Best Travel Bassinets for Newborns and Toddlers in 2024

Updated on:

Your traveling days don’t have to end when you have a baby. Sure, it may not be as easy to go everywhere you want with a new addition, but it doesn’t have to be impossible.

Having a comfortable and familiar place for your baby to sleep that you can easily take with you can make traveling a little less hectic.

That’s where a top travel bassinet can really come in handy in those first few months.

In this article, we will review the following bassinets suitable for travel:

Best Travel Bassinets For Newborns And Toddlers

Bassinet Designs Suitable for Travel

Foldable Travel Bassinet

s you can probably guess, a foldable babies bassinet has a mechanism allowing it to fold into a smaller, more compact package for storage or travel.

Some even transform into its own bag or backpack to take it with you easier.

Some foldable bassinets may be very soft and somewhat flimsy, made with simple baby-safe fabrics and a bit of padding.

Others may be more structured with metal framing making a strong travel baby bed.

Co-Sleepers

Co-sleeping tends to be a controversial topic, particularly when it comes to the safety of the baby sharing a bed with their parents.

However, a co-sleeper bassinet can take the worry out of sleeping with your baby.

A co-sleeper is basically a bed within a bed. It’s a little, safe place for baby sleep that has “walls” made with mesh, metal, and/or plush material to keep you from rolling on them during the night.

Usually, they can be used either on your big bed or standalone on the floor for nap time during the day.

Not every in bed co-sleeper is foldable; some are simply meant to be used at home only.

Foldable co-sleepers are easier to travel with since they either fold small enough to fit into luggage, or they may come with some sort of handle or straps for carrying.

Freestanding Travel Bassinet

Freestanding bassinets may be more like what you picture when you hear the word “bassinet” and just look like a portable crib.

They are smaller than a crib but are still elevated on some sort of stand so you can keep your baby by your bedside.

This type of bassinet can be a little bit bulky, but there are some freestanding bassinet models that can be folded easily for travel and/or storage.

Travel Bag Bassinet Combos

One very unique style of bassinet is the travel bag/bassinet combo.

Basically, this style is a diaper bag or backpack that opens up to double as a bassinet and diaper changing area, eliminating the need to carry an extra baby item with the rest of your luggage. They are easy to fold up again making for a great portable baby bed.

It’s really a great 3-for-1 deal and a clever accessory for easier baby travel.

You can keep everything nearby that you would need for diaper or outfit changes, feeding, and playtime in the convenient exterior pockets.

Best Travel Bassinets For Newborns

Assessment Criteria

Size & Weight of Bassinet

If you are going to be traveling with your baby, it is very likely that you won’t want to have a bassinet that is bulky and heavy to take with you in addition to your other luggage.

The size and weight of your bassinet are probably going to play a big role in the one you end up choosing.

Most co-sleeper, foldable, and travel combo models are going to be very compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry them on your arm or back, and they don’t take up very much trunk space.

Freestanding bassinets can be a little bulkier, but they are still lighter and smaller than a pack n play.

Not only do you need to consider the size of your bassinet when it comes to packing for your travel plans, but you also need to keep this in mind for your baby’s age and developmental stage.

Many bassinets are only meant to be used until your baby starts rolling or pulling up on their own. They will likely outgrow their bassinet by the time they are 3 months old so keep an eye on the specified weight limit.

Suitability for Type of Travel

Some bassinets are more suited to one type of travel over another.

Folding or travel combo models are better for air travel since they can be used as a diaper bag or carry-on whereas freestanding bassinets would be better for a road trip since they will fit in the trunk easier.

You also need to consider your destination and method of lodging. Would a co-sleeper be a better option for your hotel room?

Are you staying in someone’s home where they will have room to set up a freestanding bassinet by the bed?

Perhaps you are just going out for the day and simply need a clean place to lay your baby down for a nap or to change their diaper.

All of these things need to be considered when choosing a bassinet for your travel needs.

Best Foldable Travel Bassinet of 2024

1. Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet

Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go
This bassinet from Munchkin provides a safe and comfortable place for your baby to lie down just about anywhere you may go. Use it for an afternoon at the park or for a day trip to the grandparents’ house.

With a metal frame – with four-point Safe-T locking system – and breathable mesh all the way around, you can rest assured that your baby is safe while lying in their bassinet.

The compact fold and carrying handle make it very convenient to take the Brica Fold N’ Go wherever you may need it.

It is not recommended to use this bassinet on an elevated surface; it is also a bit too big to be used as a co-sleeper.

You should also discontinue use by the time your baby is 3 months old and starting to roll a bit more.

Pros:

  • Machine washable
  • Mesh panels for better breathability
  • Four-point Safe-T lock system increase stability
  • Lightweight design with carry handle
  • Removable fitted sheet

Cons:

  • Difficult to use when baby starts rolling
  • Too big to use as a co-sleeper
  • Very thin, hard mattress
  • Frame and mesh sides are a bit flimsy

>>>Check Price<<<

2. Lulyboo Baby Lounger to Go Travel Bed

No products found.
For indoor use, the Lulyboo baby lounger is not only a great travel bassinet, but it is also a comfortable and convenient co-sleeper.

This bassinet is very soft and cushy, making it a comfortable place for your baby to lie down. It is also extremely portable thanks to its lightweight materials and its ability to transform into an easy to carry backpack.

You can also easily use this bassinet as a changing station thanks to the waterproof bottom and easy to clean cover. No need to worry about difficult messes to clean up.

It comes in six different colors/patterns, giving you plenty of options to match your bedroom or nursery aesthetic.

Pros:

  • Converts into a backpack for easy carrying
  • Waterproof bottom
  • Activity bar and canopy included
  • Available in 6 colors
  • Cover removes for easy washing

Cons:

  • Sides are very soft and flimsy
  • Hard to maintain shape after being folded
  • Somewhat overpriced
  • Canopy doesn’t fold down easily

>>>Check Price<<<

3. Swaddle Me By Your Side Sleeper

Lulyboo Baby Lounger to Go
The Swaddle Me by Your Side sleeper is one of the best co-sleeper models on the market. With a sturdy metal frame, you do not need to worry about rolling over on your baby while you are sleeping.

The breathable mesh sides allow for better visibility and air flow, lowering your baby’s risk for SIDS.

It is a bit large to use comfortably in a bed smaller than a king with two adults. However, despite its size, it folds down nice and compact, making it easy to travel with.

Pros:

  • Mesh sides for visibility and breathability
  • Includes mattress pad and fitted sheet
  • Sturdy metal frame with tall sides
  • Large area for little one to stretch out
  • Frame folds flat for travel

Cons:

  • Too large to use as a co-sleeper comfortably with two people
  • Mattress is flimsy
  • Mat can mold if it holds moisture for too long
  • Mattress has a plastic-type cover/coating and odor upon unboxing

>>>Check Price<<<

Best Freestanding Travel Bassinets in 2024

1. Dream on Me Traveler Portable Bassinet

Dream on Me Traveler Portable Bassinet
This is one of the best freestanding portable bassinet designs, with a sturdy frame and quality materials.

No need to fuss with complicated assembly. The Dream on Me Traveler bassinet is easy to set up with snap on legs and a one-piece top structure that creates a nice travel cot.

It is also easy to clean. The mattress pad and fabric bassinet cover are removable and washable.

Being a freestanding bassinet at 7 pounds, it is still a bit bulky for some travel methods, but it is convenient for traveling by car when you have more trunk space.

Pros:

  • Legs snap on for simple setup
  • Mattress pad and bassinet cover are easy to clean
  • Roomy, padded mattress
  • Folds quickly and fits into convenient carry case
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Very small mesh panels on two of the four sides
  • A bit bulky for a travel bassinet
  • Strong chemical odor upon unboxing
  • Replacement sheets are difficult to find

>>>Check Price<<<

2. MiClassic All Mesh 2-in-1 Stationary & Rock Bassinet

MiClassic All Mesh 2-in-1 Stationary & Rock Bassinet
Similar to the Dream on Me, this bassinet from MiClassic offers a clean design with a sturdy metal frame.

One of the biggest differences between the two is that this one has a rocking mode that can be an additional method of soothing for your baby.

Of course, it can also be used in stationary mode while your baby is sleeping to keep them safe and secure. The frame is very sturdy and again makes a strong travel cot.

The biggest complaint with this bassinet has to do with the mattress pad itself. It is difficult to find extra sheets that are the correct size and shape, and it isn’t the most comfortable.

However, it is spacious and surrounded on all sides by mesh fabric, allowing better visibility and breathability.

Pros:

  • Breathable mesh on all sides
  • Folds compactly into carry bag (included)
  • One-second open and fold system
  • Can be used in rocking and stationary modes
  • Sturdy frame and design

Cons:

  • Takes up a lot of floor space
  • Difficult to find fitted sheets that keep mattress flat
  • Thick fabric covering side crossbars pose suffocation risk
  • Crease in the center of the mattress is uncomfortable

>>>Check Price<<<

3. Fisher-Price Rock with Me Bassinet

Fisher-Price Rock with Me Bassinet
Fisher-Price is a name every parent knows. They’ve made trusted baby and child products for years, and the Rock with Me bassinet is another great product.

This freestanding bassinet can be used in both rocking and stationary modes, giving you the option to soothe your baby to put them to sleep and lock it in place to keep them safe while they sleep.

It also works well as a bedside co-sleeper, keeping your baby at just the right height for your bed. You can easily see your baby and reach them without leaving your bed during the night.

Pros:

  • Can be used as a rocker and stationary bassinet
  • Machine washable mattress pad
  • Includes soft rattle toy and mirror
  • Available in 2 colors
  • Just the right height for bedside use

Cons:

  • Baby will outgrow this quickly
  • Mirror is not removable
  • Rather bulky to transport on a regular basis
  • Mattress pad may shrink in the wash

>>>Check Price<<<

Best Travel Bag Bassinet Combos

1. Scuddles 3-1 Portable Bassinet

Scuddles 3-1 Portable Bassinet
What better way to keep everything you need for your outing in one place than with the Scuddles travel bassinet? What looks like a classy and sleek diaper bag actually transforms into a safe and clean place to lay your baby down.

This 3-in-1 model opens up into a bassinet with a removable mattress pad that can also be used as a changing pad and clean barrier between your baby and dirty surfaces.

There are quite a few pockets to store everything you need for your outing, including 5 zipper compartments and 3 elasticized external pockets.

Pros:

  • Very inexpensive
  • Works as a travel crib, diaper bag, and portable changing station
  • Plenty of pockets for storage
  • Easy to clean with machine washable pad
  • High quality materials

Cons:

  • Somewhat difficult to assemble
  • Does not have backpack straps
  • Mattress pad takes up a lot of space when folded
  • Shoulder strap is not adjustable

>>>Check Price<<<

2. Koalaty 3-in-1 Universal Baby Travel Bag

No products found.
Another great bag combo that transforms into a bassinet is this one from Koalaty. This one is a little more spacious than the Scuddles bag, allowing you to use it a bit longer for your baby, especially as a changing pad.

There are no backpack straps for this bag, however, unlike the Scuddles model, the shoulder strap for this bag is adjustable, making it a bit easier to carry in most situations.

As far as storage goes, there are 4 large, deep external pockets that can be used to keep all of your baby’s changing, feeding, and playtime necessities within reach.

It is quick and easy to fold up and throw over the shoulder for fast portability.

Pros:

  • Works as a diaper bag, sleeper bassinet, play area and changing table
  • Made with washable polyester
  • Carried by handle or adjustable shoulder strap
  • Has 4 large zippered pockets
  • Gender neutral, trendy design

Cons:

  • Poor ventilation inside baby travel bed
  • Does not have backpack straps
  • Only practical up to 6 months of age
  • Mattress pad is very thin

>>>Check Price<<<

Are Travel Bassinets Safe?

Travel bassinets are very safe as long as you use them the right way.

They aren’t as sturdy as a crib, even the freestanding models, so you want to make sure you closely monitor your baby while they are sleeping.

Most manufacturers recommend that you stop using them around 3 months, when your baby starts rolling more.

Bassinets that are made to be used on another surface, such as co-sleepers and the travel bag combos, should not be used unattended.

If your baby is somewhat mobile, they could easily roll over or pull up on the side and tip it over, causing the them to fall off the couch, bed, or any other surface you have it set up on.

Co-sleepers should also be used with caution.

They are much safer than the alternative (allowing your baby to sleep directly in your bed), but the bottom mattress or pad isn’t always as firm as a crib mattress, posing a risk for SIDS if not monitored closely.

Read product descriptions and reviews before deciding which travel bassinet you will be using.

Choose the right type for your needs. Follow all assembly and use instructions. Always be aware of where your baby is and what they’re doing.

Following these simple directions will ensure that your travel bassinet is safe to use, and in turn, your baby as well.

Alternatives To A Travel Bassinet

Travel Crib

Travel bassinets are great for the infant days when you just need a safe, comfy, and clean place for them to sleep, but as they get older, you will need a bigger space not only for sleeping but also for playtime.

Travel cribs or playards may be a bit bulkier to take with you for baby travel. But they can be a great alternative to a bassinet, especially if you are going on an extended trip or spending a few days at the grandparents’ house.

A travel crib not only provides more space for your baby, but it is much sturdier than a travel bassinet.

As long as you have a reliable model with mesh on all four sides and a metal frame, you don’t need to worry too much when your baby is sleeping.

Just be sure to set up the baby monitor if you plan to leave the room during nap time, and don’t leave your little one unattended while they are awake or playing.

baby carrier for travel

Baby Carrier

You can’t always count on having an extra seat open next to you on a plane, so it may not be the best plan to rely on using a bassinet.

Utilizing a baby carrier on your flight can be a comfortable, easy, and safe way for you and your baby to get some sleep when you don’t have any extra space around you.

A baby carrier is also a handy option for day trips. You don’t have anything bulky to take with you.

You can also keep on the move with your baby in their carrier; no need to find a place to sit for a while in order to set up a bassinet for baby sleep.

Final Word

Travel bassinets are a great option for parents who want to make traveling a little bit easier.

Choosing the right type of travel bassinet can help your baby – and in turn, you – get a better night’s sleep by giving them a comfortable and familiar environment to rest in.

Our top pick for the best travel bassinet was the Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go. But as you can see there is a variety of designs that will suit different travel plans and transport methods.

There are quite a few great models available on the market. You are certain to find one that meets your family and baby travel needs.

Read more: 

Sharing is caring!

Photo of author
Author
Hi, my name is Schianne, wife to my high school sweetheart and mother to a beautiful and clever little girl. I've always had a passion for all thing writing and literature, and motherhood has really allowed me to bring that passion to life. Experiencing how wonderfully challenging pregnancy and motherhood can be has made me want to share my story and tips with other mothers to help them realize two very important things: you are not alone and you are stronger than you think!

Leave a Comment