Nursery & Sleep Products The 12 Best Pack and Plays for Home and Travel, Tested and Reviewed by Verywell Family These convenient portable cribs provide a safe space for Baby to nap and play By Laura Lu, MS Laura Lu, MS Laura has written for some of the nation’s top health care organizations, including Mayo Clinic and University of California, San Francisco. She’s also composed a variety of health and wellness articles for Brit+Co. She is passionate about translating complex health care information into stories that everyone can relate to and understand. Learn about our editorial process Updated on June 09, 2023 Medically reviewed by Tyra Tennyson Francis, MD Medically reviewed by Tyra Tennyson Francis, MD LinkedIn Tyra Tennyson Francis, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician and currently serves as the medical director of an outpatient clinic. Learn about our Medical Review Board Fact checked by Latifah Miles Fact checked by Latifah Miles Latifah Miles has spent her professional writing life chronicling her journey through parenthood by way of feature writing and product recommendations. She has written for and been featured on Romper, Cosmopolitan, Elite Daily, Redbook Magazine, Best Products. She is the commerce editor for Verywell Family. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida Whether you plan to travel with your baby or simply need an extra spot in the house for them to nap, a pack and play (or Pack ‘n Play, Graco’s trademarked name for play yards) is an essential item for every new parent. Most pack and plays can be used beyond the infant stage and they create a great area for your little one to play as they begin to roll over and sit up. When purchasing a pack and play (also known as a playpen or travel crib), there are several features you’ll want to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure it’s safe and uses the mattress and fitted sheet intended for that product instead of a version made by another manufacturer. “If the mattress and sheet don’t fit perfectly, there can be gaps and loose bedding that can lead to [an increased] risk of entrapment or accidental suffocation,” says Benjamin Hoffman, MD, CPST-I, FAAP, pediatrician and professor at Oregon Health & Science University and president-elect of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). You may also want to consider how easy it is to set up, take apart, and travel with a pack and play. Additionally, you’ll want to find one that fits within your budget and has the features you need, such as a bassinet or changing table. To select the best pack and plays, we consulted with three pediatricians about what parents should look for in a playpen. Then, we had our editors test 20 different versions at The Verywell Testing Lab. Upon unpacking each play yard, our editors tested them for durability, portability, and how easy they were to assemble and take apart. They also analyzed each pack and play's design, features, and overall value. And since play yards are meant to withstand lots of toddlers playing and jumping in them, our editors continue to test them at home with their little ones in order to truly assess their long-term quality and durability. Their insights will allow us to update this article and ensure we provide the most reliable information regarding the best pack and plays for your family. In addition, a family physician on our Medical Review Board reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity around safe sleep and play practices for infants, babies, and toddlers. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Delta Children babyGap Deluxe Play Yard at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall Runner Up: 4moms Breeze Plus Playard at 4moms.com Jump to Review Best Budget: Graco Pack ‘n Play Portable Playard at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Travel: Guava Lotus Adventure & Travel Set at Guavafamily.com Jump to Review Best With Bassinet: Silver Cross Slumber Travel Crib at Amazon Jump to Review Best With Changing Table: Joovy Premium Room All-In-One Playard Nursery Center Changing Table Bassinet at Amazon Jump to Review Best Large: Graco Pack 'n Play LiteTraveler LX Playard at Amazon Jump to Review Best Small: Nuna Cove Aire Go Playard at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Lightweight: BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light at Amazon Jump to Review Best Design: Nuna Sena Aire at Nordstrom Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks We Also Tested How We Tested What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Best Overall Delta Children babyGap Deluxe Play Yard 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Deltachildren.com View On Kohls.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 5/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 5/5 Design 4.5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Took us less than 2 minutes to assemble Zippered opening allows for easy access to baby Removable storage caddy, bassinet, and mobile Cons Carrying straps felt too short Our favorite thing about the babyGap Deluxe Play Yard is how easy it is to set up and take apart. We were able to fully assemble it (without any tools) in less than two minutes, and it was just as easy to disassemble. Moving it from room to room was a breeze as well, and it didn’t need to be broken down to fit through a door frame. Although we like the travel bag it came with, we wish the straps were long enough to fit over our shoulders. The wheels on the base make it easy to push this play yard around, which would be incredibly helpful in an airport or hotel. This play yard is loaded with extra features that set it apart from the rest. It comes with a removable storage caddy, bassinet, and mobile, and has a zippered panel to make it easy to access your baby. We also like that its mattress feels soft, and its frame is made from sturdy, high-quality material. This play yard can safely hold up to 30 pounds in weight and is made almost entirely out of recycled water bottles. It is also certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association (JPMA) and meets or exceeds all safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Price at time of publication: $160 Key Specs: Dimensions: 27.8 x 37.4 x 40.2 in | Weight: 28.6 lb | Maximum Weight: 15 lb (bassinet), 25 lb (changing table), 30 lb (play yard) | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: Yes Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Best Overall Runner Up 4moms Breeze Plus Playard 4.8 Amazon View On 4moms.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 4.9/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 5/5 Design 4.8/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Simple yet chic design Can open and close with one hand Bassinet and changing table are easy to attach Cons Carrying straps need more padding Securing the mattress feels awkward at first As the name suggests, assembling the Breeze Plus Playard is incredibly easy and intuitive. It only required one hand to open the frame, but assembling everything the first time took about six-and-a-half minutes. Most of this time was spent reconfiguring and securing the mattress, which initially felt awkward because of the angle, but was relatively intuitive overall. We like that this all-black play yard has an understated yet chic design. During testing, we found that attaching the bassinet and changing table was pretty painless; however, removing the changing table required some effort. Despite this, we were pleased with how well made and sturdy this play yard felt, even after dropping a 25-pound sandbag into it to replicate an energetic toddler jumping on it. When it came time to disassemble the play yard, we were amazed at how seamlessly it collapsed with just one hand. Although we think the carrying straps need more padding, we like that the mattress folds securely around the frame and that everything fits neatly inside the carrying case. Price at time of publication: $300 Key Specs: Dimensions: 43 x 30 x 31.5 in | Weight: 28.5 lb | Maximum Weight: 18 lb (bassinet), 25 lb (changing table), 30 lb (play yard) | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Best Budget Graco Pack ‘n Play Portable Playard 4.7 Amazon View On Amazon View On Gracobaby.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 5/5 Durability 4/5 Portability 4/5 Design 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Quick and easy to set up and take apart No need to disassemble to move through a doorway Lightweight, sturdy frame Cons Doesn’t come with carrying straps Mattress lacks cushion This no-frills Graco Pack ‘n Play is an excellent choice for families who want to save money. For $70, you’ll get a sturdy place for your baby to nap or play that you can assemble in minutes. When testing it, we were able to put the entire thing together in just two minutes, which is by far our favorite thing about this pack and play. We also like how durable this play yard is. Although it only weighs just shy of 19 pounds, it felt solid and sturdy and barely moved when we dropped a 25-pound sandbag into it. However, the mattress is a bit firm and feels more like a thick pad instead of a plush mattress. Amazingly, it only took us one minute to disassemble this pack and play. We love that the mattress folds perfectly around the frame and that the wheels on the bottom make it convenient to move around. The best part is that we didn’t even have to take it apart to move it to another room because it’s so compact, even when assembled. However, we would prefer if the travel bag had straps instead of a handle so it would be more practical to carry. Overall, we think this pack and play is a great bargain. Although it doesn’t come with additional accessories like a bassinet or changing table, it’s sturdy, straightforward to put together and take apart, and is a fraction of the price of the competition. Price at time of publication: $70 Key Specs: Dimensions: 28.25 x 53 x 39.5 in | Weight: 18.7 lb | Maximum Weight: 30 lb | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: Yes Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao The 6 Best Umbrella Strollers Tested and Approved by Parents Best for Travel Guava Lotus Adventure & Travel Set 4.8 Amazon View On Guavafamily.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 5/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 5/5 Design 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Folds up into a lightweight backpack Zip-down side panel for easy access No weight limit Cons Lots of parts to assemble The Lotus Travel Crib is our best for travel pick for many reasons. First, it weighs just 15 pounds and folds into a backpack, which makes getting through the airport so much easier. Unlike other pack and plays that have raised mattresses, the Lotus mattress rests on the floor. Because of this, there’s no weight limit for this travel crib, making it great for toddlers (up to age 3) to sleep in. To test its durability, we tossed a 25-pound sandbag into the Lotus and were pleased to find that it maintained its structure and shape. This is largely due to its sturdy aluminum frame, which seems like it can withstand lots of use over a long period of time. Equally important is the fact that this travel crib is GreenGuard Gold certified, which means it’s been tested for more than 360 volatile organic compounds (VOC) and is free of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), lead, formaldehyde, mercury, arsenic, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. It took us about six minutes to set up this travel crib. Although the instructions are clear and every item is labeled, there are a lot of pieces to assemble and keep track of. However, it was straightforward to fold it back up into a bag with handles or backpack, and we could see ourselves carrying it around the beach or park for hours at a time. Price at time of publication: $280-$446 Key Specs: Dimensions: 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 in | Weight: 15 lb | Maximum Weight: None | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Best With Bassinet Silver Cross Slumber Travel Crib 4.8 Nordstrom View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Babylist.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 4.5/5 Durability 4.9/5 Portability 4.8/5 Design 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Quick shake to fully assemble Includes a thick, foldable mattress Zip-down side panel for easy access Cons Travel bag is difficult to use If you’re looking for a convenient way to allow your infant to sleep next to your bedside, the Silver Cross Slumber Travel Crib is just what you need. It comes with a drop-down bassinet that zips right into the frame and a thick, foldable mattress that can later be used for the playpen. Although the instructions were slightly difficult to follow at first, we felt that assembling this travel crib was relatively intuitive. With a quick shake, it snaps into place and we especially like that it comes with a soft, fitted sheet. The overall design is aesthetically pleasing, especially its black and gray color scheme with mesh, zip-down paneling. We were pleasantly surprised to find that this travel crib fit through a standard doorway without having to take it apart. Collapsing it is also uncomplicated and can be done with the touch of a button. However, carrying it in the travel bag is another story; due to its elongated shape, this travel crib feels bulky to carry for more than five minutes. If it folded into a backpack, it'd be a lot more convenient. Price at time of publication: $300 Key Specs: Dimensions: 44 x 31.5 x 26.4 in | Weight: 19.8 lb | Maximum Weight: 4-6 months or baby rolls over (bassinet), 50 lb (play yard) | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao The 8 Best Baby Cribs of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best With Changing Table Joovy Premium Room All-In-One Playard Nursery Center Changing Table Bassinet 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Babylist.com View On Joovy.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 4/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 4.3/5 Design 4.7/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Flip-down changing table holds up to 25 pounds Ample amounts of storage for diapers, wipes, and more Can carry as a backpack Cons Instructions aren’t easy to follow When it comes to middle-of-the-night diaper changes, having a pack and play like the Joovy Premium Room makes a world of difference. In addition to a generous amount of storage for diapers, wipes, and other necessities, this spacious pack and play comes with a removable changing table that can carry up to 25 pounds and flips off to the side when not in use. Although most play yards don’t come with fitted sheets, the Joovy Premium Room does, and it’s waterproof and machine washable, to boot. It’s also equipped with a removable, adjustable bassinet that can carry up to 15 pounds. At first, we were concerned that the bassinet appeared to dip in the center, but this was resolved once we placed the mattress inside. Although it clocks in at nearly 32.5 pounds, we think this adds to the durability and stability of the Joovy Premium Room, and were impressed to see that it didn’t budge after placing our entire body weight on its frame during testing. Thankfully, it’s equipped with a set of back wheels that made moving it from room to room a breeze. While assembling this play yard, we ran into a few issues. First, the instructions were almost entirely illustrations and didn’t provide enough detail on how to accomplish each step. Secondly, they didn’t explain how to lock the side railings in place, which took us some time to figure out. Fortunately, collapsing the Joovy Premium Room was much more intuitive and took us only 2.5 minutes to do. We especially loved that the travel bag had three carrying options, with the backpack being our favorite. Price at time of publication: $280 Key Specs: Dimensions: 28.5 x 39.5 x 32.5 in | Weight: 32.4 lb | Maximum Weight: 15 lb (bassinet), 25 lb (changing table), 35 inches in height (play yard) | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: Yes Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Best Large Graco Pack 'n Play LiteTraveler LX Playard 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Babylist.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 5/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 4.9/5 Design 5/5 Value 4.9/5 Pros Great for indoor/outdoor use Lightweight and easy to transport Can collapse with one hand Cons Sunshade doesn’t cover entire play yard Although this play yard is quite large, it’s anything but heavy. At just 11 pounds, we could carry it over one shoulder and could even see ourselves toting it around the park or beach without any issues. Plus, it’s very compact when folded down, which makes it practical to fit inside the trunk of a car or store at home. Assembling this play yard took just four minutes and collapsing it was even quicker. During testing, we loved that we could do so with one hand and then slip it into its travel bag without complications. It has a very subtle design, and we especially like that it has a zippered opening and comes with a UV 50 sunshade. However, we would prefer that the sunshade cover the entire play yard to provide more protection from the sun. Another thing we appreciate about this play yard is that its mattress comes pre-installed. It also comes with a soft, padded cover that is removable and machine washable. And while its large, hexagonal shape isn’t conducive for sliding through doorways, it makes the perfect indoor-outdoor play area for babies and toddlers. Despite weighing only 11 pounds, this Graco play yard is pretty durable. It didn’t collapse when we tried to move it in different directions and stood up well under the weight of a 25-pound sandbag. And since its mattress rests on the floor, it appeared even more stable than a pack and play with a raised mattress. Price at time of publication: $170 Key Specs: Dimensions: 52 x 52 x 27 in | Weight: 11 lb | Maximum Weight: 35 inches in height | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Small Nuna Cove Aire Go Playard 4.4 Nordstrom View On Nordstrom View On Potterybarnkids.com View On Babylist.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 5/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 4/5 Design 5/5 Value 3.5/5 Pros Opens and closes with one hand Slim enough to move through doorways while fully assembled Made almost entirely of mesh for maximum airflow Cons Too heavy to carry for more than 5 minutes High-end look comes with a hefty price tag One of the best parts about this compact pack and play is that it’s a breeze to put together. It took us just 2.5 minutes to assemble all four pieces, which unfolded and popped into place very smoothly. We especially appreciate that the owner’s manual is the first thing you see upon opening the box and that the instructions are clear and simple to follow. Although it’s small, the Nuna Cove felt really sturdy to us during testing. It withstood us jostling it around in different directions and didn’t buckle or sag under after we tossed a 25-pound sandbag into it. We also liked that the mattress felt plush and came with a soft, machine washable cover. Despite its slim silhouette, the Cove weighs more than 20 pounds. For that reason, we can’t see ourselves carrying it around for more than five minutes at a time—especially since it doesn’t have wheels or a shoulder strap. However, its slender frame allows it to be moved from room to room without disassembling, which earns the Cove points in our book. Overall, we really like the design of this pack and play. Almost everything in it is made from mesh, which increases airflow to help keep your baby cool. And while it has a high-end look and appears to be made from quality materials, its hefty $350 price tag will undoubtedly be a turnoff for many parents. Price at time of publication: $350 Key Specs: Dimensions: 40 x 24.5 x 30 in | Weight: 22 lb | Maximum Weight: 15 lb (bassinet), 30 lb (play yard) | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Best Lightweight BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light 4.6 Amazon View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Babybjorn.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 5/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 4.2/5 Design 5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Takes less than a minute to assemble About the same size of carry-on luggage when folded Sleek, sophisticated design Cons Can be tricky to collapse The fact that the Babybjorn Travel Crib weighs only 11 pounds makes it super convenient to move and travel with. When folded up, it’s about the same size as carry-on luggage and fits neatly into its practical travel bag. However, our favorite thing about this travel crib is that it takes less than a minute to set up. The process was so simple that we didn’t even have to read the instructions. Disassembling this travel crib was a bit more complicated. It took us nearly three minutes to do, mainly because the instructions were unclear and we had to use a lot of force to collapse it. However, once we did it a few times, the process became much more intuitive. Despite being so lightweight, the Babybjorn Travel Crib is very sturdy. Its mattress rests on the floor (as opposed to being elevated), which makes it feel grounded and stable. We even dropped a 25-pound sandbag into it three times and were impressed to find that it didn’t move at all. The Babybjorn Travel Crib comes with a comfortable mattress enclosed in a machine-washable cover. We liked that the surfaces of this travel crib felt smooth, and could tell that it was the product of a well-thought-out design made with quality materials. Overall, we would classify this as a luxury product because of its high price point and the fact that it doesn’t come with any accessories. Price at time of publication: $300 Key Specs: Dimensions: 44 x 24 x 32 in | Weight: 11 lb | Maximum Weight: 0-3 years | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao The 18 Best Travel Strollers, Tested and Reviewed by Verywell Family Best Design Nuna Sena Aire 4.6 Nordstrom View On Nordstrom View On Potterybarnkids.com View On Babylist.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 4.9/5 Durability 4.7/5 Portability 4.7/5 Design 5/5 Value 3.7/5 Pros Nice enough to keep out in your living room Collapses easily with one hand Comes with an organic fitted sheet Cons Sides feel a bit wiggly We love the sleek, modern look of the Nuna Sena Aire. Its mesh sides, floor, and mattress allow for airflow at every angle, and its minimalist design is one that we’d be happy to have in our living room. However, its $400 price tag seems a bit steep to us, especially since it doesn’t come with a bunch of extra accessories. Surprisingly, assembling the Sena Aire was so simple that we didn’t even need to refer to the instructions. During testing, we liked that the bassinet came pre-installed and the mattress slipped in with ease. Unzipping the bassinet took some work, but we could see this being helpful in preventing curious siblings from detaching it. When it came time to put the Sena Aire away, we were able to collapse it with just one hand. Securing it inside the mattress was a snug fit, but we could slide it into its travel bag without a problem. Since the Sena Aire weighs 21 pounds, we would prefer if the travel bag had shoulder straps (as opposed to two handles). Overall, the Sena Aire feels fairly sturdy and durable. Our only gripe is that the sides wiggled a bit when we pulled at them, but we still felt that it was safe enough to put our own children in it. We also really like that it comes with a soft, organic fitted sheet that’s been certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Price at time of publication: $400 Key Specs: Dimensions: 41.3 x 30 x 29 in | Weight: 21 lb | Maximum Weight: 30 lb | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Leticia Almeida Verywell / Leticia Almeida Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Leticia Almeida Verywell / Leticia Almeida Verywell / Leticia Almeida Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Leticia Almeida Best Playpen Joovy Room² Largest Playard Portable Playpen 4.5 Walmart View On Amazon View On Babylist.com View On Joovy.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 4.5/5 Durability 5/5 Portability 3.8/5 Design 4.8/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Big enough for two babies Comes with a 100% cotton fitted sheet Simple, modern design Cons Not ideal for travel Needed help to fit into the travel bag If you’re looking for a pack and play with room for two, look no further than the Joovy Room2. It has a whopping 10 square feet of playspace inside, making it nice and roomy for your little one—with plenty of space for twins. When it came time to assemble the Joovy Room2, we could do so in less than five minutes despite the instructions having no words (just pictures). However, fitting it into the travel bag felt a lot like trying to close a suitcase that’s too full. Ultimately, we had to enlist help to pack everything into place. Although it has ample space, the size of this play yard makes it less than ideal for travel. When assembled, we found that it was too large for a small apartment, let alone to make its way through a doorway. It also weighed twice as much as some of the other pack and plays on our list and felt too heavy to carry for more than a couple of minutes. Thankfully, it has two wheels at its base, which makes it somewhat portable when necessary. On the other hand, its size and weight make the Joovy Room2 quite stable and durable. After spying four support rods under the base, we felt reassured and were doubly impressed that a 25-pound sandbag and our body weight were no match for its sturdy frame. We also liked that it has large mesh windows and a high-quality mattress. Overall, we think this is a high-quality play yard that is reasonably priced. Although it’s on the larger side, it would be ideal for a family who has plenty of space and plans to leave it out for longer periods of time. Price at time of publication: $180 Key Specs: Dimensions: 39.75 x 39.75 x 31 in | Weight: 30 lb | Maximum Weight: 35 in | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: Yes Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao The 11 Best Convertible Cribs of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Setup Bugaboo Stardust Playard 4.4 Nordstrom View On Amazon View On Potterybarnkids.com View On Bugaboo.com Our Ratings Ease of Setup 5/5 Durability 4/5 Portability 4.5/5 Design 5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Pops open in seconds Stylish design made from high-quality materials Folds up neatly with mattress inside Cons Bassinet feels flimsy One handle makes it hard to carry When we first opened the Bugaboo Stardust box, we were curious to see if it would live up to the bold claims of a “1-second unfold.” Much to our surprise, it came in quite close and was very simple to pop open. Bugaboo is known for its high-quality and stylish products, and the Stardust is no exception. Its attractive setup includes a built-in mattress that stays in place even when the play yard is folded. We especially like that one side of the play yard is lower than the other, which makes it more convenient to reach in without straining our back. While the zip-in bassinet was useful, it felt a bit flimsy to us during testing and would feel safer if it had additional support. One of the more compact play yards, the Stardust has a sleek frame that is less than 6 inches wide when folded. It only took a few seconds to fold up and place in its travel bag; however, carrying it wasn’t as easy as we hoped since the bag only has one small handle. True to Bugaboo fashion, the Stardust is made with high-quality materials and feels very durable. During testing, its frame was unphased after we jostled it around in all directions and didn’t budge a bit when we tossed a 25-pound sandbag into it. The mattress felt sturdy as well, but you’ll have to purchase a fitted sheet separately for $40. Price at time of publication: $339 Key Specs: Dimensions: 25 x 38.8 x 33.5 in | Weight: 14.8 lb | Maximum Weight: 19.8lb (bassinet), 33 lb (play yard) | Storage Bag: Yes | Wheels: No Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Verywell / Jessica Juliao Compare Overall Rating Ease of Setup Durability Portability Design Value Best Overall: Delta Children babyGap Deluxe Play Yard Amazon 4.9 5 5 5 4.5 5 Best Overall Runner Up: 4moms Breeze Plus Playard 4moms.com 4.8 4.9 5 5 4.8 4.5 Best Budget: Graco Pack ‘n Play Portable Playard Amazon 4.7 5 4 4 5 5 Best for Travel: Guava Lotus Adventure & Travel Set Guavafamily.com 4.8 5 5 5 5 5 Best With Bassinet: Silver Cross Slumber Travel Crib Amazon 4.8 4.5 4.9 4.8 5 5 Best With Changing Table: Joovy Premium Room All-In-One Playard Nursery Center Changing Table Bassinet Amazon 4.5 4 5 4.3 4.7 4.5 Best Large: Graco Pack 'n Play LiteTraveler LX Playard Amazon 4.9 5 5 4.9 5 4.9 Best Small: Nuna Cove Aire Go Playard Nordstrom 4.4 5 5 4 5 3.5 Best Lightweight: BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light Amazon 4.6 5 5 4.2 5 4 Best Design: Nuna Sena Aire Nordstrom 4.6 4.9 4.7 4.7 5 3.7 Best Playpen: Joovy Room2 Playard Amazon 4.5 4.5 5 3.8 4.8 4.5 Best Setup: Bugaboo Stardust Playard Amazon 4.4 5 4 4.5 5 4 How We Rated the Best Pack and Plays 4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best pack and plays we tested. We recommend them without reservation.4.5 to 4.7 stars: These pack and plays are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great pack and plays, but others are better.3.5 to 3.9 stars: These pack and plays are just average.3.4 and below: We don't recommend pack and plays with this rating; you won't find any on our list. We Also Tested Chicco Lullaby Zip All-In-One Portable Playard: Although it’s fully equipped with a fold-away changing table, bassinet, mobile, and tons of storage, this play yard was complicated to assemble and felt too heavy to travel with. Baby Trend Nursery Center Playard: This play yard has an attractive price tag and comes with a bassinet, mobile, and diaper storage. However, it was pretty difficult to attach the accessories and equally challenging to collapse the frame. Newton Baby Travel Crib & Playard: We like that its mattress is nicely padded and comes with an organic cotton muslin sheet, but the play yard frame felt flimsy during our durability tests. How We Tested the Pack and Plays We began our research into the best pack and plays by talking to the experts: parents who have used play yards and medical professionals. To learn about the safety measures parents should consider when using a pack and play and the features they should look for when purchasing one, we consulted with three pediatricians: Elizabeth Murray DO, MBA, FAAP, faculty director for Child Health and Safety Communications at Golisano Children’s Hospital; Ben Hoffman, MD, CPST-I, FAAP, a pediatrician and professor at Oregon Health and Science University and president-elect of the AAP; and Steven Abelowitz, MD, FAAP, founder and medical director of Coastal Kids Pediatrics and medical director of Pediatric Associates. Before we could determine which pack and plays would make our list, we thoroughly researched dozens of play yards, playpens, and travel cribs available on the market and narrowed our list down to the top 20 pack and plays. Then, our parenting editors put our selections through a battery of tests at the Verywell Testing Lab. Over the course of two days, our editors tested each pack and play for ease of setup, durability, portability, design, and overall value. They began by unpacking and assembling each product, taking note of how much time it took to do so, how straightforward the instructions were, and how easy or complicated it was to attach accessories, such as a bassinet. Then, they assessed the features of each pack and play and attempted to carry them through a doorway while fully assembled. To determine how durable and stable they were, our editors dropped 25-pound sandbags into each pack and play and made note of any movement that could be considered unsafe. After removing the sandbags, our editors timed themselves while collapsing each pack and play. Then they carried them in their corresponding travel bag, paying close attention to how comfortable the straps or handles were and if the weight was evenly distributed. A good pack and play will last into the toddler years and through multiple children, so long-term quality is key when making your purchasing decision. To ensure all the products you see in this article meet this requirement, we continue to test these pack and plays at home with our own energetic little ones. We want to make sure their initial quality holds up over time and in the real world. We will continue to update this article as we gain additional knowledge into these pack and plays' durability. What to Look for in a Pack and Play Safety Safety is the first and most important factor parents should prioritize when choosing and using a pack and play for their child. Both Dr. Hoffman and Dr. Abelowitz encourage parents to stay informed on the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requirements set for play yards, in addition to those established by the United States Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA). To be imported to or sold in the U.S., manufacturers of play yards (or any product intended for children 12 years of age or younger) must certify in a Child’s Product Certificate (CPC) that the product complies with CPSC requirements and has been tested for compliance at a CPSC-accredited third-party laboratory. Retailers like Amazon require that manufacturers provide a CPC to be sold in the U.S. or risk rejection or suspension of product listings. Dr. Hoffman adds that parents should inspect the pack and play before using it. “They should also confirm that the bottom mattress and sheet that came with their pack and play is made by the same manufacturer so that they fit perfectly. Gaps around the sides of a mattress or loose bedding can pose risks for entrapment and suffocation,” Dr. Hoffman says. Lastly, parents should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on the height and weight limits for their pack and play. According to the CPSC, pack and plays are intended for children under 35 inches tall, but if your child can climb out of a pack and play before then, it’s time to call it quits—even if they haven’t reached the height or weight limit. Depending on features, pack and plays may differ in their weight guidelines. For example, the Silver Cross Slumber has a weight limit of 50 pounds for the play yard, while the bassinet can be used until a baby is 4-6 months of age or begins to roll over. Others, like the Joovy Premium Room All-In-One Playard Nursery Center Changing Table Bassinet, are more specific with their guidelines and have set limits of 15 pounds for the bassinet, 25 pounds for the changing table, and 35 inches in height for the play yard. Size and Weight The size and weight of the pack and play you choose should be determined by whether or not you plan to travel with it and how much space you have. You may also want to consider if your pack and play can fit through a doorway without disassembling it and how compact it is when folded up so that you designate enough room to store it. If you're looking for a pack and play with a slim profile, we recommend the Nuna Cove Aire Go because it's only 24.5 inches wide and can fit through a doorway while fully assembled. We also like the Babybjorn Travel Crib Light because it's only 24 inches wide and weighs just 11 pounds. On the other hand, if you want a large play yard for your toddler, we recommend the Graco Pack 'n Play LiteTraveler LX Playard. Its hexagonal shape is nearly 4.5 feet wide, which provides enough room for two. To top it off, it only weighs 11 pounds, so you can easily tote it back and forth to the park, beach, or grandparents’ house. Ease of Use In addition to being smaller and lighter than a crib, part of the convenience of using a pack and play is that they’re pretty easy to assemble and use. The Bugaboo Stardust is a great example of a pack and play that sets up and collapses in a matter of seconds. In general, the more accessories a pack and play has, the more work it may require to set it up. However, most pack and plays are ready to go in just a few minutes. If your pack and play has additional attachments, such as a bassinet or changing table, you should familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual so that you know how to attach and remove them. Some bassinets, like the one included with the Silver Cross Slumber, zip into the pack and play frame to keep them attached and secure. When it comes to pack and plays with a changing table, we like the Joovy Premium Room All-In-One Playard Nursery Center Changing Table Bassinet because it flips off to the side when not in use and can hold up to 25 pounds in weight. Intended Use When choosing a pack and play, you should consider your specific needs. If you plan to use it in the weeks after giving birth, you may want a pack and play that has a bassinet. This will not only provide a safe place for your baby to sleep, but also allow you to pick them up without having to bend over and put too much strain on your abdominal muscles. If you’re looking for a pack and play that accompanies your child while traveling, we recommend the Guava Lotus Adventure & Travel Set. It weighs just 15 pounds and folds into a backpack, which makes it easy to carry through an airport. Another great pack and play to have at home to use occasionally is the Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard. Although it doesn’t come with any attachments or accessories, it costs far less ($70) than other pack and plays and provides a safe, enclosed space for your baby to sleep or play. Price The pack and plays that we tested were priced between $70 and $446 with a median price of $258. The more expensive pack and plays tend to have a more sleek and modern design and often have bonus features, such as a zippered panel or a built-in mattress, while the less expensive pack and plays are usually more basic. Since manufacturers are required to present a Child’s Product Certificate in order to import into or sell a pack and play in the U.S., it’s perfectly doable to find a pack and play that is safe for your child and within your budget. Extra Features Extra features can be extremely useful when it comes to a pack and play. For example, having a bassinet and changing table can turn a pack and play into a one-stop-shop for a baby in the first few weeks after birth. Other features, such as a built-in mattress and a zippered panel, make using a pack and play much more convenient. Some options, like the Delta Children babyGap Deluxe Play Yard, come with a variety of extra features, including a bassinet, mobile, zippered panel, and removable storage caddy. Frequently Asked Questions How do you set up a pack and play? Because each pack and play is different, you should always refer to the owner’s manual for assembly instructions. Generally speaking, most pack and plays are designed to be assembled in a few minutes, which is why they are so appealing for travel. Typically, tools are not required to put a pack and play together, and you may even be able to do so with one hand depending on how complex the instructions are. What’s the recommended age for a pack and play? “The ideal age for a pack and play is from birth to somewhere between 2 and 3 years old,” says Dr. Abelowitz. “The majority of pack and plays top out at 3 years of age, but many children outgrow them before their third birthday due to height, weight, or developmental milestones.” Can a baby sleep in a pack and play? “Most experts agree that pack and plays are suitable and safe for babies and toddlers to sleep and play in,” says Dr. Abelowitz. “It is important that babies sleep on their back in the pack and play or crib, and keep pillows, loose blankets, stuffed toys, bumpers, and other soft objects out. Lastly, parents should make sure the pack and play mattress is firm, flat, and fits well and that the sheet is snug around the mattress.” When it comes to using a bassinet attachment on your pack and play, Dr. Hoffman urges parents to stop doing so once their baby starts to roll over. “It’s really important that parents follow this guideline,” says Dr. Hoffman. What’s the difference between a pack and play and a play yard? According to the CPSC, a play yard is a framed enclosure with mesh or fabric sides that’s designed for children to sleep or play in around their home, while traveling, and other purposes. Specifically, play yards provide sleep and play accommodations for children who are less than 35 inches tall and cannot climb out. Although Pack ‘n Play is Graco’s trademarked name, it’s often used as an everyday term that refers to a play yard. “I generally refer to them as portable cribs or play yards, since pack and play has become like Kleenex or Coke where the brand name [becomes mainstream],” says Dr. Hoffman. Why Trust Verywell Family Laura Lu, MS is an experienced health writer who has a Master of Science degree in Health Communication. Her work has appeared in publications like The New York Times, Media Psychology, Brit+Co, and Parents.com, to name a few. While living in a small, one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco, she often relied on her Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard as a place for her son to nap in the living room while she worked. Although she’s since moved out of that little apartment, that same pack and play became useful again when her daughter was born in 2020 and has accompanied her family on many adventures since. 1 Source Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. Play Yards Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit