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If you plan to go for a long drive with your little one, the best travel beds from trusted brands can come in handy. These beds make sleeping hassle-free for the baby while traveling between different time zones. They are lightweight, compact, easy to use, and do not require any effort to set them up. Some beds are washable, removable, and are easy to maintain. Since buying things for your little one is all about selecting the best one, we have a list of some tried-and-tested options you can consider buying. We also share some tips to help you pick a safe and effective product. Read on.
Top Picks
15 Best Travel Beds For Babies
1. Best Water-Resistant: A Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet
Weighing less than three pounds and measuring 30 x 11.8 x 21.2 inches, this Munchkin Brica Bassinet allows the baby to sleep peacefully on the water-resistant mattress. Whether you are going on a picnic or an adventurous trip with family or friends, you will find this tried-and-tested bassinet ideal for its safe and snug fit. This video describes how to use this travel bed with a mattress included.
Pros
- Lightweight with a convenient carrying handle
- Travel bed with breathable mesh sides
- Safe T-locker system with audible clicks at four points
- Detachable sheet from the mattress for easy cleaning option
- Machine-washable and easy to dry
- Sturdy and durable locking tubular steel frame
- Comprises of polyester, steel, and cotton material
Cons
- May not be suitable for sleeping at night
- May be bigger than expected
"This travel bassinet is suitable for my newborn, but it can�t accommodate babies over three months old. I also use it for co-sleeping. Its mesh sides give me great relief, as they encourage decent airflow and keep him safe."
2. Best Spacious:Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Afterglow Infant Sleeper
The portable baby travel bed features a sound and light unit while offering a more open and protective area for your baby to sleep. The infant sleeper can be placed on your bed, too, and two vented wall units separate the baby from the adult bedding. The side panels are easy to reach and give quick access to the baby. Watch this product testing video and learn how to assemble the product.
Pros
- Ideal for daytime naps and nighttime sleep
- Compact fold, and lightweight design
- Extra room to pack essentials
- Soft-glow travel crib light at the head of the sleeper
- Waterproof foam mattress with a wraparound sheet
- Easy to wash
- Suitable for infants up to six months, or until they start rolling or pushing out of the bed
- Works with two AA batteries
Cons
- Middle part may bend due to softness
- Mesh may not offer optimal visibility
3. Best For Co-Sleeping:Abreeze Baby Bassinet for Bed
The Abreeze portable travel bed measures 18.3 x 13.4 x 3.9 inches, weighs 2.55 pounds, and is likely to help the baby sleep better by providing a hygienic and sound sleep environment. The mommy-approved travel bed could be ideal for co-sleeping, resting, playing, lounging, daytime napping, tummy time, diaper changing, and more.
Pros
- Created from breathable, hypoallergenic 100% organic cotton
- Hidden zipper to disassemble covers for washing
- Handle makes carrying it easy while traveling
- Machine-washable after disassembling
- Lightweight crib and easy to pack
Cons
- May require additional cushioning to make the baby comfortable
- Sides may have a flimsy finish
Munchkin Travel Bassinet Best Water-Resistant | Baby Delight Infant Sleeper Best Spacious | Abreeze Baby Bassinet Best For Co-Sleeping | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Grey | - | - |
| Weight | 2.45 pounds | 3.2 pounds | 3.2 pounds |
| Frame Material | Alloy Steel | - | - |
| Material | Polyester, Steel, Cotton | - | - |
| Dimensions | 30"L x 11.75"W x 21.25"H | 33.5 x 14 x 8 inches | 33.5 x 14 x 8 inches |
| Batteries | - | - | 2 AA batteries required |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 3,681 | 5,108 | 1,357 |
| Price | $47.99 | $44.94 | $59.99 |
4. Best Hypoallergenic:DHZJM Baby Lounger Co-Sleeping Baby Bassinet
The DHZJM baby carrier gives you a safe way for co-sleeping, and it is created to offer a soothing and snug environment for your baby anywhere. The safe and effective co-sleeping travel bed for babies is made from 100% polyester, gently hugging the baby, making them feel secure. Its hypoallergenic materials and raised tube and pad design make it a trusted choice of parents.
Pros
- Portable and easy to carry
- Additional covers are available to buy separately
- Ideal for tummy time and helps develop motor skills and neck strength
- Hidden zipper to disassemble the coverlet for washing
- 100% cotton and breathable cover
- Convenient carrying handles
- Buckle on the dock for adjusting the size
Cons
- Fabric may feel rough against the skin
- Walls of the bed may fall flat upon use
5. Best With Activity Bar:Lulyboo Bassinet To-Go Infant Travel Bed
Whether you are going on vacation, a stay over at a friend’s, or on a short trip anywhere else, Lulyboo’s travel bed for babies makes for an ideal companion to go with you. It has a lightweight and modern look and can be easily folded into a handy carry bag. Here’s a video you can watch to know more about the bassinet travel bed.
Pros
- Can be used as a co-sleeper, crib, or changing pad station
- Convenient storage pocket for parent’s essentials
- A mix of 100% cotton, polyester, and nylon
- Padded sides with a waterproof bottom section
- Includes an activity bar toys for sensory stimulation
- Removable canopy provides a shaded place for the baby to sleep
- Available in natural, pink dotted, and blue dotted fabrics
Cons
- May not have bottom support
- May be difficult to change the cover
6. Best For Outdoors:KidCo Peapod Infant Travel Bed
The mommy-approved Kidco travel bed for infants can be a suitable solution for going camping or having an outdoor picnic. It weighs 2.45 pounds, features anchor straps, and comes with UV protection that makes it ideal for outdoor use. The lightweight mesh surrounding the bed gives enough air circulation, and a front zipper panel gives easy access to the baby.
Pros
- Suitable for children aged from one to three years
- Lightweight crib and folds into a compact size
- Comes fully assembled, and ready to use
- Removable sleeping pad for easy cleaning
- Made of 100% polyester material
- Baby travel bed with storage pockets and carrying case
- Ideal for short and long travel trips
Cons
- May wobble if baby crawls to the sides
- May cause some babies to sweat
"My toddler enjoys sleeping in it, so I carry it on trips. It smoothly folds in my backpack and is easy to set up. I love that it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. And its play space is a plus."
Point to consider7. Best For Protection Against Insects:besrey Baby Bassinet 2-In-1 Travel Crib
Designed to work as a travel bed and bedside crib, this two-in-one besrey bassinet also includes a mosquito net, storage bag, cup holder, and side pocket for carrying essentials. It measures 39 x 24 x 42in and weighs around 20.7lb. This travel bed with mosquito net also comes with a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Four wheels for easy transportation
- Bassinet can rock up to 10° and is safe for the baby
- Sturdy steel frame can bear up to 4lb
- Can be folded and is easy to carry using the handle
- Thick and soft mattress for comfort
- Large area offers sufficient space for lying down
- Mosquito net and side mesh protects against insects
Cons
- Assembly may take more time than expected
- Mattress may be a bit firm for some
"The bassinet's wheel design makes it easy for me to maneuver. Its spacious area lets my baby sleep peacefully. Also, its retractable canopy with a bug net protects my infant from the sun and bugs."
8. Best Zipper Compartments:Scuddles Three-In-One Portable Bassinet For Baby
Scuddles three-in-one bassinet could be used as a travel bed, diaper bag, and changing pad station. It features five zipper compartments and three elastic pockets to store baby gear. The mom-approved bassinet also has an insulated pocket to keep your baby’s food fresh.
Pros
- Comfortable mattress for the baby to sleep well
- Spacious storage to keep your baby’s toys and bottles
- Machine-washable padded mattress that can fit any stroller
- Easy-to-clean travel crib
- Made of high-quality nylon material
- Co-sleeper for baby
- Available in a gender-neutral color
- Durable carrying strap
Cons
- Assembly may take more time than expected
- May not have mesh support on the sides for ventilation
"I love that I can use it as a bassinet, changing station, and travel diaper bag. It is roomy enough to accommodate my little one with ease. While its pockets help me to store all her essentials, the included pad is slightly thin. Still, it's been a lovely purchase overall."
Did you know?9. Best Breathable:Beacon Pet Portable Baby Crib
The Beacon baby travel bed is specially designed to prevent your baby from moving, rolling over, or falling from the crib. It is made of 100% safe and breathable cotton that enables the circulation of air in the neck and the back areas. It is available in beige, blue, or gray colors.
Features
- Suitable for babies up to one year of age
- Can be used for swings, baby car seats, cradles, strollers, and baby gyms
- Allows easy diaper changing
- Co-sleeping option
- Portable baby sleeper that is easy to carry
- Includes a baby pillow
10. Best Travel-Friendly:AUTO LOVER Baby Travel Bed
This small travel bed for babies, up to the age of 18 months, can be used outdoors during backyard picnics, camping, and a trip to the park or the beach. The mosquito net helps in keeping away the insects from the baby. Easy to clean
Features
- Travel bed with easy assembly
- Self-expanding tent than can be popped open and folded back easily
- Lightweight, and compact size
- Protects from wind, sun, insects, and dust
- Two-way zipper for easy and convenient access to the baby
- Weighs 1.95lb and measures 42.5 x 23.6 x 18.1in
11. Best ASTM-Approved:Comfy Bumpy Travel Bassinet for Baby
Image: Comfy Bumpy The Comfy Bumpy baby travel bed is made of a robust steel frame that is sturdy and safe for your baby. It is also approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), making it a safe choice to consider. This safe and effective travel bed with washable covers has stable and rocking modes, so you can set it according to your baby’s preference.
Pros
- Breathable mesh walls
- Soft and comfortable mattress
- Simple fold-down design for quick set up
- Can be used as a bedside sleeper and stand-alone crib
- Lightweight, and easy to disassemble and carry
- Includes a hygienic urine pad, washable fitted sheet, and a mosquito net
Cons
- May not be suitable for overnight use
- Weight distribution may not be even
"I've been using this bassinet for a while and am most impressed by its sturdiness and ease of assembly. Plus, its mesh sides keep my baby well-ventilated, and the large size assures me it will grow well with my little one."
12. Best Non-Toxic:SUNBA YOUTH Baby Tent
Made of certified baby-safe material, the Sunba Youth baby travel bed features a zippered curtain and four-sided mesh design. The assembled dimensions are 53 x 35 x 24 in, and folded dimensions are 19.3 x 19.3 in.
Features
- 100% non-toxic and eco-friendly to keep the baby comfortable and safe
- Fully covered silver-coated fabric offers protection from the Sun’s UV rays
- Includes two durable ventilated and wind-resistant tent pegs
- Mosquito net keeps the insects away
- Easy to open and fold
- Elastic metal frame withstands frequent bending
- Weighs 1.4lb
13. Best Machine-Washable:Delta Children EZ Fold Ultra Compact Travel Bedside Bassinet
Image: Delta Children The Delta Children EZ Fold Ultra Compact bassinet is a portable, safety-tested travel bed that is easy to open, lightweight, and folds flat for easy storage. It makes your travel stress-free. The mesh panels at the sides of this compact baby travel bed offer enough air circulation and improve visibility while creating a suitable environment for undisturbed sleep.
Pros
- Removable canopy protects the baby from insects
- No assembly needed
- Travel bed with carrying bag for convenience
- Cozy sleep area
- Water-resistant and machine-washable mattress pad
- Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) tested and certified
Cons
- Zipper may be noisy
- Legs may not stretch evenly
"The lightweight design and quick-fold feature make this bassinet my favorite travel companion. Its dual canopy feature is a standout, offering enough protection against insects and weather. Furthermore, its compact design makes it suitable even for smaller spaces."
14. Best Durable:Esafio Foldable Bed
Your kid can now sleep peacefully even outdoors with the Esafio foldable bed. The outer metal frame design offers the travel bed durability and you can assemble or fold it in five seconds. The side mesh panels on this foldable baby bed for travel provide good aeration to your little one. You can also use the thick cushion pad that comes with this safe and effective product as a diaper changing pad. This pad is waterproof and convenient to use during travel.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Made of breathable and waterproof material
- Comfortable
- Three wide side pockets to store baby essentials
- Versatile use
Cons
- May not have enough space for the baby to move around
15. Best Clip-On Canopy:Sunveno Baby Bed & Baby Lounger
Referred to as the Moses Basket Bassinet, this is known for its reclining design that prevents the baby from nausea after a meal. It could be one of the best toddler travel beds for airplanes. Hypoallergenic bumpers on the mattress pad create a microclimate for the baby and provide ideal support.
Pros
- Sturdy and comfortable base supports the baby weight
- Made of machine-washable, soft, and breathable fabric
- Suitable for babies up to 12 months of age
- Cushioned and contoured sides keep the baby safe and secure
- Features a unique 3D dinosaur design
- Easy to fold and unfold, and carry in car or airplane
- Removable mattress for washing
- Convertible baby travel bed can be used as a crib, carrier, diaper-changing station, and playpen
- Handle gives a good hold, waterproof bottom
- Clip-on canopy protects the baby from sunlight
Cons
- Lounger may be more shallow than expected
- Solid sides of the lounger may reduce ventilation for the baby
How To Choose The Right Travel Bed For Babies?
Consider the following criteria to buy a travel bed that works for both you and your baby.
1. Ease of assembling: Consider a travel bed with a clear, quick, and easy folding mechanism. The last thing you may want when you get back home from travel is not to battle with assembling the unit.
2. Portability: The bed should easily fit inside your travel luggage and should weigh a minimum. The smaller the size, the more portable it is. Check if it is foldable and lightweight and can be popped with a carrying case.
3. Age: Choose a model that lasts for years and accommodates older kids. Newborn models may be sleek and last for a few months, but larger models may last over the years.
4. Construction: Ensure the material is easy to maintain, comfortable, and of high quality. The travel bed must be constructed from sturdy material without any loose or sharp pieces that could harm the child or get stuck in their clothes. It should have a flat and firm mattress without any gaps or holes to keep the infant safe and to prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) (1). Also, check the unit for loose bolts, screws, or any missing parts and fix it instantly (2).
5. Price: Set a budget so that you can easily select a proper one. Plan on buying a travel bed according to your travel commitments. If you are a frequent traveler, invest in a worthwhile bed.
Brooke Weiss, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner, says, “The Consumer Product Safety Commission updated the safety standards for infant sleep products in June 2022. When choosing a travel bed for your child, it is important that you purchase a new product, to be sure it follows the updated safety standards, and read the instructions as many travel beds are only approved for safe use for certain ages. Additionally, it is important to follow safe sleep guidelines for your child’s sleep space.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are travel beds safe for babies?
A travel bed, bassinet, portable crib, or infant sleeper should be considered safe for babies only if they are safety-tested and meet CPSC standards (1). Ensure that you are not placing toys or objects in the crib or bed.
2. How long do travel beds last?
CPSC standard travel beds last until your baby outgrows the bed. Therefore, when buying a travel bed, ensure that you check if it meets these standards.
3. Are travel beds washable?
Travel beds or portable bassinets are not machine washable. However, the mattress or pads provided with the beds may be washable. Some infant sleepers that double as travel beds may also be washable.
4. How can I make my baby sleep in a travel bed while traveling?
Try to follow the same bed routine, respond to your little one while she wakes up as you do in your home, and most preferably, comfort them as traveling can be new to them.
5. What accessories do I need with a baby travel bed?
You should not include any other accessories inside the travel bed as it may be hazardous for your little one. However, you can carry certain accessories, such as soothers, to calm them.
6. Is a travel bed easy to carry?
Yes, travel beds are easy to carry as most of these beds come with foldable options. Some beds also come with a carrying handle for portability.
The Bottom Line
When you travel long-distance with your precious one, you want to do everything to keep them comfortable. The best baby travel beds for long drives are designed to make sleeping in the car convenient for your baby. When buying one, ensure it is washable and easy to maintain, like the Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Bassinet, so your baby rests in a clean and hygienic bed. The bed material should be breathable and soft against your baby’s gentle skin. Further, invest in a lightweight baby travel bed like the Delta Children EZ Fold Ultra Bassinet or a compact and portable one such as the Comfy Bumpy Travel Bassinet For Baby to ensure an easy setup.
Infographic: How To Use A Baby Travel Bed Properly?
Baby travel beds are portable and lightweight accessories that provide a safe and comfortable lying space for infants while on the go. However, they need to be used correctly to prevent mishaps, such as strangulation and suffocation, and extend their longevity. Check out the infographic below to grasp the basic guidelines for using baby travel beds properly.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Safe Sleep
https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/safe-sleep/#:~:text=Place%20infants%20on%20their%20backs - Cribs
https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/cribs/buying-guide/ - How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx
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Why Trust MomJunction?
Understanding and empathizing with the struggle of putting your children to sleep while traveling, we have curated a list of the best travel beds for babies from trusted brands after going through various customer reviews. Not only do they have detailed descriptions, but we’ve also listed their features so that readers can enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience. Besides this, the article also comes complete with a buying guide section that will help guide you towards choosing the best baby travel bed for your needs.
