Best Portable Crib: Top Picks for Traveling Families in 2025
Finding the perfect portable crib can make traveling with your little one significantly easier. Whether you’re flying across the country or simply visiting grandparents for the weekend, a quality travel crib provides your baby with a safe, familiar place to sleep. After analyzing parent reviews and expert recommendations, we’ve compiled this list of the best portable cribs available today.
What Makes a Great Portable Crib?
Before diving into our recommendations, let’s look at what features matter most:
- Weight and portability: Should be lightweight and compact when folded
- Ease of setup: Quick assembly without complicated instructions
- Comfort: Supportive mattress and breathable sides
- Safety standards: Meets or exceeds safety regulations
- Versatility: Age range and weight limits
Top 7 Portable Cribs Compared
| Model | Weight | Age Range | Setup Time | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guava Lotus Travel Crib | 13 lbs | 0-3 years | 15 seconds | $$$ | 4.8/5 |
| Silver Cross Sleep & Go | 17.6 lbs | 0-3 years | 2 minutes | $$$ | 4.7/5 |
| BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light | 13 lbs | 0-3 years | 1 minute | $$$$ | 4.6/5 |
| Joovy Gloo | 11 lbs | 0-2 years | 30 seconds | $$ | 4.5/5 |
| Graco Pack ‘n Play On the Go | 20 lbs | 0-3 years | 3 minutes | $ | 4.4/5 |
| 4moms Breeze GO | 23 lbs | 0-3 years | 1 minute | $$$ | 4.3/5 |
| Chicco Alfa Lite | 14 lbs | 0-2 years | 2 minutes | $$ | 4.2/5 |
1. Guava Lotus Travel Crib
The Guava Lotus consistently ranks as a top choice among traveling parents, and for good reason.
Features:
- Lightweight at just 13 pounds
- Backpack-style carrying case for hands-free transport
- Side zipper door for easy access to baby
- Chemical-free, Greenguard Gold certified materials
- 15-second setup with one-piece design
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Incredibly quick setup – Unique side zipper for access – Compact fold fits in overhead compartments – Non-toxic materials | – Higher price point – Mattress is thinner than some competitors – Sheet sold separately |
Parents on Reddit particularly praise the Lotus, with one calling it “the single piece of expensive baby gear I recommend for anyone who might travel with a baby.”
2. Silver Cross Sleep & Go Travel Crib
This versatile 3-in-1 design makes the Silver Cross Sleep & Go an excellent investment for parents seeking functionality.
Features:
- 3-in-1 design: bassinet, travel crib, and play yard
- Adjustable height positions
- Includes padded mattress and fitted sheet
- Mesh sides for visibility and airflow
- Compact fold with travel bag
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Grows with your child – Quality construction – Includes sheet – Good value for 3-in-1 functionality | – Heavier than some competitors – Takes longer to set up – Bulkier when folded |
Mom testers consistently rate this crib highly for its versatility and quality construction, making it worth the investment for frequent travelers.
3. Joovy Gloo Portable Travel Bed
The Joovy Gloo stands out for its ultra-compact design and impressive portability.
Features:
- Ultra-lightweight at 11 pounds
- Pop-up design similar to a tent
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Self-inflating mattress
- Fits in carry-on luggage
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Extremely compact fold – Lightest option on our list – Built-in sun protection – Affordable price point | – Limited age range (up to 2 years) – Less sturdy than some options – Mattress could be more comfortable |
Reddit users particularly love the Joovy Gloo for air travel, with one parent noting, “It folds up so compact we can fit it in our carry-on, and it’s worked great each time we’ve used it.”
4. BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light
Known for its premium quality and thoughtful design, the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is a favorite among parents who prioritize ease of use.
Features:
- One-step setup process
- Soft, comfortable mattress
- Machine-washable crib fabric
- OEKO-TEX certified materials
- Sturdy design with good ventilation
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Extremely easy setup – Premium quality materials – Comfortable for baby – Durable construction | – Highest price point on our list – Sheet sold separately – Slightly bulkier than the most compact options |
Parents consistently mention that while expensive, the BabyBjörn’s quality and ease of use make it worth the investment, especially for frequent travelers.
5. Graco Pack ‘n Play On the Go
The budget-friendly classic that has been a staple for traveling families for years.
Features:
- Includes bassinet for infants
- Built-in toy bar
- Wheels for easy movement
- Familiar design many caregivers know how to use
- Widely available replacement parts
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Most affordable option – Familiar to many hotels and rental services – Durable construction – Bassinet feature for infants | – Heaviest option at 20 pounds – Bulkier when folded – More complicated setup – Not suitable for air travel carry-on |
While not the most portable option, the Graco Pack ‘n Play remains popular for its affordability and versatility, especially for road trips or staying with family.
6. 4moms Breeze GO Portable Travel Crib
The 4moms Breeze GO is renowned for its truly one-handed setup and takedown.
Features:
- One-push open, one-pull close mechanism
- Sturdy frame and durable materials
- Includes travel bag
- Spacious interior
- Water-resistant mattress
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Easiest setup and takedown – Sturdy construction – Generous size for growing babies – High-quality materials | – Heavier than most at 23 pounds – Expensive – Bulky when folded – Not ideal for air travel |
Parents particularly appreciate the simplicity of the 4moms Breeze GO’s setup, making it ideal for quick overnight trips when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities.
7. Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard
A solid mid-range option that balances portability with affordability.
Features:
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Snap-on mattress
- One-hand fold mechanism
- Carrying bag included
- Mesh sides for visibility
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Good value for money – Relatively lightweight – Easy setup process – Compact fold | – Less premium feel than top options – Mattress could be more comfortable – Less durable for frequent travelers – Sheet sold separately |
The Chicco Alfa Lite offers a good compromise for parents who want something more portable than a traditional Pack ‘n Play but aren’t ready to invest in premium options.
Which Portable Crib Is Right For You?
Based on our research and parent feedback, here are our recommendations for different needs:
- For frequent air travelers: Guava Lotus or Joovy Gloo
- For maximum versatility: Silver Cross Sleep & Go
- For easiest setup: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light or 4moms Breeze GO
- For budget-conscious families: Graco Pack ‘n Play or Chicco Alfa Lite
- For newborns through toddlerhood: Silver Cross Sleep & Go
Remember that the best portable crib for your family depends on your specific travel habits, budget, and your baby’s needs. Many parents find that having a lightweight option for air travel and a more substantial one for road trips provides the perfect combination for all their travel needs.
When choosing a portable crib, consider how frequently you’ll use it, where you’ll be taking it, and how long your child will need it. With the right portable crib, you can maintain your baby’s sleep routine even when you’re away from home, making travel more enjoyable for the whole family.