Traveling with little ones can be a challenge, especially when finding a comfortable and safe place to sleep. That’s where travel cribs come into play. Designed to be lightweight and portable, these cribs provide a cozy and familiar environment for your baby or toddler, no matter where your journey takes you.
Flying often involves strict luggage requirements, and being able to transport a travel crib easily is essential. The best travel cribs for flying should be compact, lightweight, and simple to set up and pack away, minimizing the hassle for busy parents on the go. With countless options available, finding a travel crib that balances portability with safety and comfort for your child is essential.
When looking for the perfect travel crib, it’s essential to consider factors such as weight, ease of assembly, and sturdiness. The crib should have a safe, secure sleeping area and be made from high-quality materials, free from harmful substances. With many different features and designs available, determining what’s most important for your family’s needs is critical when purchasing.
In this article, we will review a variety of travel cribs suitable for flying, sharing our expert insight on the best options to help make your travel experience more enjoyable and stress-free for you and your little one.
Table of Contents
Best Travel Cribs for Flying
We have carefully researched and compiled a list of the best travel cribs for flying to make your journey as comfortable as possible.
HuiXin Lightweight Foldable Travel Crib
The HuiXin Lightweight Foldable Travel Crib is a top pick for parents seeking convenience and comfort when traveling with their little ones.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable design
- Compact, easy to set up and pack
- Airy mesh sides and side zipper door
Cons
- Carrying case lacks backpack straps
- Center of the mattress may dip
- Wider than advertised
Designed for effortless travel, the HuiXin Lightweight Foldable Travel Crib is made of sturdy materials, including a polyester fabric and reinforced stitching that ensures durability. Its compact size and easy assembly make it perfect for busy parents who need a convenient and reliable solution for their baby’s sleep and play needs.
The airy mesh sides provide excellent visibility, ensuring your baby is visible at all times, while also allowing your little one to look out and explore their surroundings. The side zipper door also serves as a convenient feature, as it allows for easy nursing, cuddling, or playtime with your baby without having to lift them in and out of the crib.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks to this travel crib. The carrying case, while compact, does not feature backpack straps, potentially making transportation a bit more cumbersome. The center of the mattress may also dip slightly, and the crib is wider than advertised, potentially causing issues in tight spaces. Despite these minor concerns, the HuiXin Lightweight Foldable Travel Crib remains a top choice for parents seeking a convenient and comfortable solution for their baby’s sleep and play needs while traveling.
Skip Hop Portable Playard: Play to Night Expanding Travel Crib
The Skip Hop Portable Playard is a versatile and practical choice for parents seeking a travel crib that adapts to both sleep and play needs.
Pros
- Transforms from a travel crib to a play yard in seconds
- Includes a mattress pad, sheet, and wipe-clean mat
- Breathable mesh sides provide visibility and ventilation
Cons
- Some users may find the mattress pad too thin
- Stitching in the legs may not be as durable
- Child may only want to stay inside for a short period of time
This two-in-one solution for parents on the go adapts quickly from a compact travel crib for naptime to a spacious play yard when playtime calls. The airy mesh sides ensure your baby remains visible and well-ventilated, giving you peace of mind.
The Skip Hop Portable Playard is designed with convenience, being easy to fold and pack away in its travel bag, making it the ideal travel companion for family vacations or weekends at grandma’s house. It even coordinates with the Skip Hop travel crib sheet set (sold separately) for added style.
However, some parents expressed concerns about the mattress pad thickness and stitching durability. These minor drawbacks should be weighed against this travel crib’s overall functionality and versatility. In conclusion, the Skip Hop Portable Playard provides a practical and stylish solution for play and sleep while traveling with your little one.
Maxi-Cosi Swift Lightweight Portable Playard
Parents on the go should consider the Maxi-Cosi Swift Playard for its ease of use, stylish design, and multi-functionality.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 18 lbs
- Quick one-step fold
- 2-stage mattress for newborns and toddlers
Cons
- Limited color options
- Originating from China
- No batteries for added features
The Maxi-Cosi Swift Playard is designed for modern families, offering a versatile 3-in-1 solution that accommodates children from newborn to toddler stage. Its multi-use design includes a bassinet, sleep space, and play yard, reducing the need for additional portable products. This lightweight playard is ideal for travel or everyday use, making it a convenient option for busy families.
Weighing only 18 pounds, the Swift features a unique one-step fold that’s fast and easy, allowing you to set it up or pack it away effortlessly. This quick process means you can spend more time enjoying your day and less time fussing over the assembly. The included travel bag simplifies transportation, ensuring the playard is always ready for your next adventure.
Crucially, the Maxi-Cosi Swift Playard provides your child a comfortable and safe environment. The 2-stage mattress adapts to suit newborns and toddlers, with a zip-together design allowing growth. The playard’s premium fabrics, including general mesh, ensure breathability and comfort, making this a top choice for discerning parents.
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BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light, Silver
We recommend the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light for its lightweight design, easy use, and comfortable sleeping space.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy setup and fold-up
- Comfortable, insulated mattress
Cons
- Not raised off the ground
- Possible toe-stubbing hazard with legs
- Pricey compared to some alternatives
The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is a reliable choice for those seeking an easy crib to transport and set up. Weighing in at just 11 pounds, this travel crib is perfect for on-the-go parents, providing a cozy and safe sleeping space for their baby. The compact design allows for quick and easy setup, making it an ideal choice for busy families.
Your baby will be comfortable and warm in this crib with its soft, insulated mattress. The waterproof, breathable mattress cover is machine washable, ensuring cleanliness and convenience. The net fabric side panels provide good supervision, allowing you to watch your baby while they sleep or play.
Although this travel crib offers many benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The crib sits directly on the floor, which may not be suitable for all environments or preferences. Additionally, the leg design can pose a toe-stubbing hazard for parents maneuvering around the crib in the dark. Finally, the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is expensive compared to other travel crib options. Despite these cons, we still believe it’s a top choice for parents seeking a high-quality, portable crib for their baby.
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Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib
We highly recommend the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib for parents seeking a lightweight and portable option for flying.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy setup in 15 seconds
- Backpack carrying case for convenient travel
Cons
- No sun cover included
- A maximum weight capacity of 15 pounds may limit usage as your child grows
- Not dishwasher safe
The Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib stands out for its easy use and compact, lightweight backpack carrying case. Designed with worry-free airport travel in mind, it only weighs 15 pounds when packed, making it easy to carry along on flights. The quick 15-second setup ensures you can have a safe, comfortable sleep space for your infant whenever and wherever you need it.
Constructed with aluminum and polyester materials, this travel crib is durable and easy to maintain. Remember that the maximum weight recommendation is 15 pounds, so it might not be suitable for larger infants or toddlers. Although it doesn’t come with a sun cover, the overall convenience and functionality of the Lotus Travel Crib make it a top choice for busy parents on the go.
Ultimately, the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib is an excellent choice for parents seeking a lightweight, portable, and easy-to-use option for flying with their infant. Despite minor drawbacks, it will provide a safe, comfortable space for your child during your trips.
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BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light – Silver + Fitted Sheet Bundle Pack
For traveling families, the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is an excellent option that prioritizes portability and convenience.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Quick and simple setup
- Mesh design for better visibility and airflow
Cons
- May require an additional mattress for extra comfort
- The fitted sheet not optimized for tie-down straps
- Not ideal for long-term, everyday use
The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is a fantastic solution for families on the move. Weighing only 13 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to transport, making it perfect for trips away from home. The simple setup and fold-up process will save parents valuable time and energy when preparing a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for their little ones.
This travel crib is designed with practicality and safety in mind. The airy mesh material allows for excellent supervision and ample airflow for your baby, ensuring they are always visible and comfortable. Additionally, the removable and machine-washable crib textiles make it easy for parents to maintain a clean and hygienic environment for their children.
However, some users have found the included mattress too hard for optimal comfort, suggesting the potential need for an additional playpen mattress to enhance your baby’s sleeping comfort. The fitted sheet, which comes in the bundle pack, also lacks slits for the tie-down straps, which might be inconvenient for some users. While it is a great short-term solution, the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light might not provide the necessary support and comfort for long-term, everyday use.
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Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib in Black
The Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib is a versatile and comfortable option for traveling parents, with its easy setup and lightweight design.
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality: bassinet, crib, and play yard
- Lightweight and portable design
- Comfortable, expandable mattress
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited color options
- May not suit all room decor styles
The Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib by Silver Cross offers a convenient solution for traveling families, as it easily transforms from a newborn bassinet to a toddler crib and finally to a play yard. The lightweight crib allows easy transportation without sacrificing comfort, making it an ideal choice for vacations, sleepovers, or even daily use.
Designed with your baby’s comfort in mind, the Slumber comes equipped with a soft, expandable mattress that grows alongside your child. The mesh sides provide optimal airflow, allowing for a relaxed and comfortable sleeping environment. In addition, the padded frame ensures safety during both sleep and play times.
If you’re seeking a stylish, functional, and comfortable travel crib, the Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib in Black is worth considering. Despite its higher price point and limited color options, the crib’s versatility and convenience make it a valuable addition to any family’s traveling arsenal.
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4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard
The 4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard is a versatile and convenient option for parents who require an all-in-one care station for their baby while traveling.
Pros
- Simple one-handed setup and takedown
- Detachable flip changer and removable bassinet included
- Grows with the baby, providing long-term utility
Cons
- Heavier than some other playards
- Setup on a carpeted surface may be challenging
- Daily setup and takedown with the bassinet and changing table can be cumbersome
Featuring a “one push open, one pull close” functionality, the 4moms Breeze Plus allows parents to easily set up and take down the playard with a single hand. This provides a hassle-free experience, especially when juggling the many tasks of parenthood.
The playard comes with a detachable flip changer and removable bassinet, offering a comfortable place for the baby to rest and change. This all-in-one care station means parents will have everything their baby needs in one compact, portable space while traveling.
Another great feature of the 4moms Breeze Plus is its ability to adapt as the baby grows. The bassinet can be used up to 18 pounds from birth, with the flip changer supporting up to 25 pounds and the playard accommodating children up to 30 pounds. This adaptability ensures the playard will remain a valuable part of your baby’s gear for multiple stages of its development.
Bugaboo Stardust Portable Travel Crib
We believe the Bugaboo Stardust is a fantastic option for those seeking a lightweight, easily foldable travel crib.
Pros
- Easy one-second unfold
- Compact and portable
- Suitable for newborns
Cons
- Higher price point
- The pungent smell upon unboxing
- No batteries required
The Bugaboo Stardust offers a user-friendly experience with its seamless one-second unfold feature, making it perfect for on-the-go parents. Its compact design allows for convenient storage and travel, meaning it won’t take up much space in your luggage or at home.
This travel crib is suitable for newborns and has excellent customer reviews, showcasing its reliability and quality. The item dimensions measure 25 x 38.8 x 33.5 inches and it weigh 22 pounds. Despite its higher price point, it delivers a premium experience that many parents find worthwhile.
One downside some customers have mentioned is the strong smell upon unboxing. However, this typically dissipates with proper airing. Also, the Bugaboo Stardust doesn’t require batteries, which may be a plus for some parents. Overall, its impressive features and ease of use make it a top choice for those searching for the best travel crib for flying.
4moms Breeze GO Portable Travel Playard
Thanks to its easy setup and exceptional design, parents will find the 4moms Breeze GO Portable Travel Playard handy when traveling or moving around the house.
Pros
- Effortless one-handed setup and takedown
- Durable and secure for baby’s play and rest
- Compact and travel-friendly with an included bag
Cons
- Pricey compared to some competitors
- Lacks a sheet for the mattress
- May be heavier for some users at 23.2 lbs
Designed with a one-push open and one-pull close mechanism, the 4moms Breeze GO Playard makes parenting much more accessible. The hassle-free setup and takedown make this playard stand out from many clunky alternatives, allowing parents to use it with confidence that their child has a safe space to rest or play.
The streamlined design makes it easy for parents to watch their little ones from any angle, ensuring visibility and peace of mind. Able to accommodate babies from birth to 30 pounds, this playard grows with your child, making it a long-lasting investment in your family’s well-being.
While the 4moms Breeze GO may be pricier than some options, the convenience and sturdy construction make it a worthy choice for parents looking to simplify travel and daily baby care. The included water-resistant mattress provides a comfortable spot for your baby, although a sheet is not provided and might need to be purchased separately for added comfort and cleanliness.
Buying Guide
Flying with a baby or toddler can be a challenging experience, but having the right travel crib can make the journey much smoother. This buying guide will discuss the key factors you should consider when choosing the best travel crib.
Size and Weight
When you’re flying, luggage space and weight restrictions are crucial considerations. Look for a travel crib that is compact, lightweight, and easy to carry around. Remember that lighter models may sacrifice some durability or features, so find a balance that works for you.
Portability and Ease of Setup
A good travel crib should be easy to set up and fold down. Some models come with carrying bags, making transporting them more accessible. Look for cribs with quick setup, teardown features, and clear instructions.
Comfort and Safety
Your child’s comfort and safety should be a top priority. Ensure the crib has a sturdy frame, secure locking mechanisms, and a comfortable, well-padded mattress. For younger babies, cribs with bassinet attachments can provide a cozy space for them to sleep.
Price
Travel cribs are available at various prices, so consider your budget when choosing a crib. More expensive options may offer additional features or better quality materials, but it’s also possible to find affordable cribs that still provide a good balance of durability and convenience.
Additional Features
Some travel cribs have extra features such as toy bars, storage pockets, and changing stations. While these additional features can be helpful, they are not essential and may add extra bulk or weight. Consider your specific needs and preferences when deciding which other parts are worth the investment.
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