of sleep because our toddler was either, a) sleeping on us, or b) circumnavigating the cabin for the 52nd time; we vowed to never undertake a trip like that again without some kind of intervention.

The intervention came in the form of an inflatable leg rest that allowed our toddler to lie flat and sleep in his own seat. Voila. No drooling kid on our laps or awkward sleep positions. We were free wile away our time catching up on the latest flicks or stress drinking ourselves to relaxation with free booze.

Without further ado, we present to you the best toddler airplane bed (in no particular order) to save your next family holiday.

Need more tips for surviving travel with kids?

Top 10 Portable Baby & Toddler Beds for Travel

10 Genius Travel Toys for Toddlers

Must-Have Travel Gadgets & Accessories for Kids

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Jun 13, 2019 at 6:15am PDT

Toddler Airplane Bed: Common Questions

We almost gave up on traveling. No kidding. Flying with a baby and toddler is our worst kind of nightmare, like, if we lived in a Harry Potter world, our ‘boggart’ would literally take the form of our two kids in an airplane.

Why buy a toddler airplane bed?

In a nutshell, a toddler bed for plane travel fills the gap in the leg space between your seat and the one in front. That way, babies, toddlers and kids can rest their legs comfortably (or even lie completely flat) and catch some snooze.

What type of airplane bed for toddler do I need?

It all depends on how much you’re willing to pay, essentially, they all do the same thing. Whether you get an inflatable airplane bed, baby airplane hammock or a kids’ suitcase that converts into a bed, at the end of the day, they serve the same purpose.

However, from our years of travelling with kids, we do have a favourite which we’ve reviewed below.

Read a full review of our top pick: 5 awesome features of the JetKids BedBox .

Want more exclusive family travel tips & guides?

Join thousands of subscribers and get the best gear and accessory recommendations delivered straight to your inbox.

Are airplane toddler beds allowed on flights?

It depends on which airline you’re flying, as the rules differ. Currently, leg rests are banned on Emirates, Qantas, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Thai Airways. Be sure to check with your airline before bringing one onboard.

Is an inflatable airplane bed easy to set up?

Generally speaking – yes. Cheaper inflatable leg rests don’t tend to come with a pump, meaning that you’ll have to call upon the husband to exercise the air capacity in his lungs.

Pay a little extra for a Fly Tot and you might just save yourself from a cardiac arrest, thanks to the foot pump that’s provided.

How do you carry them onboard?

The downside? You’ll have to make space in your carry-on luggage for an inflatable plane bed. They do occupy a lot of space. Be prepared to pack minimal.

Something like a JetKids Bed Box counts as kids’ carry-on luggage, which won’t take up your own luggage space and allowance.

Best Airplane Bed for Toddler: Quick Comparison

Refer to the table below for a quick overview and comparison of the best toddler airplane bed, ranked according to price and practicality.

10 Best Toddler Beds for Plane Travel & Other Sleep Aids

1. jetkids bedbox ride on & toddler bed for plane.

This is the mother of all kids’ suitcases and our absolute favourite accessory to take with us on our travels. The JetKids BedBox is a genius multifunctional ride-on suitcase that converts into a toddler airplane bed.

Its 3-in-1 functionality allows for it to be used as a ride-on suitcase, toy storage and toddler bed for plane travel.

This makes it easier to overcome jet lag with a baby or toddler seeing as little rascals will be well rested after a proper lie-down snooze.

For an in-depth look at the JetKids Bed Box, take a look at our full review .

RELATED: 10 Must-Have Travel Accessories for Kids

2. Fly Tot Inflatable Airplane Cushion

The Fly Tot inflatable airplane cushion is a super light and more economic option when compared to the JetKids Bed Box. It deflates in seconds and fits snugly inside carry-on luggage.

In flight, it converts your lucky little kiddo’s economy seat into a business class recliner, making it the perfect toddler bed for plane travel. 

The handy foot pump that comes with the set makes inflation super quick easy and, safe to say, no risk of going into cardiac arrest from vigorously trying to blow it up with your mouth. 

3. Cheap Inflatable Leg Rest

This super affordable inflatable toddler flight bed is the most economic option when compared to all other leg rests.

Of course, there’s a downside to the cheap price. You’ll need to inflate the cushion using your mouth, so if your oxygen capacity is close to non-existent (like mine), you might just pass out. But, that’s what husbands are for, right?

That being said, an inflatable leg rest is still the best form of toddler bed for plane travel, and your best bet when it comes to coercing your toddler into catching some snooze on a long haul flight. 

YOU MIGHT LIKE: 10 Sanity-Saving Toddler Travel Toys

4. MuuHoo Ride On Suitcase

Similar to the JetKids BedBox (albeit at almost half the price), the MuuHoo ride-on toddler suitcase folds out into a toddler airplane bed, allowing kids to lie flat and fall into a slumber.

This cute little suitcase packs a lot of punch – it features 20 litres storage capacity and holds up to 60 kg (130 lbs) in weight. I honestly wouldn’t be surprised to catch parents rolling around and ripping doughnuts on this bad boy (100% me). 

Browse more Airplane Leg Rests:

5. Toddler Carrier or Sling

Truth be told, we wouldn’t know where we would be without our Tula toddler carrier . Crying in the gutter in a foreign country somewhere. Actually, no. Probably at home  not travelling. Ever.

Carriers are a godsend on airplanes when you need to restrain an overtired toddler throwing an epic tantrum. They’re a godsend when your baby doesn’t take to the bassinet. They’re a godsend to keep little ones calm during take-off and landing (provided the airline allows it).

We’ve only ever owned Tulas because of their front-and-back carrying abilities, plus, the toddler size holds up to 27 kg (60 lbs) weight. We still carry our 4-year old in it when we need to scurry along somewhere.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Apr 26, 2019 at 2:51am PDT

6. Travel Neck Pillow for Kids

We’ve tried a bunch of neck pillows – cute ones, bean ones, suspended ones (don’t ask) – you name it, we’ve had ’em. Bottom line – our kids end up throwing them on the floor. 

Oh, but not the BCOZZY neck pillow . The two arms overlap, cradling the head and preventing little chins from dropping forward. Its unique shape and secure feel provide little ones with an overwhelming sense of comfort.

Say goodbye to wild, flailing toddler heads. They even come in adult sizes so that parents can enjoy some much needed sleep. 

7. Plush Toddler Pillow

I know – some of you might think this is a little OTT, but bringing along our own toddler-size pillow on holidays (and even long-term travel) is one item we do not regret lugging along.

The Dreamtown Toddler Pillow is perfect in size and easily fits into any suitcase. It’s 100% hypoallergenic, mould-resistent and washable.

Sometimes, kids just need a slightly larger pillow than the ones provided in-flight to get more sound sleep. Plus, it’s great for use in cars, Airbnbs and hotels when you have *ahem* trust issues with their bedding.

Browse more Toddler Travel Pillows:

8. CozyPhones Headphones for Kids

Tired of repeatedly readjusting loose headphones onto little toddler heads? I know the feeling. I’ve been there. It’s almost made me bang my head repeatedly against the emergency exit door on airplanes from mounted frustration.

CozyPhones will save your sanity. This genius headband invention features built-in speakers that actually stay on your kid’s head. 

Compatible with most devices, the built-in speakers are volume-limiting to protect little ears, comfortable and foldable so you can take them on adventures near and far.

Psst.. New to Airbnb? Get $40 travel credit when you book your first stay!

9. Baby Banz Earmuffs

If your little intrepid traveller has sensitive hearing and gets easily spooked by loud noises, then a set of Baby Banz Earmuffs might just do the trick.

These soft and comfortable earmuffs are specially made for infants and toddlers to protect little ears from loud noises – be it at the airport, on a daytime flight or when you’re travelling to bustling cities with non-stop traffic noise.

Alternatively, you can also get disposable airplane earplugs for kids if you don’t need one for the long run.

10. Saline Nose Drops

The downside of airplane travel? Dry cabin air. Our kids tend to get congested during longer plane trips, so we always make sure to pack a few bottles of saline nose spray to help relieve stuffiness and dryness.

Saline spray helps moistuside and flush out gunk in kids’ nasal passages, in turn, helping them sleep easier. Pair it up with a NoseFrida Snotsucker to really clear out all the boogers, and you’ve got yourself a winning combination.

See more Baby Travel Essentials:

11. Baby Sleep Pillow Spray

Okay – hold up. Before you storm off in an outrage and start calling child services; it’s not what you think it is. This baby sleep spray is totally legit. You can even use it on your husband if he’s irritating you. But you didn’t hear that from me.

Little Sleepy Head Sleep Spray is made from natural essential oils with the calming scent of lavender that helps lull little ones to sleep. It’s ultra gentle, 100% natural and completely safe to use. Simply spray it onto their pillow or soft toy to help them relax and fall into a peaceful slumber.

READ MORE: Top 10 Portable Baby Travel Beds 

12. Round Pet Cushion

Look, I know this sounds questionable and you’re probably raising your eyebrows right now, but I promise I’m not asking you to smuggle your fur friend onboard to lull your kids to sleep.

A savvy (or desperate) mum came up with this genius hack that helped ease her kids into comfort. Round pet beds usually have a heavily padded border, which serves really well as extra cushioning.

In turn, this allows kids to lean against hard armrests comfortably without even noticing them much. A pet cushion can also serve as a leg rest or warm cover to help little ones feel safe and cosy in flight.

13. Roll-Up Travel Nap Mat

Ever wished that you could roll out a mat and take a nap just about anywhere? Although it’s not entirely socially acceptable for adults to do so – your lucky little kids can with one of these adorable Disney nap mats .

These genius roll-up mats are the ultimate all-in-one travels beds, featuring a built-in pillow, blanket and carry strap. Oh, and your toddler’s favourite Disney character, of course.

14. Snacks & Food

Let’s be real – the most effective way of putting kids to sleep is to have them fall into a blissful food coma. Feed them, you know, those carb-heavy snacks that promote the release of serotonin (AKA sleep hormone), so that they, you know, pass out. 

Stay away from sugars that’ll have them bouncing off the cabin walls – trust me, there’s no nightmare worse than that. Here are our boys’ favourite healthy travel munchies:

• Lightly salted popcorn
• Vegetable chips
• Dried fruit and nut mix
• Peanut butter-filled pretzels
• Corn or rice crackers
• Toasted coconut chips
• Crackers with hommus dip

Got more clever tricks to get toddlers to sleep on planes?

Feel free to share them in the comments below.

More Popular Guides for Travelling with Kids

• Take a look at the new JetKids Travel Backpack for kids
• Find the best portable baby & toddlers beds for under $100
• Discover 28 essentials for a family beach vacation to pack for your trip

Like this post? Share on Pinterest.

Save Money Planning your Family Trip

Take a look at our Travel Resources to find the best deals on flights, accommodation and attractions. Find mistake fares, the cheapest date to fly each month, hotel and apartment savings, plus where to buy the cheapest tickets for attractions.

Looking for a sweet accommodation deal? You’re in for a treat.

• Sign up to Airbnb to get $40 USD off your first booking
• Sign up to TransferWise for the best conversion rates

Come say “HEY!” on Instagram or Facey . I like to think I’m a self-proclaimed comedian, all the while providing some lit AF travel tips. You be the judge.

• Baby + Toddler Tips
• Travel Essentials & Gear

The Best Travel Backpack for Kids: JetKids Crew BackPack Review

• Travel Tips

13 Essential Tips to help Protect against Coronavirus while Traveling

This article was very helpful. thank you

Super helpful — esp the pet cushion as I’ve never thought about it… Thanks,

Thanks so much for your kind comment and reading the article – glad you found it helpful! Apparently there’s another trick you can do with airplane blankets to create a hammock for kids’ legs. Look it up on YouTube 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Where Should My Baby or Toddler Sleep in Our Travels?

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: December 30, 2022

Share this!:

One of the most perplexing questions when traveling with babies, toddlers, and young kids is where to put them to bed at night. There are a variety of options, none of which are as ideal as your child’s own crib in a quiet room alone. On the road, however, you have to learn to be flexible. The right answer to the question of where your baby or toddler should sleep is different in different travel situations. My family has utilized almost all of the options below at different locations and at different stages in our daughter’s (and now our son’s) life.

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

Factors to Consider When Planning Where Your Baby or Toddler Will Sleep

Before we dive into specific sleep solutions and products, a few general guidelines are helpful. Before any trip, these are the four questions I usually ask myself when evaluating the sleep options available to me.

1. What is Your Child’s Age?

Planning a travel sleep solution for a newborn is very different than one you might use for an older toddler. Different safety factors are obviously in play, but also very different practical challenges. A young baby might fall asleep easily even when there are some distractions, but an alert toddler might not be able to sleep with other things happening in a small hotel room. Be prepared for your sleep strategy to change with each passing trip as your child gets older.

2. What is your Child’s Personality?

The right travel sleep setup will also depend a lot on the personality of your child. As the parent of two kiddos with very different personalities, I learned this lesson quickly. My independent and active daughter needed a quiet and separate place to sleep successfully when we traveled. My snuggly and sweet son was happy anywhere cozy and near mom. Before purchasing a product or bringing it with you on a trip without ever testing it out, consider carefully whether it’s a fit for how your child rolls!

3. What Kind of Accommodations Will You Be Staying In?

The right sleeping setup will also depend heavily on where you are staying. Figuring out where a small child should sleep in a hotel room is tricky. There’s often not a ton of space and there is rarely any separation to block light and sound, unless you opt for suites-style hotels or adjoining rooms. Staying in a vacation rental, condo, or even at grandma and grandpa’s house usually means more space and more separation, making different sleep solutions more viable. 

4. Are You Flying or Driving?

Last but certainly not least, I always think about my method of travel on a particular trip. It’s a whole lot easier to take larger sleeping gear on a road trip than it is on an airplane. When we travel by car, we choose the sleep solution that works the best for our child, no matter what the size. When we fly by plane, we often have to compromise on the perfect fit to use a sleep solution that is more compact.

7 Places Your Baby or Toddler Could Sleep When Traveling

So now that you know what factors to keep in mind, let’s get on to some specific sleep solutions! Here are 7 products and places our kids have slept successfully, whether in hotel rooms, vacation rentals, or visiting family. 

1. Bed Sharing

Bed sharing is obviously an easy travel solution that requires no gear or preparation. I was never much of a co-sleeper with my independent daughter, but have done it on occasion with my son. The major downside is that you may get no sleep if you have a squirmy little one, especially if you aren’t used to sharing a family bed.

Confirm that you will have a bed big enough for co-sleeping at your destination before you take off without an alternative. And if you have an infant, also consider carefully whether co-sleeping is something you feel you can do safely (and consult with your pediatrician if you have questions!).

2. Pack ‘n Play or Travel Crib

A Pack ‘n Play style portable travel crib is a product so many families have, and it can work well for sleep in many travel situations. It works for a variety of ages, from infants up to toddler up to about 30 pounds. They can be easily set up in a quiet corner of a hotel room (or even a walk-in closet!). And the basic models are pretty inexpensive too.

So what’s the catch? Their size. My family used them often for road trips when we could throw them in our trunk, but Pack ‘n Plays are not as great of a solution for air travel. They are heavy and bulky if you are trying to lug them through airports. Additionally, the checked bag fees required to transport them add up quickly.

That said, we have taken our Pack ‘n Play occasionally on airplane flights when we have been on longer vacations where our daughter really needed her own space. There are ways to save on those bag fees, either with airline elite status, holding an airline’s credit card, or simply choosing to fly Southwest – the last US airline that doesn’t charge for bags (Related: 7 Free Things on Southwest Airlines ).

Pack ‘n Plays are also a great solution for sleeping at grandma and grandpa’s house. Order a cheap version to keep permanently at their house for all the grandkids to use. There are several that are in the $40-60 range from a variety of manufacturers (check out the least expensive offerings from: Pamo Babe or Dream on Me Nest Portable Playard ).

There are also now quite a few more lightweight travel cribs on the market now, like the Lotus Travel Crib or the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light . They are still fairly bulky when folded but at least they aren’t quite as heavy. Just be prepared to pay more for the superior design.  

Finally, some baby gear rental companies will rent travel cribs as well, so you don’t have to lug them yourself. One of the largest players in this space, BabyQuip , regularly has playards and other compact cribs listed for rent in nearly every major city you might find yourself traveling with little ones. Especially if you need other kid travel gear on your trip, renting can save a lot of logistical hassles.

3) Hotel Crib

If you are staying in a hotel, most major hotel chains will provide a crib to you at no extra cost when you travel with a baby or a toddler. This solution is great for certain types of travel when you can trust that the hotel will have something safe, comfortable, and clean for your child. We’ve had especially excellent luck with Westin brand hotels , which provide their signature “Heavenly Crib” to kids. Disney hotels are also always reliable!

So what are the risks and pitfalls to be aware of with hotel cribs? First, many hotels will state that they have a “crib” on their website, but when you arrive, you will be given a Pack ‘n Play. In our experience, this worked out fine because our children were equally comfortable in a Pack ‘n Play as they were in a crib. I know many children, however who never got used to a Pack ‘n Play for whom the difference is essential! Call ahead to confirm exactly what kind of crib you will receive if this is an issue for your child.

Second, also be aware that most hotel cribs are more compact than a full size crib you will have in your home. Bigger toddlers may not always fit.

Finally, there’s the question of safety. Just like renting a car seat , you won’t know the safety history of a hotel crib. It’s hard to know whether it is well-maintained or perhaps even the subject of a safety recall. I myself received an obviously highly unsafe Pack ‘n Play at one hotel in my travels . For younger infants especially, this may be one situation parents don’t want to leave things to chance.

4) KidCo PeaPod

Looking for a more compact product where your child can sleep separately? Enter the KidCo PeaPod . We were late to discover the PeaPod, as I thought it looked a bit too constricting for my independent and active first born. Live and learn. We bought one with my son and used it successfully on a wide variety of trips for several years.

The Peapod works like a tiny popup tent, with a very thin (almost camping-style) mattress on the bottom. The obvious advantage of the PeaPod over a Pack N Play is that it is much more compact. It also has a longer life since it doesn’t have the Pack N Play’s 30 pound weight limit. 

So what are the cons? It can only be used with kids ages 1+, so it won’t work for infants. Some of the reviews also state that it gets a little hot and stuffy in the tent-like structure, but my son never complained. We always made sure to set it up somewhere with adequate ventilation. Additionally, the mattress underneath didn’t seem thick enough for me, but when set up on the soft carpet of a hotel room, it always was sufficient for our child. See my full review of the KidCo PeaPod for more info.

5) Toddler Air Mattress

Eventually, our children outgrew the Pack ‘n Play and Peapod. Our next step was using a toddler air mattress . This product has been our solution for road trips for several years and even occasionally for air travel. It’s quite a bit smaller than a traditional twin bed size air mattress when folded and is surprisingly lightweight. In fact, we found we could save on airline bag fees by stuffing it into our daughter’s check car seat bag on occasion. You could also easily bring it on board a flight as a carry on bag with no problem. Bonus that is has small raised “bedrails” to keep younger kids from rolling off.

6) Hotel Sofa Bed

When we stay in hotels with kids of toddler and preschooler ages, my family often puts the kids on a pull-out sofa. A lot of hotels have king bed rooms that include a sofa bed. We often went out of our way to book this room type for awhile. This option is nice for everyone – my husband and I have plenty of space and our child would have a compact place of her own to sleep.

Most sofa beds are a little lower to the ground and also have a little bit of bedrail-like protection because of the armrests of the sofa, which can help keep a restless toddler safe from falling out. We also pile up the cushions removed from the couch around the bed for extra protection.

Luckily, we had a long period where our older child was in the sofa bed and our younger child was still in a travel crib. The challenge, of course, arises when you have more than one child. We found some sofa beds are too small for them to share successfully.

7) Hotel Extra Bed

Alternatively, many hotels have rooms that include two queen or two double beds, so the adults can sleep in one and the kid(s) in another. The only downside is that these beds are higher and offer no bedrail protection if you have a little one prone to rolling out of bed. You can always line the sides with pillows as a last resort. 

My kids aren’t great at sharing a bed either, so consider this possibility when booking hotels. Some hotels will also offer rollaway beds, but those come with hefty extra fees in many instances. We’ve been successful in getting some hotels to waive those fees on occasion, but we don’t count on it! 

Looking for more travel and sleep advice? Check out my guide with tips for handling naps and sleep schedules with babies !

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Sunday 25th of April 2021

I love that you say to consider the personality! That's still missed a lot. And thanks for all the tips. This toddler looks promising to us since we're just transfering to the plain mattress (Montessori style).

Leslie Harvey

Thursday 6th of February 2020

Not quite sure where anyone advocated that in this post but I agree! (Although the little plastic liner can be totally awesome to contain smells if removed and used to tie up a dirty diaper that is then placed in the trash can...)

Tuesday 28th of January 2020

As a hotel employee and a parent. Please don't use the ice bucket to store nasty ass diapers.

Wednesday 20th of December 2017

Usually, we use a hotel rib, but it was not so easy, because the child wasn't taught to fall asleep in completely new conditions. However, we read about the Hold with Love method, which helps them, when falling asleep in new places. I even found a nice short tutorial on it - Susan Urban is the author. Thanks to her, our little boy has already fallen asleep in every hotel.

Sunday 10th of June 2018

We used the same exact method! We’ve always been heavy travelers and did not want our baby to stop us, rather explore with with us. We’ve started traveling with him at 6mo and thanks to Susan Urban’s method it was not problematic at all. Little explorer is falling asleep everywhere, as long as his comfy blanky is around.

KidCo PeaPod Review: The Most Compact Bed for Toddler Travel - Trips With Tykes

Tuesday 13th of December 2016

[…] are a number of toddler sleep solutions but each has its limitations.  Believe me – we’ve tried them all!  Pack N Plays are […]

Cynical Parent

Best travel crib for 2 year old toddlers (a toddler travel crib that allows you to enjoy your vacation).

Eric and Tiffany Matthews April 26, 2018 Baby Gear Leave a comment 30,596 Views

If you have ever taken a vacation or traveled with a toddler, you know that more often than not, the vacation is for anyone but the parent!

One of the primary concerns you’ll find is the sleeping arrangements. Most 2 year-olds aren’t quite old enough to understand invisible boundaries and sleep in a regular bed all night. However, they are old enough to climb out of most travel cribs making for an interesting night and one LONG vacation.

We did a bit of research and came up with the best travel crib for 2 year old toddlers. With the sleeping arrangements managed via a nice toddler travel crib, you can stop fighting your toddler about sleeping and get back to rest and relaxation.

Here’s what we found.

(Note: This post contains affiliate links. See affiliate disclaimer at the bottom of the page.)

The Best Travel Crib for 2 Year Old Toddlers : Baby Bjorn Travel Crib

In our opinion, the best travel crib for 2 year old toddlers is the  the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib .

There are a lot of things we like about this one, despite the fact that it is more expensive than other toddler travel cribs.

Here’s what we like:

1) It’s light and portable.

This toddler travel crib is only 13 lbs .

Furthermore, it folds compactly in a suitcase-style carry case. It’s not a standard carry-on size for airlines, but is small enough to be checked for free in most cases.

Setup is also easy and can be done in just a few minutes.

2) It’s a good size and comfortable

When compared to the other travel cribs and standard Pack ‘n Play options, the Baby Bjorn does boast a slightly smaller footprint. This makes it slightly easier to set up in tight spaces if space is a concern.

However, due to the angle of the walls, the opening at the top is more narrow than its competitors. If your little one is the claustrophobic type then this may be something to consider before purchasing.

The mattress with this travel crib is slightly thicker and more plush than some of its competitors so it makes a good option for longer-term sleep arrangements. The mattress is placed on the floor, so there is no weight limit concerns with this one.

Because it’s on the floor, it makes it more difficult for your little monkey to climb their way out of bed!

3) It’s easy to c lean and safe

This toddler travel crib is easy to clean and is safely constructed.

The Baby Bjorn allows for the removal of the cloth top so it can be machine washed. However, there is another panel along the bottom that can’t be removed and must be washed with soap and water like the mesh panels. This crib also meets top safety standards for not using harmful chemicals in the production of the materials. That includes no fire-retardant treatments to the fabric portions of the crib.

When we compared this one with the Lotus Travel Crib (explained below) there were several things we like about both. However, the overall quality of this toddler travel crib makes it our choice as as the best travel crib for 2 year old toddlers.

Click here to read more about the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib.

The Runner Up : Lotus Travel Crib

Although it may not be our pick for the best travel crib for 2 year old toddlers, the  Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard  comes pretty darn close.

1) It’s made for travel 

At a mere 13 lbs  (like the Baby Bjorn), the Lotus Travel Crib can be carried as a backpack or in a briefcase style during transport. It’s even compact enough to meet most airlines guidelines for carry on status!

The setup and tear down is simple and easy – it can be done in minutes ( even while wrangling said 2 year-old ).

2) It’s great for sleep (and fun!)

This travel crib is made with a slightly longer mattress than the standard travel sleeper. At 42”, this crib will last longer and be more accommodating for the tallest of our little ones.

Additionally, there is no weight limit because the mattress is positioned on the floor.

How is it made for fun, you may ask?

One of the things that makes this the best travel crib for 2 year olds is the side zipper. This zipper can be used to completely open the one side of the crib for playing and fort building. Kids love this feature.

And as a parent, you get the benefit of having a built- in play area, even if you are also traveling with older kids. Also, if your little one is still breastfeeding, or you have a hard time reaching the bottom of the crib, the side zipper can be helpful for letting them nurse to sleep, or placing them in the crib easily (without having to drop them that last couple of inches).

3) It’s e asy to clean and it’s safe

The Lotus Travel Crib is easy to clean and is exceptionally safe for your little one. The materials used in the construction have no fire-retardant chemicals, so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals near your child and the sides are fully mesh for maximum breathability.

The top, cloth portion of the travel crib can be removed and thrown in the washer, while the mesh can easily be wiped down with soap and water.

Truthfully, the only concern I noted with this travel crib was the mattress. It is on the thin and firm side (which you’ll find with most travel cribs). If this is a concern for you, they do sell  a quilted cover that definitely helps make it softer.

Overall, the Lotus Travel Crib really checked all the boxes (and then some!) when we were looking for the best toddler travel crib.

Click here to read more about the Lotus Travel Crib.

An Inexpensive Alternative: The Graco Pack N’ Play Playard Nimble Nook

Graco brings us our last and least expensive option in our search for the best travel crib for 2 year old toddlers: the Pack N’ Play Playard Nimble Nook

Here’s what you need to know about this one:

1) Despite its heavier weight, it’s still portable

Like standard Pack N’ Play models, the Graco Nimble Nook wraps up the crib inside the mattress for a boxy and slightly more cumbersome tote option.

It weighs in at 19 lbs and, with the carry case, is about 26 inches long. At that size, you may still be able to check it for free at the airline, but some people have had issues with this during their travels.

For setup we can’t complain; the Graco setup has always been fairly simple and straightforward. However, tear-down can be slightly more difficult with that “pull up the bottom slightly in order to push the button” method.

After some practice it goes quickly, but there is no doubt it is more cumbersome that our other two options, which can be done with one hand if necessary.

A bonus (that you don’t see with the Lotus or Baby Bjorn options) is the bassinet insert. The Nimble Nook comes with a removable insert for use as a bassinet while baby is small.  So if you’re buying this for a toddler, you can easily reuse it later for an infant if you plan on having more kids. 🙂

2) Size is okay, but smaller than the other options

The sleeping area of the Graco Nimble Nook is slightly smaller than a standard travel crib, at 38” (compare to 42” with the Lotus and 41” for the Baby Bjorn). It also has a suspended mattress system so, unlike its competitors, it does have a weight and height limit.

Graco recommends this travel crib for children under 30 inches tall and 35lbs in weight. The suspended mattress also means you lose a few inches of wall height and your little one may find it easier to climb out (although still pretty tough to do).

3) Not quite as easy to clean

There is no way to throw parts of this Pack N’ Play in the washer, it must be washed with soap and water while standing so it can dry properly.

We also couldn’t find any information about if Graco is currently using fire-retardant chemicals to treat their products. The only other safety concern of note is that it is easier to climb out of, so it can be difficult to keep an especially agile 2 year old from scaling the walls to freedom and potentially hurting themselves.

No major concerns, however, especially when you consider how relatively inexpensive this option is.

Click here to read more about the Graco Pack N’ Play Playard Nimble Nook.

Now go get some sleep!

That’s it for our breakdown of the best travel crib for 2 year old toddlers. There are several options, but our favorite once again is  the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib .

Traveling with a toddler isn’t easy, so the least you can do is make sure your sleeping arrangements are done right.

( And while you’re at it, check out our posts about best diaper bag for air travel and best airplane toys to keep your kid quiet and busy .)

What’s your favorite toddler travel crib? Have you tried any of the ones mentioned in this post? Leave a comment below!

Tags baby gear sleep travel

About Eric and Tiffany Matthews

Related Articles

Best Nursing Chair/Glider to Perfect Your Baby’s Nursery

April 1, 2023

Best Baby Activity Table (which one should you buy?)

March 14, 2021

The Best Snoo Alternatives and Knockoffs (more affordable bassinets)

September 19, 2020

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Ask FamiliesGo!: Sleeping in Hotels With Toddlers

By Author Eileen P. Gunn

Posted on Last updated: September 14, 2023

Skip the Hotel

Get out of sight, keep kids up later, have a question about travel with kids, ‪familiesgo says: try inflatable bed rails or creative pillow use, pin it for later.

This is  Ask FamiliesGo!,  where we answer our readers’ questions about family travel. We add new questions as our readers pose them, so keep checking back. You can ask your own question by emailing us .

Question: How Do Families With Toddlers Sleep in Hotel Rooms?

This is one of these things about family travel that I really don’t understand. There are entire cities where there don’t seem to be any hotels that have suites.

Where does a baby or toddler sleep in a hotel room?

How do you share a hotel room with little kids and make sure that they get enough sleep without going to bed yourself at 7:30?

‪FamiliesGo! says:

Sharing a hotel room with a baby, toddler or preschooler is one of the perennial challenges of family vacations. There are rare parents lucky enough to have kids who fall asleep with lights and even the TV on.

For the rest of us there is no ideal solution, just a lot of improvising. The good news is that it gets easier as kids get older, fall asleep later and adjust to new settings more easily.

One thing we have working in our favor is that families are usually pretty active on vacation, so kids are tired and ready to fall asleep at bedtime. Some sleep more easily and more deeply than they do at home.

Here are tips for sharing a hotel room with kids. Let us know what works for you.

The first option is to give up on hotels entirely for a few years and to use services like VRBO to find a house or an apartment.

You give up conveniences like housekeeping, pool and a restaurant just downstairs, but you gain a living room, which makes bedtime and naptime more manageable. And you have a kitchen, which is handy with kids.

If you really prefer or need to be in a hotel there are tricks to try.

If you’re visiting a beach destination book a hotel with a balcony or patio. That can become the second room where you hang out and read during naps or have a glass of wine and talk after bedtime.

No balcony? Then the answer is to find a way to hide, either yourselves or the baby.

We’ve turned the lights out temporarily and then turned them back on again after we were sure Tiny Traveler was sound asleep. If she stayed asleep we read or watched Netflix with the sound low on a tablet or laptop.

In hotels with nice bathrooms we’ve also hung out in the bathroom (the sink is handy for chilling wine) to read and talk.

If kids are still in a crib or playard some parents position it in the small foyer area by the door or, if the sink is outside of the bathroom, in that alcove.

That can be enough distance to convince babies you aren’t in the room so they’ll settle down and sleep.

Jessica Bowers of Suitcases and Sippy Cups travels with an expandable shower rod that she can put up and hang a light blanket over to further separate the playard in the foyer from the rest of the room.

With kids who are sleeping in beds Kate Kristian Spiller from Wild Tales Of‪ uses strong tape or a travel clothesline and a sheet to divide her hotel room in two.

Bowers has also draped a light blanket over a crib or playard. She says this can be enough to convince babies that you’ve left the room.

Just leave room between the crib and the wall and only cover three sides so there is ventilation.

Need a playard : These days my reader are choosing the Guava Lotus Travel Crib and the Chicco Alfa Lite travel playards. Both have a lightweight frame that supports a mesh frame and a side opening in case you need to be at the bay’s level.

You can remove the mesh from the fram completely and toss it in washing machine, which is quite handy since accidents are more likely to happen when you’re traveling and out of your routine. The Guava carrying bag has backpack straps so your hands are free for kids and other luggage. The Chicco folds up rectangular and flatter than some portable cribs do, which can make it easier to pack in the car.

Parents like the Joovy Gloo portable travel tent (above) for babies and toddlers so much that it sells out during peak travel seasons.

Travel blogger Lillie Marshall recommends a really light pop-up tent  when kids outgrow the Joovy. Travel writer LiLing Pang and several readers have used the KidCo Pea Pod for toddlers and preschoolers. “It’s super lightweight. We would put a sheet over it to create a dark room and use a white-noise machine to mask our movements. You can even put it on top of the bed.”

My readers have lately been keen on the Slumberpod blackout cover . It’s domes so it will fit over a wide range of travel cribs and playards to keep light out and give you privacy. It has an inside pocket for your baby monitor and a fan that nests in the top if the canopy for more air circulation. These are nice extras I haven’t see everywhere.

Another reader favorite it the SnoozeShade Pack & Play Canopy . It sits flat on top of the travel crib and has a top opening for reaching in to pickup your child. It has mesh windows on each side with flaps you can roll up and down to provide air circulation and a little. When it’s closed it blocks out 98% of light and folds up to fit in your suitcase.

We’ve also brought baby monitors with us so we could leave the hotel room and hang out in the lounge or bar while Tiny Traveler fell asleep. Baby monitors have gotten smaller and better since we were using one, making this tactic even easier.

Whether you try it will still depend on the layout of the hotel and and if you’re close enough to your room in those common areas to feel comfortable popping out.

Finally, once Tiny Traveler was 5 or so we would let her stay up later than usual on vacation. We often go to bed earlier on vacation so this closed the gap between our bedtime and hers quite a bit.

This will only work out well though, if your kids will sleep a little later in the morning. If they’re up at 6:00 AM no matter when they go to bed this will result in overtired cranky kids, and nothing kills a vacation faster than that.

Send us an email . We’ll answer your question in a post within 72 hours.

More Ask FamiliesGo! • What’s the Best Way To Visit Cuba With Kids? • Where Are the Deals on Washington DC Hotels? • Any ideas for a budget U.S. beach vacation? • How Do We Manage Naps on Vacation?

Question: Where Does the Baby Sleep When the Hotel Has No Crib?

At home we often lie down with our 19-month old until he falls asleep and then we put him back in his crib. When we travel sometimes the hotel has no crib or it’s easier to just let him stay with us all night.

But there isn’t room for three of us in a double bed and we’re afraid he’ll role off a regular bed if he sleeps there by himself.

What are our options for sleeping in a hotel room with a baby?

When we couldn’t get a crib I used to line the extra hotel pillows up on either side of my daughter. Or line them up one side if you’re co- sleeping.

Unless you have a really active sleeper it should enough to keep her in the middle.

Tiny Traveler also liked to sleep perpendicular to the headboard. It gave her a wall to nestle into and that made her less likely to roll off.  You can try positioning your child that way and see if that works.

You can also ask for a room with one king instead of two doubles. With a little one, three can sleep pretty comfortably in the bigger bed.

Several of our readers like inflatable bed rails from Shrunks . It’s yet another thing to carry but could be just the thing you need for a year or two.

Several readers like the bed bumpers and toddler travel beds from Hiccapop , too.

Have a question on family travel? Ask FamiliesGo! and we’ll do our best to answer your email and here on the website.

­­­­

• About the Blogger
• About the Globetrotters
• Community Groups
• Privacy Policy
• PR & Media Inquiries
• Guest Opportunities
• Giveaways & Offers

• Best Destinations
• Explore My City
• Australia & Oceania
• Middle East
• Pregnancy Travel
• Baby Travel
• Toddler Travel
• Tween & Teen Travel
• Theme Park Travel
• Travel Health
• Travel Photography
• Flying with Kids
• Beach Vacation
• Camping, Hiking & Outdoor Adventures
• Travel Toys
• Baby Travel Gear
• Toddler Travel Gear
• Outdoor Gear
• Airline Reviews
• Accommodation Reviews
• Attraction Reviews
• Book Reviews
• Travel Gifts
• Packing Lists
• Expat Life Blog
• Expat Money Matters
• Global Parenting Interviews
• Expat Entrepreneurs
• Family Life in Abu Dhabi
• Booking Tools

Packing Lists , Travel Advice

20+ toddler travel essentials for 2024 – with packing list.

Items that helped us through the challenging toddler travel years

We’ve never denied that one of the most difficult phases we went through with our children was the toddler years. At home and travelling. The memories are still very fresh!

It never stopped us from travelling, but it certainly added to the amount of gear we needed to lug around the world with us (it’s kind of the same as babies, only it feels bigger and heavier, AND you’re chasing a little one around too!)

Essential Gear for Moving Around With Toddlers

Sleeping away from home, toddler meals on the move  , toddler essentials for flying, toddler entertainment on the move, other essential toddler items not to forget, this post is part of our best toddler travel advice series.

I bet if you’ve picked up this article, you already know toddlers have a mind of their own!  Not all tactics for keeping toddlers nearby when you’re in busy places will work the same. 

We’re going to suggest a few travel accessories for toddlers here that have variously worked with our three children – but we know they won’t suit all!

Toddler harness / reins

Some will love ’em, some will despise them!  Having a cute little character will definitely help your kids grow an attachment to this essential piece of toddler kit for a family trip. Perfect for crowded places, we haven’t left home without one of these for years.

Accmor Toddler Harness Leash

3 in 1 Toddler Harness Leash

Accmor Toddler Backpack Leash

You can see our complete guide to buying toddler reins and harnesses here

Collapsible Stroller

Once you have outgrown a full-sized baby buggy that carries basically your whole life in, it’s time to downgrade to something more sensible, practical, and lightweight for your family vacation.

We love the brands that collapse small enough we can take them right up the plane door and onto the plane with us, fitting into the overhead bin with your carry-on bag.

The Babyzen Yoyo was the first brand to achieve this and is still a great option, but there are many brands that have now followed suit.

We have used our trusty Mountian Buggy Nano for years, but you can also try brands such as the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 or the immensely popular microsized GB Pockit that comes in several variations.

Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller

Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller

gb Pockit+ All-Terrain

You can see our full guide on how to select the best plane stroller here.

Just be conscious of your child’s height and weight;  hopefully, this investment can last you all the way through to the preschool years. Try not to compromise too much when it comes to your tot still being able to comfortably recline and having a decent-sized shade covering and storage basket, features we would still look for even in a travel stroller. 

We also review the best lightweight double strollers for twins and baby/toddler combinations here.

TIP : If you are still looking to travel with a larger stroller, we suggest you protect your gear when flying or stowing on transport by placing it inside a stroller gate check bag – our full review of your different stroller travel bag options here . 

Toddler Carrier

By now, I am guessing most of you freuent travelers have discovered the joys that a baby carrier brings.  Many brands now see a child all the way through to their toddler years. 

We have used our Ergo across the continents for many years – but with our youngest now 4 (and, to be fair, a happy walker/runner – unlike the first two!!) we are finally ready to say goodbye – one of our best pricier bits of toddler kit we’ve never regretted investing in.

Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier

Beco Toddler Carrier with Extra Wide Seat

Infantino Carry On Multi-Pocket Carrier

You can find our comprehensive toddler carrier comparison guide here. 

Hiking Toddler Carrier

For those who do more heavy-duty walking and hiking, you can’t look past the Deuter Kid Comfort Pro . It is one of the most expensive on the market, so you could also look at the Deuter Kid Comfort II which is slightly lighter, but doesn’t include the built-in sunshade.

Deuter Kid Comfort Pro Child Carrier

ClevrPlus Deluxe Adjustable Baby Carrier Outdoor

Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier

See our complete comparison of hiking carrier backpacks here

Car Seats for Toddlers

Outgrown their baby capsule that conveniently fits with their travel system but not ready yet for a simple collapsible booster ?  Yep, this is one phase of travelling with kids that I’m afraid will be with you for a long time, even well beyond the toddler years!

Depending on your child’s age and stage, there are a few options, but inevitably, accept it’s a continual upgrade process (and one of the bulkiest and most inconvenient parts of toddler travel – sorry!)

Where possible, we try to arrange for pick-up services that include a seat or hire cars at a destination – but we know all too well, that travelling home to Australia (where car seat laws are IMMENSELY STRICT) hiring is not financially viable after more than a few days x 3 children, so for years, we’ve kept a complete set of extra toddler seats at the grandparents.  

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

Evenflo Chase Harnessed Booster

Britax Emblem 3 Stage Convertible Car Seat

Tip: If you have any intention of travelling with your car seat on the plane, too (you need to buy a separate seat for the infant) then the car seat must be compliant for whichever airline you are flying with. FAA rules are a pretty good for international guidance – but note they apply specifically to US-based carriers, you need to check the rules for the country your carrier falls under.

Find our complete guide on how to travel with car seats on planes here

Don’t forget if you are checking your car seats rather than using them on the plane, you will need to make sure they are adequately protected to prevent handling damage in the hold.

This is our detailed review of the best car seat travel bags .

Toddler Neck Pillow

Another thing we noticed once our kids were out of their snug little capsules and into proper car seats is how much their heads seemed to wobble around when they were drowsy! We’ve researched and tried many a brand of head cushion to get the right fit:

Unicorn Toddler Neck Pillow for Kids

BCOZZY Kids Travel Neck Pillows for Toddlers

INFANZIA Kids Chin Supporting Travel Neck Pillow

You can see our extensive head toddler cushion review here .

Do note, if you want to use them in their car seat, as supposed to say on a train or plane, many of the cute toddler brand ones are too bulky. Microbead products like the BCozzyKids Travel Pillow we have found to be the most adaptable to different positions and modes of transport, even if they look thinner they still do the job well.

Just when you thought you had your nice little routine – then you up sticks and change time zone….. I won’t deny that some of the worst jet lag we have experienced actually happened during the toddler years. 

We have a full guide to jet lag survival with kids you can read here , but the primary things I would worry about packing to conquer this are:

This has been my go-to bedtime tool for years (still IS!). OK, it works a charm for 2/3 kids at least!  No matter where we are in the world, once you have a strict bedtime routine happening, the clock is a great first indicator to them whether they should be getting out of bed or not

Just be conscious of wattage if you are taking any electronic devices with you.  We have lugged many an item halfway around the world to discover it doesn’t work at our destination.  Particularly if you are flying US to a lot of other countries and vice versa, you will need to take not only international plugs but a wattage adaptor, like one of these:

Tommee Tippee Groclock Sleep Trainer Clock

Kids Ok to Wake Clock for Kids  

Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine

Black Out Curtains

Another thing that helps with sleep patterns and time zone adjustment is having a dark room.  If there’s no guarantee the hotel room at your destination will have blackouts, so this is a great BYO solution if you can afford the space in your luggage, as they are a little bit bulky.

Most portable blackouts stick up with suction cups.

Gro Company Gro-Anywhere Blind

RUseeN Portable Blackout Shades 

Amazon Basics Portable Travel Window Blackout Curtain

Portable Toddler Cot

There’s also no guarantee your destination will have the best sleeping arrangements for your child either.  During these toddler years, we did intentionally look for hotels or apartments that COULD provide us with a cot, but many times especially staying with friends and family this wasn’t an option. We invested early on in a good, lightweight, portable cot (don’t get confused into thinking a bulky pack-n-play pen is the same thing!). 

Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Crib

Milliard Folding Floor Sleeper Cot

Regalo My Cot Pals Portable Toddler Bed

You can see our full range of toddler bed options reviewed here.

We tested the Phil & Teds Traveller a while ago and haven’t looked back since. We still think its one of the lightest and best-priced models on the market, but does take little construction skills.

Portable high chair

You can’t always rely upon every restaurant or hotel having a high chair, so it’s great if you can BYO an easily portable option.  They come in all sorts of designs, from clamp-ons to boosters or cloth wraparounds for restaurant chairs – each with its pros and cons.

Summer Pop ‘n Dine SE Highchair

Baby Delight Go with Me Uplift Deluxe Portable High Chair

Regalo My Chair 2-in-1 Portable Travel Booster Seat

You can see our full review of travelling high chairs (and whether we think they’re worth the luggage space) here.

Spill-proof sippy

You’ve no doubt moved on from purely boob and bottle to a sippy by the toddler stage.  It’s perhaps not until you’re on the move you realise that these things leak so darn much! Or that your toddler terror will do anything to deliberately make them spill! 

We have been through many different brands of leaf-proof sippy cups – just accept no matter which you try, they’re not fail-proof!

Contigo Kids Spill-Proof 14oz Tumbler

First Years Dinosaur Kids Insulated Sippy Cups

Elk and Friends Kids & Toddler Cups

(Note if you are taking any sort of water bottle on a plane, they can pressurise. We have had many a bottle explode water everywhere over the plane when opened… you have been warned!)

Easy clean bibs

Neoprene-style bibs were by far one of our greatest baby-to toddler year discoveries! (Sorry to all our family and friends who received these as gifts from us!) But we truly love them!

They dry so quickly and can be strapped high on your toddler’s neck without choking them so there’s no seep through.  We normally get several wears before they need to go in the wash, and they don’t take up much space, both of which are a good idea for travel.

PandaEar Set of 3 Cute Silicone Baby Bibs for Babies & Toddlers

Nuby 2 Pack Adjustable Easy Clean Soft Silicone Bibs

Snap and Go Easy-wear Bibs for Baby & Toddler

No-spill snack cups

These spill-proof cups might seem like one of the easiest to pack, logical items, but seriously took us years to discover! Do yourself a favour and get one of these for your diaper bag as soon as your kids are onto finger foods. 

They don’t necessarily stop all the crumbs but prevent major spillages and should come everywhere with you, ready to tackle those hangry moments.

Silicone Toddler Snack Cups No Spill

Ubbi Tweat No Spill Snack Container for Kids

Collapsible Silicone Snack Container

Reusable food clips

For when they’re claiming they’re dying of hunger, take two mouthfuls then leave the rest.  Yep, a handful of these cheap but essential clips are a lifesaver in your backpack diaper bag too.

Silicone Food Storage Bags

Otylzto 4 Size Assorted 40 PCS Food Bag Clips

8 Pack Stainless Steel Chip Clips

Snacks, snacks, and more snacks

This is my overriding toddler years memory! OK, there were some classic meltdowns too… But the constant, I’m hungry, minutes after they just declared they were to full for lunch. 

Keeping a good supply of things like rice cakes, carrot sticks, sultanas, cereal bars, and food pouches kept us going on countless day outings and long-haul flights – we have a great list of healthy toddler snack suggestions here.   

Quaker Chewy Granola Bars

Unsweetened Fruit Snacks for Kids

Quaker Large Rice Cakes

Got a little one on the fussy end of the spectrum (aren’t they all?) You’ll want to check out our tips for travelling with picky eaters

Before you read any further, make sure you’ve checked out flying with a toddler section!

Leg cushions for the plane

Guessing you’ve heard these are the latest craze, right? But are they even allowed on planes?  Are they worth the investment? Will my kids actually sleep better on a long flight? What age are they designed for? 

We have tested many of these products on behalf of the manufacturers and have a detailed review, including which airlines allow them here.

BleuWhisk Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Inflatable Travel Pillow Airplane Footrest Flight Pillow Toddler

Portable Foot Pillow for Toddler Kids & Adults

So, are these really toddler flight essentials?

My verdict : With one child, set up in the correct position, on a plane that will allow them, yes, they make for a more comfortable flight. But I recommend you read the above article with all the factors to consider before deciding if it’s the right thing for you.  There might be other ways you can get your toddler comfortable without the need for yet more gear (I can see your eyes boggling already how much you have to pack!)

CARES Restraint

As an alternative to taking a full car seat on a plane, but once your tot is simply too big and heavy to take as a lap child, try the FAA-approved CARES Harness.  Ideal for 22-44lbs children – note you do need to have booked the seat to use this.

Cares Airplane Harness for Kids

Airplane Kid Travel Accessories Cares Safety Restraint System

Child Airplane Safety Travel Harness, Safety Restraint

Toddler Plane Bags

You can also see what items we are packing in our toddlers plane bag  here, and read below about toddler entertainment throughout your travels.

Just remember, don’t go over the top when it comes to packing toys for young kids – here are 5 things we definitely recommend do NOT make it into your toddlers plane bag ! 

Wildkin Kids Insulated Lunch Bag

Solar System Planets Kids Backpack Toddler

YUPING Toddler kids Dinosaur Backpack

Tip: Until they are old enough to carry their own bag for the entire journey, do your self a favour and skip the cute novelty rolling bag until they are really ready or you are simply making additional luggage for yourself.  Fine with one kid, but when you have multiple children to consider ….  

Small tablet

We recommend these only for your older toddlers verging on preschool age.  I don’t recommend them for younger toddlers because I know how frustrated mine got when they couldn’t raise the sound, and I’m a strict headphones-only mamma when it comes to electronic devices being used in public places. 

And you reckon you can make a small toddler keep headphones on?

We have snapped our way through too many pairs (yes, even those claiming to be best ‘unbreakable’ on the market) through to your cheapest Walmart ones. NOTHING works on a wiggly toddler, so tablets are a no-go until they can sit still or survive on mute. 

When your toddler is ready to try, here are the best toddler headphone brands we recommend you start with.

For years we gave our kids our hand-me-down ipads but as they are starting to get outdated, we have discovered Amazon Kindle Fire , with its super sturdy case and ability to connect via Google Play and the Android system, as well as subscribe to FreeTime Unlimited for kids. 

Amazon Fire 7 tablet

IWEGGO Tablet 8 inch Tablet with Case

Tibuta Android Tablet

We talk more about Amazon Prime and why it can be a traveller’s best friend here.

Other favourite portable toddler toys:

• WaterWow books by Melissa & Doug
• Quiet Books
• Gel Stickers
• Triangle crayons

Jungle Animals Thick Gel Clings Winter Safari Window Gel

Triangular Crayons

My Busy Book Baby Soft Toy

For more travel toy ideas, pop on over to these detailed buying guides:

• Best travel toys for one-year-olds
• Best travel toys for two-year-olds
• Terrific toys to pack for a 3-year-old
• More toddler plane bag ideas
• Engaging road trip toys for toddlers
• Is it worth getting a travel tray for your toddler to play?
• A spare change of clothes
• Beach and water safety wear
• Wet bags for spares or dirty items
• Hand sanitiser
• Small detergent bottle for washing bottles and cups at your accommodation – don’t forget to check out our complete guide to travelling with bottles & sterilising here.
• A good first aid kit/medicine bag – you can see our complete family first aid packing guide here.

Germ-X Original Hand Sanitizer

ALVABABY 2pcs Cloth Diaper Wet Dry Bags Waterproof

First Aid Only 298 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Emergency Kit

Potty training stage?

We talk about potty training on the move in a lot more detail here , but for anything around toileting don’t forget:

• Wet Wipes! Not just for clean bums, you’ll want these little gems with you for YEARS! 
• Pull-ups, even if they are relatively newly trained, you will want to consider this fall back for long journeys
• Piddle pads for the seat , a great back up to prevent leakage

Wet Ones Travel Wipes

Toddler Pull Ups

Piddle Pad Car Seat Protector

Never forget a thing next time you’re packing by downloading our Family Travel Checklist   

Now we never said travelling with toddlers was light, right?  But it is still rewarding. With the right gear and right frame of mind, it really is a magical age to start opening children up to the world around them and creating wonderful happy memories.  

Further reading on the toddler years:

• That time we took 3 under 5 on a 16-hour flight
• Taking your toddler hiking; how to make it fun!
• Surviving a road trip with a toddler
• 5 travelling lessons my 3-year-old has taught me
• Our Best Toddler Travel Advice Home Page

Bookmark this page, share it with your friends or save it to Pinterest for later

Are your kids a little older?  See what gadgets we recommended for older families on the go , or pop back here if you’re still at the baby age and need our Ultimate Baby Travel Checklist

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links.  Purchasing any items listed on this page through an affiliate link will not affect how much you pay for the item but may earn us a small commission. Our  full disclosure policy  can be found here.

© Our Globetrotters | Feature images CanvaPro

Like it? Share it!

2 thoughts on “ 20+ Toddler Travel Essentials for 2024 – With Packing List ”

Based on this guide, I need to carry the entire house with me on the plane or train. We travel a lot and each of us has only one backpack. Our toddler’s backpack goes in the stroller and has a bag of nappies, wipes, baby food, baby water, a toy or two, his clothes, home shoes, and essential meds and swimming gear if we plan to. That’s all and never had any trouble. Most taxis and car hires have toddler seats. Sometimes we take baby carrier. That said, our kid is a bit of adventurer. He wont use anything special if we don’t use it

That’s great you’ve learnt to travel light with your tot. It really depends on your style of travel and destination. Certainly, our needs have changed between kidsand we hope that by presenting a number of options, we can prepare first-time travelling parents with the information they need for different travel scenarios with toddlers – all these items we’ve needed at some point in our travels. Thanks for taking the time to stop by the blog and comment, happy travels 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

38 Best Toddler Travel Essentials (More Fun & Less Stress in 2024)

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » 38 Best Toddler Travel Essentials (More Fun & Less Stress in 2024)

Our process involves independent research, testing (by using it whilst we travel), and recommending the best products.  Click here  to learn more.

Looking for the best toddler travel essentials to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible? Look no further!

Traveling with young children can be stressful, but the rewards far outweigh the difficulties.

To keep your trip as easy as possible, we highly recommend bringing along a range of toddler travel gear.

The best travel items for toddlers will be the ones that keep them safe, comfortable, and happy (as much as possible while still being realistic that tantrums will most likely happen regardless).

Don’t have time to read? Here are the most popular items from our list.

• The Best Toddler Car Seat for Travel: Safety 1st Jive (Convertible, slim enough for plane seats and lightweight)
• The Best Toddler Stroller for Travel: Gb Pocket Air (Foldable & Lightweight – For kids up to 4 years of age)
• Airplane Foot Pillow: Make a little flat bed section for your toddler to sleep on the plane. See it here .

But how do you find the best toddler travel essentials? Without having to spend a fortune and without feeling like a packhorse as you struggle to take everything from home with you on this trip.

One way is to use the tried and tested products from those who regularly travel with their little ones. We started traveling overseas with our youngest when she was only 2.5 months old.

She has been to Bali, Lombok, Australia, Japan, France, Switzerland, Germany, South Africa, Namibia, and many other beautiful destinations.

Travel has been a big part of her life since she was born, and we have tried so many different products to find the ones that are the easiest to travel with, the lightest, the most comfortable, and the easier to get from point A to point B.

There are so many toddler travel accessories out there, that it can get overwhelming.

So before we start, think about what items you already have at home, that you could take with you. And then scan through our list of the best travel accessories for toddlers.

To make it easier, click on the category mentioned next to hop straight to that section of the article.

• Toddler Gear to Get Around Easily (Strollers, Car Seats & More)
• Toddler Plane Travel Essentials
• Toddler Packing Essentials
• Sleep-Time Essentials (Blockout Curtains, Crib/Bed & More)
• Travel Items to Keep Your Toddler Safe
• Toddler Travel Items for Car Trips
• Other Must-Have Toddler Gear (Toys, Toilet training, High Chairs, Beach/Pool Items & More)

Quick Guide: 5 Best-Selling Toddler Travel Gear

After a quick list of our best-selling toddler travel must haves? Here are the best items to purchase.

GB Pockit Air Lightweight Stroller

• Perfect for toddlers
• Lightweight (only 4.6 kg)
• Folds up so small that you can pop it in the overhead locker on a plane

Best Toddler Car Seat

• For younger toddlers (aged 1-3) we highly recommend the Safety 1st Jive car seat.
• Convertible, slim enough for plane seats, and lightweight

Best Toddler Travel Harness

• For older toddlers (aged 3 years+) we personally loved using a travel harness as it is just so much easier to pack and carry.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids

• Safe (with parental controls) tablet for kids aged 3 – 7 to use.
• Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+ – a digital subscription designed for kids to safely learn, grow and explore. 
• 12-Hour Battery

Inflatable Travel Foot Rest Pillow

• We used these on so many planes to make a flat area for our youngest to sleep.
• Our trick (for using it on planes that don’t allow it) is to only blow it up when the lights go dark (and the flight attendants stop walking around so much). And then pop down the tray table (we pop our little one’s feet on the inflatable) over the inflatable to hide it.

Fun N’ Fly Foldable Travel Tray

• Such a clever way to prevent all your kid’s toys from rolling off the tray table on the plane.
• Fits most standard airline tray tables
• Mesh pockets for crayons and pens, a cup holder, and a folding front panel for comfort.

Best Travel Gear for Toddlers to Get Around Easily

Let’s look at travel equipment for 1-5 year-olds that makes moving from point A to B easier.

Here is a list of our favorite toddler travel essentials that you should not leave your home without.

1. A Lightweight Travel Stroller (GP Pockit) with a Gate Check Bag

You will definitely need a lightweight stroller. We all know that toddlers love their freedom and independence but also get tired quickly from running around.

One of the best travel strollers is the Gb Pockit Air .

This stroller is lightweight (it weighs only 10.4 lbs) and foldable (yes, it can fit in the overhead compartments on trains and planes). It is one of the smallest folded strollers that I’ve seen.

It is perfect for kids up to 4 years of age (or 55 lbs. in weight).

Not only do I love the price of this stroller (plus how small it folds up), but it also has a mesh back which is brilliant for hotter countries. It is breathable and helps to keep your little one comfy.

The stroller is easy to push (even with older kids in it). It’s a smooth ride (it has great rubber wheels) and turning the corner is easy.

And best of all, it is pretty affordable compared to competitor travel strollers such as the Babyzen YoYo .

I do think that the canopy is a bit smaller than what I personally like. And I really wish it had a stroller strap to make it easier to carry whilst folded.

But otherwise, this is such a great stroller and at a fantastic price.

It really is worth the investment!

Protect your Stroller With A Stroller Bag

The one negative of the GP Pockit stroller is that it doesn’t have an easy way to carry it whilst folded. So this carry bag is essential as it has straps so you can pop it on your back.

Too often these days do they take you out of the airport and make you climb up the stairs from the runway up to the plane.

So having the stroller on your back so you can carry your toddler is essential.

It is also handy if you might prefer to gate-check it.

That way, you don’t have to try to carry the stroller and your toddler together with your carry-on bags onto a plane (especially a hassle when you have to leave the airport and climb stairs to get into the plane).

We prefer to gate-check our stroller (when possible – check with your airline).

That means you can use the stroller throughout the airport and then check it at the ticket desk a little prior to boarding the plane.

Some airlines will have large clear bags that you can pop your stroller in, but they are thin plastic bags that don’t offer any protection.

We much prefer to buy decent bags, and this specific bag is so convenient as it has backpack straps so you can pop it on your back and have your hands free for your toddler.

This specific bag is compatible with the Gb Pockit strollers; it is airline certified and is available in black.

TIP: Not planning many trips in the future and don’t want to invest in a stroller specifically for travel? You can also rent a stroller in the destination you are visiting! BabyQuip is a baby rental company and they have all your baby travel needs sorted. Perfect if you are visiting Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean and Costa Rica. Rent your baby gear by clicking here.

2. Tula Ergonomic Toddler Carrier

A toddler or baby carrier is a must for people who want to travel with a toddler.

While I’m not a big fan of having my toddler in a carrier (they are just so heavy, and of course, they want to be up and then down and back up again),  a carrier is essential if you visit a destination that has many stairs.

Tula is one of the few brands that manufacture special carriers, especially for toddlers aged from 2- 6 years (rather than babies), so this carrier is brilliant.

Tula’s Ergonomic Newborn Carrier is available in 38 colors and style options. There are multiple material options available, but my favorite is the 100% cotton ones, they are soft, comfortable and machine-washable.

Incredible I have a (huge) 16 month old and a 3 year old who both fit into this perfectly. It is so confortable and i can easily manage a hike with the 3 year old with this carrier. We also have a hiking backpack carrier which was quite expensive and the tula is so much more comfortable than that. I now feel that we can go anywhere and do anything without fear of my 3 year old asking to be carried. Alison B.   (Read More  Reviews on Baby Tula ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We especially liked how you can use this carrier as a back carry and front carrier. Your toddler’s body development will not be impacted, thanks to its thoughtful, m-position seat.

It is the best toddler carrier on the market!

3. Clevr Premium Backpack Hiking Child Carrier

The Premium Backpack Hiking Child Carrier from Clevr is made for those who love hiking.

It features a hip belt and padded straps to ensure safety without compromising comfort.

We especially like the thoughtful inclusion of a sunshade visor and stand.

You get multiple pockets for convenient storage, including an extra-large pocket for diapers.

Toddler Travel Gear for Plane Trips

Next up is the all-dreaded plane trip. Talk about anxiety and nervous feelings! Fortunately, the older your child gets, the easier this bit gets.

Our little one just turned 3, and life is already getting easier when we get on that plane.

Tip:  You might also be interested in checking out the best toddler toys for airplanes  here.

Here is a list of some fabulous airplane accessories for toddlers.

4. Travel Car Seat or Child Airplane Travel Harness

It is so vital for your toddler to be in a travel car seat on the plane. According to News.com , it is not just to protect your child from plane crashes, but it is so important for turbulence.

Not only will the car seat protect your child in the case of an emergency, but it will also help keep your toddler sitting still as much as possible (which is great for your sanity).

The best travel car seat we love is the Safety 1st Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat ( find a different portable car seat on our  best travel convertible car seat  guide here ) when traveling with a toddler on a car or a plane.

This car seat is lightweight (14.25 lb) and slim enough (18″) to fit on plane seats .

It can be used in rear-facing mode for toddlers weighing less than 40 pounds and front-facing mode for toddlers weighing up to 65 pounds.

Would Highly Recommend! I’m very impressed with this carseat. You can’t beat the price, and it’s the same quality as some of the more expensive carseats out there! My kiddo loves how comfy and soft it is. It isn’t bulky at all, and comfortably fits both cup holders on each side… Love it Alison B.   (Read More  Reviews on Walmart ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For older toddlers aged 4 years+, you could also consider taking along a travel booster seat (although these can’t be used on planes).

An alternative to a car seat is the airplane toddler harness mentioned below. I would only recommend the travel harness for kids aged 3 years+.

Also, if it is an overnight flight I highly recommend the car seat as our toddler found the safety harness a bit uncomfortable to sleep with. 

Tip: You may also be interested in checking out this foldable travel car seat for 2 year old and/or this car seat for a 3 year old .

Protect Your Car Seat With A Travel Bag

If you are buying the convertible seat, we recommend getting the Volkgo Travel Bag with it.

It is an effective and easy way to travel with your convertible seat. This bag will ensure that your travel seat stays clean (plus it is a great way to sneak in some extra toddler items like a blanket or diapers or clothes).

Also, it is made from nylon, making it water-resistant.

For Older Toddlers – Airplane Harness

If you are taking a flight with your toddler, aged two years or older , you could get a safety harness instead of having to drag a car seat onto the plane.

It takes less than a minute to install and can fit into small bags.

My only negative with the harness is that your toddler will need to sleep upright in their seat. We’ve tried this harness with our young year old, and it was uncomfortable for her, it was much better when she was over 2 years.

You can read our full  CARES harness review  here.

5. Travel Foot Rest Pillow for Kids

Here is a product we just can’t live without! It might just be one of the handiest flight accessories for toddlers.

We recommend you get the inflatable foot travel pillow if your toddler is going to be on the plane overnight or during nap times.

This inflatable airplane pillow can be placed in the leg rest area to offer a relaxing flat position for your kid to sleep.

Whilst you won’t be able to use the pillow on take-off and landing (and sometimes the air hostesses might ask you to pop it away), it can help your child sleep much better on a long-haul flight.

Note: Not all airlines will allow you to use this product, but we have managed to use it more often than not in planes and it has been a lifesaver.

6. Fun N’ Fly Foldable Travel Tray

The next recommendation for toddler flight essentials is a multi-purpose play space that fits perfectly on nearly all standard airplane tray tables.

It can fold and unfold in mere seconds.

The fabulous thing about this table is that it has side barriers, so it is great for toys and crayons, etc. And you can wash it and reuse it as many times as you want.

I got so sick of playing pick-up in the planes, so this truly is fabulous to make life easier.

7. ‘Tux’ Kids Travel Pillow and Travel Blanket Set

Roamwild offers a three-in-one accessory that functions as a blanket, a comfortable pillow, and a penguin toy .

This is so brilliant because the Tux can be used to transform any armrest into a pillow for your toddler, making it ideal for plane, coach & train travel.

We love to travel with our own blankets. If you want to find a blanket for yourself, then you might also enjoy our list of adult  travel blankets for airplanes  here.

8. Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Edition Tablet

The next product on our list is not just a travel accessory, but rather a full-fledged tablet.

The Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet serves as the perfect tool for young minds to indulge in more than 20,000 famous games, apps, books, videos, and other educational content.

A 2-year worry-free guarantee backs it. You also get a kid-proof case , which comes in three colors – yellow, pink, and blue.

The tablet is really helpful to kill time waiting in airports or to give you some downtime on the plane to catch a few breaths.

9. Anble Kids Headphones

For toddlers who are fond of listening to music, there can be no better travel accessory than the Anble Kids Headphones.

It features a standard 3.5mm jack, which is compatible with nearly all popular smartphones. 

We especially liked its 93-decibel volume restrictor to ensure hearing protection for toddlers.

And did we mention that it has a sharing interface on the right side?

Best Travel Accessories for Toddlers To Keep Everything Organized

Here is our list of some of the best kids’ luggage, bags, and organizers to make life a touch easier.

10. JetKids by Stokke BedBox (Best Air Travel Gear for Toddlers)

Stokke is a well-known baby and toddler brand, so their JetKids Ride On Suitcase is one of our favorite toddler travel accessories. 

What makes this travel suitcase so great is the built-in flight bed . The suitcase transforms in 5 quick and easy steps once the seatbelt is switched off on the plane.

The suitcase also has space for your toddler’s essentials, so you can pack them away for easy access when not used as a ride-on through the airport.

The suitcase has front swivel wheels, making it super easy to pull along and steer.

Trunki is one of the most reputed brands when it comes to products for toddlers.

Trunki is a durable and lightweight suitcase for kids. It is available in two color options –  Terrance (Blue) and Trixie (Pink).

Your toddlers can use it as a riding toy or for storing luggage, and it can hold up to 75 lbs (which should be more than enough to store your toddler’s belongings for a trip).

We only r ecommend this one for older toddlers , as a one-year-old might still be too little for it.

So if you are not sure this is the right pick for your toddler, then we have other fabulous ideas for kids’ luggage on wheels  here.

12. Travel Organizers with Laundry Bag

Have you ever found packing your luggage to be stressful? We’ve used packing trips for most of our trips. We use these in our luggage as well as our carry-on bags.

Shacke offers a pack of four space-saving packing cubes that allow you to organize and pack all your essentials systematically. You will no longer have to wrestle with your suitcase to fit in everything you need!

Each of these travel organizers is made from high-quality nylon. The pack is available in nine colors and comes with a laundry bag.

We typically pack all our clothes and items for all three (Andrzej, myself, and our toddler) of us into one suitcase, so I really LOVE to use a specific color for each person, that way I can pull out the right cube of clothes for any of us quickly.

We always popped three of these in our backpack diaper bag.

One was to store toddler travel toys (here is our list of the  best travel toys for toddlers ) and the second was for snacks organized for the plane trip.

And when she was in diapers, we also used a third cube as our diaper caddy – it is so much easier to take a cube into the small plane toilet cubicles rather than a big bulky diaper backpack.

You can read through all our packing cubes reviews  here.

It is one of those travel things for toddlers that no one naturally would think about, but that comes in handy in so many different ways.

13. Mancro Backpack Diaper Bag

One of those travel must-haves for toddlers – whether your toddler is toilet-trained or not.

We absolutely love the Mancro Backpack Diaper Bag for travel purposes.

Featuring 114 easy-access compartments, this backpack will let you keep all your toddler essentials in an organized manner. We use it on the plane and while exploring.

We especially liked its included changing pad, stroller straps, and padded straps, making it excellent for traveling. You need not worry about any quality-related red flags, as it comes with a lifetime warranty .

After something a bit more girlie? We have a list of other fabulous  traveling diaper bags  here.

Best Toddler Travel Gear for Sleep-Time

Next up are some fabulous nifty toddler travel items to help with sleep and nap time.

14. BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light or The Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed

Depending on your toddler’s age, you can choose to buy either a suitable toddler travel crib or an inflatable toddler bed (see info on that below).

One of the best portable travel cribs is the BabyBjörn Travel Crib. This crib is perfect for children up to three years of age. It is a lightweight crib (13 lbs) and comes with a carry bag.

It can be set up very quickly and folds back conveniently , making it ideal for travel.

You can also find our guide on the  best travel cribs  for your research here.

If your child is older than 2 , you can opt for the Toddler Travel Bed by The Shrunks.

It comes with a powerful electric pump so you can inflate it quickly. We especially liked the guard rails on the sides of this bed to prevent toddlers from rolling out.

15. Portable Window Blackout Blind Shades

The worst thing is when you arrive at a hotel or Airbnb and they only have sheer curtains.

You already know that your toddler will be awake at the first sign of light.

Fortunately, you can take this fabulous product along with you.

AmazonBasics offers the Window Blackout Blind Shades to block out sunlight and UV rays, thereby ensuring that your kid sleeps quietly during the day.

It is made from 100% polyester and features Velcro edges, which allow it to fit several window sizes.

It adheres with suction cups , so you can stick it onto any window YEAH!

Toddler Travel Accessories for Car Trips

For those who will be spending loads of time in the car on a road trip. Here are some fabulous items to help keep peace in the backseat. 

16. Kinder Fluff Car Sun Shade

Kinder Fluff’s pack of four-car sun shades is a must-have if you plan to embark on a road trip with your toddler. It consists of two transparent and two semi-transparent sun shades for your car windows.

You also get a free storage pouch.

We especially liked the fact that you can install it quickly and easily without any adhesives or suction cups.

They are so easy to pack, take up little room, and honestly will help your little one to sleep better during the car trip.

17. Car Seat Tray

Keeping kids occupied with toys, activity books, or food more oft than not is an arduous task.

EcoZen Lifestyle offers a multi-purpose travel tray that can be used in cars and planes.

Your child will be busy with his toys, books, and food with the help of this exceptional tray.

Its side and front pockets allow for convenient storage of various things.

18. Shynerk Baby Car Mirror

Shynerk offers the Baby Car Mirror, which is an effective way of keeping your toddler under surveillance.

It pivots a full 360 degrees to ensure that you have the best viewing angle.

I’m sure you all have one in your car at home, but this one is fabulous to pack and take along.

We especially liked how easy it was to attach it to the headrest of the backseat of our car.

You need not worry about your toddler getting harmed by it in case of a mishap because it is crash-tested and safety certified.

19. Lusso Gear Car Seat Organizer

Nobody wants to clean a mess of toys, books, and spilled food on vacation.

Traveling with a toddler in a car can be a messy affair, especially when they have a complete arsenal of things to throw around.

Lusso Gear offers the Car Seat Organizer, which prevents this most efficiently.

It consists of nine storage compartments for various toddler-favorite products.

We especially liked the ergonomic handles that make it easy to carry.

Best Travel Items for Toddlers to Keep Them Safe

We all know that toddlers are super busy little people. And boy do they love to have their own way. So it can be really tricky to move through crowded areas when your toddler wants to run this way or that

These products will help give your child a touch of freedom, whilst still keeping them within a safe distance.

20. The Stair Barrier Portable Baby Gate

Not only can stairs be a safety concern for toddler parents, but it can also mean that you will have to take your toddler up and down the stairs all day long (our toddler just loved new stairs and kept asking to go up and down).

If you know that the hotel or Airbnb you will be staying in has stairs, it would be worthwhile to take this Stair Barrier Portable Fabric Gate with you.

It weighs only 6 lbs. It ties up with 3 dual-sided release buckles, which won’t leave marks on the staircase.

It is available in two size options and 11 different colors.

21. Jolik Child Motorcycle Safety Harness

Jolik offers the Child Motorcycle Safety Harness for parents who want to take their toddlers along when they go for a ride.

Its belt length can be adjusted to fit most motorcycles, snowmobiles, and ATVs.

It can be used for kids aged 2 to 12 years.

Helpful when you visit scooter-heavy countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Bali.

I hate seeing little kids on motorcycles with no protection, this is worth every dollar (and don’t forget to take a bike helmet  along as well!).

We liked the thoughtful inclusion of a reflective patch to ensure your child’s safety in darkness.

22. Blisstime Anti Lost Wrist Link or Skip Hop Toddler Leash and Harness Backpack

If your toddler has a knack for running around and getting lost, you can use the Anti-Lost Wrist Link from Blisstime to prevent that from happening when you are traveling. It comes in three color options – rose red, orange, and blue.

Instead, you may choose to opt for the Toddler Leash and Harness Backpack from Yisibo. It allows you to ensure that your child does not get lost in a crowded place.

You can detach the leash from the backpack when it is not required. It is available in five different and fun styles.

Other Must-Have Toddler Travel Essentials

And if you thought we were out of items, you were wrong. There is even more. Some nifty ideas for making mealtime more enjoyable and just some fabulous products to have on have. 

23. Munchkin Brica Travel Booster Seat or Zicac Portable Booster Seat Cushion

Anybody who has traveled with toddlers will agree that one of the most common issues they face is the low height of chairs in public places.

Not all restaurants have high chairs, and things get too complicated when you try to keep them on your lap while eating.

Depending on your toddler’s age, you can choose from these two seat boosters. You can also find some other fabulous recommendations for a   travel high chair .

Munchkin’s Booster Seat works best for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years. We especially liked its built-in storage space for diapers and bottles.

Zicac’s Booster Seat is better suited for toddlers aged three years or above.

It features a high-density sponge and two straps to ensure that it stays securely in place on chairs.

24. BabyBjörn Smart Travel Potty or Gimars Portable Reusable Potty Training

One of the recurring tasks that a toddler’s parents must do is changing diapers. It may not be convenient to do that while traveling, so you should use these two products.

We recommend the Smart Potty for car journeys and the Reusable Potty Training for planes and trains.

The Smart Potty takes up negligible space and is very easy to clean. Its splash guard eliminates the chance of spills.

The Reusable Potty Trainer has six silicone pads that are non-slip, easily foldable, and washable.

It can be used to help your toddlers learn how to use lavatories.

25. Papablic Portable Baby Bottle Warmer

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if your toddler could get warm milk on the go?

Papablic’s Portable Bottle Warmer does just that! It features a waterproof seal and vacuum insulation, which keeps water or milk hot for an entire day.

It has a 100% money-back guarantee and can easily fit in most standard diaper bags.

26. OXO Tot Drying Rack with Bottle Brush

Cleaning up a toddler’s essential products like bottles, nipples, or breast pump parts can be tiring, especially while traveling.

OXO provides a compact cleaning solution consisting of a firm, soft-bristled brush, and a detail cleaner.

It opens up to form a drying rack with flexible tines and ventilation holes to enable quick drying.

27. ChooMee SoftSip Food Pouch Top

When traveling with toddlers sometimes you have to do meals on the go.

With the ChooMee SoftSip Food Pouch tops, your little one will have a mess-free meal from any food pouch.

Simply screw off the food pouch plastic top and place the soft tops over the top to make mealtime comfortable for your little one.

The ChooMee SoftSip tops are made from silicone and are 100% BPA-free. They are also dishwasher safe which makes it easy to clean after use.

28. Munchkin Snack Catcher & a Sippy Travel Cup

Why are toddlers always so hungry!? Traveling with toddlers becomes much easier if you get this pack of 2 snack containers from Munchkin.

You can choose from two color combinations – blue and green or pink and purple. These containers fit most of the standard cup holders in cars and strollers.

We especially liked these spill-proof containers because they are made from BPA-free, dishwasher-safe materials.

Also, don’t forget to pack your sippy cups. You can just use what you have at home, but if you want something new, we love these sippy cups for young kids here.

29. ALVABABY Waterproof Wet Bag

With our next recommendation, we are adhering to optimal waste disposal standards. You cannot throw away a used diaper on the move and storing it for future disposal can be a hassle.

ALVABABY offers a waterproof wet bag that is a much better alternative than plastic bags. You can conveniently keep wet waste or wet clothes in this bag.

30. Speedo Kids’ Classic Swim Vest

Toddlers typically can’t swim well yet and often they aren’t always aware of how dangerous water can be, so best to ensure that they are safe when surrounded by water.

Speedo offers the Classic Swim Vest for small children in two sizes – medium for ages 2 to 4, and large for ages 4 to 6.

You can choose from seven different color options. It features an adjustable buckle strap and a full front zipper.

Your toddler will not be harmed by the sun’s harmful UV rays, thanks to its UPF 50+ protection.

>>>  YES! My toddler would love this – Buy it Now

31. Bigib Toddler Kids Swim Water Shoes

One of the significant concerns that parents have after their toddlers go swimming is the risk of slipping down and getting hurt.

Bigib offers swim water shoes that are non-slip and dry quickly to ensure that your toddlers do not face that predicament.

Just recently on our trip to Malta, we watched a little child run around the pool and in no time at all he was face-planting on the floor.

Even though we told our little one to walk slowly as a result, she still managed to slip as well. 

These shoes are just so fabulous for little ones who love to run.

They are also great when you are visiting beaches that have lots of shells, coral, or rocks on them.

You can choose from 13 fun and exciting style options for these unisex shoes. You can also find a list of other  toddler water shoes  here.

32. Cocosand Baby Sunglasses with Strap

Protecting your toddler’s eyes from the harsh sun rays when at the beach or pool is just as important as protecting your own.

We love the Cososand Baby Sunglasses that offer UV400 protection. The sunglasses come with a strap to help keep them on your little one when out and about.

The sunglasses come in a variety of colors for you to choose from.

They are made from a soft and comfortable material that is lightweight and won’t squeeze the ears or the nose of your little one when they are wearing them.

33. Monobeach Pop-Up Baby Beach Tent 

This pop-up beach tent is not only a great sun shade but can also double up as a small splash pool to keep your little one cool when at the beach.

It comes with its own carry bag and folds up small and compact making it easy to store and carry when out and about. 

You also get 4 pegs to ensure that you can secure the tent in the sand or ground when using it at the beach or even in the park when having a picnic.

The pop-up tent has a sun protection rating of 50+ UPF ensuring that your little one will have extra protection when sitting inside this great pop-up beach tent.

34. Sesame Street Elmo’s On The Go Letters

The Sesame Street On the Go Letters has a carry case with 26 letters helping your toddler not only have fun but learn the alphabet.

By playing with the On the Go Letters your toddler will learn letter recognition as they snap each letter back in place in the carry case.  

If you want to start spelling words you can use the space at the bottom of the case to place and spell words.

35. Buckle Toys Blu Whale

The Blu Whale Soft toy from Buckle toy offers comfort, development, and educational aspects.

The Blue Whale helps your toddler develop fine motor skills, color recognition, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination.

The whale has a zipper pocket, embroidered numbers & shapes, and six colorful buckles with different clasps.

36. Story Time Finger Puppets

Story Time Finger Puppets are a great toy that helps develop creative play and imagination.

With 20 different puppets, 14 animals, and 6 people family members, there are endless stories that can be created to pass the time when traveling.

The puppets are made from soft cloth felt and fit securely on your toddler’s fingers but are also suitable to fit on adult-sized fingers so you can create stories with your little one as well.

37. Montessori deMoca Quiet Book Toy

The Montessori deMoca Cloth Book is a soft cloth book created to help develop your toddler’s fine motor skills.

With 9 different activities, your toddler will learn colors, shapes, and even how to use snaps and buckles.

Made from cloth materials you can wash this book whenever it needs a cleaning and it even comes with its own zippered washing machine bag to ensure the book keeps its shape during washing.

38. Suction Cup Pop Up Fidget Spinner Toys

Fidget spinner toys are such great toys that all kids love to play with and keep them occupied for hours!

These suction cup pop-up fidget spinner toys are great as they can suction onto the table on the plane when seated to keep your little one entertained during a flight.

They stick on any flat surface so even if you are not flying you can still use them if there is a flat surface.

The suction cup fidget spinners are also small and compact enough to slip into your carry-on bag and take up very little space so are great as a travel toy for toddlers.

To read more about great toys for traveling browse our tried and tested best airplane toys post.

Summary Of The Best T ravel Essentials For Toddlers

Toddlers can get extremely cranky while traveling; the best travel gear for toddlers can make or break the trip. 

We have incorporated various toddler travel must-haves in our recommendations to ensure that there is something worthwhile for everyone’s needs.

Did you know that we also have other helpful guides? Browse our  best travel accessories for kids ‘ guide, our  best baby travel gear , or general  travel gear  guide here.

Till next time, travel safely! I hope you found our guide to the best toddler travel items helpful.

Further Reading:

• Click here to grab more information on how to travel with a toddler .

Jolene Ejmont

5 thoughts on “38 best toddler travel essentials (more fun & less stress in 2024)”.

I love it! i was just planning a trip with my family and i will take my one year old baby, many people point out that it’s not very good to travel with kids as they get stressed on the flight and may make a lot of sense to some extent, however i think it’s great that you wrote this because you don’t know how much help you’re going to do with this!

Allisson, don’t listen to other people and just follow what works for you. You know what, our little one LOVES to fly and out of 50 flights she was only unsettled on maybe 3. Kids are all different though, some personality types handle things better than other. But I’m sure your little one will LOVE all the quality time that they will get to spend with you once they are there. If you are on facebook, come and join us in our little family travel support group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/wsfamilytravelsupportgroup . You will find it is a great place to come and talk to other parents who can give you some insight into what it is like 😉

I read your tips for travelling with kids. This is one of the best ways to travel with kids and very easy and useful gadgets to carry. I am planning a trip with my family and now I’ll also carry these things with me.

This was possibly one of the most brilliant lists I have seen. Planning a major trip soon, and I’ve added so many of these to my must have list! Thank you!

Thank you very much for your kind words, and sorry for the much-delayed response.

Comments are closed.

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

Tips for Flying with A 2-Year-Old Toddler (From a Mom of 4)

Flying with a toddler is one of the biggest obstacles to travel that many families face. 

The prospect of bringing a spirited 2-year-old on a long flight is enough to scare any parent away from a family trip. 

As a mom of 4 and family travel blogger, I’m here to share my tried-and-true, battle-tested tips for surviving your next flight with a two year old toddler. 

I’ll share my tips for getting them to sleep or nap on the plane, what snacks to bring, what toys and activities are worth taking up space in your carry-on, what to do about diapers, wipes, and potty-training 2-year-olds on a plane, and feeling confident and somewhat relaxed while you’re doing it. 

We’re traveled both domestically and internationally with all 4 of our toddlers, and they all have different temperaments and personalities. I know that some 2-year-olds are a breeze when they travel, and others will have you pulling your hair out. I’ve been there, and I’m here to help. 

If you have younger children, be sure to read my posts about how to fly with a 1-year-old , and how to fly with a baby . 

The good news is, I think flying with a 2-year-old is much easier than traveling with a 1-year-old toddler. 1-year-olds have no attention span, and just want to crawl or walk and explore.

2-year-olds are slightly more reasonable, and a bit more easily bribed to sit for a while.

Here are my top tips for flying with a 2-year-old toddler.

>> Related: Looking for the best and most comfortable travel clothes that don’t smell no matter how much you wear them? Read here: Best Travel Clothes for Women

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click on a link and make a purchase I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Before You Fly

I’m going to go through some of the top questions I receive on Instagram and TikTok about flying with a toddler - specifically 2-year-olds.

Do I Need a Car Seat with A 2-Year-Old on A Plane?

The short answer is that you don’t need a car seat to fly with a 2-year-old.

The longer answer is that I personally prefer to bring our toddler’s car seat on the airplane for several reasons.

1. If you know you’ll need a car seat for your toddler when you arrive at your destination, it’s a great way to avoid having to rent one. You’ll have a seat you’re comfortable using, that you know is safe, and that is up to your cleanliness standards.

2. It helps keep your 2-year-old contained during flights. In the past, I realized my toddlers did much better on longer road trips than long-haul flights. One reason is that they know they can’t get out of their car seats. The same applies to toddlers on airplanes. If they’re in the car seat, they won’t keep asking to get up and explore. 

3. It keeps your 2-year-old safe on the plane. During taxiing on the runway and during turbulence, a car seat can help prevent injuries to your toddler.

4. You don’t have to worry about your car seat getting damaged by luggage handlers.

Note: if you are planning to bring a car seat on the plane, make sure it is FAA-approved. You’ll be able to find a sticker on the side of the seat that tells you if it’s FAA-approved. 

Be sure to know where this sticker is in case a flight attendant or airline employee asks you about it! I have had to do this on our recent flight to Las Vegas with our toddler. 

Tips for Flying with A Car Seat

Should you bring your own car seat for your 1-year-old? Again, this is a personal decision. I have always opted to bring our car seat along. If I’m not using it on the plane I gate check it and store it in a car seat protector bag .

This is another money-saving move for me. We have 4 kids, so if we rented car seats for all of them upon arrival it would really add up.

Another option is to buy a special car seat specifically for travel. I’m in multiple family travel Facebook groups, and I often see this car seat recommended for toddlers on a plane because it is lightweight, narrow enough to fit in an airplane seat, and fairly inexpensive.

If you travel often, this might be your best bet. It’s a one-time investment that will pay off in the long run.

Finally, you do have the option to rent a car seat upon arrival. Most car rental places will offer car seats as an add-on when you’re booking the vehicle.

The pros are that you don’t have to lug your own car seat through the airport and you don’t have to worry about yours getting damaged by the luggage handlers. In addition, this might be your best choice when traveling abroad to make sure the car seat you use is legal and able to be installed in your rental car.

The cons are that you don’t know the history of the car seat you’re renting. If you’re very concerned about that, you’re probably better off renting from Baby Quip with high standards for safety and cleanliness. You can rent anything from car seats to strollers to cribs and beyond. If you’re trying to pack like a minimalist, BabyQuip is your best bet.

And if car seats are stressing you out, I would highly recommend checking out Travel Car Seat Mom . This website is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to car seat safety and travel.

What Do You Need to Fly with a 2-Year-Old?

While children under the age of 2 don’t NEED their own seat on the plane, you do need to purchase a plane ticket for your 2-year-old. Be sure to have their ticket either on the airline’s app on your phone, or print one out at the kiosk or ticket counter before going through security. 

You won’t need a toddler ID to get through security if you’re flying domestically.

However, if you’re flying internationally you will need a passport for your 2-year-old.

Can I hold my toddler on the plane?

If you’re traveling with a 2-year-old, they do need their own seat on the plane. Once you’re on board, you can certainly hold your toddler on your lap if needed.

What are the airline’s policies about checking baby gear?

It’s so important to read the traveling with kids policy for whichever airline you’re flying. I’ve been on dozens of flights with babies, toddlers, and little kids, and I still check each time I’m flying.

Most airlines will let you check items like strollers, car seats, and travel beds for free. 

Most people don’t realize this, but most also allow you to take a diaper bag on the plane in addition to personal items and carry-ons.

You can check these items right when you arrive at the airport before going through security, or you can bring strollers and car seats with you through the airport and gate check them if you prefer.

Can I bring snacks, milk, or juice through airport security?

Did you know that TSA considers baby and toddler milk, formula, and food to be “medically necessary liquids”?

You can find this right on the TSA website : 

“Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.”

One tip for going through TSA with a toddler is that you should take out any food or liquids that you’ve brought, and inform them that it’s for your toddler. 

I usually keep my 2-year-old’s snacks in a gallon-size plastic bag in their backpack or my carry-on. 

You can also use a cooler with ice packs. Again, just inform the TSA and take it out from your luggage so they can do any special screening that they need to do.

This includes things like snacks for the baby, food pouches, juices, and baby food. If you don’t want to worry about a cooler for milk, try a shelf-stable kind like Horizon Organic.

What Should I Pack for a 2-year-old?

I have a fun TikTok video on exactly what I pack in my 2-year-old’s carry-on. Don’t forget to follow along there and on my Instagram page where I share lots of videos about flying with kids!

Sometimes it’s easier to have a written list, though, so here’s an overview of what I pack when I travel with a two year old. 

I put diapers and wipes in a gallon-size plastic bag if I’m traveling with a child that’s not potty-trained. It’s easy to have the necessary items handy for quick diaper changes, and the gallon-size bag can double as storage for soiled clothes in a pinch. 

I use small organizers or mini packing cubes for everything so that I can find what I need quickly while wrangling my 2-year-old.

Have an “on the flight” kit in a small pouch that can fit in your seat back pocket. These are the items I’ll want to use on the flight in case my toddler falls asleep on me and I can’t reach my carry-on. It should have:

headphones (both plug in and wireless)

snacks for you

gum or mints

a book or tablet with pre-loaded entertainment or ebooks

pain reliever in case of a headache

I bring a snack bag for my 2 year old with:

Fruit pouches

Granola bars

Apple or orange slices

Lollipops (perfect for takeoff and landing to help their ears)

Sippy cup or straw cup to use on your trip if your child is not yet drinking out of regular cups (and even if they are, sometimes you don’t want to deal with spills on the plane or in the hotel room. 

Water bottle to fill up after you go through security

1-2 lightweight books (I like the indestructible ones )

Very few toys. Kids are interested in their surroundings, and I find that toys just end up taking up space. There are a few that might help in a pinch:

Fold-up busy board

Tape or sticky notes

Water Wow books  

A calculator or remote control from the dollar store so they can satisfy their need to press buttons

Crayola Color Wonder coloring books . The markers are mess-free and only color on the special paper. 

Bring an extra set of clothes for both you and your toddler in case of an accident, sickness, or lost luggage.

Health items like infant pain reliever, thermometer, bandages, etc. You never know when ear pain from the flight or a sudden illness will make them miserable on the plane!

Bring a lightweight muslin blanket for getting your child to sleep (plus pacifier or any other sleep aids you use)

Have several empty gallon ziplock bags or plastic bags for trash or soiled items. They take up almost no space and you will be so thankful in the rare situation you need them.

Finally, don’t forget face/hand wipes and sanitizing wipes to keep you, your child, and your space clean!

Check out my Amazon shopping list for flying with toddlers!

At The Airport with A Two Year Old

Getting through the airport with all the toddler gear.

If we’re bringing a stroller on our trip, I start with our toddler in the stroller. I take out any items that will need to be put through security separately and put them in the basket of the stroller.

Lately I’ve been attaching our 2-year-old’s car seat to a cheap luggage cart so I can roll it through the airport like a suitcase. This way I can use it on the plane, and I just fold up the luggage cart, which easily fits under the seat.

To go through security, you’ll need to take your child out of the stroller, and put any car seats, strollers, luggage, baby carriers, etc. through the x-ray machine.

Children under 12 can leave on their shoes and jackets, so no need to worry about taking off your toddler’s shoes!

You can carry your child through the metal detector or let them walk through with you.

Don’t worry if you’re stressed about breaking down your stroller or getting your car seat on the belt with a wild toddler running loose. TSA agents are always willing to help (at least in my experience), and for added peace of mind, you can wear your toddler in a carrier until you’re ready to walk through the metal detector.

I usually bring a baby or toddler carrier with me, too, for those moments where it’s too chaotic to let my 2-year-old walk by themselves. For example, I’ll usually put our toddler in the carrier when it’s time to board the plane and I need to gate check the stroller.

If you’re with a partner or another adult, one of you can be in charge of the kids, while the other installs the car seat on the plane. If you’re alone, this part will be a bit trickier, so make sure you’ve watched videos on how to get the car seat set up on the plane before you’re on it. 

Visit a Family Restroom Before Boarding the Plane

I love that most airports nowadays have family restrooms. I always take the kids in there with me, and there’s plenty of room for all of our suitcases and bags, too.

This is the perfect opportunity to change a diaper or put a fresh pull-up on your child, or if they’re potty trained, to encourage them to use the restroom before they’re on the plane.

Toddler Play Room at the Milwaukee airport

Get Their Wiggles Out

Quite a few airports now have play areas for kids! These areas are great for letting your 2-year-old burn off some energy before they’re stuck in an airplane seat for hours on end.

Some have play sets, some have toys, and some have tvs. 

If you can’t find a play area, I suggest leaving one adult with the luggage (and possibly older kids) while the other parent simply walks around the terminal with the 2-year-old.

Strategy for Boarding the Airplane with a Toddler

You can choose one of the following strategies for boarding the airplane with your 2-year-old:

1. Many airlines offer family boarding after first class but before the rest of the economy classes board the plane. This allows parents with things like strollers and car seats to have more time and space to get everything set up. 

2. Another option is to wait until the very last minute to board the plane so you don’t have to make your toddler sit down for any longer than they need to. This is a wonderful option if you have 2 adults with you so you can split up and have one set up the gear while the other stays with the toddler to burn some more energy.

Entertaining A 2-Year-Old on the Plane

My favorite strategy for keeping a toddler entertained on an airplane is to take turns with another adult, whether that’s a partner or grandparent. 

For example, on our most recent flight to Costa Rica , we had a layover, so my husband took our 2-year-old daughter for the first leg, and I took her for the second. 

This way we both had an opportunity to relax and enjoy the flight. Yes, we still had 3 other kids on the plane with us, but they’re all pretty self-sufficient and able to entertain themselves.

We DO allow screen time for our toddler on airplanes. In fact, we are pretty relaxed about screen time when travel is involved.

However, I still like to pack several travel activities for our toddler, too.

Here are my best tips for keeping toddlers occupied on the plane.

Bring Something for Takeoff and Landing

With babies, we typically let them nurse or take a bottle for take off or landing. With our 2-year-old, we brought plenty of organic lollipops to help prevent pressure in her ears when the cabin pressure changes. 

We love the YumEarth lollipops because they don’t have artificial dyes. 

Bring More Snacks than You Think You’ll Need

For some reason, my kids never stop eating when they’re on an airplane.

I’m not sure if they’re genuinely hungry or just bored, but having snacks that take a longer time to eat can really help pass the time.

Our 2-year-old loves:

String Cheese

Apple slices

Clementines

Goldfish crackers

Granola Bars

Applesauce pouches

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches (You can do homemade, which we usually do. In a pinch I’ve done Uncrustables)

Pretzel sticks

Animal Crackers

Veggie Straws

Graham Crackers

Yogurt Tubes (we freeze the night before)

Bell pepper slices

Bags of mini cookies

Airplane Toys

Boogie Boards: all of our toddlers have loved these LCD tablets that erase with the press of a button, and come with an attached stylus.

Crayola Color Wonder Coloring Books: these mess free activity books come with markers that only show up on the special paper.

Reusable sticker books

Window Clings

Water Wow books

Magnadoodle

Bring a Tablet with Pre-Downloaded Entertainment

We have used Amazon Kids Kindle Tables for YEARS, and they are perfect for travel. 

This is why age 2 starts to get a little bit easier when it comes to travel. 2-year-olds still have short attention spans, but they can start to pay attention to shows and movies, which might give you a few moments of peace on your flight!

We only let the kids use the Kindles on flights or long road trips, so they love getting the chance to use them.

If you use the Amazon Kids app, kids can’t exit the app so you know they won’t be buying anything or surfing the internet.

You can download games, shows, and movies ahead of time so you know your toddler will have something to watch.

Don’t forget a childproof case that props the tablet up on the tray table and some toddler-friendly headphones! Here are our favorite headphones for toddlers .  

How to Stay Comfortable When Traveling with a Toddler

One of the biggest mistakes I’ve made when traveling with kids is to spend weeks preparing for their comfort and entertainment on a trip, but forgetting about myself!

Travel days with toddlers are long and exhausting, so make sure you have what you need to stay comfortable and happy since the parents are the ones who set the mood for the trip.

Dress Comfortably

My Nana was from London, and always taught my mom, who then taught my siblings and me to dress nicely for travel days.

Nowadays it’s more socially acceptable to dress comfortably for a flight, but I still like to look put together.

Black joggers or leggings with a sweater or a cute top with a cardigan are my go-to outfits of choice for travel days. If we’re going to be chasing toddlers and sitting for long periods of time, I want a comfortable waistband and the ability to move around.

However, I always make sure my hair is done and I’m wearing a little bit of makeup (unless it’s an overnight flight). 

Looking well-groomed and adding a bit of jewelry or a scarf will help you look put together even while your clothes are comfortable.

For a shorter flight, I might even wear a comfortable maxi dress or maxi skirt!

Bring Multiple Types of Headphones

I always bring a pair of headphones to plug into the headphone jack in case there’s a movie on the seat back screen I want to watch. Sometimes my toddler actually falls asleep or pays attention to a show on her tablet, and I’m able to enjoy a movie!

I also bring my wireless headphones so I can watch movies or tv shows I’ve downloaded ahead of time to my phone.

Create an Airplane Kit

Bring a small bag or organizer with headphones, lip balm, pain reliever, gum or mints, a snack, and any other small items you might need during the flight.

As a parent dealing with a toddler, it’s nice to have all of your own things easily accessible in case your little one falls asleep on you or you need to grab something and only have one hand free.

Take Photos and Videos of Your Trip

Don’t forget to document your trip for the memories! Even the moments in the airport and on the airplane.

I used to wait until I was at our destination to start documenting, but I love having those small moments captured of our toddler experiencing the magic of air travel with their little headphones on.

Even if it’s not a particularly magical experience for you in the moment, someday you will look back on those memories with fondness and a sense of humor.

Travel with a 2-year-old can be tough, but I find it to be so worth it!

I promise it gets easier. Even if you have some tough moments along the way, the memories you make traveling with your little one are worth it!

DON’T FORGET IT! PIN IT!

Emily Krause is a Wisconsin-based family travel blogger who writes about exploring the world with kids. On A Mom Explores you’ll find best family travel destinations, Disney World tips, and how to make travel with babies and toddlers a little easier.

Emily believes that exploring starts in our own backyards, and adventure can happen anywhere with the right mindset.

Safe Sleep Tips for Toddlers

Medical review policy, latest update:, what are the safe sleep guidelines and tips for toddlers that i need to follow, does my toddler need to sleep on his back, more about baby and toddler sleep, when can my toddler have a blanket in bed, when can my toddler have a pillow in bed, are bumpers and stuffed animals okay for my toddler, when should i lower the crib mattress for my toddler so he doesn't fall or climb out, when is it time to move my child out of the crib and into a toddler bed, are mobiles over the crib safe, can i co-sleep with my toddler, is my toddler at risk of sids.

What to Expect the Second Year , Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com,  Safe Sleep Tips for Babies, January 2022. WhatToExpect.com, Co-Sleeping, Bed-Sharing and Room-Sharing: What's Safe and What Isn't? , November 2020. WhatToExpect.com, How to Stop Co-Sleeping and Move Your Little One to Her Own Crib or Bed , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Here's When Babies Can Start Sleeping With a Blanket , June 2020. WhatToExpect.com, Can Babies Sleep With a Pillow? , June 2020. WhatToExpect.com, What You Should Know About Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) , June 2020.  WhatToExpect.com, When Can Your Baby Sleep on Her Stomach? , May 2020. WhatToExpect.com, Toddler Sleep Basics , December 2018. WhatToExpect.com, Crib Safety , August 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , June 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Big Kid Beds: When to Make the Switch , September 2013. American Academy of Pediatrics, Tips for Keeping Infants Safe During Sleep From the American Academy of Pediatrics , February 2020. Mayo Clinic, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome , May 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, About SUID and SIDS , June 20121. KidsHealth From Nemours,,  Sleep and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old , June 2019. The White House,  Bills Signed: H.R. 3182 and H.R. 6023 , May 2022.

Go to Your Toddler's Month

Trending on what to expect, is your toddler being disrespectful here's why and what to do, here’s why your toddler is taking off his clothes and what to do about it, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., using positive reinforcement on your toddler, what to do if your toddler keeps running away, 11 tips to make flying with a toddler go more smoothly.

Where should my 2-year-old sleep and other questions...

I am going to answer a few questions over the coming month about how to handle common Childhood Sleep problems.

Where should a 2-year-old sleep?

If your 4-year-old wakes over and over in the middle of the night, what should you do?

If your 6-year-old still wets the bed, is that OK?

This week it’s: Where should a 2-year-old sleep?

OK, so if you have this question, your toddler is probably not sleeping where you’d like them to, right? Well, before I even get to the advice I have as a long-time professional nanny , I want to say that kids’ sleeping arrangements vary depending on a ton of factors, including cultural practices, individual preferences, and safety considerations. The arrangement should not depend on what society says you should do or what your mother-in-law thinks is right or “normal.” If you can, start this process by talking to your partner and coming up with a plan that feels best for you and your family as a whole.

Here are some common options for a 2-year-old's sleeping arrangement:

( I also made you a Pinterest Board of options if you are a visual learner - follow me here )

A Toddler-Sized Bed: Many parents transition their 2-year-olds from cribs to toddler beds at this age because many kids start to climb out or are ready to learn more independent skills. A toddler-sized bed is specifically designed for toddlers and typically features safety sides to prevent falls or you can add your own rail. Toddler beds provide a sense of independence while maintaining a secure sleeping environment. Cons to this choice are they are free to roam their room, which means if you haven’t babyproofed, you will need to.

A Shared Bed: Some families choose to co-sleep with their toddlers, allowing the family to sleep in the same bed. The pros to co-sleeping are a sense of closeness and it does help to make nighttime parenting easier, particularly for kids who wake up a lot or are still breastfeeding. Cons to co-sleeping at 2 years old are generally around space issues and parental privacy (and, to be honest, whether or not you are “touched out” because you spend the entire daytime with your child too).

Room Sharing: Another option is to have your 2-year-old sleep in the same room as you but in a separate bed. Pros: Room sharing promotes a feeling of security for more sensitive temperaments and allows you to respond quickly to your child's needs if they wake in the night. Cons to this option are if you have a child who wants to sleep in your bed, they will end up there most nights.

Independent Room: If you do not want to bed share, then the option is to have them sleep in their own room. This can promote a sense of independence and provide everyone with an environment for uninterrupted sleep. I strongly suggest minimizing toy options to a few they like, and un-rippable books, and, of course, childproof. After that, it’s up to you to choose between a toddler bed or a twin mattress on the floor.

Independent Room Bed-Share: Finally, you can set up their room as stated above but provide a mattress on the floor big enough for you both. So if you like the pros of co-sleeping but are looking for a little privacy and alone time, this option offers the ability to tag-team with your partner every few nights and still be comfortable.

In the end, the choice of where a 2-year-old should sleep depends on what you want. Do you want to sleep with your child each night? Do you want to put them to bed and then have a night on your own? Do you have other kids who have different needs? Etc.

Also, it’s important to state that teaching a child to fall asleep independently can be taught using a shared bed and/or in their own room. To do this, you need to create a sleep environment that supports healthy sleep habits (and is safe), and then you need a bedtime routine and behavior plan. Consulting with your pediatrician or a sleep consultant can really help when it comes to bedtime battles.

Here are some experts and references that you can consult for further info:

First of all, try my book: The Middle of the Night Book , if you have a child who fights sleep or wakes in the middle of the night. The book uses a body-scan meditation to help your child notice their sleepiness, and it’s also a great book to wind down with for parents.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): The AAP provides guidelines and recommendations on various aspects of child health, including sleep. Their website offers resources on safe sleep practices and age-appropriate sleeping arrangements for toddlers. You can visit their official website at www.aap.org .

Dr. Jodi Mindell: Dr. Jodi Mindell is an OG pediatric sleep expert and author of the book "Sleeping Through the Night: How Infants, Toddlers, and Their Parents Can Get a Good Night's Sleep." Her work focuses on understanding and improving sleep patterns in children of different ages, including toddlers.

National Sleep Foundation (NSF): The NSF is a nonprofit organization that promotes healthy sleep and provides information on sleep-related topics. They offer resources on sleep guidelines for different age groups, including toddlers. Visit their website at www.sleepfoundation.org

Sleep Consultants: Experts like these can provide personalized plans tailored to your child's specific needs and circumstances. These professionals have expertise in child development and can offer practical advice on sleep routines and appropriate sleeping arrangements for 2-year-olds. My recommendation is Mindful Sleep.

Remember always to consider your child's unique personality and your own needs when deciding this all. And no matter what you choose (and whether it works or not), you are a GoodAF Mom! - Stef

GO FROM WTF TO GOODAF

Discover the benefits of Parenting with Gratitude™ with a new practice each week.

• River City Live
• Newsletters

BREAKING NEWS

LIVE: School Board discusses controversial plan that could close nearly 30 DCPS schools

2 river flood warnings in effect for 4 counties in the area, deals 4 jax, dinner date this gift card lets you dine at planet hollywood, bertucci’s, and more, now starting at $20..

We hope you enjoy Deals4Jax, brought to you in connection with StackCommerce. WJXT/WCWJ receives an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.

We hope you enjoy ClickOnDeals, brought to you in connection with StackSocial . WJXT receives an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.

With Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduations just around the corner, you’re probably in need of some gift ideas. If you need something special for the foodie in your life, one of these discounted restaurant gift cards can get them a meal or two on you at a discounted rate.

Recommended Videos

These discounted gift card options are available in $25 increments. So, you can get a $25 gift card for just $20, a $50 gift card for only $40, or a $100 gift card for just $80. They are valid at a wide variety of restaurants managed by the Earl Restaurant Group, which offers plenty of dining options ranging from fast casual to more formal places.

With usability at restaurants like Planet Hollywood, Chicken Guy!, Bertucci’s, and more , you or your giftee can feast like royalty with these restaurant gift cards. It’s worth mentioning that these gift cards need to be used within 90 days to keep the promotional value. There’s also no expiration date or fees associated with these gift cards!

It’s easy to start using these gift cards. Here’s how it works:

• Buy your e-gift card voucher here.
• After your purchase is complete, your recipient (of yours!) gift card will be sent to your email.
• Search for participating restaurants’ websites here to see what deals are available.
• Present the card for food, beverages, tips, or products at any participating restaurant. Please note that each restaurant offers different certificate amounts. Some may have restrictions (like a minimum spend).

Once your card is activated, feel free to start dining out. Whether it’s a gift for someone for graduation or Mother’s Day or a treat for yourself, this restaurant gift card can be put to good use.

Celebrate big and small occasions with a delicious meal from one of the Earl Restaurant Group’s dining options. For a limited time, grab a:

• $25 Restaurant Gift Card for $20 .
• $50 Restaurant Gift Card for $40 .
• $100 Restaurant Gift Card for $80 .

No coupon needed!

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines.