How can I keep my toddler in a bed while traveling?

A pack-and-play or travel bed with inflatable bumpers (which are not recommended for babies , of course!) can help keep a toddler from rolling onto the floor. You can also bring along some of their favorite items from home to help them want to stay in bed in a strange new place. "The best thing to do when traveling is to bring along items from the child's home bedroom," recommends Lynelle Schneeberg, PsyD , a pediatric sleep psychologist and author. "Parents can bring along the child's favorite pillow, 'bedtime buddy' (security object), and favorite books, for example. If the child is used to a certain night light or a sound machine , these can be brought along as well."

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

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

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

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

How much should you spend on a travel toddler bed?

A high-quality travel toddler bed will generally cost between $60 and $100, although some can be cheaper, and certain models can cost upwards of $200. Pricier travel beds often come with more accessories and features, although not every family will need extra bells and whistles. Our best overall pick, the JetKids from Stokke CloudSleeper, was $99 at time of writing.

The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds of 2023 to Help Them Sleep Anywhere

Jetkids by stokke toddler travel bed lab testing — Verywell Family / Nick Kova

Traveling with toddlers isn't easy, especially if their schedules are disrupted and they don't get enough sleep. But you can still have a wonderful time exploring new places with your family—you just need to be prepared. Toddler travel beds provide consistency and a protected sleep space, resulting in a well-rested child and a smoother trip for everyone. To help narrow your selection, we tried out 20 beds in the Verywell Testing Lab and our homes to find the best toddler travel beds available.

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

We spent hours testing these products by assembling and disassembling them (sometimes with one hand!) and timing the whole process. We also studied the beds' features, how well they hold a toddler's weight, and how easy they are to clean.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Inflatable:

Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best With Pump:

hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Camping:

EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Pop-Up Crib:

BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Hugbino Inflatable Toddler Bed at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Naps:

Milliard Toddler Nap Mat at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Twin:

Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Crib to Fly With:

Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Tested Toddler Travel Beds
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

4.8

Amazon

Pros

Sturdy
Easy to move around
Good price point

Cons

Can be noisy when a child moves on it

If you plan to hit the road with your little one and need a toddler travel bed that is comfortable and easy to travel with, then the JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper Kids Inflatable Bed is our top pick for you. Designed for children ages 3 and up, this travel bed features side bumpers to keep your child from rolling onto the floor. Setup is incredibly easy, thanks to an integrated pump that lets you inflate the mattress in minutes by using your hands or foot. It’s meant to lie on the floor, so there’s no additional assembly required. This mattress also features an air mesh cover to keep your child cool at night.

In the lab, the CloudSleeper earned 5 out of 5 across three rating categories: assembly, portability, and care. We loved its unique design, which featured a hidden pump that you inflate by pushing with your foot or hands. Our tester found that “it was very easy to fill up” and took only five minutes to put together and inflate, which is great when traveling with little kids. It’s very light and comes with a small bag with handles, so it's easy to move around.

The mattress also has a removable and washable cover that can be spot-cleaned and dries quickly, so your little one can get back to bed.

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

Price at time of publication: $129

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

4.8

Amazon

Pros

Lightweight
Pump included
Good price point

Cons

Requires a sheet
Plastic smell

In lab testing, the Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed followed close behind our top choice in terms of portability and ease of setup, and it comes at a lower price than the Stokke. Unlike other inflatables, the Eltow toddler travel bed consists of an outer section with bumpers on two sides and a mattress that fits snugly inside the outer shell. It's not sitting directly on the floor but is at floor level. We loved that it took just five minutes to set up and was lightweight and portable—plus, it comes with a bag. We gave it a 5 for portability but took away a couple of points for assembly, dropping it down to 4.5, because our tester found that removing the pump nozzle without losing air can be difficult when done alone. This part is “much easier to do with a partner,” but it redeems itself when it comes to ease of cleaning, earning a 5 in the care category. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a sheet, so you'll have to pack one in your luggage.

Our tester noticed a major flaw: the plastic smell that stuck around once the mattress was removed from its packaging. (It should go away if you allow the product to air out for a day or two before use.) It comes with a high-speed pump, two patches in case of punctures, and a travel bag for storage. It's designed to withstand wear and tear, thanks to a vinyl layer that protects against punctures.

Price at time of publication: $70

^{Key Specs:
Material: Vinyl | Weight: 10.21 pounds | Size: 63 x 40 x 12 inches inflated | Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 310 pounds}

4.7

Amazon

Pros

Double plug
Electric pump
Patch kit included

Cons

Faint chemical odor

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

Setup is relatively quick, once you get the hang of detaching the electric pump. Our tester gave this a 5 out of 5 for assembly, noting, “This bed was a dream to use.” It earned a 5 for portability, because “it also has a handle so you can easily move it around.” Another plus: It comes with a patch kit! The handles were not as easy to clean as the rest of the bed in testing, so we gave it a 4.5 for that attribute. We do appreciate that the removable mattress comes in three different colors for kids who definitely have their design preferences.

Our tester warned of a faint chemical smell that was detectable but not "eye-watering as with some of the other inflatables." It's also very durable due to its thick vinyl material.

Price at time of publication: $80

^{Key Specs:
Material: Vinyl | Weight: 8 pounds | Size: 62 x 39 x 12 inches inflated | Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 310 pounds}

4.6

Amazon

Pros

Large carrying bag
Fits standard crib sheet
Pump has car lighter adapter

Cons

Chemical smell
High price point

This puncture-proof toddler travel bed can be used during trips or at home as a transitional bed for toddlers who are still in that in-between stage. A 120-volt electric pump (and three universal nozzles) is a “game changer” according to our tester, and it makes inflating the bed a breeze. We gave it 5 stars for ease of assembly, because we loved how quickly and easily this bed could be put together. It took five minutes to blow up both parts of the bed and attach a fitted sheet. Best of all, the tester didn’t even need to glance at the instructions while doing so.

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

Testing Notes: "The pump is an absolute game changer, and the bed itself seems sturdy. It did not shift at all when I threw sandbags onto it."

We also gave it a 5 for portability, because even though the bed is bulky, it comes with a large carry bag that you can wear as a backpack, freeing your hands for luggage or a kid. We also like that the electric pump comes with an adapter for your car, making it ideal for camping. It earned a 4 for care, since it can be wiped down, and the crib sheet can be tossed in the laundry. One downfall: Our tester noted a chemical smell.

Price at time of publication: $100

^{Key Specs:
Material: Not listed | Weight: 11.88 pounds | Size: 66 x 44 x 13 inches inflated | Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 36 months and up; up to 150 pounds}

4.5

Amazon

Pros

Light
Safety straps on mattress
High mesh walls

Cons

High price point
Sheet required

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib is a great option for parents who prefer more of a crib design than an inflatable mattress. Toddlers who need more than bumpers to keep them safe in bed can benefit from this travel crib’s high mesh walls and a mattress that sits low to the floor—which means it's difficult to climb in and out of, let alone roll off of.

The BabyBjorn earned a 5 for assembly for several reasons: Setup takes two minutes, and you can put a standard crib sheet on the bed without a struggle, even after attaching the mattress to the four corner safety latches. The mattress is comfortable and a standard crib size. It is also a good pick if you need a travel bed that isn't hard on your back. It is very light, it comes with a carrying case, and it fits into a car trunk. However, the mattress does lie low to the ground, so picking up your child may be tough on your back if they are lying down. The high price point is another consideration that parents should keep in mind if they’re not frequent travelers.

You won’t need to worry about messes or nighttime accidents, because the fabric can be wiped down quickly, and the exterior fabric can be removed from the frame and washed. We gave this travel crib a 5 for care, since the mattress is also wipeable. The main reason this crib isn't our top pick is that it's much more expensive than most of the other products on this list, earning a 3 for value.

Price at time of publication: $300

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

4.5

Amazon

Pros

Easy to store
Light
Less expensive

Cons

Difficulty removing pump
Requires a sheet

The Hugbino provides a lot of the same features as other inflatable mattresses on this list, but at a lower price, so it's a 5 out of 5 rating for value. The removable mattress is coated in soft velvet flocking to keep your little one comfortable while they snooze, and bumpers along all four sides of the outer shell keep them in bed.

This inexpensive bed does come with an electric pump, but the setup is not as easy as with other travel beds we tested. In the lab, it required two people to try to get the nozzle on before it started to deflate, which is why we gave it a 4 for assembly. It earned a 5 for portability since it is light and easy to store and comes with a carrying bag.

It's also a cinch to clean. We appreciate that the mattress can be spot-cleaned, and a sheet can go over the mattress for extra protection, earning it a 4 in this category.

Price at time of publication: $63

^{Key Specs:
Material: Polyvinyl chloride | Weight: 6.63 pounds | Size: 63.6 x 42.5 inches inflated | Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Not listed}

4.4

Amazon

Pros

Machine-washable cover
No pump needed

Cons

Does not include a carrying case

The Milliard Toddler Nap Mat Tri Folding Mattress can be used for napping anywhere. Simply unfold it at the hotel, a relative's house, or a camping tent, and your little one is good to get their sleep on.

This folding mattress earned a 4.5 for assembly, because you just remove it from the box. However, we docked half a point from this category, since it needs 48 hours to reach the highest comfort level after unboxing.

It earned a 4 for portability, since it does not come with a carrying case, which may make it a pain to carry. But if your toddler spills a drink or has an accident on this mattress, the good news is that it's effortless to clean. We gave it a 5 for care, because it has a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed and a foam mattress that can be spot-cleaned. Plus, it's got a cozy, thick mattress.

Our tester says, "[It's] definitely one of the more comfortable options for naptime that I've seen."

Price at time of publication: $66

^{Key Specs:
Material: Foam mattress, bamboo cover | Weight: 8.74 pounds | Size: 58 x 24 x 3 inches unfolded; 24 x 19 x 9 folded | Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Not listed}

4.4

Amazon

Pros

Built-in pump
Durable
Comfortable

Cons

No storage bag
Not for smaller kids

The Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed is a good pick for families who want a larger travel bed without bumpers that’s a little higher off the floor (16.5 inches) than the toddler beds on this list. A built-in pump earned it a 5 for ease of assembly, since you just turn the panel to either inflate or deflate, and you’re done!

"This is a great bed if your toddler is able to sleep in a 'grown-up' bed and isn't an escape artist," says our tester.

The mattress comes with a duffel bag for storage and travel, but it wasn’t the most compact, and the bag wasn’t as comfortable as others. It also earned a 4 for care—it just requires a wipe-down when needed. The bed also has a built-in pillow rest, so you won’t have to pack an extra pillow for your kid when you travel.

Price at time of publication: $69

^{Key Specs:
Material: Not listed | Weight: 10.16 pounds | Size: 75 x 39 x 16.5 inches inflated | Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 300 pounds}

4.2

Amazon

Pros

Easy to carry
Five-minute setup
Doubles as a play space

Cons

Price point
Heavy

This crib can’t make traveling on a plane with a toddler less challenging, but it can simplify your life when you get to your destination. We like the travel crib's packaging, which comes with shoulder and backpack straps that make it easy to carry around in an airport. It's a tad heavy, however, which is why we gave it a 4 for portability. In terms of ease of use, this travel bed only took five minutes to set up and didn't require too much prep work to understand how to put it together. The setup process wasn't as straightforward as other travel beds we tested, so we gave it a 4.5 for assembly.

An access door makes it easier to get to your little one without leaning over the side. You can use the entrance to lay them on the padded, waterproof mattress inside the mesh enclosure or let them go in and out of the crib when they are awake. "That is a pro or a con,” our tester noted. “It probably makes the bed also good as a play space during the day."

The travel crib earned a 3 for care. The mattress is easy enough to wipe, but the fabric around the top of the crib was too absorbent to give it a good cleaning. You can also unzip the bed cover and throw it into the washer for a deep clean. This convenience does come at a higher price than a lot of competitors, however, so we gave it a 3.8 for value.

Price at time of publication: $280

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

How We Rated

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best toddler travel beds we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These toddler travel beds are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great toddler travel beds, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These toddler travel beds are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend toddler travel beds with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

How We Tested Toddler Travel Beds

To find the best toddler travel beds, we tested 20 toddler travel beds in the Verywell Testing Lab and in our own homes. We also spoke with Anjuli Gans, MD, a pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center, West Philadelphia.

In the lab, we first tried to assemble the travel beds—with one hand, if possible. After that, we noted whether we needed to use both hands or had to get another adult to help. We also timed just how long the setup took for each bed. We then tested how well the toddler travel beds hold a toddler's weight using a 25-to-30-pound sandbag. Next, we looked at how hard it would be to clean messes on the beds, examining hard-to-reach areas and taking note of the material and what it felt like to wipe it. We tested whether we could use a standard crib sheet as well, and then we tried to disassemble the beds one-handed. After breaking them down, we considered how long it took us and how difficult it was to place the beds inside their carry bags, if bags were included. Finally, we lifted the carrying bags to assess the beds’ portability.

Next, testers took home our top picks to assess their quality and durability over time.

What to Look for in a Toddler Travel Bed

"You need to make travel as easy as possible when traveling with littles," Dr. Gans tells Verywell Family. "So, what I would recommend looking for is a travel bed that is safe, reliable, and easy for you."

Comfort

As you’ve probably realized when getting a kid to sleep at home, comfort is key. Comfort for some toddlers may mean a favorite blanket, while others require a crib. Parents should consider various must-haves to make traveling easier and smoother when trekking across the country—or a few hours away—with your little one.

Safety

Dr. Gans recommends researching products on the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) website to determine their safety and ensure that they haven't been recalled. When purchasing a crib or bassinet, parents of babies should also practice the same safe sleeping rules they implement at home. "Every toddler travel bed has age and weight requirements, so I would definitely check those first and make sure it matches up (with your toddler's age and weight)," she explains. Then, stick to simple beds without all the added features. "The less they have, the better.”

Once you've narrowed down your selection to simple beds, make sure there are no bumpers or parts that can potentially trap your baby, and check corner points and sharp corners. "Corner points are sometimes a place where kids can get clothing caught or get injured, so make sure it doesn't have sharp corners," explains Dr. Gans. "And remember that pillows and blankets are still recommended for toddlers age 2 and over.

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

Ease of Use

If you need a toddler travel bed that is easy to carry and quick to assemble, and doesn't require much work, then ease of use and portability must be considered when selecting a toddler travel bed. Some toddler travel beds can be assembled using one hand, and only take minutes to assemble. That is very helpful if you arrive at a destination with a sleeping or cranky tot. You may want to look for bags that allow hands-free carrying. Another consideration is whether the bed is easy to put in those bags, so you don’t find yourself fighting to pack it back in when it’s time to go home.

If you are in a situation where you don't have a toddler travel bed, don't worry. "If you are staying somewhere, and they allow you to request a crib, you can pull out the mattress and just lay it on the floor," Dr. Gans adds. "If it's in a safe place for your toddler, then it is perfectly fine. Make sure it is somewhere they can have adult supervision at all times and within eye view, because you may not be able to safetyproof rooms the way you can at home."

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep my toddler in a bed while traveling?

A pack-and-play or travel bed with inflatable bumpers (which are not recommended for babies, of course!) can help keep a toddler from rolling onto the floor. You can also bring along some of their favorite items from home to help them want to stay in bed in a strange new place.
"The best thing to do when traveling is to bring along items from the child's home bedroom," recommends Lynelle Schneeberg, PsyD, a pediatric sleep psychologist and author. "Parents can bring along the child's favorite pillow, 'bedtime buddy' (security object), and favorite books, for example. If the child is used to a certain night light or a sound machine, these can be brought along as well."
Can my 2-year-old sleep in a travel cot?

Certain travel cots are appropriate for 2-year-olds, but young 2-year-olds who haven't yet transitioned to a toddler bed may be more comfortable and safer in more crib-like pack-and-plays or travel beds with safety rails.
Can I put my 3-year-old in a toddler cot?

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

A high-quality travel toddler bed will generally cost between $60 and $100, although some can be cheaper, and certain models can cost upwards of $200. Pricier travel beds often come with more accessories and features, although not every family will need extra bells and whistles. Our best overall pick, the JetKids from Stokke CloudSleeper, was $99 at time of writing.

Why Trust Verywell Family

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

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