If you like to bring your toddler on visits and vacations, you’ll need a super cozy spot to rest at the end of the day. There are tons of travel toddler beds you can find, but here are the best options.
My kiddos come everywhere with my partner and me. One of my favorite things in the world is seeing them visit relatives and experience new places. But we all know a toddler needs a nap and a good night’s sleep on exciting vacations and outings!
I researched travel bed options for my own children and put together this list. Here are the most unique and quality toddler travel beds so your toddler can rest comfortably outside your home.
This article will cover:
After reading the following guide, you will know exactly which travel bed is the best for your toddler.
Help to choose a travel bed:
- What is a toddler travel bed?
- How to choose the best travel bed for your toddler
- Where to buy toddler travel beds?
- How to make a DIY toddler travel bed
- Takeaway
Best inflatable toddler travel bed
For a travel bed in the style of an air mattress, inflatable options are a convenient and inexpensive option. They’re easy to use and provide some extra benefits, which I’ll cover later in this article.
I looked through all the online retailers to find the most exciting blow-up toddler travel beds.
The Shrunks Tuckaire Sleepover Travel Bed
This junior bed is easy to set up with a powerful pump that quickly inflates in 30 seconds. It’s simple to pack and light to carry. Because it’s a twin-sized mattress, you can use it for your 2-year-old and your teenager! It’s great for younger children because it has detachable guardrails to feel cozy, but it will also provide older kids with extra room.
Price: $$$
Pros:
- Twin-sized (fits toddlers and tweens)
- Safety bumpers
- 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Prone to deflation
- Higher price
For all the detail, check out the Shrunks Tuckaire Sleepover Travel Bed on Amazon here!
Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
With four guardrails and a velvet-flocked exterior, this mattress is comfortable and safe for your toddler. The Hiccapop Inflatable has an inlay-enforced vinyl surface and reinforced seams, so it’s a durable option for active sleepers. It’s also 25% longer than a standard toddler mattress, so you’ll get 25% more use out of it as your baby grows!
Price: $$
Pros:
- Inflates in under 30 seconds
- 25% more length than a standard
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Prone to air leakage
- Some users say it’s slightly smaller than expected
For all the detail, check out the Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed on Amazon here!
Intex Kidz Inflatable Travel Bed
For a crib-sized option with power-free pumping, Intex offers the Kidz Inflatable. The water-resistant mattress comes with a hand pump, so you can inflate it anywhere without the need for an outlet or other power source. It has high, detachable guardrails on all four sides that will keep your kiddo safe, secure, and cozy during those sensitive ages. Your tot can sleep in comfort without sacrificing your budget.
Price: $
Pros:
- Includes power-free hand pump
- 5-minute inflation time
- Detachable frame and rails
Cons:
- Prone to air leakage
- Some users report a plastic smell
For all the detail, check out the Intex Kidz Inflatable Travel Bed on Amazon here!
Best foldable toddler travel bed
Foldable toddler beds are a dream come true for parents with limited space. These are small-space-friendly and ideal for families that camp but can be used for in-school nap time too.
Check out the options I found of portable and comfortable fold-up beds.
Regalo My Cot Portable Bed
The Regalo Cot is an easily portable option for naps or a night of quick sleep. It’s made with a steel frame covered by a canvas sleeping area for your child to lay down and rest. Your toddler will fit snugly on the lightweight fabric-covered frame. This cheap junior bed even includes a fitted sheet you can throw in the wash when necessary. It also comes in multiple colors, so you can choose your child’s favorite shade!
Price: $
Pros:
- Lightweight
- No need to inflate
- Safe for indoor and outdoor use
Cons:
- Some users say it’s less comfortable
- No travel bag
For all the detail, check out the Regalo My Cot Portable Bed on Amazon here!
Regalo My Cot Deluxe with Sleeping Bag
Regalo also offers the My Cot in a Deluxe version with an included sleeping bag. Your tot can snuggle up in the full canvas sleeping bag area for a toasty slumber. The cot also comes with a removable pillow for extra support. It has the same portability as the regular My Cot, including the additional warmth, making it perfect for camping trips or cold weather naps.
Price: $$
Pros:
- Includes washable sleeping bag and pillow
- Lightweight and portable
- Great for outdoor use
Cons:
- Raised center makes it less comfortable
- Only practical for young toddlers and children
For all the detail, check out the Regalo My Cot Deluxe with Sleeping Bag on Amazon here!
Joovy Foocot Toddler Travel Cot
With a similar design to the Regalo, the Joovy Foocot is a slightly more expensive option with some exciting additional features. The Joovy is a foldable cot that will comfortably sleep your baby until they are around 75 pounds. It’s also low to the ground, so your active sleeper will stay safe. The cot comes with secured storage pockets and an easy-go carrying case with a shoulder strap.
Price: $$
Pros:
- Stable and low to the ground
- Includes travel bag with shoulder strap
- Satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- Raised center
- More expensive
For all the detail, check out the Joovy Foocot Toddler Travel Cot on Amazon here!
Milliard Portable Toddler Bumper Bed
You can’t get cozier than the Milliard Portable for your toddler. This super-soft, extra plush mattress has raised sides for safety bumpers to keep your kiddo snugly in bed. It uses a unique box design, so it gives your baby protection on all sides. When folded, it comes together in a neat rectangle for travel. Though it’s not optimal for small cars because of its larger carrying space, it’s super luxurious, so the additional size is worth it.
Price: $$$$
Pros:
- Durable and comfortable foam material
- Soft velour top
- Includes washable fitted sheet
Cons:
- More expensive
- Only fits younger children
For all the detail, check out the Milliard Portable Toddler Bumper Bed on Amazon here!
Best Pop-Up Toddler Travel Bed
If you want to give your child a comfy place to sleep that includes a full roof and side enclosure, check out these beds. Your toddler will stay super protected in the breathable fabric of these pop-up travelers.
KidCo PeaPod Plus Infant Travel Bed
For families of adventurers, the KidCo PeaPod is a must on outdoor trips. It’s made of durable mesh for airflow and protection from UV rays. The tent can also be secured to the ground for outdoor safety. It has an attached sleeping pad to give your kiddo an extra foundation, and all folds up into a small circular carrying case.
Price: $$$
Pros:
- UV and insect protection
- Attached sleeping pad
- Small and lightweight
Cons:
- Less cushioning
- More expensive
For all the detail, check out the KidCo PeaPod Plus Infant Travel Bed on Amazon here!
Joovy Gloo Portable Toddler Tent
This large tent will work for your 6-month-old until they’re up to 5 years! The light and breezy bunk is dew-resistant, bugproof, and provides sun protection. The included self-inflating sleeping pad comes with a washable cotton cover to clean the pad’s surface. It compresses into a small and featherlight carrying case you can easily pop in your diaper bag to bring on any adventure.
Price: $$$$$
Pros:
- Sun and insect protection
- Includes washable sleep pad
- Large size fits 6 months – 5 years
Cons:
- Less cushioning for baby’s sleep
- More expensive
For all the detail, check out the Joovy Gloo Portable Toddler Tent on Amazon here!
What is a toddler travel bed?
A toddler travel bed is a portable crib or bed you can easily bring with you on trips or move around the house. They can be used for your baby, toddler, or young child when you need to give them a comfy place to sleep away from home.
These beds are usually lightweight and small in size, so you can easily transport one in the car and around the house. Toddler travel beds are generally smaller than a standard toddler mattress, making it easy to transport them. There are a few different types, each with its own benefits for your toddler’s safe sleep.
Different types of travel beds
Toddler travel beds typically come in three different styles: inflatable, folding, and pop-up. Each design offers its own advantages for price, comfort, and portability. Read about the features of these three designs below.
1- Inflatable
Just like the air mattresses we sleep on when visiting friends and family, there are blow-ups designed for toddlers too! Inflatable beds are comfortable and super easy to take on trips.
When not in use, a blow-up is stored away in a small bag. Then, you simply pump it up to give your kiddo a cozy sleep. Inflatable mattresses are prone to holes and air leakage, so they are not always durable. But, a quality option can provide your child with years of enjoyment.
2- Folding
Foldable travel beds are typically made with firm frames and a soft fabric surface to sleep on. They’re very reliable due to the strong frames, without taking up much space.
As with all the options on this list, folding beds are easy to store and travel with. When buying a folding cot, make sure you choose one with great reviews – some options can be less than perfect for your toddler’s restful sleep.
3- Pop-up
A pop-up travel bed for toddlers looks a little different than the other types. Pop-ups often come with a light screen around the top and sides. This makes them fun for outdoor adventures like camping and summer visits to friends and family.
Toddlers don’t get as much padding with a pop-up, but the open sunroof keeps them cool and comfy. They’re ideal for babies and young toddlers.
Difference between Pack n Play & toddler travel bed
Many parents have heard of a Pack n Play – a portable sleeping area for infants and toddlers. When I first looked into buying one, I didn’t understand the difference between a Pack n Play and a toddler travel bed. However, there are a few notable contrasts between the two.
Pack n Plays have a sturdier frame than standard toddler travel cribs. That makes them heavier than other options too. They are designed with super solid frames and high sides so your baby can not just nap in one but also play and relax.
On the other hand, toddler travel cribs are designed for only sleeping, so they have less solid frames and are more lightweight. These cribs are ideal for your baby to nap in when traveling, while a Pack n Play is better for extended use, a play area, or use around your home.
Special features of a travel bed
Like all kid beds, travel sleepers come with a variety of additional features to add to your kiddo’s quality of rest.
The majority of options are light and comfortable, while some have extra features like side rails, safety bumpers, and size options. Here, I’ll describe some popular favorites for special features so you can decide what works for your family.
1- Portable
Travel beds are designed to be portable – it’s basically in their name! But some options are more mobile than others. You can find ones that compress into a small carrying case, options with detachable frames, and ones small enough to squeeze in your backseat.
2- Lightweight
Because they’re designed to be transportable, the leading toddler travel cribs are lightweight. The lightest options are ones with hollow frames, inflatables, and nap mats. Finding a lightweight option is ideal for making every journey as painless as possible.
3- Comfortable
Any bed you buy your child should be comfortable, but some options are better than others. Premium ones have the same comfort level as a standard toddler mattress with extra cushions and durable materials. Finding the most luxurious travel bed makes naps and nighttime so much easier for you and your baby.
4- Side Rails
Travel beds with side rails are a personal preference for yourself and your child. If you have a younger toddler or one who moves around a lot during the night, side rails can give you some extra protection. They’re excellent for young toddlers but don’t allow as much room for growth. A solution is a mattress with detachable rails.
5- Safety Bumpers
These keep your kiddo safely inside, no matter how much they flail around. If you have a mobile sleeper, try finding the safest travel bed with bumpers as a feature. A great middle-ground is an option with removable safety bumpers so your child can use it past the age when they need that extra security.
6- Enclosed
You’ll find a lot of enclosed options in pop-up beds. The feature is usually a fabric enclosing that keeps your baby warm or cool, depending on the season. An enclosed bed might have less room for your taller child but will protect them from wind, insects, and even hot sun rays.
7- Small
Small toddler travel beds can give you extra space in the room. The feature is helpful if you’re dealing with limited space or have a young toddler that doesn’t need that much room. They are ideal for babies and toddlers because they will outgrow them more slowly.
8- Huge
On the other hand, toddler beds often come in large sizes for tall tots or active sleepers. These are excellent if you want to keep your toddler bed for a long time because your kiddo will have lots of room to grow into. Even for a small child, they give extra space for additional comfort.
9- Cheap
This is one of my favorite features! You can find cheap toddler travel beds online and in stores. It’s a great feature because you won’t need one forever, nor will you use it that often unless your family is always on the road. Cheap selections can still be made with quality materials, too.
10- Non-Toxic
You care about your baby’s safety more than anything, and one important thing to consider is the material used. Make sure you buy a safe travel bed from a reputable source. Keep in mind that any product on the market must be approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
How to choose the best travel bed for your toddler
When choosing the perfect travel bed, it’s helpful to consider your child’s weight and age, the comfort level of the bed, and portability. Below, I’ll outline why each of these is important for finding the best sleeping arrangement for your toddler.
1- Weight
All beds for children are designed for a specific range in weight. Before buying, find out your child’s weight and look into the specifications for the selection you are considering.
If your child is on the top end of the weight range, consider another option. You want your baby to have the safest, comfiest sleep. Because toddler travel beds are designed with portable frames, they might not support your child if they are too heavy.
Typically, inflatables and travel mats support the greatest range in weight. At the same time, pop-ups and fold-ups are best for younger children. Consider your child’s current weight and how long you’d like to use it for.
2- Age
Toddler travel beds are usually used by children aged 2 to 5. If your kid is around these ages, then they’re ready to sleep in one!
Side rails, safety bumpers, and enclosed options will give your younger toddler a safe sleep. On the other hand, older toddlers will likely feel more relaxed in a large bed with more space.
If you have a 1 or 2-year-old, a Pack n Play or toddler travel bed is appropriate. Pack n Plays work for infants and toddlers under 25 pounds, so they are only suitable for young toddlers.
You can also tailor your choice to your child’s age. Find the most suitable option for your child’s developmental level.
3- Comfort Level
Choosing a sleeping space that gives your child a comfortable night’s sleep is of the utmost importance. We all know how cranky little ones get without enough rest, and you definitely want to prevent that on vacations and visits!
The different designs can help you find one that will offer optimum relaxation for your kiddo. If you have an older toddler, the most suitable travel bed will be one with extra space so they can spread out and sleep soundly.
If you have a younger toddler (1-2 ½), look for an enclosed option with bumpers or guardrails to give your baby some extra security.
4- Portability
If you’re interested in a toddler travel bed, then you’re likely planning on taking it out of the house. So, another important factor is how easy it is to transport.
Inflatables are super portable and light. They easily compress into a small bag, usually including the pump that inflates them.
Folding travel toddler beds offer a similar level of portability as a Pack n Play. Many fold-up cots come with convenient carrying cases so you can quickly pack the mattress into your car or stick it in a closet when needed.
All the options I found offer portability because they are designed for out-of-home use, so you’ll have no trouble finding one that fits your travel needs.
Where to buy the best toddler travel beds?
I’ve looked through the most popular online stores to find which options have the best travel toddler beds at reasonable prices. From my research, I found that Amazon and Target have the biggest selections.
Amazon has the largest range of choices – from blow-up beds to cots and foldables – with a wide spectrum in prices. Target offers customers unique and convenient options like foldable bunk beds if you have multiple kiddos!
Walmart has cheap options, but there were fewer choices at the store. If you want a unique bed, Argos has tons of themed ones like princesses and superheroes! Last, Buy Buy Baby offers quality beds at the highest prices. There are tons of pop-ups and foldable cots, as well as some nap mats.
How much does a kid’s travel bed cost?
The range of prices for toddler travel beds is pretty wide, anywhere from $20 to over $200.
If you’re on a budget, look for nap mats, inflatables, or cots. The most expensive options you’ll find are likely to be pop-ups.
You can see some affordable choices in my list at the top of this article. The price range for travel toddler beds on the list is from $30 to $150.
As long as you find a mattress and foundation with high-quality materials, you’ll be providing your child a restful sleep.
How to make a DIY toddler travel bed?
Maybe you got to the hotel room and realized you forgot the travel bed, or you’re moving house, and the mattress isn’t set up. The good thing is you don’t need a power drill or plywood – you can make a bed with items in your hotel room!
The only goal is to make a soft and safe sleeping area. Ensure the space you create is free from dangerous objects or anything your kiddo can knock down in their sleep.
Here are some ideas for how to create a DIY toddler travel bed:
- Use pillows – Take the cushions from your sofa to create a lifted bed. Then, just give your kiddo a pillow for their head, and you’re all set!
- Make a furniture bed – One of the benefits of a toddler setup is that it’s an enclosed space for your tot to sleep. You can simulate this comfy space by moving a couch against the wall.
- Roll a blanket – Try rolling a blanket or towel and placing it around the sides of the sleeping area. It will feel like a cozy safety bumper!
- Get creative – True story here: we used a mini inflatable boat for a travel bed for our daughter on occasion. She sailed the high seas in her dreams and slept soundly!
Other travel accessories for portable toddler beds:
If you want to get the most out of your travel toddler bed, look into getting some of these additional accessories.
- Foot pump – Blow up your inflatable mattress anywhere with a manual foot pump.
- Patch repair kit – Make sure your baby’s inflatable stays full with a repair kit.
- Toddler pillow – Give your tot the softest sleep with a pad designed just for them.
- Mattress protector – Protect any bedding from spills and accidents.
- Crib sheets – Provide a restful sleep with high-quality crib sheets.
Takeaway
Toddler travel beds come in a few different styles, including pop-ups, foldables, and inflatable options. When looking for the perfect fit, consider things like your child’s age and weight and the comfort and portability of the bed.
Then, you can find special features like safety bumpers, large sizes, and non-toxic materials.
As parents, our number one priority is providing our little ones with the safest products. We also know the importance of a good night’s sleep – since our little ones have taken some of ours!
Return to this list when your family is ready to take a trip, and you’ll find a travel toddler bed that will give you and your baby the best night’s sleep.