Traveling with toddlers can be an adventure, but ensuring they sleep soundly in a new environment is crucial for everyone’s well-being. A reliable Travel Bed For Toddler is more than just a convenience; it’s a travel essential that promises restful nights for your little one, and consequently, for you too. As toddlers transition from bassinets and travel cribs, the need for a comfortable and secure sleep space becomes paramount. A quality toddler travel bed offers that consistency, helping maintain sleep routines even when you’re away from home.
For many families, portable toddler beds are indispensable items, providing a safe and familiar sleeping arrangement during vacations, visits to grandparents, or any overnight stay away from home. Dr. Anjuli Gans, a pediatrician at the Karabots Pediatric Care Center in Philadelphia, emphasizes simplicity and safety when choosing a travel bed for toddler. “Simpler is always better, especially when thinking of traveling with toddlers. So, when it comes to a toddler travel bed, you don’t need all the bells and whistles,” she advises. “There are lots of fancy ones out there on the market, but your baby really just needs a safe and comfortable place to sleep.”
To simplify your search for the best toddler travel bed, we rigorously tested over 40 options, ranging from inflatable mattresses to versatile pack-and-plays. Our comprehensive testing process, conducted both in controlled lab conditions and real-world home settings, involved meticulous assembly and disassembly assessments – even attempting setup with just one hand, while timing each step. We thoroughly evaluated features, weight-bearing capacity, and ease of cleaning. As new models emerge, we remain committed to ongoing testing to keep our recommendations current. Based on our extensive evaluations, these are our top picks for toddler travel beds, designed to meet various travel needs and preferences.
Our Top Picks for Toddler Travel Beds
Best Air Mattress
Sleepah Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
PHOTO: Amazon
Check Price on Amazon | Check Price at Walmart | View on Sleepah.com
Why We Recommend It
The Sleepah Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed stands out as a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. Priced affordably, it impressed our testers with its robust material and ease of inflation. Our testing team confirmed, “Assembly was straightforward, and we were able to fully inflate the bed within 5 minutes using the included pump.”
This lightweight travel bed for toddler, designed to fit standard crib sheets, features high side bumpers that are essential for preventing active toddlers from rolling out during the night. The removable inner mattress simplifies setup, cleaning, and deflation. The package includes a convenient air pump, a repair patch kit, a carrying case, and a soft cloud pillow, enhancing its travel-friendly nature. With an impressive weight capacity of 300 lbs, the Sleepah bed is sturdy enough to even support an adult who might need to lie down with their child, making it a versatile portable bed for toddler.
Parent Feedback
Kimberly, a mother to a 22-month-old, shares her positive experience: “The bed feels durable and structurally very sound, much like our high-end air mattresses at home. My daughter slept really well, and there were no sleep disruptions while using it.”
Points to Consider
One tester observed minor deflation after several nights of use by a very active sleeper. However, the overall durability, warranty, and included patch kit provided reassurance.
Key Features:
-
Material: Durable PVC
-
Weight: 9.79 lbs
-
Dimensions (Open): 61″ L x 40″ W x 12″ H
-
Dimensions (Folded): Not specified
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: 18 months–8 years, up to 300 lbs.
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-sleepah-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-118-2-9d9fe1fbd4ec4dda9c0794d313b28b3f.jpeg)
Image alt text: Close-up of hands rolling up the deflated Sleepah inflatable toddler travel bed for storage. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-sleepah-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-124-2-9d1e2108ba754369adb42edaf4c0b3d7.jpeg)
Image alt text: Person holding the Sleepah inflatable toddler travel bed in its blue carrying bag, showcasing portability. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-sleepah-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-116-2-0fa430862ed64a2bbf0417a8fdb09726.jpeg)
Image alt text: Inflating the Sleepah toddler travel bed with the provided air pump, illustrating ease of setup. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-product-sleepah-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-113-2-1c577b4746c141198e443a3972121170.jpeg)
Image alt text: The Sleepah inflatable toddler travel bed fully inflated, highlighting its size and bumper design for safety. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-sleepah-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-123-2-e26d59f4c8e14bf6ae5227e7c1cbd659.jpeg)
Image alt text: Packing the deflated Sleepah inflatable toddler travel bed back into its carrying bag, demonstrating compact storage.
Best Travel Crib
Guava Lotus Adventure & Travel Set
PHOTO: Amazon
View on Guavafamily.com | View on Babylist.com
Why We Recommend It
The Guava Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib is a premium, thoughtfully designed portable crib for toddler, often considered the gold standard in pack-and-plays. Praised for its effortless setup and takedown, along with a hands-free, backpack-style carrying case, it received exceptional marks for user-friendliness and its remarkably compact design. Guava offers a 60-day trial, allowing parents to test the bed’s suitability for their family.
This sturdy travel crib for toddler features a wide, stable base that rests directly on the floor, providing enhanced security and preventing tipping. A convenient side zipper allows easy access for toddlers who are crawling (and reduces back strain for parents!). The Adventure & Travel Bundle we tested includes valuable accessories such as a mosquito net, a sunshade with SPF 55 for superior sun protection, and two fitted sheets, making it a comprehensive travel solution for toddler sleep.
Parent Feedback
Allie, a mother of a toddler, highlights the practical design: “The carry bag’s conversion from hand-carry to backpack is brilliant. The lightly padded straps make it comfortable to carry for extended periods. I appreciate how compactly it packs and its high-quality, well-made feel.”
Points to Consider
With a price of $230 for the crib alone and $345 for the tested bundle, the Lotus is positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum for travel beds. Its size also means that it becomes unsuitable once a child is capable of climbing out, limiting its lifespan compared to some other options.
Key Features:
-
Material: Aluminum frame, washable fabric and mesh
-
Weight: 15 lbs
-
Dimensions (Open): 45.5″ L x 31.5″ W x 25.5 H
-
Dimensions (Folded): 24″ L x 12″ W x 8″ H
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: Newborn up to age 3, no weight limit (floor-based design)
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Guava-Family-Lotus-Travel-Crib-leticia-almeida-photo-01-1-cb11b7f17c08472794140a5644b7e350.jpeg)
Image alt text: A person holding the compact Guava Lotus travel crib in its storage bag, showcasing its portability. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Guava-Family-Lotus-Travel-Crib-leticia-almeida-photo-04.jpg-677edf4920104bcbb55f22cbf49b61bc.jpg)
Image alt text: Fully assembled Guava Lotus travel crib set up on a rug, demonstrating its design and stability. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Guava-Family-Lotus-Travel-Crib-leticia-almeida-photo-05.jpg-a1c9d50e4fd7472082709b7158c72600.jpg)
Image alt text: Close up view of the side zipper opening on the Guava Lotus travel crib, highlighting easy access feature. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Guava-Family-Lotus-Travel-Crib-leticia-almeida-photo-02-afeaa03da7c344dba350267d569cfa71.jpeg)
Image alt text: Hands assembling the Guava Lotus travel crib frame, demonstrating the quick setup process.
Best for Air Travel
JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper Inflatable Travel Bed
PHOTO: Amazon
Check Price on Amazon | Check Price at Bloomingdales | View on Maisonette.com
Why We Recommend It
For families frequently flying, the JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper Inflatable Kids Bed is our top recommendation as the best travel bed for toddler on airplanes. Recognizing the challenges of air travel with young children, this bed is specifically designed for portability and convenience. Its unique design allows it to fold compactly to fit inside standard luggage. Key features include side bumpers to prevent rolling off and an air mesh cover to enhance breathability and comfort during sleep.
The CloudSleeper excels in ease of use, inflating in just five minutes, a crucial advantage when managing tired children at your destination. Its lightweight design and included carry bag with handles further simplify transport, making it an excellent portable inflatable toddler bed. The mattress cover is removable and washable, designed for quick spot cleaning and drying – essential for handling any nighttime accidents while traveling. Deflation is equally straightforward, packing neatly back into its compact cube for your next journey.
Parent Feedback
Allie, a seasoned traveler and mom to a toddler, remarks on its quick setup: “This is a quickly inflating mattress you put right on the ground. It took a couple of minutes to set up.”
Points to Consider
A minor drawback noted by testers is that the mattress can be slightly noisy when a child moves around during sleep.
Key Features:
-
Material: Durable Nylon
-
Weight: 4.1 pounds
-
Dimensions (Open): 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches inflated
-
Dimensions (Folded): 15 x 11 x 4 inches in travel bag
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: Ages 3 years and up; up to 68 pounds
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-stokke-jetkids-bedbox-tstaples-268-0ac58c6809a047658e3e6d94969162a2.jpeg)
Image alt text: Unpacking the JetKids CloudSleeper inflatable travel bed, showing its compact packed form. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-stokke-jetkids-bedbox-tstaples-298-cbb7644f8dcd49ce967748c9afc9d5f9.jpeg)
Image alt text: Setting up the JetKids CloudSleeper on the floor, demonstrating ease of assembly. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-stokke-jetkids-bedbox-tstaples-271-afde4dd962b04342ad10e90daff765b1.jpeg)
Image alt text: Woman inflating the JetKids CloudSleeper with integrated pump, highlighting self-inflation feature. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-stokke-jetkids-bedbox-tstaples-324-73dc295ed6474f728dd27b3302bfd832.jpeg)
Image alt text: Deflating the JetKids CloudSleeper by pressing out the air, showing quick deflation process. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-stokke-jetkids-bedbox-tstaples-274-317dac48817047e0b841815052e64d14.jpeg)
Image alt text: Testing the firmness and stability of the JetKids CloudSleeper, ensuring comfort and safety. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-stokke-jetkids-bedbox-nick-kova-00154-a2723bb8342a42858ad3f32fa8a71705.jpeg)
Image alt text: JetKids CloudSleeper set up in a room with toys, illustrating a comfortable and inviting toddler sleep space.
Best Tent
KidCo Peapod Plus Infant Travel Bed
PHOTO: KidCo
Check Price on Amazon | View on Kidco.com | View on Campingworld.com
Why We Recommend It
The KidCo PeaPod Plus travel tent is celebrated for being exceptionally lightweight and portable, making it an ideal toddler travel bed tent for families on the move. Setup is virtually instantaneous; the tent pops open automatically when removed from its travel bag. It features a dual-layer design: a transparent mesh window/door layer and a blackout fabric layer to create a darkened sleeping environment, suitable for naps anytime, anywhere.
Cleaning the PeaPod Plus is remarkably easy thanks to its lightweight material. One of our testers shared an anecdote about her son getting sick during testing, noting, “It was super simple to wipe up the mess, apply some cleaner, and wipe it dry. There are no nooks or crannies that couldn’t be easily cleaned.” This easy to clean travel bed for toddler is perfect for outdoor adventures and indoor use alike.
Parent Feedback
Heather, mother to an 11-month-old, praised the effortless setup: “Thanks to its springy, foldable nature, it would pop right into shape and open up, ready for use, in seconds. From there, I could zip the sides open or closed. It was really effortless.”
Points to Consider
While perfect for camping and outdoor naps, the PeaPod Plus might be less ideal for regular nightly use as its sleep surface is a thinner pad. The material, though easy to clean, may not feel as durable as other options for long-term, frequent use.
Key Features:
-
Material: Lightweight mesh
-
Weight: 3.5 lbs
-
Dimensions (Open): 52.5” L x 34” W x 22” H
-
Dimensions (Folded): 19” L x 3.5” W x 19” H
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: 6 months–5 years old
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-kidco-peapod-plus-travel-tent-ahuang-067-2-3c47715f692644b48a1f9ab91353a6fb.jpeg)
Image alt text: Rolling up the KidCo Peapod Plus travel bed, showing its compact and foldable tent design. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-kidco-peapod-plus-travel-tent-ahuang-070-2-aa1355aa7ae94b799176ef83ceb979c5.jpeg)
Image alt text: Packing the rolled KidCo Peapod Plus into its round carrying case, emphasizing its portability. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-kidco-peapod-plus-travel-tent-ahuang-071-2-9a319791ebe9438db634848a7cd2e63e.jpeg)
Image alt text: Holding the KidCo Peapod Plus in its carry bag, demonstrating its lightweight and ease of transport. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-product-kidco-peapod-plus-travel-tent-ahuang-063-2-8c0fcf85a09e4412b44620e7ce4d5e01.jpeg)
Image alt text: Setting up the KidCo Peapod Plus, showcasing its pop-up design for instant setup.
Best With High Walls
SlumberPod Slumber Tot Inflatable Toddler Bed
PHOTO: Amazon
Check Price on Amazon | Check Price at Nordstrom | View on Slumberpod.com
Why We Recommend It
The SlumberTot, part of the innovative SlumberPod system, is ideal for parents seeking a travel bed for toddler with extra security. SlumberPods gained popularity after appearing on Shark Tank for their unique concept: a ventilated, dark tent to enhance a child’s sleep environment. The SlumberTot inflatable mattress is designed to fit perfectly inside a SlumberPod, creating an optimal sleep solution when sharing rooms and needing to create a separate, darkened space for your child.
In our independent testing of just the SlumberTot mattress, we found it maintained excellent firmness throughout the night. It’s made from durable, thick material that’s easy to clean. The standout feature is its high side bumpers, which effectively prevent toddlers from rolling out of bed. When deflated, the SlumberTot is compact enough to fit in a suitcase and also includes its own carrying case with a convenient shoulder strap, making it a truly portable toddler inflatable bed. Notably, it is advertised as phthalate-free, distinguishing it from many other inflatable beds on the market.
Parent Feedback
Allison, a mother of a two-year-old, tested the bed’s resilience: “I wouldn’t advise letting your child jump on the inflatable mattress, but the few times my toddler did jump around, the bed never lost inflation.”
Points to Consider
At a standalone price, the SlumberTot is among the more expensive inflatable beds we tested. The cost significantly increases if purchased with the SlumberPod room-darkening system, making it a more premium investment.
Key Features:
-
Material: Phthalate-free polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
-
Weight: 6 lbs
-
Dimensions (Open): 39” L x 25” W x 4.5” H
-
Dimensions (Folded): 13.5” L x 8.5” W x 4.5” H
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: 2–6 years old, up to 200 lbs.
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-slumberpod-slumber-tot-inflatable-toddler-bed-ahuang-135-2-d571827162114013bea1c4c69b441d95.jpeg)
Image alt text: Carrying the SlumberPod Slumber Tot in its case, showing its shoulder strap for easy transport. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-slumberpod-slumber-tot-inflatable-toddler-bed-ahuang-133-2-57f7533570dd4c16ac3a3fa5781b2076.jpeg)
Image alt text: Folding the SlumberPod Slumber Tot inflatable bed, preparing it for storage in its case. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-slumberpod-slumber-tot-inflatable-toddler-bed-ahuang-127-2-78e7e644d1664cc8befe274d0a9fc12d.jpeg)
Image alt text: Inflating the SlumberPod Slumber Tot, illustrating the inflation process and bed bumpers. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-slumberpod-slumber-tot-inflatable-toddler-bed-ahuang-131-2-269d955fecd24824b80684d633651147.jpeg)
Image alt text: Unfolding the SlumberPod Slumber Tot, ready for inflation and use as a toddler travel bed. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-product-slumberpod-slumber-tot-inflatable-toddler-bed-ahuang-126-2-b1f4e4419b2f4f8ea16d0440c9599176.jpeg)
Image alt text: Inflating the SlumberPod Slumber Tot, highlighting the bed’s inflatable structure and raised sides. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-slumberpod-slumber-tot-inflatable-toddler-bed-ahuang-134-2-fe9a00dcffd24c70b88c310a2e52ab31.jpeg)
Image alt text: Storing the deflated SlumberPod Slumber Tot back into its carrying case, showcasing ease of storage.
Best for Grandparents’ House
The Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-shrunks-toddler-travel-bed-330c3cf4ad684e2d920011d97d965380.jpg)
Check Price on Amazon | Check Price at Walmart
Why We Recommend It
The Shrunks Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is an excellent choice as a convenient travel bed for toddler to keep at grandparents’ homes. It includes a pump and inflates swiftly and easily, thanks to a valve designed to prevent air leakage. This easy inflate toddler travel bed is also compatible with standard crib sheets. The pump features a reverse function, which is very useful for quick deflation when packing up.
This model features an inner mattress that attaches securely to an outer bed rail, effectively preventing children from rolling off during sleep. Constructed from phthalate-safe PVC, the material is durable and easy to wipe clean. A unique feature of The Shrunks bed is the attached inner mattress and outer bumper, which some may find convenient (no mattress sliding) while others might see as slightly challenging when fitting a sheet over both inflated parts.
Parent Feedback
Jessica, a mother of a 2-year-old, shares her son’s positive reaction: “[My son] loved sleeping on this bed and was very motivated to go to bed since it was fun and new. He slept great on it and had no wake-ups, which is a sign he was comfortable.”
Points to Consider
While robust and reasonably portable, The Shrunks carrying case lacks a handle or strap, and the bed is slightly bulkier than some other models. This makes it less ideal for frequent travel but perfect for setting up at a grandparent’s house for regular visits.
Key Features:
-
Material: Durable PVC
-
Weight: 8.5 lbs
-
Dimensions (Open): 60” L x 37” W x 9” H
-
Dimensions (Folded): 16” L x 7” W x 7” H
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: Up to 150 lbs.
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-product-shrunks-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-102-2-a97ab842691b489d8bb01f1badc5adaa.jpeg)
Image alt text: Inflating The Shrunks toddler travel bed using the included pump, showing quick and easy inflation. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-shrunks-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-105-2-09372350b7ee45fe95a05360690766c6.jpeg)
Image alt text: Unfolding The Shrunks travel bed, ready for inflation and use as a comfortable sleep space. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-shrunks-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-107-2-4b8fc92a8e1640eb99249fef6123d5d0.jpeg)
Image alt text: Folding The Shrunks toddler travel bed, demonstrating preparation for storage and transport. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-shrunks-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-1492-2-7b96c1d41634497fb730499f2b2d1433.jpeg)
Image alt text: Close up of inflating The Shrunks toddler travel bed, highlighting the valve and inflation process. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-shrunks-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-110-2-1662a089b4f44d6f9eeeb295f41fee2a.jpeg)
Image alt text: Packing The Shrunks toddler travel bed back into its carrying case, showing the storage process. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-shrunks-inflatable-toddler-travel-bed-ahuang-111-2-3ad44c09e84a44adbef79fa0d3549714.jpeg)
Image alt text: Holding The Shrunks toddler travel bed in its carry case, showcasing its portability for travel.
Check out The 15 Best Toddler Shoes for Those First Wobbly Steps and Beyond
Best for Slumber Parties
Funboy Kids Sleepover Air Mattress
PHOTO: Amazon
Check Price on Amazon | View on Funboy.com | Check Price at Revolve
Why We Recommend It
The Funboy inflatable beds are available in several appealing designs, making them a hit for children’s sleepovers or visits with cousins. We tested the retro convertible model, available in pink or blue, and other fun shapes like castles and speedboats are also offered. Inspired by the brand’s popular pool floats, these beds bring a playful element to bedtime.
Each bed comes with a robust carrying case with a shoulder strap, enhancing portability. The thick, flocked material of this comfortable toddler air mattress is exceptionally soft to the touch, providing a cozy sleep surface, especially since it is not designed to be used with a fitted sheet.
Parent Feedback
Stella, mother of a 21-month-old, highlights its versatility: “I could see my toddler using it well past his toddler stages. I love bringing this over for sleepovers. My niece (8) and nephew (6) also LOVE this bed, so it’s great for a wide range of ages.”
Points to Consider
This bed does not include a pump, which must be purchased separately from Funboy. Without a pump to fully extract air, testers found rolling and storing the bed somewhat cumbersome, making it less space-efficient for extensive travel. Additionally, it lacks side bumpers and is larger than other tested beds, which may not be ideal for toddlers who move a lot in their sleep.
Key Features:
-
Material: Not specified
-
Weight: Not specified
-
Dimensions (Open): 74″ L x 40″ W x 15″ H
-
Dimensions (Folded): Not specified
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: 3–12 years old, no weight limit given
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-product-funboy-pink-convertible-kids-sleepover-air-mattress-ahuang-035-2-3f27051ce779441bb7d31b6bef17fd9f.jpeg)
Image alt text: Inflating the Funboy Kids Sleepover Air Mattress with an electric air pump, showing quick inflation. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-funboy-pink-convertible-kids-sleepover-air-mattress-ahuang-039-2-8b0ee08f7d9e4c5f9c6d2d5cda75ec15.jpeg)
Image alt text: Folding the Funboy Kids Sleepover Air Mattress, preparing it for storage after use. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-funboy-pink-convertible-kids-sleepover-air-mattress-ahuang-037-2-acd716c17124487897a15d0e2e111653.jpeg)
Image alt text: Close-up view of inflating the Funboy Kids Sleepover Air Mattress, highlighting material and design. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-funboy-pink-convertible-kids-sleepover-air-mattress-ahuang-042-2-2f7d1392b25f464386a9b22e57733510.jpeg)
Image alt text: Packing the Funboy Kids Sleepover Air Mattress into its carrying case, showing storage process. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-detail-funboy-pink-convertible-kids-sleepover-air-mattress-ahuang-046-2-37e00e5039a1405195f081da230b6655.jpeg)
Image alt text: Carrying the Funboy Kids Sleepover Air Mattress in its case, demonstrating portability with shoulder strap.
Best for Car Travel
EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed
PHOTO: Amazon
Check Price on Amazon | Check Price at Walmart
Why We Recommend It
The EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed is exceptionally durable, almost puncture-proof, making it a reliable travel bed for toddler car trips and a robust transitional bed at home. It includes a 120-volt electric pump with three universal nozzles, a feature that significantly simplifies and speeds up inflation. Setting up this bed is remarkably easy and quick: inflating both sections and fitting a sheet took just five minutes in our tests, without needing to consult instructions.
This durable inflatable toddler bed features bumpers on three sides for added safety. The removable coil-beam mattress fits snugly within the outer shell and accommodates a standard crib sheet. Despite its bulkier size, it includes a large carry bag that can be worn as a backpack, enhancing its portability. A standout feature is the included car adapter for the electric pump, making it exceptionally convenient for camping and car travel. Cleaning is straightforward – it can be wiped down, and the crib sheet is machine washable.
Parent Feedback
Donna, a mother of a toddler, praises its ease of setup: “Could not be easier to set up. The pump is a game-changer. You don’t need directions at all. The electric pump can also plug into your car which makes this a great option for camping.”
Points to Consider
A noted downside is a chemical odor upon initial setup.
Key Features:
-
Material: Durable PVC
-
Weight: 11.88 pounds
-
Dimensions (Open): 66” x 44” x 13” inflated
-
Dimensions (Folded): Not specified
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: 36 months and up; up to 150 pounds
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-enerplex-kids-inflatable-tstaples-357-ece4e902de4d4124928c9ddc8baf469f.jpeg)
Image alt text: Assembling the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed, showing the setup process on a floor. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-enerplex-kids-inflatable-tstaples-340-944f7177d62b486aaf9bf60df4a44107.jpeg)
Image alt text: Adjusting the electric pump for the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed, highlighting the pump feature. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-enerplex-kids-inflatable-tstaples-349-6ee3049b5b054113924ce53643d75c23.jpeg)
Image alt text: Setting up the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed, demonstrating ease and speed of assembly. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-enerplex-kids-inflatable-tstaples-394-86082673daf74c3eb70181aaf4801c3b.jpeg)
Image alt text: Durability test on the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed, showing its robust construction. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-enerplex-kids-inflatable-tstaples-345-fd986aa9c823476c827ca1f77228d261.jpeg)
Image alt text: Inflating the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed with an electric pump, emphasizing fast inflation. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/prt-enerplex-kids-inflatable-bed-nick-kova-00091-95c4b128adea4dd8aa3fc34561f4c9b7.jpeg)
Image alt text: The EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed fully assembled, showcasing its size and safety bumpers. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-enerplex-kids-inflatable-tstaples-320-fa1666facf6d4ac1ba7a8a24d18a09b6.jpeg)
Image alt text: Packaging of EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed, showing compact packaging and included pump.
Best Foldable
Milliard Toddler Nap Mat Tri Folding Mattress
PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Recommend It
The Milliard Toddler Nap Mat is a non-inflatable option, featuring a folding foam mattress that is both comfortable and supportive for naptime. This foldable travel bed for toddler requires no assembly – it’s ready to use straight out of the box. Cleaning is convenient; it includes a removable bamboo cover that is machine-washable, and the foam mattress itself can be spot-cleaned, making it a practical washable travel bed for toddler.
Although it doesn’t come with a storage bag standard, a dedicated carry case with handles is available for separate purchase. Beyond travel, this mat can serve as a versatile addition to a playroom, useful for climbing, building forts, and other creative play, offering more than just a portable nap mat for toddler.
Parent Feedback
Briana, a mom to a toddler, notes its comfort and convenience: “Easy to unbox and really light. Definitely one of the more comfortable options for naptime that I’ve seen.”
Points to Consider
Like other memory foam products, the Milliard mattress needs about 48 hours after unboxing to fully expand and reach its optimal comfort level.
Key Features:
-
Material: Foam mattress; polyester and bamboo cover
-
Weight: 8.74 pounds
-
Dimensions (Open): 58” x 24” x 3” unfolded
-
Dimensions (Folded): 24” x 19” x 9” folded
-
Age & Weight Recommendation: Not specified
-
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-milliard-nap-mat-tri-folding-matress-tstaples-377-8c287fb7a3d3422ab338cc59ff05b2a3.jpeg)
Image alt text: Setting up the Milliard Toddler Nap Mat, showing how it unfolds into a comfortable sleeping surface. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-milliard-nap-mat-tri-folding-matress-tstaples-400-bc37f7fa886d4347a79f2110ff41ef57.jpeg)
Image alt text: Assembling the Milliard Toddler Nap Mat, highlighting its simple tri-fold design and ease of use. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-milliard-nap-mat-tri-folding-matress-tstaples-370-4c5d768694f94b3d8972f9e3b2702465.jpeg)
Image alt text: Two people unfolding the Milliard Toddler Nap Mat, demonstrating quick setup and ease of handling. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-milliard-nap-mat-tri-folding-matress-tstaples-381-c7cc15868e824a01a24832edb4ce480a.jpeg)
Image alt text: Unpacking the Milliard Toddler Nap Mat, showing it ready to use right out of the box with no assembly. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-milliard-nap-mat-tri-folding-matress-tstaples-360-b308ed9ba592458ba422229b74000037.jpeg)
Image alt text: Close-up of unpacking the Milliard Toddler Nap Mat, highlighting its compact folded form for travel. -
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/traveler-toddler-beds-test-milliard-nap-mat-tri-folding-matress-tstaples-404-7604c6c4bd9d432d85d525f2fd3ff9bc.jpeg)
Image alt text: The Milliard Toddler Nap Mat fully unfolded on a living room floor, ready for use as a comfortable nap space.
Other Notable Toddler Travel Beds
(This section intentionally left as in original article, as it doesn’t list specific products but indicates more were tested).
Our Testing Process
Our parent testers evaluated 20 different children’s travel beds and over 20 pack-and-plays in the Parents Testing Lab and in various real-world scenarios, including homes, parks, beaches, and during travel. These beds were tested for both overnight sleep and naps with children aged 10 months to 4 years. The primary criteria for our evaluations were:
- Ease of Use: Testers timed the setup of each toddler travel bed, noting how long it took from unboxing to full assembly. We assessed if beds could be assembled single-handedly and noted those requiring two hands or additional help. Weight capacity was tested using a 25-to-30-pound sandbag. Cleaning ease was evaluated, focusing on hard-to-reach areas and material wipe-down capabilities. Compatibility with standard crib sheets was also verified. Disassembly ease, including one-handed breakdown and packing into the provided carry bag, was timed and assessed.
- Comfort: Ensuring comfort for a good night’s sleep was a priority. We focused on how secure and comfortable the beds were for children, minimizing sleep disruptions. Child testers slept in each bed at least five times to provide comprehensive feedback on comfort.
- Durability: Durability was crucial, assessing material quality, design integrity, and potential flaws like deflation or punctures in air mattresses. Testers monitored for any deal-breaking issues during use.
- Portability: Portability was key, especially for travel scenarios. We assessed ease of packing, carry bag design, size, and the availability of hands-free carrying options, ensuring each portable toddler bed was truly travel-friendly.
Our Experts
In addition to our practical testing, we consulted with medical professionals to gain expert insights on selecting a safe travel bed for toddler and essential safety features. Our experts included:
- Anjuli Gans, MD, Pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center, West Philadelphia
- Lynelle Schneeberg, PsyD, Pediatric Sleep Psychologist and author of Become Your Child’s Sleep Coach: The Bedtime Doctor’s 5-Step Guide, Ages 3-10
- Tomomi Hayashi, MD, Pediatrician at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health Pediatrics, Los Gatos, CA
Factors to Consider When Buying a Toddler Travel Bed
- Safety: Toddler safety is paramount. Dr. Hayashi advises following all manufacturer instructions and never placing travel beds on elevated surfaces. Verify that the bed is age and size-appropriate and free from hazards. For health-conscious parents, note that many inflatable beds are made of PVC, potentially containing phthalates and releasing harmful off-gassing. The SlumberTot is a notable exception, claiming to be phthalate-free.
- Comfort: Comfort is subjective but critical for sleep quality. Consider your toddler’s preferences – some may adapt easily, while others might be sensitive to new bed types, especially inflatable mattresses. Familiarity and comfort items from home can ease transitions.
- Ease of Use: Simplicity in setup and takedown is vital, especially when arriving at your destination with a tired toddler. Look for beds that are easy to assemble, clean, and include helpful accessories like pumps and carry bags. Hands-free carry options are also beneficial. Consider how easily the bed repacks into its case – avoiding struggles when it’s time to leave.
- Toddler’s Age and Size: Bed size appropriateness is crucial. Smaller beds are suitable for younger toddlers not yet able to climb out. Dr. Hayashi recommends enclosed spaces until toddlers are reliably non-wandering. Choose a bed that fits your child’s current size and consider future growth. Also, think about whether you might need to lie down with your child and ensure the bed’s weight capacity is sufficient. Many of our recommendations are designed to accommodate older toddlers and have high weight limits.
- Travel Frequency and Type: Your travel style dictates the best bed type. For frequent air travel or road trips, consider compact, suitcase-friendly models. Bulkier options are better suited for less frequent moves, such as use at a grandparent’s house. If outdoor use is anticipated, consider weatherproof fabrics, sunshades, and netting features.
How to Use Toddler Travel Beds Safely
Ensuring your child’s safety in a travel bed is crucial, especially in unfamiliar settings. Follow these safety tips:
- Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Dr. Gans emphasizes adhering to safe sleep practices used at home, including age and weight recommendations for each travel bed for toddler.
- Secure Assembly: Ensure proper assembly by following instructions to guarantee a firm, safe sleep surface without suffocation risks or entrapment hazards. Check for sharp edges or points where clothing could catch, as noted by Dr. Gans.
- Supervision: Never leave a toddler unattended in a travel bed. Supervision is essential, especially in unfamiliar environments where safety proofing may be limited. Dr. Hayashi advises constant awareness of the child’s activities to prevent wandering and potential hazards.
- Appropriate Sleepwear: Use snug-fitting pajamas as recommended by the CPSC to meet flammability standards for children’s sleepwear.
- Check for Product Recalls: Dr. Gans recommends checking the CPSC website for product recalls to ensure the chosen toddler travel bed is safe and hasn’t been recalled.
- Follow Safe Sleep Guidelines: Adopt AAP safe sleep guidelines, including placing your child on their back on a firm, non-inclined surface, avoiding soft bedding, and removing suffocation hazards like stuffed animals.
How to Keep Your Toddler in Bed While Traveling
A travel bed for toddler with bumpers or a pack-and-play can help prevent falls. For toddlers used to cribs, pack-and-plays or travel cribs are preferable. For climbers, a mat or inflatable mattress is safer to avoid tipping. Familiar items from home can encourage toddlers to stay in bed in new places.
Dr. Schneeberg suggests, “The best thing to do when traveling is to bring along items from the child’s home bedroom. Parents can bring along the child’s favorite pillow, ‘bedtime buddy,’ 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.”
Who We Are
Elizabeth Kocan is a writer for Parents and mother of two, drawing from personal experience with various sleep solutions for children.
Ambrosia V. Brody is an editor, journalist, and mother of three, contributing to Parents with over 16 years of professional journalism experience.
