How to choose the best travel cot for your baby 

How to set up a travel cot 

Travel cots are typically designed with click-and-lock mechanisms, where you can pull open the two sides until they lock into place, then press down the base to secure it. Some travel cots, such as the Bugaboo Stardust, are even easier to assemble. The Bugaboo Stardust has an all-in-one design that can pop up in a second, mattress included. Simply pull the sides apart and the base automatically unfolds. 

What age is a travel cot for? 

Travel cots vary in size and can come with attachments for different ages. Newborn cots have carrycot inserts for babies up to 3 months, while larger ones suit children up to 5 years old. 

For the Bugaboo Stardust, your newborn can rest in the zip-in carrycot until they’re 9 kg (19.8 lbs). After that, they can move into the travel cot until they’re 15 kg (33 lbs) — about 2 years old. 

How long can a baby nap in a travel cot? 

Travel cots are generally designed for short trips and naps — they’re not a replacement for a regular crib suited to everyday overnight sleeping. However, safety recommendations differ per product and per country, so always check your manufacturer’s guidelines for sleep limitations. If your baby is taking a nap, keep an eye on them and always check for any signs of discomfort. 

Travel cot features to look out for 

Storage bag 

Check if your travel cot includes a storage bag or shoulder straps. These features make it much easier to transport, protect the cot from damage, and keep all the parts together. This is especially helpful in busy places like airports or train stations, where having your hands free is a big advantage. 

The Bugaboo Stardust comes with a Velcro-fastened travel bag and weighs just 7.58 kg (16.7 lbs), making it easy to carry during your travels. Its integrated straps also keep it securely closed, even without the bag, for convenient use around your home. 

Easy to assemble 

Choose something quick and simple to set up, and just as easy to pack away again when it’s time to go. For instance, the Bugaboo Stardust is designed to fold in one second and unfold in three seconds, without you having to assemble or disassemble it. Everything, including the mattress, stays in place. 

Washable 

Travel cots are more exposed to the elements than the cots in your home, and frequent travelling can leave them needing a good scrub. To make sure things stay clean and fresh for your baby, pick a travel cot with washable covers or a fabric that can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. 

Carrycot 

Some travel cots feature built-in carrycots for newborns, so they can adapt to your baby's size as they grow. Carrycot inserts are positioned at about waist level within the cot, making it easier to lift your baby in and out. The Bugaboo Stardust travel cot includes a zip-in carrycot insert that can be raised or lowered to suit your baby’s age and your own height. 

Mesh sides 

Mesh materials in travel cots make it easier to keep an eye on your baby while also letting them see you. Mesh also allows for better air circulation, so your child can rest and play in comfort. 

Multipurpose 

A good travel cot can double up as a playpen, which is perfect for when you’re visiting homes or staying in hotels that haven’t been childproofed. Look for a travel cot with a roomy base that gives your baby lots of space to have fun. 

Travel cot safety tips 

Travel cots, like many baby products, must meet specific safety standards, such as the British Standard Institution safety standards — known as BS EN 716. Before buying a travel cot, check that it meets this standard to ensure it’s safe for your baby. 

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when it comes to travel cot safety: 

Stability 

Make sure that your travel cot is stable. Always use the mattress that comes with the product, as it is specifically designed to fit the cot's dimensions and will not upset its balance. Pop-up travel cots usually have flexible sides, so make sure it's in a secure spot to avoid any risk of tipping over. Be extra careful when setting up or moving the cot, and never leave your baby unattended inside it. 

Mattress 

To keep your baby safe and secure, avoid cushions and soft furnishings, and don't change the mattress, as loose or ill-fitting mattresses can create dangerous gaps. 

Buying second-hand 

If you're buying a second-hand or refurbished travel cot, always look out for a few things to make sure the product is safe for your baby: 

• Make sure the label states that it complies with safety standards, such as those from the British Standard Institution (indicated by "BS EN 716-1:2017" on the label) 
• Make sure there isn’t any obvious damage to the cot, such as broken corner coverings, holes in the mesh, or broken zips. 
• Check the condition of the mattress, and that it’s the mattress that was designed for the travel cot. 

Key takeaways 

Choosing the right travel cot can make your trips smoother and more enjoyable. Look for a cot with key features like portability, easy setup, and adherence to safety standards. Make sure your cot is stable and the mattress fits properly, too. Whether new or second-hand, safety should always come first. With the right travel cot, you can travel with confidence, knowing your baby can rest and play wherever you go.