Whether it is a week in Cornwall, a night at the grandparents' or a long-haul holiday, a travel cot means your baby sleeps somewhere safe and familiar. Most also work as a playpen at home, so the right one earns its place long after the holiday is over. This guide explains what to compare before you buy.
What is a travel cot?
A travel cot is a folding cot with a fabric and mesh frame that packs into a carry bag. It sets up in a few minutes, gives your baby a contained sleeping space with good airflow, and folds away flat when you are done. Many models are 2-in-1 (travel cot and playpen), and some add a raised newborn level, a changing table or wheels.
What to look for
1. Weight and age limit
Most travel cots suit babies from birth up to 15kg, which is roughly three years. Check the limit on the product page, and stop using the cot once your child can climb out, even if they are under the weight limit.
2. A raised newborn level
A newborn insert lifts a small baby closer to you, so you are not bending to the floor at 3am. The Hauck Sleep N Play Center and the Hauck Play N Relax Center both have an elevated newborn level and a removable changing table.
3. Weight and folded size
If you fly or travel by train, weight matters more than anything else. The Maxi-Cosi Swift Eco weighs just 7kg, folds in one movement and works as a bassinet, travel cot and playpen. It also comes with a two-stage mattress for newborns and toddlers.
4. Wheels and a side zip
Wheels make it easy to move the cot from bedroom to living room. A zip-open side door lets an older baby crawl in and out during playtime. The Hauck Sleep N Play Go Plus has both, at a budget-friendly price.
5. Play features
If the cot will double as a playpen at home, look for a play mat or toys. The Chicco Playpen Travel Cot with Play Mat includes a sensory play mat and four handles that help your baby pull up to stand.
Travel cot mattresses and safe sleep
Travel cot mattresses are a common question. Use only the mattress supplied with the cot, or one made to fit that model exactly, with no gaps around the edges. Never stack an extra mattress, folded duvet or cushions on top of the base. The Lullaby Trust's safer sleep advice applies to travel cots too:
- Put your baby down on their back, with their feet at the foot of the cot.
- Keep the cot clear of pillows, bumpers and soft toys.
- Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that fits snugly.
- Do not let your baby get too hot; avoid placing the cot next to a radiator or in direct sunlight.
- Always fully lock the sides and base before use, following the instructions.
Travel cot or bedside crib?
If you mainly need a cot for the first months at home, a bedside crib may suit you better. It sits level with your bed and lets you reach your baby without getting up. Some models do both jobs: the KikkaBoo Nanna works as a bedside crib, a travel cot and a playpen, so it can move from your bedroom to a holiday let. A dedicated travel cot is usually lighter and folds smaller, which matters more if you travel often.
Tips for using a travel cot on holiday
- Practise at home first. Set the cot up and fold it away a couple of times, so the first night away is not a puzzle.
- Bring familiar bedding. A fitted sheet and baby sleeping bag from home help your baby settle in a new room. Check the sheet size matches the mattress, for example 120 x 60cm for many Hauck cots.
- Check the room. Place the cot away from windows, blind cords, heaters and anything your baby could reach through the mesh.
- Ask before you book. Many hotels offer cots, but quality varies. Bringing your own means you know it is clean, complete and safe.
- Keep the carry bag. It protects the frame in the car boot or the hold and keeps all the parts together.
Which travel cot is right for you?
- For frequent flyers: a lightweight, quick-fold model such as the Maxi-Cosi Swift Eco.
- For newborns: a cot with a raised newborn level and changing table, such as the Hauck Sleep N Play Center.
- For playtime at home: a playpen-style cot with a play mat, such as the Chicco Playpen Travel Cot.
- On a budget: the Hauck Sleep N Play Go Plus covers the essentials, with wheels and a side zip.
You can compare every model, with prices and dispatch times, in our travel cots and playpens collection.
Frequently asked questions
Can a newborn sleep in a travel cot?
Yes, as long as the cot is suitable from birth (check the product page) and you follow safer sleep advice. A raised newborn level makes it easier to lift and settle a small baby.
Can I add a thicker mattress to a travel cot?
Only if it is designed to fit that exact model. A mattress that is too thick or too small can leave gaps or raise your baby too close to the top of the sides.
How long can my child use a travel cot?
Usually until about 15kg, or earlier if they can climb out. Many families then keep using it as a playpen.
How long does a travel cot take to set up?
Most models take a few minutes once you have done it once. Practise at home before your first trip, so you are not reading instructions at midnight.