Travel crib age ranges really vary, so always look at what the manufacturer suggests and if there is a weight limit. Most travel cribs range from three months to three years old, but some come with cribs designed for newborns and others can support a child up to five years old. If you're looking for an option to use for your older baby or toddler, you'll need to check the size of the cribs you're interested in. Travel cots differ widely in size.
Some of the more compact cribs are light to transport and easy to store, but for this reason they will only last between 3 and 18 months. Others are larger and you can use them from 3 or 6 months to 3 years or even 5 years old, such as with the Bushbaby Nestegg folding travel cot. However, most foldable cribs, such as the Samsonite folding bubble crib, are a great option for camping, but they usually only last 6 to 18 months due to their size. At home or on the go, the Maxi Cosi Swift 3 in 1 can be used as a crib, a children's bed or a playpen for babies.
Travel crib mattresses are usually thinner and feel harder than those in a permanent crib, but don't be tempted to place folded blankets or a quilt under your baby to make it “more comfortable.” With the skillful assistance of her 10-month-old and three-year-old children, Clemmie is a lifestyle writer specializing in parenting, wellness and travel. You need a more robust permanent crib for normal daily use, in addition to a travel cot for occasional use. Chances are, you won't need a travel cot for the first few months, especially if you already have a bassinet, portable crib, or carrycot or car seat suitable for sleeping through the night. But with the quick removal of the lower shelf, the legs fold toward the center and the whole thing collapses and stows away in a travel bag.
To ensure that all safety precautions are met, The Lullaby Trust recommends buying new cribs whenever possible, however, a second-hand travel cot can be a good cost-effective option, especially if you only plan to use it occasionally. When you have a baby, unless you're able to teleport, you can say goodbye to the idea of traveling light. If you're visiting a home that hasn't been child proof, a larger travel cot that doubles as a playground would be incredibly useful. All travel cribs are designed to be light enough to carry, but some are heavier than others, and there is usually a trade-off between how light it is and how durable it is.
In addition, travel cots are made to be used with an original mattress so that your baby can be stable and comfortable while sleeping. In addition to that, make sure to choose a travel crib that is designed to fit your baby's age. Most standard travel cots can be used with a newborn baby and are even more comfortable if the crib is supplied with a carrycot. You can get the foldable travel crib if you travel frequently, but the traditional, sturdy frame type can be used at home, as it can serve as a semi-permanent accessory for your toddler.
