Travel cots top picks
Our top picks of travel cots on the market
The Lowdown
Whether you're planning a family holiday, a weekend away, or just the occasional night at Granny's, a travel cot is pretty much essential. Prices can range from around £25 to upwards of £100, but even the models at the lower end of the scale will offer a decent night's sleep for your baby.
What to look for
There are two main types you can choose from. The first has a rigid frame and looks the most like a traditional cot, and folds down into a rectangular shape for storage. They’re pretty sturdy, but less portable than other models, and can only be transported by car. Some of these models have enhanced features like newborn bassinets, mobiles and changing mats. They can also be used as a playpen during the day.
The second type of cot is better for travelling light and even going on holiday by plane. They pop-up like a tent, and fold compactly into often very small carry bags and can also be used as a sun shelter on hot days. The downside is that they often don't have the sturdiness or longevity of the more rigid type and are often not suitable for larger, more boisterous toddlers.
Need to know
You’ll probably need to invest in a special travel cot mattress, as often the base provided is not quite plush enough. Make sure to practice putting your chosen cot up and down - essential if you arrive at your destination late at night!
1. iSafe Rest & Play travel cot RRP £69.99
This travel cot is suitable from birth and comes complete with carrycot and handle. It is quick and simple to open and has four mesh side panels allowing ventilation and easy viewing of your little one.
2. Commuter cot, Joie, £59.99
Useful features like a detachable bassinet for the early weeks and wheels for easier manoeuvring, make this model a wise buy. You can also buy a changing table, rocking seat and a sound and light unit separately to create a welcoming and fun environment for your baby.
3. Sleeptight travel cot, Red Kite, £29.99
An award-winning and budget-busting model, that is lighter than many of its class at 8.5kg. It has padded top rails for extra comfort for little hands, and a mattress included. It folds away easily into its travel bag for easy transportation.
4. Duo Travel Cot, Jane, £109.99
This ‘cot-sized’ travel cot (120 x 60cm) also has the benefits of being compatible with the most common sized wooden cots. So you won’t need special sized bedding.
5. Jungle Fun Sleep and Go travel cot, Hauck, £49.99
Hauck have a wide range of practical travel cots, and the Sleep and Go is one of their best value models. It’s bright and colourful design, with cute character and primary colours making it an attractive buy, plus it has wheels for easier manoeuvrability and a viewing window so your child can see out.