How to choose the Best Portable Crib
Choosing the best baby crib can be a daunting task. First, you want to make sure that you find the right size, style, and color for your family. But don’t worry! This blog post will show you how to choose the perfect portable crib for babies and toddlers.
We have picked the best 13 portable cribs out there and reviewed them in detail so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your family.
Best Portable Cribs
- Our Pick –Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard
- Best Overall – Graco Pack’ n Play On the Go Playard
- Easiest to setup – Nuna Sene Aire travel crib
- Best with Mattress – BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light
- Best for Naps – Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome
- Best for Long Term Use – Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages
- Best expanding Crib – Skip hop Play to Night Expandable travel crib
- Best with Changing table – 4moms Breeze Playard
- Best for Camping – KidCo PeaPod Plus
- Best for Flying – Munchkin BRICA Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet
- Best for Twins – Joovy Room2 Portable Playard
What is a travel Crib or a Portable Crib?
A travel crib is a lightweight and compact crib that can be easily transported. Portable cribs are similar to travel cribs, but they tend to be larger and are not as easy to transport.
Portable Crib vs. Playpen
A playpen is an excellent option for parents who want to keep their baby confined in one area, but a portable crib is better for parents who wish to take their baby with them on trips. Portable cribs are also more comfortable for babies than playpens.
How to Choose the Best Portable Crib?
When choosing the best portable crib, you need to consider your lifestyle and what type of activities you will be using the crib for.
For example, if you plan on using the crib for short trips, then a travel crib would be a better option. But if you plan on using the crib for long-term use or camping, then a portable crib would be a better option.
How do I Set Up my Portable Crib?
Most portable cribs are easy to set up and only require a few steps. The Nuna Sena Aire travel crib is the easiest to set up and only requires you to pop it open.
What Size Portable Crib should I buy?
Portable cribs come in different sizes, but most of them are small enough to fit in a carry-on bag. The Graco Pack’ n Play On the Go Playard is one of the largest portable cribs on the market and can fit babies up to 30 pounds.
What features should I look for in a Portable Crib?
When choosing a portable crib, you should look for features like:
- An adjustable mattress height
- A canopy for sun protection,
- Storage pocket for diapers and wipes.
- A Changing Table
- A Pack up Bag
Should I buy a Portable Crib with a Mattress?
Most portable cribs come with a mattress, but some do not. If you want to buy a portable crib with a mattress, you should look for one that is comfortable and has a waterproof cover.
The BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light comes with a mattress that is both comfortable and waterproof.
Can you use a travel crib as a regular crib?
No, a travel crib is not meant to be used as a regular crib. Instead, a travel crib is designed for short-term use and is not as sturdy as a traditional crib.
What are the benefits of using a Portable Crib?
The benefits of using a portable crib include:
- Portability – Portable cribs are lightweight and easy to transport, making them perfect for trips.
- Convenience – Portable cribs come with a carrying bag, so you can easily take them with you wherever you go.
- Versatility – Portable cribs can be used for babies and toddlers, making them an excellent investment.
How long will my baby be able to use a Portable Crib?
You can use most portable cribs until the baby reaches 30 pounds or until they can climb out of the crib. The Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages is one of the few portable cribs you can use up to 50 pounds.
Things to Consider When Buying a Travel or a Portable Crib
1. Safety and Security
Cribs are for sleeping and should be safe to sleep in. Your baby’s crib should meet the safety standards set by your country or state. If it’s a portable crib, you have to make sure that it is certified as such.
It is not advised to buy used travel cribs because the seller may have recalled them due to safety issues.
Things to look out for are a drop side, missing or broken parts, and hinges. Also, make sure that the crib you choose is sturdy enough by shaking it from all directions – top, sides, etc.
The mattress has to be made of polyurethane foam with no chemicals added (formaldehyde). The baby’s skin should not come into contact with the crib mattress.
For all safety and security features, you need to know, check this Crib buying guide
2. Comfort
Your baby’s comfort should come first and foremost when you are shopping for a portable crib. The design needs to be ergonomic, the mattress has to fit perfectly into the frame, and it shouldn’t have any sharp edges that could hurt the child while sleeping or moving around in their sleep.
You might want to find out what some other parents are saying about their experience with the portable crib.
The mattress should be firm, comfortable, and made of a material that allows air to circulate through it, so the baby doesn’t overheat (no memory foam or similar materials).
3. Age Range
Most portable cribs are designed for babies from 0 to 36 months, but there are a few that you can use up to the age of four. If you have other children who will also use the crib, make sure that it is big enough for them.
The weight limit is also something you need to take into account – if the crib is rated for less weight than your child can handle, it should be replaced with a sturdier one.
Some portable baby cribs have adjustable mattress support to adjust them as the infant gets older and heavier. This feature helps save money because there’s no need to buy another travel crib when their age or weight changes.
Folding cribs are great for traveling because they take up little space and can be easily stored when not in use, but there’s a limit to the amount of weight you should put on them – usually 35 pounds or so. If your baby is heavier than that, look into getting a sturdy travel play yard instead (like The Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard)
4. Size, Weight, and Portability
The size and weight of your travel crib are also essential considerations. If you have a bigger car or travel with the baby by plane, then something smaller is probably best.
Your travels may take longer than expected because of traffic jams, weather delays, etc., so this can play an important role in deciding which portable crib to buy for your baby.
If you have a smaller car, then finding something that folds up into an easy-to-carry size will be more important than the weight of your travel crib.
You should also think about the weight limit of your travel crib, especially if you plan on carrying it a lot or taking it around with you.
The size and weight will impact how easy transporting it is – some portable baby play yards are very light because they don’t have many features like bassinets etc., but this means that they won’t last your baby for as long.
5. Ease of Use
A portable crib should be easy to set up and takedown. All the parts should fit snugly together without wiggling or movement, and it shouldn’t require any tools for assembly (like a screwdriver).
The instructions that come with the crib should be clear and concise, so you won’t have any trouble setting it up correctly.
If you’re using the crib for overnight stays or travel, make sure that it’s easy to get your baby in and out of it without waking them up.
Some portable cribs come with a carrying case for easy transport, while others have an attached wheeled base that makes moving them around much more effortless.
It’s also helpful if the crib has a sunshade or canopy to protect your baby from bright light and harmful UV rays.
6. Cost
A portable crib can vary from around $50 to $300 or more, depending on the features and brand.
If you’re only going to be using the crib for a short time, then it’s probably not worth spending too much money on it. But if you think you’ll be using it often, investing in a good-quality crib is a wise decision.
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to the price of a portable crib:
- The more features the crib has, the more expensive it will be.
- Cheaper cribs may not last as long as more expensive ones.
- Some brands offer replacement parts.
Best portable Crib Reviews
Our Pick – Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard
The Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard is our top pick for the best portable crib. This crib is designed to be easy to fly with, as it comes with a compact, light backpack carrying case.
It can also be set up in just 15 seconds, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Additionally, the crib is certified safe and non-toxic, with GreenGuard Gold’s non-toxic certification.
The full-height mesh on the crib also guarantees the best, breathable airflow. Another great feature of this crib is the quiet side zipper door, which makes nursing or cuddling your little one to sleep easier on your back.
When it’s time to play and crawl, You can lock the door for safety.
The crib’s comfortable mattress is also approved for newborns and infants for overnight sleep.
What’s included with this crib is a complete travel crib with a compact backpack carrying case.
Best Overall – Graco Pack’ n Play On the Go Playard
The Graco Pack’ n Play On the Go Playard is our best overall pick because it’s versatile and can be used for newborns to toddlers.
It features a convenient changer, integrated storage pockets, and a soft Newborn Seat station that creates a cozy place for the baby to play.
The play yard is also designed to grow and transition with your child, making it an excellent investment.
The only downside is that the play yard can be a bit heavy to transport, but overall it’s an excellent option for parents on the go.
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable play yard, the Graco Pack’ n Play On the Go Playard is a great option.
Easiest to Set Up – Nuna Sena Aire travel crib
The Nuna Sena Aire is the easiest to set up of all the portable cribs that we looked at.
It pops open quickly and easily with just a few zigzag steps, and there’s no need to remove it from its travel bag before folding it back up again.
The mattress is also easy to remove for cleaning – you can unzip it and throw it in the washing machine.
This crib has a unique design that allows airflow from every angle, thanks to its all-mesh sides, floor, and mattress. The mesh fabric is also breathable, which helps to keep your baby cool and comfortable.
Thanks to its aluminum frame, the crib is stable and sturdy, and the padded edges prevent your little one from getting their fingers pinched. It’s also easy to move around – the skid-proof feet ensure it won’t move when you’re trying to get your baby to sleep.
Parents can use the Sena Aire from birth until their child is 15 kg (approximately three years old). It also includes a travel bag, so you can take it with you wherever you go.
Best with mattress- BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light
When it comes to choosing the best crib for traveling with your baby, the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light is a top contender.
This lightweight and easy-to-carry option sets up in seconds and features a comfy mattress that will make your little one feel right at home.
Plus, the fabric sides provide plenty of ventilation for your baby to sleep safely and comfortably.
newborn to approximately three years can use the crib, or until your child can climb out of the crib and there is no upper weight limit for using the crib.
The sides of the crib are made from soft and airy mesh fabric. It lets you keep an eye on your baby and means your baby can lookout. Fold it up and keep it in the practical carry bag when you’re not using it.
Best for Naps – Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome
When it comes to choosing the best portable crib for your family, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
But the Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome is an excellent option for babies and toddlers alike! This versatile Playard can be used indoors or outdoors, with or without its canopy, making it perfect for all sorts of adventures.
Plus, it comes with two removable toys for tummy-time play. And when you’re done using it, the Baby Dome folds flat with convenient handles for easy grab and go!
Just bear in mind that this is an option that will not grow with your baby, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for something that will last your child a few years.
Best for long term Use – Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages
The Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages is excellent for long-term use. It can be used as a crib, playpen, and even a toddler bed! Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to fold up for travel.
The portable crib is perfect for on-the-go parents
Weighing in at only 20 pounds, this Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages is easy to take along wherever you go. Whether you’re traveling to your next destination or need a spot for the baby to nap while visiting friends and family, the lightweight design of this crib makes it a perfect choice.
The Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages is versatile, converting from a crib to a Playard in minutes! This means that your little one can have all the comforts of home wherever you go. With three different stages to grow with your baby, the Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages is an excellent investment for on-the-go parents.
The Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages also includes a handy carry bag, making it easy to transport and store. So whether you’re on the go or just looking for a compact crib option, the Graco Travel Lite Crib with Stages has you covered!
Best expanding Crib – Skip hop Play to Night Expandable travel crib
The Skip Hop Play to Night Expandable travel crib is one of the best expanding cribs because it can be used as a crib or play yard. It is also made with airy mesh fabric sides for visibility and ventilation, making it perfect for traveling. In addition, this crib folds up for easy transport and storage when not in use.
Best with Changing Table – 4moms Breeze Playard
The 4moms Breeze Playard has an easy one-push open and one-pull compact design set up in seconds and includes a detachable flip changer and removable bassinet.
The all-in-one care station feature also grows with the baby, making it an excellent investment for parents.
Best for Outdoors – KidCo PeaPod Plus
The KidCo PeaPod Plus is perfect for the outdoors as it comes with UV protection and anchor straps for ground attachment.
It also features a large front zipper panel that makes access to children easy.
This travel bed folds into a compact size and can be folded and stored with the sleeping pad fully attached.
The fabric is 100% polyester and weighs only three and a half pounds.
Best for Planes – Munchkin BRICA Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet
One of the best bassinets to bring on an airplane with you is the Munchkin BRICA Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet. It’s lightweight, folds up easily, and doesn’t take up a lot of space in your luggage. Plus, it comes with a comfortable carrying bag. The only downside is that it’s not recommended for use on an elevated surface.
The bassinet is also safe to use for babies up to 15 pounds or three months old, whichever comes first. So, You can use it for a decent amount of time. Just make sure you discontinue use when your little one starts to push themselves up on their hands and knees.
The Munchkin BRICA Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet sturdy bassinet features a Safe-T-Lock system that ensures it stays in place, plus breathable fabric and meshes sides to keep your little one cool. It also includes a comfortable mattress pad and fitted sheet. In addition, the bassinet folds down completely for easy storage when you’re finished with using it.
Best for Twins – Joovy Room2 Portable Playard
The Joovy Room² is the perfect Playard for twins. Each twin has plenty of room to play with over ten square feet of space. In addition, the extra-large mesh windows provide excellent visibility in and out of the Room², while your twins are content in a spacious Playard. The Room² is also sturdy enough to be used with multiple kids and in playgroups.
The Room² folds in a traditional Playard manner and includes a travel bag to facilitate trips, making it the perfect choice for twins. It even comes with a waterproof mattress sheet.
Questions to ask yourself before buying a portable crib
When shopping for a portable crib, it’s essential to consider all factors that will make your life easier.
- Think about how you’ll be using the crib – is it just for overnight stays or travel, or will you use it every day?
- How big is your car?
- Is weight a concern for you?
- Do you need a changing table or storage area?
- How easy is the crib to set up and takedown?
- Is the material breathable (like mesh sides) to prevent your baby from overheating?
- Canopy or sunshade to protect from UV rays?
Once you’ve answered these questions, you can start to narrow down your choices and find the perfect portable crib for your family.
Conclusion
It can be tough to decide which portable crib is the best for your family. However, with so many different options on the market, it’s essential to consider all important factors.
In this blog post, we’ve highlighted eleven of the best portable cribs and their features. We hope this will help make your decision a little easier!
