Travel cots: a safe little sleep spot wherever you go
Holiday by the sea, a weekend at grandma's house or a long afternoon at a friend's place – your little one still needs somewhere cosy to nap. A travel cot gives your baby a familiar, protected place to sleep and play, no matter where you unpack your bags. Folded up it slips into the boot of the car, set up it turns any room into a safe nursery corner in just a few minutes. In our travel range you will find portable cots, playpens and practical extras that make life with a baby wonderfully flexible.
What exactly is a travel cot – and who needs one?
A travel cot is a lightweight, foldable baby bed with a sturdy frame, breathable mesh sides and a padded mattress base. It is made for parents on the move: for city breaks, camping trips, visits to relatives or simply for the living room, so your baby can doze nearby while you cook, work or enjoy a coffee. Many models double as a playpen once your child starts to roll, sit and pull themselves up, which makes them a clever companion well beyond the first months. If you are looking for a permanent sleeping solution at home instead, take a look at our toddler beds in the kids room section.
Safety first: what to look out for
Sleep safety is non-negotiable, so check these points before your baby moves in:
- Stable locking system: the frame should click audibly into place and stay firm when you push against the rails.
- Breathable mesh sides: they allow air to circulate and let you keep an eye on your child from across the room.
- Firm, flat mattress: a snug fit with no gaps at the edges is essential – soft pillows and bulky bumpers do not belong in a baby bed.
- Skin-friendly materials: look for tested fabrics, smooth seams and no sharp corners or small detachable parts.
- Correct height setting: use the raised newborn insert only for small babies, and lower the base as soon as your child can sit up.
Features that make everyday life easier
Beyond the basics, a few details can save you a lot of effort. A side zip opening turns the cot into a little den for older toddlers who want to crawl in and out on their own. Wheels with brakes let you move the cot from the bedroom to the kitchen without lifting it. A changing table attachment saves your back during nappy duty, while a bassinet insert brings newborns up to a comfortable height. Side pockets keep wipes and muslins within reach, and a carry bag means the whole cot travels as easily as one of our suitcases.
Choosing the right size and model
Most travel cots measure around 120 x 60 cm – roomy enough for babies and toddlers up to roughly three years, yet compact enough for small hotel rooms. Compare the folded dimensions and weight if you travel by train or plane, and the maximum load if your child is already a confident climber. Square or hexagonal playpen versions give more space for rolling and crawling, which is ideal at home next to your toys corner. For camping holidays, a robust model pairs perfectly with our tents and camping beds from the camping range.
Setting up, folding and caring for your cot
Practice the fold at home before you leave – most cots open by pulling the top rails upwards until they lock, then pushing the centre of the base down. Place the cot away from radiators, windows, cords and curtains, and on a level surface. Washable fabric covers and a wipe-clean mattress make cleaning quick: a damp cloth with mild soap is usually enough, and the cot should dry completely before being folded away to avoid odours. Store it in its carry bag in a dry spot, for example on a free shelf of our shelving units.
Helping your baby settle in a new place
A change of scenery can unsettle little sleepers, so bring familiar things along: the usual sleeping bag, a favourite comforter and the same bedtime routine you follow at home. Let your child play in the cot during the day so it feels friendly rather than strange, keep the room dark and quiet at night, and give the mattress a few days of use at home before you travel. Combine the cot with a pushchair for daytime naps on the go and a booster seat for mealtimes, and your little one will have a reliable routine wherever you are.
Ready for your next adventure
With a sturdy, well thought-out travel cot you gain freedom: spontaneous weekends away, long family visits and holidays where naptime simply works. Browse the kids world for everything that goes with it – from practical kids furniture and playful rocking animals to garden favourites such as sandboxes and other toys. Pack a picnic basket, fold the cot into the car and enjoy sweet dreams on the road.