best baby travel cot uk

12 of the best travel cots 2024 for babies and toddlers

Our pick of the best cot and bassinet options to provide your baby or toddler with a portable sleeping space for travel, put to the test by parents

• Janet Martin
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Travel cots are portable, safe places for babies and toddlers to sleep when away from home. They’re lightweight, have collapsible sides and fold into a portable format with a carry handle, making them great for holidays, breaks and overnight stays.

We’ve analysed the travel cot market and rigorously tested a range of different models to find the best ones for your family. Whether you're looking for something safe for a newborn, or a roomy cot for an older toddler, you'll find it here. Some travel cots can also be used as playpens for a baby, although, if you're looking specifically for a playpen check out our best playpens for babies and toddlers . For cosy bedding inspiration, take a look at our list – tried and tested by real parents and their kids. If you're traveling somewhere hot with your little ones, take a look at our selection of the best pram fans .

Why do I need a travel cot?

One of the main benefits of travel cots are their portability. Regular cots are often made of wood and to disassemble and put in a car or suitcase would be quite a task! With a travel cot disassembly is usually a matter of a few minutes (or even seconds) and some of the travel cots on our list fold small enough to fit in a suitcase or overhead locker alongside the stroller.

Travel cots are an on-the-go sleeping option that means you won’t have to rely on sleeping arrangements at your destination. For frequent travellers they can be as familiar to little ones as their regular bed; helping to aid sleep in a different environment.

Best travel cots at a glance

• Best travel cot for easy assembly: Bugaboo Stardust, £168.75
• Best lightweight travel cot for a good mattress: Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £109.99
• Best multi-use travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Cot, £150
• Best travel cot for added extras: Graco Contour Electra, £115.99
• Best budget buy travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £35
• Best travel cot for versatile features: Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot, £79.95
• Best travel cot for occasional use: Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £65
• Best travel cot for newborns: Joie Kubbie Sleep, £99
• Best budget travel cot for co-sleeping: Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £65
• Best travel cot for versatile newborn co-sleeping: Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £159.20
• Best travel cot for no upper weight limit: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £187
• Best stylish travel cot: Tutti Bambini CoZee Go 3-in-1 Bassinet, Travel Cot & Playpen, £129

What to look for when buying a travel cot

Portability — Travel cots have lighter-weight components and are designed to be easily carried and stored. But they're still cots, so none of them are going to fold into a truly tiny package. They fold into different shapes so look for the folded style that suits your needs. Some of the travel cots on our list fold into a long rectangular shape more suited to public transport, others fold flat to fit in a car boot.

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Weight — Travel cots vary significantly in weight - we found some that are under 7kg and others that weigh in at a hefty 11kg. Think about how often you’re going to use it, and if you’ll be lifting it up and down stairs or in and out of a car. If you want frequent use, a super lightweight travel cot may suit you best. Of course, a heavier cot is likely to feel more sturdy and offer more functionality.

Ease of assembly/disassembly — Once you have the knack, putting a travel cot up and down should be a very quick process - a matter of minutes, if not seconds. Do read the instructions though, many have a knack and have parts that need to be put together in a very specific order.

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Age suitability — Age suitability really varies for travel cots. Most can be used from birth – we’ve specified the manufacturer’s instructions – but the travel cots that have a built-in bassinet offer a cosier, elevated sleep environment for newborns. Some even have drop-down sides to allow them to be used as a bedside crib. Some cots can only be used for a few months while others are suitable up to around 3.5 years.

Mattress — Travel cot mattresses tend to be thinner and harder than normal cot mattresses. This is partly to enable a compact fold and easy storage, and is why travel cots are usually not recommended for permanent overnight sleep. But remember, a firm mattress is important for safe sleep for your baby, and doesn’t mean your child won’t be comfortable. Most manufacturers will state that you shouldn't add an extra mattress to a travel cot.

Extra functions — Some travel cots can serve as a handy playpen once babies can sit up. Some also have a changing station, which could be useful if you’re frequently travelling with a baby.

How, when and where will you use your travel cot?

Do you plan to use the travel cot frequently during the year, or do you need it for a particular holiday? The frequency and location of where you’ll use it will help when considering weight, functionality and budget. For example, if the travel cot will be used for overnight stays at relatives or friends every month, you won’t need to worry too much about weight and the ease of assembly – especially if it can remain constructed.

For holidays in hot climates, a breathable mattress and all-around mesh panel are factors to consider. These help with air circulation and will provide a more comfortable environment for your child to sleep. Some travel cots include or offer the option of an insect net and sun protection.

For travel involving flights, it’s worth investigating your airline’s baggage allowances. A light, compact-folding model with easy assembly could be your best solution.

How much does a travel cot cost?

Our list covers travel cot prices ranging from £30 up to £200 - so quite a wide scope. For items at all price points, we expect a safe, comfortable and stable sleeping environment.

When looking at budget options, our reviewers found that they certainly did the trick and functioned well as a travel cot but were quite basic with limited added extras. For example, you shouldn’t expect a changing station included on a lower priced travel cot.

When considering more high-end travel cots we still expect good value (not overpriced), premium components and extra thought on a design that will make traveling with kids a breeze. Also, the more often you travel, the easier it is to get your money’s worth out of a more expensive travel cot.

The mid-range options on our list – priced under £100 include many great benefits and may tick quite a few boxes but without some of the lush extras of more expensive models.

Here are the best travel cots for 2024

1. bugaboo stardust, £168.75, – best for easy assembly.

Suitable from: birth (with newborn insert) to 2 years| Travel cot weight: 6.7kg | Unfolded dimensions: L64cm x W98cm x H85cm| Folded dimensions: L 65cm x W14cm x H85cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

Forget tricky folds, the pop-up style mechanism of the Bugaboo Stardust takes just seconds: simply pull the cot open from flat by pulling both sides. It’s perfect for a hassle-free bedtime when you’re not in the comfort of your own home.

It conveniently folds back down in the same amount of time, too, although it is worth noting this model folds down to a large flat shape, like a suitcase, making better suited to sliding into a car boot or under a bed than taking on public transport.

Along with the ease of assembly, the built-in mattress is what you pay for with this model: it's not only comfortable but can be adjusted to two height positions (with the newborn insert) making it easier to lift out newborns and babies not yet sitting up unaided. This is particularly handy if you’re prone to back problems or have just had a C-section. The mattress can be folded down inside the cot, meaning no extra assembly is required.

Although one of the priciest travel cots on our list, the Stardust can still deliver great value if you’re using your travel cot regularly with your baby. MFM home tester Rovenna, who tried it with her 4-month-old, said, "The fact it has both a raised zip in baby bassinet or a deep bed for toddlers – as well as a comfortable and generously filled built in mattress – is fantastic. It’s compact and lightweight, meaning it can be easily moved from room to room and transported in its handy carry bag.”

Pros : Quickest to assemble, two mattress height positions Cons : Quite large when folded

Available from: Bugaboo , Boots and John Lewis

2. Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £109.99

– best for lightweight with good mattress.

Suitable from: birth to 3 years | Travel cot weight: 6kg | Unfolded dimensions: L85cm x W55cm x H66cm| Folded dimensions: 60cm x 15cm x 50cm | Newborn bassinet: No

This travel cot is very lightweight, comfortable and easy to carry. It's available in a number of colours and features mesh panels on all sides. The mesh means that you can get a great view of your baby or toddler, while also ensuring good air circulation at night time.

Travel cot mattresses are often the feature that parents are least satisfied with, as they are often thin and flimsy. However, the Airpod travel cot has a better quality, more luxurious mattress than you might expect. Although the Cuggl Deluxe is very similar and quite a bit cheaper in price, we found that the mattress in this travel cot was of much higher quality.

Although this cot doesn't have an all-in-one pop-up assembly, it's still easy to put up and down, so much so that some of our home tester parents didn’t need the instructions. “It was very easy to remove from the carry case and put the cot together.” said MFM home tester Sarah. “It was also easy to take apart and put back into the travel case. No fiddling or spare parts. The easiest baby item I have actually put together.”

The Airpod Travel Cot is suitable from birth, but it doesn't come with a bassinet, something that you might prefer for a newborn. Offering a good amount of room, the travel cot can also be used as a play pen, and offers a comfy night's sleep for babies and toddlers.

Pros : Easy to build and collapse, mesh design, good mattress Cons : No newborn bassinet, can’t be used as playpen

Available from: Amazon and Venture

3. Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1, £150

– best multi-function travel cot.

Suitable from: birth (with newborn insert) to approx. 3 years (up to 9kg) | Travel cot weight: 7.65kg | Unfolded dimensions: 112 x 80 x 67cm| Newborn bassinet: Included

If you're looking for a multi-use travel cot that will grow with your child from birth, then the Silver Cross Slumber is a stylish design that offers 3-in-1 functionality in one portable package. Made of breathable mesh with a padded mattress included, the Slumber has three distinct uses as a bedside co-sleeper, travel cot and playpen.

Zip in the newborn insert to create a bedside crib suitable from birth until approximately 6 months old. The newborn insert sits at the top of the cot, meaning your baby will be at the height of your bed - although these is no option to drop the side in this mode as with some bedside cribs.

As your baby grows, you can use the Slumber as lightweight travel cot, using the same mattress. A waterproof carry case is included to allow for easy portability on the go. You can also use the Slumber as a secure play pen, and there's a zip-open door your toddler can crawl in and out when they are older.

At 7.65kg it’s a lightweight design that can be transported easily and stored away when not in use. The Slumber also has an easy fold function meaning it can pop up and fold down quickly. For eco-conscious parents, Slumber features quilted material crafted using a yarn made from recycled plastic bottles that would have otherwise been sent to landfill. It looks good too, with an attractive, minimalistic design. This is a useful product that will grow with your child and a stylish option from a trusted brand.

The Silver Cross Slumber is available in two different colourways, carbon and stone.

Pros: 3-in-1 functionality, lightweight, will grow with your child, sustainable fabric, stylish minimal design Cons: Additional functionality if you just need a single-use travel cot, not the smallest when assembled

Available from: John Lewis

4. Graco Contour Electra, £89.99

– best for added extras.

Suitable from: birth to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 10kg | Unfolded dimensions: H:91cm W:73cm D:104cm| Folded dimensions: H:85cm D:23cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

If you're looking for a travel cot that will do double or even triple duty, this could be the product for you. The Graco Contour Electra comes bursting with added extras, including practical additions like a cot-top changing unit, and fun ones like the mobile and battery-operated unit that plays tunes and vibrates the cot.

MFM home tester Jessica said, “ The Graco Electra travel cot has proven to be a lovely cot for my 5 month old son. It folds up to an easily transportable, small travel bag and has lovely extras such as the hanging toy bar and night light which are well thought out."

There's a newborn bassinet that fastens in to keep tiny babies close, and the whole unit is on wheels so it can be moved easily. It's definitely not the lightest product on our list, but remove any accessories you're not using (such as the changer or bassinet) and this significantly reduces the weight to make it easier to move or carry.

Pros : Lots of accessories, good newborn bassinet Cons : Heavy, can be difficult to transport

Read our full MadeForMums Graco Contour Electra review

Available from: Smyths and Graco

5. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £35

– best budget buy.

Suitable from: birth to 15kg (approx 3.5 years) | Travel cot weight: 8.7kg | Unfolded dimensions: L99cm x W59.5cm x H80.5cm| Folded dimensions: L27cm x W25cm x H80.5cm| Newborn bassinet: No | MFM Review Star Rating: 4.2 stars

The cheapest cot on our list, the Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable but sturdy option. The mattress, as you'd expect, is quite thin, so if you do look to buy an additional one, take note of the dimensions and ensure anything you buy is the correct size. It must be a snug fit with no gaps around the edges.

Where this travel cot does excel is the ease of assembly. “Once you have pulled up the handle in the bottom and un-assembled the cot, it is very easy to fold shut and put into the carry-bag,” stated our MFM reviewer Jessica, who called it “hassle-free and very quick.” Travel cots of this type usually have an order in which each section has to be assembled (or taken down), so pay close attention to the instructions.

This cot's purse-friendly price point doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality – you’ll find plenty of useful design features like a full padded top rail and mesh sides to provide visibility and air flow. Our MFM reviewer and parent testers also found it felt robust once built. One parent tester said, “It feels secure, with the side bars locking in place, and is sturdy enough to accommodate a lively toddler.”

Pros : Affordable, easy to assemble Cons : Mattress may need replacing

Read our full MadeForMums review of the Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot

Available from: Amazon and Halfords

6. Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot, £79.95

– best for versatile features.

Suitable from: birth to 15kg (approx 3.5 years) | Travel cot weight: 8.5kg | Unfolded dimensions: L125cm x W68.5cm x H82cm| Folded dimensions: L22cm x W21cm x H76.5cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes

The Hauck Sleep'n Play Centre Travel Cot has all the bells and whistles for under £100. This includes a changing mat that can stay attached but out of the way, high and low sleeping positions (reducing back strain), a zip-down side panel for a fun playpen adventure (crawl in – crawl out) and a fun design with pops of colour.

For ease of moving about, it also has two wheels when folded up that means you can pull it along like a suitcase – genius!

With an extremely impressive 4.5 stars out of over 7000 reviews on Amazon, it’s safe to say the German brand has come out on top. Customer reviews repeatedly mention good value and great quality. “It is quite heavy but that gives it the stability, we also purchased the extra mattress for when we need to use it for a bed,” said one parent review on Amazon. The heavier weight and insufficient mattress were echoed by other reviewers too.

Bargain hunters will be happy to hear that despite the £79.95 RRP, we’ve seen online deals for less than £60 - which would make this option a superb return on investment.

Pros : Changing table included, can wheel along when folded Cons : Needs an additional mattress

Available from: Boots , Amazon and Online4Baby

7. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot, £65

– best for occasional use.

Suitable from: birth to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 6kg | Unfolded dimensions: L85 cm x W56cm x H86m| Folded dimensions: L50cm x W61cm x H15cm| Newborn bassinet: No

Coming in at only 6kg, this is one of the lightest travel cots on our list, and also one of the most affordable. If you're looking for an all-rounder for occasional use during the first couple of years of your child's life, it's a good value option that performs well. It can be constructed in minutes and folds up to a suitcase size, although it's sadly not quite small enough to take as hand luggage on a plane.

The built-in mattress is 2.5cm deep, putting it on a par with most travel cot mattresses but perhaps not up there with the likes of the Bugaboo Stardust. Overall, the cot is smaller in size than some other options, but that means it folds up smaller too. The weight limit of 15kg means most toddlers will have grown out of it by about 2.5 years old. If you're looking for longevity beyond that, the Venture TravelPod and the Micralite Sleep 'n' Go have a slightly longer lifespan, but will cost you a little more.

Pros : Lightweight, folds up small, easy to assemble, affordable Cons : Mattress isn't the best, small footprint, low weight limit

Available from: Argos

8. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot, £99

– best for newborns.

Suitable from: Birth to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 8.79kg | Unfolded dimensions: L99cm x W59.5cm x H80.5cm| Folded dimensions: L 27 cm x W 25 cm x H 80.5cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes | MFM Review Star Rating: 3.8

For parents who want a travel cot from birth – perhaps to keep at a family member or caregiver's house – the Joie Kubbie Sleep combines the functionality of a travel cot with that of a bedside crib, with a drop-down side operated by a button that allows easier access to a newborn while in bassinet mode. It does sit quite high up so the exact functionality will differ depending on the type of bed you have, but in those early days when mum is healing it could be a lifesaver.

"One of the great features of the Joie Kubbie Sleep travel cot is that it can be used beside the bed once its straps are attached to the bed, and its side is dropped," said MFM reviewer Dominic, who tested this with his newborn daughter. He was also impressed with the durability, saying, "I’m really impressed with the quality of the build, despite the ‘sticky’ mechanics. Once assembled, it feels sturdy enough to last a number of years, which will be helpful for when our daughter can start using it as a playpen."

Once your baby is old enough, you simply put up the side, drop the mattress down to the base of the cot, and it becomes a generously-sized travel cot and playpen that'll last until the child weighs 15kg. The pull-and-click functionality takes a few minutes to master, and like others of this style there's an order you need to memorise in order to get it to go up and down smoothly, but Joie has a great instructional video to help .

Pros : Simple drop-side, grows with baby Cons : Not very lightweight, can be tricky to put up and down

Read our full MadeForMums Joie Kubbie travel cot review

Available from: Very and Argos

9. Red Kite Dreamer Bedside Travel Crib, £62

– best budget travel cot for co-sleeping.

Suitable from: birth (with bassinet) to 15kg | Travel cot weight: 7.6kg | Unfolded dimensions: L99cm x W57cm x H76cm| Folded dimensions: L27cm x W71cm x H26m| Newborn bassinet: Yes

Like the Joie Kubbie sleep, the Red Kite Dreamer offers the perfect travel option for families with newborns that use a bedside crib at home, as it has the same drop-side functionality built into a more portable travel cot. However, unlike the Joie Kubbie Sleep, which has a button-operated drop-side, this one is fastened with buckles, making it more suited to those who want to keep the cot fastened to their bed with the side dropped permanently down, for a safe way to cosleep with a newborn.

Once the baby is older, it becomes a travel cot that's almost a metre in length, offering lots of space for a growing toddler and a mattress that our parent testers really rated. "As travel cots go this is one of the comfiest mattresses I’ve seen. It feels nice and padded and had a solid firm base underneath to secure into the cot," said home tester Bridget, who tested this with her 4 month old.

Our testers did find the basinette insert for newborns a little flimsy, but fine given that's only used for the first few months before moving to the full travel cot. It's also lightweight to carry and one of the smaller folds on this list.

Pros : Permanent drop-side option, good mattress Cons : Flimsy newborn insert

Read our full MadeForMums Red Kite Dreamer beside travel cot review

Available from: Argos and Red Kite

10. Chicco Next2Me PopUp, £159.20

— best travel cot for versatile newborn co-sleeping.

Suitable from: birth to 6 months | Travel cot weight: 10.5kg | Unfolded dimensions: L97cm x W80cm x H82cm | Folded dimensions: L97cm x W84cm x H23m | Newborn bassinet: No | Awards: Silver – Travel Cot, MadeForMums Awards 2023

The PopUp is the latest offering from the Chicco Next2Me range and is a great option for parents who will be travelling with their young baby a lot in the first 6 months. The Red Kite Dreamer and Joie Kubbie Sleep also offer co-sleeping but, unlike these, the PopUp has a range of features that make it a really great choice for newborns.

We love that the crib has 6 adjustable heights to better help it align the barrier of the crib to the parents' mattress — this is particularly useful if you're travelling and staying in different places. Also, thanks to its foldable feet, it is suitable for use with beds with storage compartments. It also comes with straps that allow the crib to conveniently attach to different beds. It can be used as a standalone or bedside crib and transforms easily between both. It also has 2 wheels that make it easy to move from room to room around the house.

There is an ergonomically designed mattress included and the crib itself has mesh panelling on all 4 sides, providing great visibility and air ventilation as your baby sleeps.

MFM reviewer Helen who tested the Chicco Next2Me Pop Up with her 1-month-old son Alessio said, "The Pop Up works very well as a crib for the early months of a baby’s life, especially for people who will be travelling a lot with a young baby, because it is so easy to put up and down. It would certainly be a practical buy if you are going to be driving to stay away from home several times in the first 6 months of your baby’s life."

The crib has an impressively quick and easy 3-second fold that Helen thought was one of the standout features of the travel cot: "The ease of putting the cot up and down with the 3-second fold, and without the need to dissemble anything, is the main selling point and for good reason. It easily folds up into one piece and is easy to insert into the travel bag included." However, at 10kg, the PopUp (along with the Graco Contour Electa) is the heaviest option on our list and is quite bulky when folded. Whilst compact and able to fit under some beds while not in use, it does have a large footprint and therefore takes up quite a lot of car boot space and may not fit into the boot of smaller cars.

Pros: 6 height positions, quick and easy fold, mesh design Cons: Heavy, shorter life span than other options, can be difficult to transport

Read our full MadeForMums Chicco Next2Me Pop Up travel cot review

Available from: John Lewis , Amazon and Boots

11. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £22o

– best for no upper weight limit.

Suitable from: 0-3 years | Travel cot weight: 6kg (including travel bag) | Unfolded dimensions: L112cm x W64cm x 82cm | Folded dimensions: L49cm x W60cm x H14cm | Newborn bassinet: No

This lightweight, easy-to-use travel cot impressed our parent tester for a number of reasons – as you'd expect for one of the most expensive option on our list.

The brand known for stylish baby products won't disappoint parents on the go, with a sleek silhouette, premium-feeling fabrics and excellent functionality. It's impressively easy to set up and fold down – a true highlight compared to trickier styles such as the Joie Kubbie Sleep. Simply pull out each leg, click it into place on the top frame, then place the mattress inside and secure with poppers.

MFM Consumer and Reviews Editor Christy commented: "It's so easy to set up, which is really useful if you forget how between holidays, or are asking a grandparent to help. I had no worries about sleepily packing it up at the airport hotel before we took a flight."

The mattress is extra thick, an essential luxury as the base rests on the floor. This design means there's no weight limit, a real plus point for parents with heavier-than-average toddler.

Christy, who tested the cot with her tall 2 year old, says: "I loved the fact that the BabyBjorn has no weight limit. With a heavy toddler who is not ready for a bed, it's perfect. He slept very well, even though we tested it on a hard tiled floor."

The cleverly designed shape, with the sides inclining towards the top, also makes it harder for little ones to climb out of, and the mesh walls give great visibility from any angle.

The cot folds up into a flat rectangle shape, stored in a carry bag. Christy adds: "We took it as hold luggage out our TUI flight, and could even have fitted it inside our large family suitcase to avoid dropping it off at the 'oversized luggage' desk."

Pros: Lightweight, no upper weight limit, easy to set up, premium feel, extra thick mattress, comes with a carry bag Cons: One of the most expensive option

Available from: John Lewis and BabyBjörn

12. Tutti Bambini CoZee Go 3-in-1 Bassinet, Travel Cot & Playpen, £129

— best stylish travel cot.

Suitable from: Birth (with bassinet) to 3 years | Travel cot weight: 6.5kg | Unfolded dimensions: L133cm x W98cm x H65cm | Folded dimensions: L72cm x W62cm x H14cm | Newborn bassinet: Yes | Awards: Bronze – Travel Cot, MadeForMums Awards 2023

Suitable from birth and adapting to a toddler travel cot and playpen, this Scandi-style cot impressed our testers with its appealing, stylish design and ease of use.

It's a breeze to initially put together and then fold away and, at 6.5kg, it is one of the more lightweight options on our list. It's suitable from birth with the included newborn bassinet and foldable mattress. As your baby gets older, the mattress can be unfolded to be used as a floor-level travel cot. Then you can zip open the mesh window and you've turned it into a playpen.

The mesh fabric all around the cot provides great visibility and airflow and, available separately, is the Day & Night Shade which can help your baby switch off and sleep in bright or unfamiliar places. We also love that there is a carry case included for storage or travelling. It's not the most compact travel cot when it's assembled and is still quite large when it's folded — it's wide and square, which may be awkward to transport in smaller car boots. Our testers also found that fitting everything in the carry case and zipping it back up again could be difficult.

Parent tester Cali, who tested the CoZee Go with her 13-month-old son Teddy, really loved the style and quality of the travel cot: "There are cheaper travel cot and playpen options out there but they don't look as stylish or high quality. I absolutely love the minimalist look, it's stylish and neutral. All of the materials feel extremely good quality — this is definitely one of the comfier travel cots that we've used."

Cali also praised its different elements, "The CoZee Go makes a great playpen, the zip opening was especially good for giving my son the freedom to come and go as he pleases. As a travel cot, its a really good size so should last well into toddlerhood."

Parent tester Claire, who tested this with her 3-month-old son Zach also praised the design of the cot, "It is a high-end, stylish travel cot that’s built to last and worth its price tag. It also packs up compactly for ease of transport and has a very comfortable mattress that I think little ones will sleep well in."

Pros: Stylish, multi-functional, premium feel, quick to put together, mattress included Cons: Quite large, can be difficult to transport, pricey

Available from: Kiddies Kingdom , Natural Baby Shower and Tutti Bambini

How did we choose our 12 of the Best?

When testing travel cots, we considered size and weight limits, mattress quality, effectiveness, ease of build/fold, ease of transportation, any extra features or additions, and value the money.

Our 10 of the Best lists are compiled by qualified and experienced parenting journalists. They rely on a number of sources, including our independent reviews, testing undertaken during the MadeForMums Awards, and feedback from our home testing panel and Top Testers Club. Each year thousands of products are put through their paces by hundreds of parents across the country on behalf of MadeForMums, to ensure we’re bringing you honest and true reviews and recommendations.

Our list is not an ordered ranking from 1-10, instead it is a carefully selected group of tried-and-tested products, each ofwhich we believe is  best for  a different situation or requirement. We don’t just tell you what is best, we help you discover what is best for  your family .

About the author

Read more....

• Best lightweight buggies under 7kg
• Best baby carriers
• Best compact folding buggies

Janet is mum to two children aged 6 & 9 and a great-Aunt too. She began writing early, penning her first book aged just 7. She has published 2 books

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

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

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

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

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

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How we tested travel cots.

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

The best travel cots for 2024 are:

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

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Graco foldlite travel cot

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

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

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

Red Kite sleep tight travel cot

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

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

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

Mamas & Papas joie commuter travel cot change and bounce

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

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

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

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

BabyBjörn travel cot light

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

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

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

Nuna sena aire

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

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

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

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

Silver Cross slumber carbon travel cot

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

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

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

Kinderkraft lovi 3-in-1 baby crib

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

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

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

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

Bugaboo stardust travel cot

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

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

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

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

Halo flex portable bassinet

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

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

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

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

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

Fisher-Price on the go travel baby dome

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

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

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

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

ergoPouch easy sleep portable crib

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

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

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

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

Travel cot FAQs

What age is a travel cot for.

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

Can a baby sleep in a travel cot every night?

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

What to look for when buying a travel cot

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

Do travel cots need a mattress?

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

The verdict: Travel cots

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

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

Provide extra comfort by investing in the best cot mattresses

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The best travel cot for babies and toddlers

Venture UK Airpod Baby and Toddler Travel Cot

Graco FoldLite

Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Graco Contour Electra

Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper

Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

BabyDan Travel Cot

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

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

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

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

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

The best travel cot at a glance

• Best travel cot overall : Venture UK Airpod Baby & Toddler Travel Cot - £109.99

• Best travel cot for compact fold : Graco FoldLite - £73

• Best compact travel cot : Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot -  £168.75

• Best budget travel cot : Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot - £60

• Best stylish travel cot : Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper - £74.99

The best travel cot 2024

1. venture uk airpod baby and toddler travel cot, best travel cot overall, description.

Silver winner for Best Travel Product Over £30 in the M&B Awards 2023 Designed to provide little ones with a place to rest and play no matter where you are, the Airpod is assembled in just three easy steps with no tools required meaning it's ready to go in less than a minute. The Airpod weighs just 6kg and can be folded into a bag no larger than a big shopping bag.

One M&B awards tester said: "I really liked how small it folded and how light it was. Super portable and barely took space in the car boot. This meant we were able to pack all our other luggage without worrying about space. Also not too heavy so easy to lug around upstairs when we stayed in hotels without lifts."

Read our full review of the Venture UK Airpod Travel Cot .

• Lightweight
• Comfortable for baby
• No raised bassinet

2. Graco FoldLite

Best travel cot for compact fold.

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

Suitable from birth to approximately three years old, the FoldLite was hailed by parents for its lightweight frame, but it has also won a prestigious Mother&Baby Awards 2023 Bronze award. Collapsing to only 26cm wide, the FoldLite has a mesh lining and two wheels for easy manoeuvrability, plus it comes with a mattress included. Testers loved the Home Fold feature to help fold away quickly and clear space within seconds.

M&B mum tester Sarah said:  "The Foldlite travel cot has been most useful to us for quick and easy use around the house with a mobile baby. It genuinely is two clicks to put up or down and the house fold setting means I can quickly pop it out from next to the sofa if I need to iron or nip to the toilet and pop it back in a few seconds so it's not taking over the room. It would be invaluable for this in a holiday cottage which is less baby-proofed too! It seems both comfy and robust for my very mobile ten-month-old and he'll play happily in it with some toys thrown in for a while. When folded down for travel it's small and neat and doesn't take up too much valuable boot space when you're already contending with buggies and suitcases. The grandparents popped it up without instructions and my ten-month-old slept happily in it."

Read our full review of the Graco FoldLite.

• Folds two ways
• Convenient carry bag
• Assembly not totally straightforward

3. Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

Best compact travel cot.

www.bugaboo.com

If you're looking for a travel cot that's a doddle to set up and folds away in seconds, this is it – no more grappling with unwieldy parts when you arrive at your destination with a tired baby. We love the clever design, which gives a seamless experience on the go.

Convenient for carrying around your home, it comes with a zip-in carrycot insert, an all-around mesh panel for airflow and a lovely firm and comfortable mattress. The suspended base will protect your little ones from draughts. But, if this happens to be a bit pricey for you, then you can opt for the Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot instead.

Mum Meg said: "Very sturdy, easy to pack and unpack, folds up reasonably small, carrying handle makes it easy to transport. Seems comfortable - the newborn bassinet is super convenient for little ones and my babe settled immediately in it."

Parent Matt said: "We bought this for the ease of it 'popping up and down' but also because we could raise the height of the mattress when our baby was very little. There don't seem to be many travel cots that have that design, we used it as much at home for naps as we did on the road. It's a great bit of kit."

• Includes carrycot insert and mattress
• Easy to assemble
• Compact to fold
• Mattress doesn't include a waterproof cover

4. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Best budget travel cot.

www.argos.co.uk

Shortlisted for Best Travel Product Over £25 in the M&B Awards 2019

This deluxe travel cot has a bassinet attachment that clicks easily onto the top, perfect for changing nappies; it has wheels, so it's easy to move around, and setting up and folding away takes just seconds.

Tested by mum Tori: "I would definitely recommend this product to other mums. It's so easy to put up and down and transport with its handy bag. It folds up thin and small fitting in our boot along with the double pram and a few bags! My little one slept perfectly."

Tested by mum Sarah: "If you're looking for an inexpensive no-nonsense travel cot then I would recommend this. It was lightweight so I could easily carry it around. It was also compact making it small enough to pack into the car alongside everything else you need when going away with a little one! Once I'd done the initial set up of the cot, it was easy to put together and to take apart too."

Read our full review of the Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

• Easy to transport with wheels
• Easy fold down into storage bag
• Low to the ground

5. Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Best lightweight travel cot.

Rrp: £ 219.90

Shortlisted for Best Travel Product over £25 at the M&B Awards 2015

This travel cot is a real doddle to assemble – just slip it out of its travel bag, and it practically unfolds automatically, so there's no grappling with poles or fiddling with extra accessories. It's also easy to fold away and really light and portable.

It's also easy to move around your home, making it convenient to take with you on trips or overnight visits away. We love that the fabric can be removed and popped in the washing machine – a real bonus if you have a baby with reflux. The materials of this travel cot meet the requirements of OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Class 1 for baby products, which essentially means kind to your baby's sensitive skin.

Tested by mum Nicola: "This is the easiest travel cot to carry as it's amazingly light, but it's less robust than others – Amelia can push it around by herself. It's really practical, taking seconds to pop up. It's less attractive than others in terms of design appeal, but Amelia slept well in it and seemed very comfortable. It also comes with a nice carry bag, which makes it easy to transport."

Read our full review of the BabyBjörn Light Travel Cot

• Easy assemble
• Machine washable fabric
• Made with sensitive skin in mind
• Harder to dry

6. Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Best newborn travel cot.

www.very.co.uk

This versatile travel cot comes with lots of extra accessories, so it's great value for money. There's a full-size bassinet, which snaps easily on and off as required, as well as a change unit and portable bouncing seat. It folds compactly and comes with its own travel storage bag.

There are lots of sound and light features, including a soothing sound vibration, plus five classical lullabies and nature sounds. The two integrated wheels make it easy to move from room to room, and there's also a nightlight with three brightness settings.

Tested by mum Kathryn: "This was quite difficult to assemble – I had to enlist my husband's help. It's sturdy and almost as big as a normal cot. The wheels make it easy to move. Olly is too old for the extra accessories, but they'd be fantastic for a newborn. Olly likes the sounds, and the light is great for night changes without fully waking him. A real investment that will grow with your baby.

Tested by mum Nicola: "The mesh sides enabled me to check on Amelia without getting out of bed, and she liked being able to see us when she woke up. The mattress seems very comfortable, and the colours and pattern of this travel cot are really appealing. The extra accessories aren't suitable past 12 months, and this travel cot is quite heavy – I would struggle to move it from room to room without help."

• Extra accessories
• Great value for money
• Sound, vibration and nightlight settings

7. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Best travel cot mattress.

www.johnlewis.com

Shortlisted for Best Travel Product over £25 at the M&B Awards 2018

This stylish, contemporary travel cot takes seconds to put together and is reasonably quick and easy to fold, even with a baby in your arms. We love the bassinet accessory, which makes this brilliant for use from birth. It has a sturdy aluminium frame and a triple-layered mattress.

Doubling up as a play space, this travel cot has padded edges to prevent pinched fingers, and it also comes with an organic cotton sheet included and its own bag to store and transport it in.

Tested by mum Kirsty: "This is reasonably straightforward to set up but it doesn't fold very neatly, and packing it away is fiddly. It's sturdy but feels heavy and it takes up lots of space in our small car boot. The bassinet makes it easy to lift Rikku in and out, but I found it fiddly to detach. I like that this comes with a machine-washable sheet, which stays in place with velcro."

Tested by mum Nicola: "I really like this travel cot because it's so sturdy. It also looks very stylish. Amelia slept really well in this. It's simple to assemble and comes with a lovely, thick mattress plus a machine-washable sheet. The only disadvantage is that it's quite heavy. I think I would struggle to get this from one place to another by myself."

Read our full review of the Nuna Sena Aire

• Padded edges
• Triple-layered mattress
• Comes with its own storage bag
• Not as lightweight as other options

8. Graco Contour Electra

Best value travel cot.

www.boots.com

The Graco Contour is a good-value travel cot with lots of extra features. It comes with a toy bar and a handy removable changing table. It has a nightlight and musical feature, as well as the option to set the mattress to vibrate to help soothe your baby. There are four mesh sides so you can keep an eye on your little one, and also great for ventilation. It's heavy, but the wheels make it easy to manoeuvre, and it comes with its own carry bag.

Tested by mum Nicola: "This is quick and easy to assemble. It seems compact and fits really well in a smaller room without taking up lots of space. The mattress is very thin, and Amelia didn't sleep very well. The cream colour looks lovely, but I imagine it could get dirty very quickly. The changing unit is a great idea, but it's only suitable for use up to 12 months."

Tested by mum Kathryn: "One of the heaviest travel cots we tested, but it's a good size for an older baby – almost the same size as our normal cot. It's easy to assemble and put away and I like the neutral colour. The wheels make it very easy to move around, but you have to bend low to reach your baby. This would have been great for daytime naps when Olly was younger. Great value, too."

Read our full review of the Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

• Compact fold
• Has wheels for easy transporting
• Removable changing table
• Some reviewers struggled to assemble it

9. Baby Elegance Kangu Foldable Bedside Sleeper

Best bassinet-style travel cot.

www.ebay.co.uk

We love the innovative way this travel cot converts between two different modes, with a bassinet level for younger babies to cot, and the fact that you can use it in either fixed or rocking mode. This travel cot is worth considering if you're really short on luggage space, as it's particularly compact once folded and one of the lightest travel cots we found. This is another top pick for newborns, so be aware you won't be able to use it much beyond six months old.

Mum, Eileen, reviewed: "This was the best purchase we made for our baby. We can't fit a cot in our bedroom and needed something that would last longer than the moses basket. Our little boy sleeps so well in it and it's so easy to pick it up and carry downstairs. We have travelled with it too and it folds down neatly."

• Folds into storage bag
• Legs can adjust to fix in position or allow for gentle rocking motion
• Extremely lightweight
• Only able to use until 6 months

10. Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

Best carrycot travel cot.

This is a really clever invention; it looks like a really spacious changing bag, but then off you pop for your overnight stay, take everything out of the bag, and it changes into a travel crib. It doesn't take long to assemble and comes with a padded mattress. It isn't as long-lasting as the other travel cots on our list, as it's really only suitable until baby is four to six months old or when they start rolling; it's the smallest travel cot but the most compact and easy to carry.

Tested by mum Jennifer: "The design is stylish and the item is extremely easy to use. The travel cot section folds out in a few seconds and the rods are easily inserted to make it very sturdy. This means a new mum (who has little time on her hands) can easily erect this in minutes. It is easily transported and takes up no more than a bag's room in the car or walking, so it can be taken anywhere. I have only used this at friends/ families homes but definitely would take it on weekends away or on holiday. It means I don't have to buy a big travel cot. It is also lightweight so don't have to worry about carrying something heavy."

Tested by mum Esther: "Designed as a travel sleeping pod, for nighttime and daytime naps, and a changing bag. It's intended to be quick to assemble and easy to use. I assembled it in a couple of minutes, it weighs as much as a bag or two of sugar and the bag would easily fit in amongst other items in a packed car. When assembled, the sleeping pod is a reasonable size, probably usable up to 4-6 months (unless your baby is rolling lots). We used the pod whilst away for the weekend and found it very useful, as we already had a travel cot packed for our older child and couldn't have fitted a second in the car."

Read our full review of the Bizzi Growin POD Travel Crib

• Includes mosquito net
• Can be used as a changing bag
• Extremely compact and lightweight to carry
• Long dispatch time currently

11. BabyDan Travel Cot

Best long-lasting travel cot.

This travel cot represents good value for money, especially because it can be used from birth up to approximately three years of age. It's also very sturdy, which means it doubles up as a playpen for smaller babies. And although fairly large, it features wheels and a brake to make it easier to transport. The cot also comes with a small toy bag attached, which could be useful for storing nappies or other baby essentials when you're on the move and away from home.

Reviewer Sophie said: "This is an excellent travel cot. The cot is incredibly easy for one person to put up and can be fully set up and usable within minutes. Folding the cot away is just as simple; and it folds down into such a compact size which is then stored in a carry case that it is easy to stow away. I would recommend this cot for a number of reasons: It is lightweight, compact, it is a full size cot, can be used as a playpen, it is simple to errect and dismantle, it is very strong and sturdy, my baby loves to be in it, it has a useful storage pouch at one end. I intially set the cot up in the sitting room as a play pen/nap time cot. It is a full size cot so does take up some room but it means that the cot will last for several years before the baby outgrows it."

Read our full review of the Baby Dan Travel Cot

• Includes a small bag
• Sturdy and secure with brake
• Heavier than others

12. Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Best simple travel cot.

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The Sleeptight Travel Cot is an award-winning sleep solution from Red Kite. Stored in a carry bag, the Sleeptight Travel Cot is lightweight and compact folding. It is the perfect choice for holidays, visiting friends and family or for your own home.

Mum Kat said: "Having now used this multiple times, I'm really impressed with it - it's good quality and not too bulky when folded so fits easily into my small car boot along with all the other baby paraphernalia needed for a night away! It's really easy to put up and take down and it's so helpful that the instructions are printed onto the underside of the mattress - what a great idea (these sleep-deprived parents are very grateful for this design feature!) You must put it up/take it down in the right order or you will struggle to get it folded correctly. My baby has always slept well in it on various nights and weeks away. We use a waterproof sheet and cot sheet on top of the mattress, job done! For the price paid, it's exceptionally good value. 10/10!"

• Central locking base for extra safety
• Easy to fold and store in the storage bag
• See-through mesh sides
• Mattress is very thin

13. Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Best 4 in 1 travel cot.

Rrp: £ 139.99

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

One reviewer said: "Slightly narrower than some travel cots, but that was what we needed as it is going to be the cot for when our new grandson stays with us and it needed to fit in the spare room. I love that it is on 2 levels so suitable for a new born as well as a toddler, though not sure if grandson will fit past the age of 2. It is so easy to fold and put up and comes in a cover so can be stored under another bed. Also great that while you use the top level, things can be stored underneath. It looks very stylish too. Only slight problem is the fitting of sheets. It is fiddly and you need to lift the mattress to be able to fit the sheet and tuck it in. But it is doable, so very happy with purchase."

• Can be used with or without rocking function
• Mattress can be used at two different levels
• Looks stylish
• Slightly narrower than standard travel cots

Travel cots – All you need to know:

Choosing the right travel cot for you and your child.

Think about where and when you'll use a travel cot. If you are throwing it in the car boot when you're going to Granny's, check how bulky it is when folded and make sure it fits along with your pushchair and still leaves enough room for your luggage. If you're buying for your holiday and you'll be travelling to your destination by plane, boat or other public transport, choose one that folds very compactly to make it easier to pack. Consider, too, where you'll keep it at home when it's not in use.

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

Some travel cots are designed to double as playpens , creating somewhere safe for your baby to play when she's awake. This is useful when you're away from home, especially if you're staying somewhere that's less baby-friendly, without any baby-proofing products , than your normal environment. This type of travel cot has added value as you can get more use out of it than a standard travel cot but check the manufacturer's guidelines before you buy to ensure it's safe to use as a playpen.

Features to consider before purchasing a travel cot

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

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

Fold mechanism

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

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

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

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

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

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

What age are travel cots advised for?

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

Can I travel on a plane with a travel cot?

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

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

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

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

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

How to assemble a travel cot

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

Where can I buy a travel cot?

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

John Le wis

Mamas & Papas

Supermarkets also hold baby events where you can often pick up travel cots and other accessories for a great price. These include:

Can I buy a travel cot second-hand?

If you're looking to buy a second-hand travel cot, there are a few things to check before you make your purchase:

• Check that it assembles and folds down correctly

• Make sure it's sturdy

• Make sure the seller provides you with the original instruction booklet

It's also worth purchasing a new mattress for the travel cot

How to clean your travel cot

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

Make sure to leave it out in the fresh air and sunlight to dry.

Travel cot safety

There are a number of safety aspects to check on your travel cot for your peace of mind.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe sleeping in a travel cot

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

Here's what The Lullaby Trust have to say:

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

How we tested and chose these travel cots

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

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

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

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

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

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

8 Best Travel Cots for Babies and Toddlers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s get into it…

Graco Compact Travel Cot

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

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

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

Why We Chose It

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

Potential Cons to Consider

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

Maxi-Cosi Iris

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

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

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

Potential Con to Consideer

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

Micralite Sleep and Go

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

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

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

Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot

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

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

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

Nuna SENA Aire

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

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

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

Hauck Dream’n Play

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

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

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

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Choose

Do you actually need a toddler travel cot.

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

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

The answer could well be ‘no’.

Travel cots are mostly used for, well, travelling.

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

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

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

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

Very important when they’re staying somewhere new…

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

What to Look for in a Travel Cot

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

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

Weight and Footprint

Ease of use.

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

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

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

Exactly how light and compact will depend on your circumstances.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There’s no right answer here.

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

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

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

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

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

Let us know which ones are your favourites!

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

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Stephanie Osborn

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Best travel cots: tried and tested

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

By Poppy O'Neill | Last updated Mar 26, 2024

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

While they're mainly used for overnight stays at a grandparent's house, or longer holidays, travel cots can also be used instead of a traditional crib or playpen for both babies and toddlers. They are portable, easy to carry, fit in your car boot and should be fairly lightweight too. Pack your travel cot along with a baby monitor and your little one's best baby blanket and you're good to go.

Our parent tester, Ruth, and her 18-month-old put some of the UK's top-rated travel cots through their paces. We also turned to the Mumsnet forums - home of the UK's largest network of parents - to seek out authentic recommendations and honest reviews of the travel cots they'd used with their own children. Referring to expert review sites for extra information, we collated all the information to bring you our top picks, of the best travel cots 2024.

The best travel cots 2024: editor's picks

Joie kubbie Bassinet Travel Cot

Red Kite Travel Cot

Graco FoldLite LX Travel Cot

Joie kubbie™ sleep travel cot.

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

Compact frame that packs down into a travel bag

Mesh panels on all four sides

Padded top rail

Too small to be used as a playpen

Material isn't machine-washable

Price on writing: From £100 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (15kg) | Weight: 8.79kg

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full Joie kubbie™ Sleep review

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

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

Great for parents who

Have a newborn

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

Want a cot that can last up to three years old

Read next: The best changing bags Mumsnetters swear by

Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot

Lightweight and folds down compactly into a travel bag

Quick to assemble and fold away

Easy to clean

Mesh sides make it easy to see baby

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

Doesn't have wheels

Price on writing: £35 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (or able to climb out) | Weight: 7kg

Tried and tested by Mumsnet : Read our full Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot review .

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

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

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

Are on a tight budget

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

Lightweight and easy to fold up and down

Collapses to just 26 cm wide

Comes with a removable infant bassinet

2 wheels for easy manoeuvring

The mattress could be thicker

Price on writing: £80 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (or able to climb out) | Weight: 6.78 kg

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

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

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

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

Have limited space for storage

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

LittleLife Arc 2

Insect-proof mesh for hot weather and the outdoors

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

Colour-coded poles make assembly simple

Lightweight option

Thin mattress

Sunshade must be bought separately

Price on writing: £110 | Suitable from: Birth to three years (15kg), but we'd recommend it for toddlers | Weight: 2.5kg

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full LittleLife Arc 2 review

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

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

Use public transport when travelling

Want something that could double up as a playpen

Read next: The best baby carriers, tried and tested

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

Durable construction

Very comfy mattress

Mattress and fabric is removable and machine-washable

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

It’s one of the more expensive cots around

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

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full BabyBjorn Light review

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

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

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

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

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

Joie Commuter Change

Two wheels make this cot easy to move around

Easy to fold and unfold

Bassinet and changing unit don’t fit into carry bag

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

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

Tested by MNHQ: Read our full Joie Commuter Change review

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

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

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

Bugaboo Stardust

Great quality mattress

Takes just one second to unfold and three seconds to fold

Can be folded with the mattress left in

Carrycot insert for newborns

On the expensive side

Only suitable up to 2 years

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

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

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

Want to co-sleep safely away from home

Are expecting to use the cot frequently for sleeping

Related: The best breast pumps, as recommended by Mumsnetters

Travel cots: our pick of the best of the rest

Sturdy but pricey.

We have the Nuna Sena and its amazing, the most hassle-free assembling I've seen having watched BIL trying to get his cheap and cheerful one up! You just push the ring in the middle. It looks great and my kids have both slept great in it when we're away. Also sturdy enough to double as a temporary living room playpen for a while too! Has definitely been one of my highly recommended baby items.

lightningpeach

Nuna Sena Aire

Best travel cot for use as a playpen

Quite a while ago now we bought a BabyDan one from John Lewis which is the same dimensions as a standard cot (not cot bed). Extra handy as we could also use the actual cot mattress in it for extra comfort if we had space in the car, or latterly when we had got rid of the cot but had friends or relatives to stay

DiddlySquatty

BabyDan Travel Cot

Best travel cot for air travel

I've been to many different countries on different planes, trains and automobiles and the Phil & Teds is the only one which works across various check in requirements and ages of children ...100% [would recommend] the P&T one if you actually intend travelling with it, as opposed to staying at Granny's place every now and again.

mynamechangemyrules

Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Crib

What age is a travel cot for?

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

Do I actually need a one?

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

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

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

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

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

Are travel cots safe?

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

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

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

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

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

Check for sharp corners and padded rails

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

Safe sleeping and travel cot mattresses

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

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

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

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

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

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

How much does a travel cot cost?

Prices range from £20 to over £200, and your budget will probably depend entirely on how much you think you'll use it.

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

Can I buy one secondhand?

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

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

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

Other things to consider when buying a travel cot

1. portability.

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

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

2. Assembly and storage

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

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

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

3. How to clean

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

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

4. Extra features

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

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

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

What's the best travel cot to buy?

The Joie kubbie Sleep is the best travel cot to buy in 2024. Mumsnetters love that it doubles as a co-sleeper, making it a versatile, useful and great value buy. The compact design makes it easy to transport and set up, while the bedside feature allows for easy access to your baby during the night. Overall, the Joie Baby Kubbie Sleep Bedside Travel Cot is a great choice for parents looking for a safe and comfortable sleep solution for their little one.

How we tested and why you should trust us

For continuity, we try to get one tester to test all the products in a single category. This reduces any potential variables during the testing process and ensures that our results are based on like-for-like comparisons. After approximately 24 hours of research, our tester, Ruth, produced a shortlist of 14 cots to put to the test. The list included the most highly recommended cots by Mumsnet users and other review sites, plus a wide range of designs and price tags, from nifty pop-ups to more studier models akin to traditional cribs.

Each product was tested in rooms with both carpet and laminate flooring, then scored on six key areas:

Safety and stability

Comfort and day-to-day use, cleanliness, value for money.

Five products were then awarded a Mumsnet Best badge – these are the products that we feel offer the absolute best value for most parents. We also gave honourable mentions to four others.

Ruth scored each product based on each criteria below, with the highest scoring coming out on top as the overall winner. Honourable mentions were then given to nine other top-performing beds.

We looked at a number of factors including:

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

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

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

Sturdiness – she walked into it, knocked it against furniture and dropped it when assembled and packed away. Could each cot withstand the weight of both an adult and child if accidentally fallen into?

Safety standards – she also looked for the appropriate safety labels

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

Assembly and folding

How straightforward was it to assemble and fold?

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

Each cot was assembled and taken down 20 times – this was also timed to see how long it would take

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ruth analysed looks, including colours, fabrics and overall design

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

Were there different colours to choose from?

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

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

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

If pricey, was it worth the price tag?

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

How real-life comparative testing makes Mumsnet Reviews unique

We commissioned Ruth Lumley to write about and test a variety of toddler and baby travel cots. Ruth is a journalist who has used a number of baby beds with her three young children – from the newborn stage right through to toddlerhood and while holidaying abroad and visiting relatives in the UK.

During the research process, she looked at the types of products available, scoured the Mumsnet forums for recommendations and spoke to baby sleep experts from The Lullaby Trust , an organisation that provides advice on safer sleep for babies.Ruth tried out each bed with her youngest child, who was 18 months old at the time of testing. She tested each for at least three nights, both at home and at the grandparents' house, which meant that all the models were subject to the same environmental factors and held a child of the same age and weight.

About the author

Poppy O'Neill is a Content Editor at Mumsnet and a mother of two. She's been researching and reviewing baby and child products for 2 years, with a particular focus on baby essentials, toys and books for toddlers and outdoor play equipment. From potties to paddling pools and bunk beds to bedtime stories, she loves to deep-dive into research and find the best products out there.

Poppy is also an award-winning, best-selling children's and parenting author of books such as Don't Worry, Be Happy , The Extraordinary Book That Makes You Feel Happy  and Mother Power . She specialises in children's mental health and her books are used by therapists, teachers and SENCOs across the UK. She won a The Week Junior Book Award in 2023, her books have been translated into several languages and she's been featured in The Guardian, The Sunday Times and The Sun.

After earning a BA in Creative Writing from the University of Leeds and a PGCert in Fashion and Lifestyle Journalism from University of the Arts London, she worked in fashion for most of her 20s. When her children were young, she undertook an MA in Creative Writing from the University of Chichester and re-trained as an author and freelance writer.

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

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

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

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

Best travel cots to buy in 2024

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

BEST NEUTRAL TRAVEL COT

My babiie blush quilted travel cot.

BEST STYLISH TRAVEL COT

Silver cross black rise by tinie travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT BY UK BRAND

Joie baby roomie go travel crib.

BEST CHIC TRAVEL COT

Maxi-cosi tori beyond bedside travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR STYLE

Maxi-cosi iris compact travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR TRAVELING ON PLANES

Babybjörn travel cot light.

BEST TRAVEL COT AND PLAYPEN

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

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR SMALL SPACES

Graco foldlite unique fold travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT FOR COMFORT

Airpod travel cot.

BEST TRAVEL COT WITH WHEELS

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

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

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

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

Travel cot shopping guide

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

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

21 best travel cots to buy

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

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

Key details

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joie Commuter Travel Cot - Change & Bounce

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

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

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

LittleLife Arc 2 Lightweight Travel Cot

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

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

ReadyBed Junior ReadyBed Air Bed and Sleeping Bag

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

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

Dooky Portable Pop-Up Travel Cot

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

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

Bugaboo Stardust

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

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

Stokke CloudSleeper Inflatable Kids’ Bed

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

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

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

Nuna Sena Travel Cot

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

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

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

Cuggl Grey Travel Cot

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

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

Bloomsbury Mill All-In-One Nap Mat

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

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

DERYAN Air Traveller - Airplane Bed

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

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

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

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The best travel cots according to cool GLAMOUR mums, so your little one can snooze on your exotic holiday

By Sophie Cockett

Travel cots are a holiday must-have for any new parent. While light loading of your baby changing bag is near-on impossible with the number of baby essentials on your “to pack” list, knowing where your little one will lay their head on your weekend break needn't be cause for stress .

The best travel cots for babies and toddlers are safe spaces for your bundle of joy to sleep when you're away from home (perhaps the Maldives ? Or New York ? We can dream). They're portable and collapsible, folding down into an easy-to-carry bundle that shouldn't be too strenuous to move. Perfect for weekends at the grandparents' or even on a plane. 

The best travel cots come with genuinely comfortable mattresses (nowhere near as lumpy as they once were) for your baby girl or baby boy to get a killer night's kip, and they double up as playpens for during the day/when you're getting ready for dinner with thanks to the high mesh sides.

And forget what you thought you knew: today's travel cots aren't as ugly and clunky as they once used to be. In fact, with thanks to chic Scandi baby brands like BabyBjörn, they're designed with as many style credentials as the remaining contents of your suitcase . Think: tonal hues and sleek, modern frames. Here's everything you need to know.

By Sophie Cockett and Mayola Fernandes

Do I need a travel cot ?

Lugging a travel cot around with you may feel like a faff you don't need, but if you're staying in a hotel or staying with friends, finding a quiet spot for your baby to sleep isn't always easy. Travel cots will enable you to stick to your baby's bedtime routine and become a safe and familiar place for your little one to rest – even if you're not ready to hit the hay.

What age can a baby sleep in a travel cot?

“Your baby can use the travel cot well into their third year, so it is worth the investment,” Motherhood Coach and Baby Expert Millie Poppins told us. Your travel cot will serve a purpose until your toddler is too big or old enough to climb out.

Are travel cots safe?

“A travel cot purchased in the UK would need to meet the European Safety Standards,” Millie told us. “You should follow all safe sleep guidance set by The Lullaby Trust (similar to cots and bassinets that you would use at home). A firm, flat and waterproof mattress is essential. It is also important not to add anything into your baby’s sleep space such as comforters, bumpers, loose bedding, pillows etc. A clear cot is the safest cot."

What to look for in a good travel cot

There are a few things to consider when shopping for a new travel cot. Firstly, consider the travel cot's age suitability . Different travel cots have different age and weight limits, so consider how many years' worth of use you want to get from your cot before purchase. 

Next, consider its ease of use . Are you after a traditional travel cot comprising a frame and fabric cot, or a pop-up travel cot (which might be lighter but less sturdy)? Is your travel cot compact and easy to fold away? Will it take long to assemble? The travel cots listed in this edit have all been selected for their ease of use. 

“For younger babies, who aren’t yet standing, I love a travel cot that has two adjustable heights,” Millie said. Look for travel cots with bassinet attachments: they're great for newborns and create a crib across the top of the cot for your little one to sleep in. “This is so helpful if you are getting them in and out throughout the night. Your back will thank you!” 

Once you've got that nailed, take a look at the mattress. “Make sure the travel cot you purchase actually includes a mattress as sometimes these can be sold separately,” Millie said. Generally speaking, travel cot mattresses tend to be harder and thinner than normal cot mattresses to make them easier to transport. You'll definitely want something with a waterproof or machine washable cover, because accidents happen and hygiene is key.  

You should also consider additional features, like travel bags and mesh windows. 

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Best travel cot overall

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £220, John Lewis

Why we love it: This travel cot might be one of the more expensive in this edit, but it's worth every penny if you have a little more money to spend. It's from the luxe baby essentials brand BabyBjörn, assembling in seconds, folding down to a briefcase shape incredibly light in weight. It comes with a carry bag, and you can literally lift the cot out and assemble it in one movement. The mattress is just the right thickness, and the full mesh sides allow you to see what your baby is getting up to all night long. 

Dimensions : 82 x 112 x 64 cm Folded size : 49 x 60 x 14 cm Weight : 6kg (including carry bag)

Save when you shop for the best travel cots with these John Lewis discount codes .

Best travel cot Amazon

Dooky - Portable Travel Cot Grey, £36.88, Amazon

Why we love it: This portable travel cot is one of the lightest travel cots in this edit – in fact, it's one of the lightest on the market right now. It doesn't have particularly high sides, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It makes it perfect for newborns who can't yet stand up, and it makes it perfect for laying down almost anywhere. Read: on a flight, on the spare side of your bed , or on a sofa . 

Dimensions : 75 x 41cm Folded size : 41 x 26cm Weight : 1.2kg

Save when you shop for the best travel cots with these Amazon promo codes .

Best bedside travel cot: Joie travel cot

Joie Baby Roomie Glide Sleep Bedside Travel Cot, Foggy Grey, £169, John Lewis

Why we love it: Joie travel cots are among some of the best on the market, and the Roomie Glide Co-Sleeper is our favourite for allowing your little one to sleep by your side – wherever in the world you are. On one side, there's a high mesh wall, and on the other, a single-hand sliding panel which prevents any separation between yourself and baby. The single-hand glide function allows you to rock your newborn to sleep without leaving your own bed, and the one-touch glide lock lets you secure Roomie Glide in place when you're done rocking. 

The sliding panel can be lifted and lowered with one hand, and the 11 height adjustment options mean you can fit this travel cot to almost any height/style of bed frame or sofa bed .

As for its portability? This travel cot has four lockable wheels so you can easily move it around your space, and it assembles and disassembles with speed. It also comes with a handy travel bag so you can take it on overnight stays or weekend breaks.

Dimensions: H68.5 x W81 x D98.5cm Weight: 11.94kg

Best travel cot for holiday

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot, £230, John Lewis

Why we love it: It might be a little more expensive – and a tad heavier – than some of the other travel cots in this edit, but if increased air flow and visibility of your baby are priorities, it's certainly one to consider. It has 360-degree mesh lined air flow on the crib and bassinet, and the mesh mattress has two levels of airflow thanks to ventilating padding. Basically, your baby will get plenty of fresh air when they're kicking back for the night. 

As for practicality, it has a centralised pulley system which makes it easy to assemble even with one hand, plus skid-proof feet and a raised base. It also comes with a certified organic cotton sheet, setting it apart from cheaper options on the market. Have a little more to spend? You can purchase a matching changing unit and insect nest for more exotic destinations.

Dimensions:  L73.5cm x W107cm x H74.5cm Folded dimensions:  L24cm x W28cm x H86cm Weight:  10kg

By Charley Ross

By Elle Turner

By Abby Gardner

Best travel cot for changing

Joie Commuter Travel Cot, £165, Mamas & Papas

Why we love it: The best travel cot for changing is this portable crib by – no surprises here – Joie. It comes with a removable bassinet and a vibrating bouncer and a toy bar to keep your little one entertained. It has mesh sides for airflow and visibility, and integrated wheels so that you can move your baby closer to you during nap times. The only downside? It is a little bulkier – and therefore less portable – than some of the other models in this edit, making it better suited for UK holidays over long-haul flights. 

Dimensions : 106 x 70.5 x 80cm Folded size : 79 x w 25 x h 21cm Weight : 12.3kg

Best travel cots for long term use

Micralite Sleep and Go, £150, Amazon

Why we love it: The best travel cot for long term use is the Micralite Sleep and Go. It can be used as a newborn crib (with thanks to the detachable bassinet), infant travel cot and playpen for toddlers. It's lightweight, easy to move around, and though not as compact as some of the others on this list, it easily fits into a car boot when folded. It can be assembled in just two minutes. 

The only downside? When you're using it in the early days of your baby's life, it doesn't fit snug against the side of the bed due to the sloped sides. That said, this gives a toddler more space to play further down the line… swings and roundabouts. 

Dimensions:  L112cm x W80cm x H67cm Folded dimensions:  L88cm x W34cm x H17cm Weight: 7kg

Best travel cot for easy storage

Maxi-Cosi Iris Travel Cot, Graphite, £159, John Lewis

Why we love it: Not only is this one of the chicest travel cots in appearance (check out those wooden legs!), but it's perfect for both newborns and infants. It comes with a bassinet option for newborn babies, which can be lowered when they get a little older. It has a machine washable lining, a comfortable mattress and it's easy enough to assemble in just one click.

Dimensions : 690 x 670 x 115cm Folded size : 570 x 540 x 150cm Weight : 6 kg

Best travel cot for twins

LITTLELIFE ARC 2 TRAVEL COT GREY, £149.99, Jojo Maman Bebe

Why we love it: Unique in design, this travel cot is suitable for use from birth through to toddlers. It's one of the lightest and most compact travel cots we've tried, acting a bit like a pop up tent and complete with a comfy foam mattress. It has mesh panels for insect protection, visibility and ventilation, and comes with a travel bag for easy transportation. Perfect for UK camping holidays and longer-haul trips alike.

Dimensions: 33 x 85 x 72 cm Folded size: 42 x 31 x 20 cm Weight: 2.5 kg

Save when you shop for the best travel cot with these Jojo Maman Bebe discount codes .

Best travel cot with thick mattress

Venture Airpod Travel Cot, £87.99, Amazon

Why we love it: One of the best travel cots under £100 is the Venture Airpod Travel Cot, which scores top points for its thick mattress of excellent quality. It's really easy to assemble, lightweight and also comes complete with a strong storage bag when in transport.

Dimensions : 85 x 55 x 66cm Folded size : 60 x 15 x 50cm Weight : 6kg

By Mayola Fernandes

Best travel cot 2023: lightweight cots for travel

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

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

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

How to buy the best travel cot

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel cots you can buy today:

1. Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

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

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

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

• Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjorn Travel Cot Light

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

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

3. Nuna SENA Aire

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

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

4. Inovi Cocoon Folding Moses

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

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

5. Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Cot

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

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

6. SpaceCot Travel Cot

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

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

7. LittleLife Arc 2

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

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

8. Pop Up Bassinet Koo-Di

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

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

9. Chicco Lullago Zip Crib

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

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

10. Joie Excursion Change & Rock Travel Cot0

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

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

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

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

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

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Best travel cots 2023 at-a-glance

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

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

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

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

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

• Read our full Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

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

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

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

• Read our full BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light review 

3. Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot

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

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

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

• Read our full Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot review

4. Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot

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

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

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

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

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

• Read our full Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot review

5. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

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

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

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

• Read our full Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot review

6. Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

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

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

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

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

• Read our full Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot review

7. Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot

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

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

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

• Read our full Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How we tested the best travel cots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• Baby & kids

Best baby cot 2024: Sleep solutions for newborns and toddlers

• Catherine Hufton

The best baby cots are long-lasting, secure, comfortable and easy to assemble – here’s our pick of the top models

Choosing a cot for your baby will be one of the most important purchases you make. Not only will it provide them with their own sleeping space, but a cot will also keep them comfortable and, above all, safe.

Most baby cots are suitable from 0-6 months old. A standard cot will see your child through until they’re around two years old, but there are plenty that convert into toddler beds and cater to their sleeping needs right up until they’re ten (with the suitable conversion kit). Some baby cots come with built-in storage, while others can be adjusted to different levels to keep babies safe when they get to the point at which they’re able to move around or pull themselves up.

So, with an array of options available, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite tried-and-tested baby cots, alongside a short guide on what to look out for when shopping for the best cot for your newborn or impending arrival.

Best baby cot: At a glance

• Best baby cot for value: John Lewis Anyday Elementary Baby Cot | £129
• Best baby cot for minimal design: SnuzKot Haze Grey Baby Cot | £379
• Best baby cot for smaller rooms: Ickle Bubba Coleby Space Saver | £149

How to choose the best baby cot for you

When buying a baby cot, the main factors to consider are size, safety standards, style and budget.

What are the advantages of buying a baby cot?

A baby cot is sturdier and safer than a moses basket, and some can convert into cot beds. The latter models allow you to save money in the long run, providing your baby with a sleep solution for years to come, rather than just months.

Another advantage of opting for a cot bed is that your baby can learn to sleep in one place for a longer stint. They’ll be familiar with their cot and won’t need to make a transition into an alternative bed, which can prove difficult for some. This creates a feeling of safety and relaxation for your baby, which will hopefully help them settle more quickly.

What size of cot should I buy?

Cots are smaller than cot beds, at around 50-60cm wide, meaning they may fit in your bedroom more easily (the NHS recommends that a baby sleeps in the same room as their parents until they’re six months old). However, the length of a baby cot can vary, ranging from between 90cm to around 140cm, so if your nursery has limited space, you might want to opt for a shorter cot.

READ NEXT: The best mattresses to buy

If space isn’t an issue, then a longer bed will likely see your child through for a longer time, making it the more cost-effective solution. You could also opt for a bedside cot with a removable side, so it can be positioned to the side of your own bed in the early days.

What safety standards should a baby cot meet?

Cots and cot beds should adhere to some safety requirements. For example, European Standard EN 716-1:2017 states that the gap between the bars of a cot shouldn’t be any wider than 6.5cm to avoid your baby’s limbs becoming stuck in between them. It’s also recommended that the distance between the top of the mattress and the top of the cot sides is at least 50cm, to prevent your baby from climbing out, while other experts recommend that a cot has bars on all four sides to help with air flow.

How much should I spend?

Baby cots can cost anywhere between £100 and £700 or more. For a bed of a decent size and spec, you can expect to pay an average of around £150-£350. Some beds come with the mattress included, and although these may initially appear expensive, they’re often a more cost-effective solution than buying the frame and the mattress separately. How much you spend will ultimately come down to a cot’s suitability to fulfil your particular needs.

Do I need extra features?

There are a few extras to look out for when shopping around for a good baby cot. These include features such as teething rails to protect the baby’s gums (and the cot itself), a cot base with height adjustability, and extra space for storage in the form of drawers or built-in shelves. Also consider toddler bed conversion kits and the option to add a mattress with a protective cover to your order.

READ NEXT: The best travel cots to buy

The best baby cot you can buy in 2024

1. snuzkot haze grey skandi: the best minimalist baby cot.

It’s the simple design that gives this cot by Snuz its sleek and modern feel. It’s beautifully made and easy to assemble, which will make life easier for new parents-to-be who are likely to have a million and one things to remember before their baby’s arrival (or perhaps the baby is already here, and you need a quick solution).

The cot offers three mattress height options, sitting high to make it easier for you to lift out your newborn, and moving down as they become more mobile. In addition, the SnuzKot doesn’t take up too much space, meaning it’s ideal for use in smaller bedrooms and nurseries.

The cot comes packaged in several boxes, which is handy for carrying it upstairs before putting it together – although bear in mind that this means more packaging to dispose of afterwards. Buy the SnuzKot Junior Bed Extension kit for £80, and this versatile cot will see your child through to the age of ten years old.

Key specs – Age: 0 months to 4 years as standard (10 years, with extension kit); Mattress height positions: 3; Size: 72 x 133 x 89cm (WLH); Material: Wood and plywood frame, stainless steel fixings;  Warranty: Not specified; Other details: Self-assembly required, mattress sold separately

Buy now from Snuz

2. Ickle Bubba Coleby Space Saver: The best compact baby cot

For a complete cot package, we love this option from Ickle Bubba: it comes in at only £149, with the mattress included. Suitable from birth to 18 months old, it offers three mattress height positions to help keep baby as safe as possible. This adjustability is great for parents, too, saving your back from aching as a result of bending over to lift baby in and out of the cot.

The fibre mattress is of a decent thickness at 10cm, it’s breathable and hypoallergenic, arriving with a water-resistant removable cover. The cot itself is a compact size, is easy to assemble and feels sturdy, giving parents peace of mind that their baby is safe while they sleep. It also has a teething rail to protect baby and the cot itself from damage when your little one begins cutting their teeth.

Key specs – Age: 0-18 months; Mattress height positions: 3; Size: 56 x 104 x 89cm (WLH); Material: Solid and MDF wood, fibre mattress; Warranty: 4yrs Other details: Self-assembly required, mattress included

Buy now from Boots

3. IKEA Sniglar Cot: The best budget baby cot

The transition from a moses basket to a cot doesn’t have to be costly or take up too much space. The Sniglar cot from IKEA is a simple, cute solution to help keep your baby comfortable in a new sleep setting. Made of solid beech wood, this cot is durable and wipes clean effortlessly.

As with most IKEA cots and cot beds, the mattress and cot bedding is sold separately – although, being IKEA, the mattress and cover will still likely beat other options on price (you’ll have to factor in IKEA’s delivery costs if you’re not picking up in store, though).

The cot base is adjustable to two heights, is easy to assemble and will match any decor, making it suitable for your bedroom as well as a nursery, when your baby moves into their own space.

Key specs – Age: Not listed; Mattress height positions: 2; Size: 66 x 124 x 80cm (WLH); Material: Solid beech; Warranty:  Not specified;  Other details: Self-assembly required (assembly service offered for £27), mattress sold separately

Buy now from IKEA

4. SNOO Smart Sleeper: The best premium baby cot

One of the most popular and innovative cots to hit the market, the Smart Sleeper by SNOO is a clever – albeit expensive – cot that uses app connectivity to soothe your baby into the most comfortable sleep possible. Using womb-like motions and sounds, this cot will help buy you an extra hour to put your feet up, catch up on some sleep yourself (or to tidy up, cook or do the laundry).

Having a newborn is hard, but having a SNOO can help babies learn to keep to a routine, while also limiting the number of times that they (and you) wake up through the night; if baby wakes in the middle of the night, the cot springs into action and soothes them back to sleep. It also has superior safety features and ensures that the baby is on its back and that the blankets haven’t unravelled.

Key specs – Age: 0-6 months; Mattress height positions: 3; Size: 48.3 x 90.8 x 81.9cm (WLH); Material: Wood and plywood frame, stainless steel fixings; Warranty: 1yr;  Other details: Self-assembly required, mattress, water-resistant cover, three ivory organic cotton SNOO sleep sacks (S, M and L) included

Buy now from Happiest Baby

5. John Lewis Anyday Elementary Cot: The best-value baby cot

A sturdy cot at a decent price actually isn’t too difficult to come by these days, as evidenced by this John Lewis elementary cot. The beloved and trusted brand has once again delivered a good-value baby product that’s suitable until your child reaches two years old. The cot offers two height levels, and is ideal for newborns as well as older babies.

This cot is easy to assemble, wipes clean and, if you fancy making it a bit more plush, you can purchase John Lewis’ premium fibre mattress for the perfect pairing. The cot’s simple, crisp white colour also makes it an ideal match for any nursery decor.

Key specs – Age: 0-24 months; Mattress height positions: 2; Size: 65 x 124 x 93.5cm (WLH); Material: Solid pine;  Warranty:  Not specified;  Other details: Self-assembly required, mattress sold separately

Buy now from John Lewis

6. Mamas & Papas Petite Cot: The best baby cot for smaller rooms

Made to be kept in your bedroom or small nurseries, the Petite Cot from Mamas & Papas features a base that’s adjustable to two heights. It’s compact, easy to assemble and has an extremely sturdy build overall. The price is so reasonable that many parents opt to use this affordable, well-made and compact cot as an extra sleep solution at the grandparents’ house when they visit.

Finished in white, it will fit well with many nursery colour schemes, and it holds the small Mamas & Papas cot mattress perfectly. You can buy the cot and mattress separately, or you can opt for the cot and mattress bundle . We love how super-cute this small cot looks, and that it will last until your baby is 18 months old.

Key specs – Age: 0-18 months; Mattress height positions: 2; Size: 63.5 x 95.5 x 89.5cm (WLH); Material: Not specified;  Warranty: Not specified;  Other details: Self-assembly required, mattress sold separately

Buy now from Mamas & Papas

7. Mack + Milo Amburgey Cot: The best baby cot with mattress

Parents’ minds will be at ease when baby is put down to sleep in this super sturdy cot from Mack + Milo. It arrives with the added bonus of a built-in drawer, which can be used for storing sheets, blankets, clothes or any other baby bits and bobs. It features a teething rail, and offers a two-position adjustable mattress height. It can even be converted into a toddler bed once your baby is through the early years.

As well as being a quality cot at a reasonable price, the Amburgey also arrives with a 6cm-deep mattress. And it’s available in four colourways (pine, grey, matte mint and white), meaning there’s an option to match any style of nursery.

Key specs – Age: 0-36 months; Mattress height positions: 2; Size: 65 x 124 x 90cm (WLH); Material: Solid pine wood; Warranty: 1yr; Other details: Self-assembly required, mattress included, converts to toddler bed (toddler guard rails included)

Buy now from Wayfair

8. Stokke Sleepi Bed V3: The best baby cot for small spaces

This stylish cot bed from Scandinavian-designed brand Stokke is as practical as it is aesthetically pleasing. The first thing to note is its oval shape, which makes it look more modern than typical rectangular-shaped cots, while its second huge selling point is its longevity.

Suitable from birth, it can later be converted into a cot bed by releasing the side and adjusting the height of the mattress. The brand estimates that the Sleepi Bed V3 will see most children through to the age of five. Its shape saves space in a small nursery while allowing for maximum air circulation, and the cot’s lockable swivel wheels allow it to be easily moved if necessary.

The cot arrives unassembled in several boxes, which might result in a feeling of dread in even the most confident of flat-pack assemblers. However, we’re happy to report that it took just five minutes to assemble once it was unpacked. A matching oval mattress and sheets are available for £199 and £27 respectively.

Like all of Stokke’s baby products, this is an investment buy, but it’s high quality and built to last.

Key specs – Age: 0-5 years; Mattress height positions: 4; Size: 141 x 74 x 87cm (WLH); Material: FSC®-certified pine wood; Warranty: 7yrs Other details: Self-assembly required, mattress not included, converts to toddler bed

Buy now from Stokke

The 10 Best Travel Cots To Keep Your Baby Happy On Holiday

Whether you’ve just about cracked your baby’s bedtime routine, or have a nocturnal nipper, the prospect of travelling away from home can strike dread into any parent’s heart.

If you – or they – are going to get any sleep, you’ll need a travel cot. But which one should you get? We’ve done the heavy lifting, so you can rest easy.

Sleeptight Travel Cot, Amazon, £30

A brilliant budget option, the Sleeptight is an award-winning travel cot and you can see why. It’s easy to assemble, has padded rails for safety and comfort and mesh sides, so it can double up as a playpen. It even comes with a travel bag. All this for £30. Bargain.

Buy it now .

Kubbie Sleep, Joie, Argos, £97.99

This one is great for newborns and co-sleepers, as it has a drop down, height-adjustable side, as well as a detachable bassinet. This means it functions as a next-to-me cot, by clipping on to your bed. It also works as a playpen and is suitable until your little one is three years old.

Spacecot Travel Cot, Olivers Baby, £139.97

This is amazingly easy to use, which comes as no surprise, seeing as it’s designed by space scientist dads. Made from space grade aluminium and patented satellite technology, it folds out, from standing position, in seconds. It also has a lovely squishy mattress and is one of the lightest on the market at only 6kg. No wonder it’s sold out and awaiting new stock in many outlets.

Arc 2 Leightweight Travel Cot, Little Life, £89.99

Weighing in at 2.5kg this is the lightest travel cot on the market. It’s basically a little tent, complete with colour-coded poles. It can be used for outdoor camping thanks to its mesh mozzie net and tent pegs. This is the one for active, outdoorsy parents, though as it’s an on-the-floor option, we feel that it could earn bonus points from toddlers for novelty.

Traveller Cot, Phil and Ted’s, Amazon, £129

An excellent, extremely lightweight option (2.8kg) the Phil and Ted’s is small and compact – arguably a tiny bit too small inside for growing limbs. Its mesh sides mean it’s breathable and can double up as a play-pen. There are additional options like a bassinet or a shade cover for use outside. Easy to assemble, with no fuss, it packs down into a small bag so it can be easily carried on holiday.

Angel Baby Box, Angel Baby Box, £206

This might only last for six months, but it wins points on cute factor and for its lovely, non- toxic, natural materials. Your tot will feel snug and safe and you can feel reassured by its enhanced safety features. It claims to be a sleeping pod, a play mat and a dressing mat – you can fold the sides down flat. An ergonomic take on the Finnish baby box tradition?

Chicco Zip n Go Travel Cot, Argos, £89.99

A lovely, Italian convertible travel cot, this can be used as a crib for the first six months –and includes a fixed and rocking mode - before turning into a full sized travel cot. You literally zip and unzip it like a suitcase. It has one of the thickest mattresses on the market, assembles easily in ten seconds and is a portable 7.3kg. Suitable up to 24 months.

Sleep and Go Travel Cot, Micralite, £175

This is everything to all people (up to age 36 months, that is): a bassinet, a cot and a playpen 3-in-1. It’s light at only 7kg and the crib attachment saves your back from bending too low in the early months. A good and stylish all-rounder.

Joie Excursion Travel Cot, Uber Kids, £144

You certainly get your money’s worth here. It’s not light (16.49kg) but considering it’s basically a travel nursery, we can forgive them that one. It comes with a full-sized bassinet, plus a changing table and a bouncer that clip on and off. It even has a sound and light attachment, which plays classical lullabies and nature sounds. Loads of little extras and details make this a joy, as the name suggests.

We all work hard to earn our money – so it shouldn’t feel like hard work to spend it well. At HuffPost Finds we’ll help you find the best stuff that deserves your cash, from the ultimate lipstick to a durable iron to replace the one that broke (RIP). All our choices are completely independent but we may earn a small commission if you click a link and make a purchase.

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Best travel cots for babies and toddlers

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A travel cot is a great addition to your carefully chosen selection of baby gear. Not only can it be used for safe baby sleep while you’re away from home, it can also be a safe place for your child to play while you’re getting on with something else in your home.

What you need to know

Be aware of your child’s safety at all times. When your baby is able to sit, kneel or roll, you should stop using a bassinet attachment. Similarly, if your child is two or three years old and is showing signs of wanting to try to climb out of the travel cot, it’s time to switch to a junior bed!

All travel cots must meet the British safety standard BS EN 716, so look for this on the label.

Follow all usual safe baby sleep guidelines as described by The Lullaby Trust , including:

• Place your baby to sleep on their back, at the foot of the cot; the ‘feet to foot’ position
• Never use a pillow, duvet or cushions for babies under one year
• Keep the cot clear of all items while baby is sleeping. This prevents their trying to climb out using them as a step and prevents overheating and strangulation risks
• Make sure your baby’s bedding is suitable for the room’s temperature

What to consider when buying a baby travel cot

• Can I use it easily? Make sure you can open and fold it and ask for a demonstration in the store if possible
• How heavy is it?
• Does it have a carry bag and wheels? Both help with transportation
• Can it be used from birth? Look for a bassinet attachment
• Is the mattress is firm and flat, with a waterproof surface?
• Does it come with extras you would actually use, or are you paying more for gadgets that won’t help your family?
• Can you see your baby easily?
• Can it be cleaned?
• Will you be able to use it as a playpen as well as a travel cot?

What will you use the travel cot for?

If you are still pregnant and looking for a travel cot to use with a very small baby, it’s a great idea to choose one with a bassinet that you can use for the first three to four months. You might also choose helpful extras such as a changing area, storage capacity and an electronic control system for lights and music. If your child is already a few months old, look for a simple travel cot with a large sleeping and playing space – you won’t need the extras.

Many travel cots will tell you they can be used up to a maximum number of months, or years, or kilos. Generally, most can be used for overnight sleeping up to two to three years but if your child is starting to show signs of wanting to climb out, it might be an idea to get one with an opening side, or move on to a toddler bed, to prevent accidents.

Think about how often you will use it; if you travel a lot or visit relatives frequently, a travel cot with additions for changing and storage will be very useful. If you travel infrequently, a simple cot may meet your needs – and be kinder to your wallet!

Here are some of the best travel cots, at a range of prices and with different functions to make your life simpler.

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BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

Weight: 6.8kg

Age range: birth to 3 years

Best for: instant opening, quick closing

From the Swedish company that brought us one of the first baby carriers, each of their items has been carefully thought through and beautifully designed.

The BabyBjörnTravel Cot Light, in silver or black , has an interesting shape with a very good reason behind it – stability. Its wider base and external frame means that your little one won’t be able to tip it over, no matter how hard they rock, and they won’t bump into the frame; the top edge is padded too. All sides are mesh, which means both good visibility for you and your baby and it allows good air flow.

Folding is simple, as each leg pulls out and then folds down on itself, then the whole cot flips in half. It packs away with the mattress, also folded in two, into a neat carry case that’s a lot less unwieldy than some. It opens out again with one quick and easy movement – just flick it open and then click each leg into place, then add the mattress. The mattress is firm and comfortable and you can add a fitted organic sheet for sleeping (one comes included and you can add extras for £27).

All the fabrics used against your baby are organic and OEKO-TEX Standard Class 1-certified for peace of mind and they can be machine washed too, keeping the cot looking good for longer. If you’re going to be using the cot a lot, add an additional mattress for more comfort.

Graco Contour Electra

Weight: 12.95kg

Best for: lots of added extras

If you want a safe place for your baby to play during the day, somewhere to change your baby and a solution for traveling from birth right through to three years, this travel cot has lots of great features, even though it may be a little heavier than some models. For small babies, start with the bassinet section attached at the top. This is ideal for younger babies who can’t sit up or pull themselves up yet. Over this, you can clip on the wipe-clean changing table – hey presto, a travel changing space! When your baby is older, remove the bassinet for a large sleep space that can be used to three years. Both sleeping options use the same comfortable mattress for a good night’s sleep. There’s a neat control panel that plays musical sounds and has a nightlight too, ideal for night time nappy changes. It has a timer, so it automatically turns off the music and lights after a set time. In addition, the unit vibrates, a great way to help your baby get off to sleep. The Contour Electra is simple to assemble and it folds easily, at the click of a button, into a travel bag, plus it has wheels on one end to make it easy to transport Lastly, there’s a toy bar decorated with three little toys that will hold your little one’s attention while they are being dressed or having a nappy changed. It comes in one colour choice, which is a mix of different greys.

Joie Commuter Travel Cot Starry Night

Weight: 14.8kg

Age range: newborn to three years

Best for: All you need from birth to three

This all-singing, all-dancing travel cot is from baby product specialists Joie and is exclusive to Mamas and Papas. This clever little travel cot has several uses.

As a travel cot, it has a large sleeping space with a decent mattress and four mesh sides that allow you to be able to see your baby, with good ventilation. When your baby is tiny, there are extras that can be added to the top of the cot that make it easy to change your baby and put them down for a nap without straining your back – great if you’ve had a caesarean.

The changing unit clips to the top for swift nappy and clothing changes and there’s a cradle seat with its own padded five point harness that you can pop your little one into for play time and daytime naps (it can be removed from the cot and used as a stand-alone rocking chair too).

The full-sized bassinet can be used from birth to around four to five months. The toy bar keeps your child entertained and all fabrics can be wiped clean. When you’re not using it or when traveling, it has two wheels and packs down quickly and easily into its own carry case.

Nuna SENA Aire

Weight: 10kg

Age range: birth to 15kg

Best for: bassinet is easy to attach and detach

This travel cot is not only spacious and airy, as the name would suggest, it’s stylish too and will look at home in the smartest of décors. It can be set up and folded simply and easily using just one hand – to fold, pull up on the loop located on the inside base, squeeze the zig zag frame together and the cot can be strapped inside the mattress and put into its neat travel case. All sides are mesh, for good air flow and so that your baby can see you easily and the mattress is made from triple-layered mesh, which prevents overheating and wicks away moisture, making your baby’s sleep safer and more comfortable. It is sturdy enough to be durable yet light enough to move easily.

For newborns and small babies, there is a bassinet that will be perfect as a place for your baby to sleep during their early weeks and what I particularly like about it is that the bassinet just zips off, meaning there are no fiddly extra pieces to assemble. I also like that the bassinet and the cot use the same mattress – again, a streamlined approach to baby gear. Once you have removed the bassinet, the sleep space is large enough for toddlers and is also a great place for your child to play, keeping them safe at home or on holiday.

It comes with an organic cotton sheet and the bag is also included in the price and there are two colour choices: a black frame and mesh with charcoal fabric, or a silver frame with silver fabric.

Phil&Teds Traveller

Weight: 2.8kg

Age range: birth to 2 years

Best for: camping and festivals

If you are the type of family that is always throwing the kids and the dogs into the car and heading off into the great outdoors, this will fit right in.

The Phil&Teds Traveller is one of the lightest travel cots around and it’s a neat size, both when it’s folded up and when erected, so while it may not be the best one for long-term use as a sleep and play option, it is great for occasional overnight stays, festivals and camping. When folded away into the travel bag, it is almost as small a yoga mat, so it will fit even into smaller car boots. Easy to assemble, the four black mesh sides make it super breathable and it’s high on visibility for you and baby.

Another great feature is that one side unzips, which means that a toddler can have adventures crawling in and out at bedtime. The mattress is insulated, to protect your baby from the cold ground. The external silver frame prevents accidents and the top rails are padded as well. Fitted sheets made from organic OEKO-TEX fabric will help your little drift off.

Traveller to Bassinet version also available

Bugaboo Stardust

Weight: 8.2kg

Best for: easy to open and close

If you have the kind of child who, when they’re tired, have to get to bed NOW, then this will be ideal for you, as this lightweight travel cot unfolds in just a second. You take it out of the travel bag, unclip the poppers on the strap that hold it together and it opens out, just like that. You can even fold it back down in just three seconds, thanks to its unique zig-zag side frames. It has a multi-layered mattress that’s comfortable for your baby and all the sides are mesh, giving you the visibility and ventilation you need. The mattress can be used at a higher level, with the addition of a zip-in bassinet, making it suitable for very small babies and this makes it easy to put your baby down for a nap without bending, or waking your baby. It’s a smaller size than many travel cots, which is great for smaller rooms and for portability but it won’t be able to be used as long as some models. When it is folded (you can fold it with the mattress in place, which is very handy) and packed into its travel bag, it is just 14 centimetres wide, so it can be slipped behind a sofa or popped into the car boot. Both frame and fabrics are a sleek black.

Joie Kubbie Sleep

Weight: 8.8kg

Age range: birth to 4 years

Best for: a longer term solution from birth to 4

Ideal to use at home as a bedside crib in the early weeks, or as a bedside travel cot as soon as your little one comes along, it has a safety strap and clip that attaches to your bed, keeping it snuggled right up against the bed to keep your little one safe with no prospect of a gap between the two sleep spaces. In the early weeks, use the bassinet in the top of the travel cot, a cosy, high crib that makes putting your baby down much easier and kinder to your back. The side of the all-grey travel cot nearest you can be lowered using two clips, so that you can access your little one for a feed or a cuddle at night. Once your baby is a bit older, the bassinet simple unzips from the frame and you have a fully-size travel cot. It has two wheels to make it easy to move around in your home, is easy to fold and it packs down neatly into a travel case. The mattress is suitable for overnight sleeping. One of the mesh sides can be opened with a handy zip, so you can slip some clothes, baby bedding, toys and all you need beneath the bassinet while you’re using it – and later on, your toddler can use the opening to crawl in to play!

Maxi-Cosi Iris

Weight: 5.96kg

Best for: great space saving option

A compact little travel cot, yet one that can still be used to toddler years, or until your child is able to try climbing out. It has two mattress base positions, meaning you can use it for newborns when traveling or you can even use it at home as a bedside crib for those first few months of your baby’s life.

This travel cot is a little different to others, as the base actually rises up and is fixed in place in bassinet mode, so it looks very much like a sweet newborn crib. When your baby is a little older, the base of the mattress drops down to its lower position to create a cot that can be used for sleeping and for playtime, right up to three years. It is simple to fold and packs away to a nice, compact size that means that traveling with it is easy. It is one of the lightest around too, so it’s great for those with any mobility problems.

All the fabric can be machine washed, which is great for keeping it clean and hygienic and then the fabric simply zips back onto the frame again – an excellent touch. The mattress is made from thick foam, which is very comfortable and all the fabrics used are nice and soft against your baby’s delicate skin.

With its wood-effect legs and grey fabrics, it also looks a little different to other travel cots so it may suit your style.

Hauck Dream ‘n’ Play

Weight: 7.6kg

Age range: birth to 36 months

Best for: budget, no-frills option

Do you think that you will only occasionally use a travel cot and therefore it’s not worth investing in a fancy model? Or is your child already over four to six months when you start traveling, and so you won’t need one with a bassinet or cot-top changer? This simple, no-frills model could be just what you’re looking for. It comes at a budget price yet has a full-sized sleeping space and a comfortable mattress for your little one and it’s also ideal as a playpen when you want to get on with some chores – just pop your little one in with a selection of toys to keep them amused. You might choose to buy this travel cot to leave at a relative’s home that you visit fairly regularly, as then it’s always there when you need it and familiar for your baby. The mesh sides mean you can see what your child is up to and it has a padded top rail to avoid bumps. It is simple to fold and comes with its own travel bag, though it does not have wheels. You can add a fitted sheet (sold separately) to make it sleepy-time ready and it comes in two colours: either a black fabric with white mesh and blue and green accents, or navy fabric with white mesh and yellow accents. There are two new colours on the way, smart dark grey or navy.

Micralite Sleep and Go

Weight: 7.65kg

Best for: side opens for toddlers to crawl in

When buying a travel cot or crib, it’s a good idea to think about whether you’ll use it most as a travel sleep solution, or a safe place to play – and this is ideal as both. The travel bag is wide yet flat and has both a shoulder and hand straps, so it’s easy to carry even without wheels. For a newborn, fix the bassinet in place and it is an ideal place for a very small baby to sleep in safety and comfort before they can sit or roll. It can also be used as a travel bedside crib. Once your child is a little older - perhaps three or four months - you can remove the bassinet by simple unzipping it and then you place the mattress into the bottom of the cot for a full-sized travel cot. All sides are mesh, so that there’s good visibility for you and your little one. It’s very lightweight and easy to use, with a clever design allowing the cot to just pop up, with each leg clicking into place; the folding mechanism works with the same simplicity when you want to fold it. It can be used for sleeping overnight and the wide base shape makes it stable. The padded top rail prevents bangs and injuries and when your little one wants to play, you can unzip the end panel to allow your toddler to crawl in or out. You can buy fitted sheets and it comes in just the one colour, black.

Three must-have travel cot accessories

Snoozeshade for travel cots.

Picture the scene: you’re away in a lovely holiday house or hotel – but there are no blackout curtains and you’re sharing the room with your baby. The solution? SnoozeShade has created this blackout cover that will keep your baby’s sleep space dark, distraction-free and will protect from biting insects. It stops your little one – and you - being woken at 5am by the sunrise, too.

Natural Mat Additional mattress

If you are going to use your travel cot a lot, you might want to add an extra mattress to keep your little one comfortable. This organic, breathable and hypoallergenic quilted mattress from Naturalmat is made from cotton and organic Devon lambswool and has a pure cotton cover. Available for several popular travel cots including the Babybjörn and Nuna, plus a standard size.

The Original Grobag Sunshine Rays Sleepbag

Forget sheets and blankets – they are so 2010! The best bedding for your baby is a sleeping bag. Easy to pop on over a nappy and vest, they keep your baby at just the right temperature and even work as a sleep cue for your baby. I love the Gro range, the original bags, especially this jolly ray of sunshine one.

More patterns available at Amazon

The best overall for ease of use and looks has to be the BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light . Its innovative frame keeps your little one from knocks and bangs and it’s ideal for those who want plenty of memory-making trips with their little one.

If you want a travel cot that will double as a bedside crib, bassinet, bouncy chair and a place to change your baby, the Graco Contour Electra is also a great pick.

12 Best Baby Travel Cots

For this page, I have put together a collection of the best baby travel cots currently available. For more top picks and buying guides, see my  baby essentials  checklist.

Travelling with a baby? Make certain you pick the right one with our comprehensive round-up of the best travel cots.

Hello, I’m Nikki, a deal hunter at FamilyBreakFinder.

I’m also a mum of two and as a family we’ve travelled lots both in the UK and abroad.

An essential piece of kit, when travelling with little ones, is of course a Travel Cot.

Unfortunately, they can be the bane of parents’ lives in terms of setting them up (speaking from personal experience!).

But if you choose the right one for your family’s needs, it should be a walk in the park…

A travel cot might not be top of your list of things to buy when you have a newborn.

However, you’ll soon realise how handy this piece of baby gear can be!

From sleepovers at the grandparent’s, weekends away, or simply a late dinner over a friends house.

Having a travel cot means your smallest family member can snooze in comfort while you relax (or try to…)

What’s more… they also double up as a handy play pen whether home or away!

We all know getting a good nights’ sleep is top of every parents wish list!

Even more so when you’re enjoying a break away from the stresses of work and everyday life, so providing the right sleep space for your little one should be a priority – I know it is for me!

Before purchasing your travel cot, make sure you’ve checked the following >

Table of Contents

What To Consider Before Buying

Age suitability.

This varies from make and model and it’s important to follow the manufacturers guidelines.

If you’re camping or going to be carrying your travel cot far (or on a plane?) you’ll want to choose one of the lighter options.

However, if you’re embarking on a road trip, or using it for sleepovers at the grandparents, then the added features and benefits or the heavier options will be worth considering.

Once folded down, how travel-friendly is it? Will it fit in the car boot and leave you enough space for your other luggage?

Again, your choice here will be based on how you plan on using your travel cot the most.

Do you need to buy one or is it included? if so, how thick is it?

If it’s just going to be used for one-off sleepovers or the odd night away then you may not be too concerned.

However, if your little one if going to be using it often, or sleeping on it for longer periods at a time (think, a nice 2 week holiday away in the sun) then you’ll want to certainly opt for the thicker options.

Once up, does it feel sturdy enough to withstand your little one’s tossing and turning during the night, or even Houdini escape attempts!

Ease of assembly

Do you tend to arrive at your destination past bedtime?

If so, you’re not going to want a travel cot that requires a degree in engineering to put together when you’re in a rush and tired.

However if you’re pitching up for a long holiday somewhere, you may not mind taking a little more time in setting up as your little one will have a couple of weeks to enjoy their new sleep space!

If you’re lucky enough to travel often with your kids, then you may not mind spending a bit more to get the quality and features you’re looking for.

Plus, if you plan on using it through the years on more than one child, it’ll certainly be worth the investment as you’ll get your money’s worth.

However, if you don’t venture out much, don’t go spending the earth on a cot that will only see the light of day once a year!

I’m going to give you the low down on the TOP 12 travel cots on the market, scoring them on price and covering their suitability, weight, ease of assembly, features and any snags!

Chicco Zip & Go Travel Crib

• Suitable for age: from birth (as a crib), 6-24 months as a cot
• Weight of product: 7.3kg

The Chicco Zip & Go Travel Crib is a great all-rounder both in terms of adaptability and value for money.

Its innovative design allows for both a crib for a newborn and a cot for an older child.

Its nifty feature is its expandable bottom section… simply keep fastened for a newborn, keeping them in a higher position (and away from a potentially cold floor), then simply unzip and the base becomes deeper, ideal once they’re older!

This travel cot really does grow with your child, making it ideal for travelling with a newborn (brave!) but also has longevity for when they’re older.

It features breathable mesh sides and includes a travel bag and foldable padded mattress – so everything’s included for the price.

It also has a handy rocking mode, perfect for newborns who rely on motion to send them off to sleep.

Easy to store and just 10 seconds to set up with a one click folding system – it opens and closes with a single click, no need to remove the mattress!

It gets top marks in our opinion!

Spacecot Travel Cot

• Suitable for age: 0-3 years
• Weight of product: 6kg

When you discover this travel cot is designed by rocket-scientist dads, then you know you’re on to a winner!

Luckily, you won’t need to be a rocket-scientist to assemble it as it folds and unfolds in 3 seconds! Where has this been all my life!?

It comes with a travel case and integrated mattress – It also includes a detachable upper level crib for younger babies, which allows you to lift and put down baby without breaking your back, and keeps them at a suitable height off the floor.

Another bonus of the Spacecot Travel Cot is its removable, washable, eco friendly fabric covers.

It’s a hassle-free option which is ideal for in the home, on holiday or whilst visiting relatives.

A big thumbs up from us!

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BabyBjorn Travel Cot Light

• Weight of product: 5kg

BabyBjorn products are rarely a let-down and this is no exception!

It’s had rave reviews on numerous sites and we can see why.

It’s a piece of cake to put together, simply opening it out until it clicks, pulling the legs out and popping in the mattress – done!

Unlike most of the cheaper options, it doesn’t use those fiddly button catches which, if you’ve ever attemped, will get you in a hot fluster in a matter of seconds!

It fits neatly into a compact bag so convenient for both travel in the car or on a plane, and has a thicker than average mattress so should be nice and snug for your little’un.

The only downside I can see is the higher price point, obviously the comprise you have to make for a big name who’s tried and tested in its field.

Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

• Weight of product: 16.5kg

The Joie Excursion Change and Bounce is so much more than just a travel cot…!

It’s bursting at the seams with features and extras – including the following >

• Portable changing unit that can be placed on top of the cot
• Bouncy seat with music
• Light attachments
• Vibrate mode
• Night light
• Toy bar with plush toys (if being used as a play pen)

With all this included, you’re certainly getting your money’s worth!

However it’s the heaviest of the bunch at nearly 3 times the weight of the others… not surprising though with all that’s included.

In my opinion, it’s basically a flat-packed nursery – ideal for keeping over the grandparents, but not necessary for taking abroad with you, unless weight isn’t an issue?

Your little one will certainly be snoozing and playing in comfort with this impressive nursery-on-the-go!

Cuggl Deluxe Travel Cot and Changer Unit

• Suitable for age: 0-24 months
• Weight of product: 11.8kg

The Cuggle Deluxe is a great all-rounder with the added bonus of a detachable bassinet for younger babies and a removable cot top changer – a godsend for parents (and their backs!)

It’s great value for money being at the lower end of the travel cot’s we’ve reviewed.

It’s set on wheels so you can easily move it around and when you’re finished, it’s easy to pop away back in its bag with handy carry handles.

One downside to note is the thin mattress which is included (pretty standard with a lot of the cheaper options).

We’d recommend buying a thicker one and swapping over.

Nuna Sena Aire

• Weight of product: 10kg

As a parent, you always have your hands full… never more so than when travelling with kids!

That’s why the remarkably easy Nuna Sena Aire is a game-changer for me…can be set up not only in seconds… but with one hand!

However, the clue’s in the name… The Nuna’s main selling feature is it’s maximum breathability and air-low, allowing for deeper sleeps for your little one.

It includes everything you’ll need on the go plus a mattress, insect net and even cotton sheets.

Best of all, it’s all machine washable, and goes neatly into a travel bag!

Koo Di Sun & Sleep Pop-Up Travel Cot

• Suitable for age: 6-18 months
• Weight of product: 2.2kg

The lightest of the bunch by far, the tent-like Koo Di Sun & Sleep Pop-Up travel cot is intended for younger babes aged 6-18 months.

It is ideal for travel abroad as it neatly packs away into its own carry bag – your little one could even use it on the beach for a shady seaside siesta!

It ‘pops-up’ without any effort and even as an integrated mosquito net and sunshade so perfect for inside snoozes and outside in the sunshine.

Not only that, but it also features black out/sun blinds which block out 93% of all harmful UVA and UVB rays and a decent padded mattress.

Plus, even though it’s only suitable to 18 months, you could always use it as a fun play tent for years to come!

Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot

• Weight of product: 8.7kg

The award-winning Sleeptight is the cheapest travel cot we’ve listed and it offers superb value, ease of use and is super spacious.

The set up is a little more fiddly than pricier options, you have to pull up the shorter side-bars and ensure they click into place, before pushing down the bottom section – do it in the wrong order… and it won’t work.

This is the traditional set up method most commonly used on cheaper models and the mechanism that parents dread (me included).

However, there is a knack to it… and get the knack right and it really is quite simple and straightforward.

It must be, as there isn’t any instructions included (although there are a few instructions written on the inside of the cot).

Once set up, the Sleeptight is very sturdy and not too heavy either.

The only downside is the thin, flimsy mattress included, we definitely recommend you purchase a an alternative.

That aside, the Sleeptight is the cheapest travel cot on the market, and is excellent value for money.

Phil & Teds Traveller

• Weight of product: 2.8kg

Traveller is the only travel cot that’s lighter than the baby! You can even pack it in your suitcase and check it on to a plane!

A great idea if you’re staying at a not very child-friendly hotel. It is also versatile enough to be used on the beach, simply purchase the extra zip-top accessory (£19) for shade from the sun.

The included mattress is self-inflating and looks comfy and firm, you can even unzip one whole side for ease of use.

One possibly downside is its size… it’s possibly a child of approximately 2 years old could look and feel cramped in it and it’s not the fastest or easiest to erect of those we’ve reviewed.

It comes with various poles and parts to insert into the fabric and takes about 5 minutes the first time, although with frequent use this would obviously speed up.

I think a lot of mums would agree they’d rather spend a few extra minutes putting it up than carrying a bigger/heavier one around!

Hauck Sleep n Play

• Weight of product: 7.6kg

The Hauck Sleep n Play comes with its own carry case and is super easy to fold and store.

It’s compact enough to take along on trips or use for overnight stays and comes with a mattress, bassinet and changing top included.

Features also include wheels and a fully opening side for ease of access for parents and an exploring toddler at play time!

This cot is ideal from birth thanks to the new-born bassinet (suitable to 9 kg) so your baby can sleep on a higher level with easy access; later, the bassinet section can be removed and the cot can be used up to 15 kg. 

It’s very easy to assemble with instructions and online videos, and really is a great all-rounder in terms of value for money and longevity.

Inovi Cocoon Travel Crib

• Suitable for age: 0-6 months
• Weight of product: 4.12kg

This is really a great portable alternative to a moses basket if you’re going to be travelling a lot with a newborn.

It has a compact design so won’t take up much room either at home or away and is raised on legs so you won’t hurt your back picking little one up and from naps.

The Inovi Coccoon folds so compact that it complies with international aviation standards sizes to take on a plane as hand luggage and stow in overhead lockers!

It also features mesh panels to encourage air circulation and a dome design to protect from sun and insects.

Included also is a luxuriously soft and cosy mattress (with removable covers) providing your baby with maximum support and comfort.

For those with pets, the dome cover keeps out any unwanted curious cats so is a good choice if you’re a family with animals to keep your little one snoozing in safety.

Not only does it look stylish but it’s pretty reasonably priced too – the only downside would be its longevity with it’s cap of use at 6 months.

However, moses baskets can get pretty pricey and this is a fab alternative which not only gives you flexibility to take your babies familiar bed away with you (or over to the grandparents) but also move it around your home and garden with ease.

LittleLife Lightweight Arc 2 Travel Cot

• Weight of product: 2.5kg

Living up to its name, the LittleLife Lightweight travel cot packs away into a rucksack and is the ideal option for camping trips or popping on your back and taking on public transport perhaps!

Putting it together may take a little longer than some of the other designs listed above, but if you’re pitching up somewhere for a week or so, this shouldn’t be a problem.

Fitting together just like a tent, this travel cot has poles to click and connect together, thread through loops and pop the mattress in, and its ready to use!

It has two sides which unzip and a roof so it’s ideal for outside use, it even has ground pegs to keep it steady.

The mattress is surprisingly thick and comfy so you can rest assured your little one can snooze in peace and comfort.

If you’re still stuck…. we’ve narrowed it down to our top 3 from the extension list above, one of the following should certainly fulfill your needs

Conclusion & Best Buys

Bargain busting – red kite sleeptight.

If you’re looking for a great-value all rounder, then I suggest the award-winning Red Kite Sleeptight travel cot coming in at a mere £25.

It can be used from birth to 3 years old, is of mid-weight and easy to assemble once you’ve done it a few times.

Just bear in mind, you’ll probably want to purchase a thicker mattress.

Plane sailing – Inovi Coccoon Travel Crib

If you’re planning to hop on a plane and get away for some sunshine with a newborn, then you’ll want to opt for the Inovi Coccoon Travel Crib.

It’s so compact that it complies with international aviation standards sizes to take on a plane as hand luggage and stow in overhead lockers – what could be easier!

All the Bells and Whistles – Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

With use from birth to 3 years, this flat-packed nursery is so much more than just a travel cot!

There’s a whole host of exciting features to keep your little one entertained or snoozing so you’d certainly be getting your money’s worth.

In conclusion… there are so many makes and models on the market, it can all be a bit confusing for first time parents.

We really hope our low-down of the top 12 travel cots has helped narrow down your choices and make the decision a bit easier for.

Baby Products – Buyer Guides

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Sleeping & Nursery

• Moses Basket
• Baby Blanket
• Nursery Curtains
• White Noise Machine
• Baby Sleeping Bag
• Cots & Cot Beds
• Bedside Cribs
• Baby Monitor
• Baby Sleepsuit
• Nursery Furniture Sets
• Pregnancy Pillow
• Baby Comforters
• Baby Humidifier
• Baby Highchair
• Nursing Bras
• Bottle Warmer
• Baby Bottle
• Nipple Cream
• Breast Pumps
• Nursing chair
• Baby Formula UK
• Baby Food Blender
• Bamboo Plates For Kids

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Nikki Collison

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

• January 19, 2023

Table of Contents

Comparison table, maxi-cosi iris.

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

Graco Compact Travel Cot

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

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

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

Check out the last deal for this product

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

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

Red Kite Sleep Tight

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

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

Hauck Disney Dream n Play

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Not suitable for babies above 6 months of age

Babylo Natura Folding Travel Cot

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

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

Hauck Travel Cot

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

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

The Best Travel Cots buying guide and FAQ

What is the best cot to buy.

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

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

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

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

What Makes the Best Portable Cot?

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

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

Pack down Speed:

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

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

Can it be used as a playpen?:

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

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

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

Things to consider when buying a travel cot

Portability:.

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

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

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

How to Clean:

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

Additional Features:

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

Are Travel Cots Worth it?

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

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

What Age Can a Baby Sleep in a Travel Cot?

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

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

Are Travel Cots Safe?

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

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

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

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

How to Get Your Baby Used to a Travel Cot

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

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

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

The author: Jose Martinez

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

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

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

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Popping up and down in seconds, Slumber is the game-changing travel cot that makes parenting easier – at home and away. Slumber doubles up as a travel cot and playpen, taking your little one from naptime to playtime in seconds.

Snooze from birth to toddler (approx. 3 years)

3-in-1 travel cot, co-sleeper and playpen

Newborn insert included

Super quick pop-up design

Light and compact for easy travel

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L112cm x W80cm x H67cm

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Parenting Brand of the Year

A commitment to innovation and sustainability with car seat recycling, stroller refurbishment and baby bank partnership.

Newborn ready

Zip in the newborn insert to create a bedside crib suitable from birth until approx. 6 months old.

Light and compact

Slumber’s lightweight and compact design makes it easy to store and travel with. It even comes with its own weatherproof carry case.

Mesh panels

Airflow mesh panels provide added ventilation for your little one so they’re always safe and comfy.

Recycled fabrics

The soft and protective padded top rail is made from our signature sustainable fabrics made using recycled plastic bottles.

For snoozes at home or away, Slumber provides the best night's sleep throughout the toddler years with the comfortable padded mattress.

Airflow mesh panels provide added ventilation.

Time to play

Zip open the mesh panel door to let your toddler crawl in and out with ease and create the perfect safe spot for playtime.

3-in-1 travel cot

The best place for sleep or play, at home and away. 

Newborn insert

Zip in the newborn insert to create a bedside crib that can be used from day one.

Keeps Slumber clean and protected when you’re on the go.

Padded mattress

The mattress can be used from birth to toddler in the newborn insert or travel cot.

Specifications

Sleep, play and go from birth to 3 years old.

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The ultimate 3-in-1 travel cot

For sleep or play, home and away

Snooze, play or travel from birth to toddler with Slumber.

Zip in the newborn insert to create the ultimate bedside crib suitable from birth until approx. 6 months old.

As they grow, transform Slumber into a lightweight travel cot for toddlers using the same mattress.

Slumber folds easily and packs away neatly into the carry case included. 

Bring baby closer and create a bedside crib using the ventilated, zip-in newborn insert. The comfortable mattress has a soft padded base and liner.

Popping up and folding down in seconds, Slumber is easy to use when you're on the move and stores away when not in use.

3-in-1 design.

Designed for sleep, travel and play, Slumber has breathable mesh, a zip-open door, newborn insert, carry case and comfortable padded mattress.

Part of the furniture

We created Slumber to be more than just a travel cot. Slumber is truly ‘part of the furniture’ with its stylish, minimalistic design.

When it’s time for fun, your toddler can crawl in and out of Slumber through its zip-open door – providing a secure space for playtime.

A conscious choice

Slumber features stylish quilted material crafted using a yarn made from recycled plastic bottles that would have otherwise been sent to landfill.

With fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles, Slumber is stylish and sustainable.

Time for travel

With its ultra lightweight and compact design and super easy fold, Slumber is the perfect travel companion. The waterproof carry case included ensures your travel cot is always looking its best.

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Travel Cots

Travel cots for babies and toddlers.

Make travelling a breeze and ensure a comfortable night's sleep on the go with a travel cot from Bella Baby. Travelling with a newborn, baby or toddler is made incredibly easy when you invest in a lightweight, high quality travel cot. At Bella Baby we stock the best travel cots from leading baby brands such as Safety 1st and Baby Elegance which each offer optimal safety without compromising on comfort.

From traditional travel cots, to small travel cots and multi-purpose designs with a changing mat included; we’ve considered every potential need for a new parent. If you’re looking for an easy travel solution for you and your baby; we are confident we can help!