best travel cot toddler uk

8 Best Travel Cots for Babies and Toddlers

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When you’re travelling overnight with a toddler, a good travel cot is your best friend.

We all know the chaos that’s caused when your little one refuses to sleep or doesn’t get their normal number of hours.

Some sleep disruption should be expected when you’re sleeping somewhere new (for both you and your child!) but you can minimise this by providing them with a comfortable, safe and familiar place to sleep — i.e. the best travel cot.

As with all things baby related, there are a huge number of travel cots on the market and it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your circumstances.

We’ve compiled this guide to the best travel cots – including all the things you need to consider before buying, as well as the best products on the market right now.

Let’s get into it…

Graco Compact Travel Cot

Extra features, how much to spend on a toddler travel cot, what are the best travel cots, venture airpod.

The Venture Airpod has long been one of our number one picks for the best travel cot for toddlers.

It’s a dead ringer for the (much more expensive) BabyBjörn cot, feels sturdy and is really easy to assemble — an absolutely essential quality when you’re travelling with little ones. It folds down very compactly so is a good pick if you’re low on space or on public transport. It’s suitable for kids up to 36 months so should serve you well for a long time.

Why We Chose It

• Nicely lightweight, compact and portable
• Looks very similar to the BabyBjörn, at a fraction of the price!
• Comes with a quality mattress and strong carry bag
• Easy to assemble and take down
• Feels sturdy and high quality
• Excellent price
• Stylish design (designed in the UK!)

Potential Cons to Consider

• If we’re being super picky, the fact that the cover isn’t machine washable

Maxi-Cosi Iris

Maxi-Cosi is a prestige brand when it comes to baby and child equipment, and this travel cot really lives up to their reputation.

Is it expensive? Yes, but it’s worth the cost if your budget allows. It’s very lightweight, comes with a high quality mattress and has the brilliant feature of offering two different height-adjustable levels — a bassinet level for newborns and young babies, and the full depth for older kids up to age 3. It’s easy to take up and down and even comes with a stylish travel bag for maximum portability.

• Contains two height-adjustable levels — a top one for newborns and a lower one for toddlers (great for recent c-section mums who can’t bend down too far!)
• Really lightweight and portable
• Very easy to set up and take down
• High quality mattress included
• Comes with a carry bag for extra portability
• Feels very sturdy and durable despite light weight
• Stylish design

Potential Con to Consideer

• A little expensive (although worth the investment if your budget allows)

Micralite Sleep and Go

The Micralite is another much-loved toddler travel cot that offers a lot in the way of features (although does come with a higher price tag).

Like the Maxi-Cosi, it has the two different height levels and comes with a good mattress and a travel bag. One of the things we really like about it is that it can be transformed into a playpen for toddlers and even has padded sides so they won’t get hurt if they’re bouncing around! It’s not quite as lightweight as some of the others on this list but still folds down to a compact size.

• Two different height levels for newborns and toddlers
• Transforms into a playpen with a zipped side panel
• Heavily padded frame to protect overzealous toddlers!
• Easy to set up and take down
• Folds down reasonably compactly to fit in a car boot
• Comes with a quality mattress
• With newborn insert, can be used as a side sleeping crib
• Comes with a travel bag for portability
• Sturdy and durable
• Not super lightweight or compact

Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot

The Red Kite Sleep Tight is one of our favourite budget travel cots.

It’s easy to assemble, folds down neatly and feels very sturdy to touch. It also comes with its own travel bag for transportation. At just over 7kg, it’s not the most lightweight cot and the included mattress isn’t of the best quality in our opinion — we’d definitely recommend buying another one if you can as fussy sleepers may not find it the most comfortable sleeping position.

• Great budget price
• Easy to assemble and fold up
• Comes with a mattress and carry bag
• Reasonably compact when folded down
• Large mesh ‘windows’ allowing you and your child a good view!
• Feels very sturdy and stable
• The included mattress doesn’t seem comfortable – we’d recommend investing in another one if you can
• Not particularly lightweight

Nuna SENA Aire

Nuna have made a name for themselves as a really high quality baby brand and the SENA Aire travel cot very much lives up to the hype.

You can take it up and down with just one hand, which is absolutely invaluable for parents and carers dealing with toddlers! It’s got dual height levels, comes with a quality mattress and boasts very good air flow — this definitely feels like one of the best travel cots you can buy right now. But on the flipside, it’s very expensive and really quite heavy at almost 10kg.

• Super easy to set up and take down — with just one hand!
• Quality mattress included
• Very sturdy and durable
• Excellent air flow and ventilation
• 2 height levels for newborns and toddlers
• Feels spacious
• A lot heavier than the other cots on this list
• Quite expensive

Hauck Dream’n Play

One of the most popular and budget friendly toddler travel cots is this Dream’n Play from Hauck.

It feels very similar to the slightly cheaper Red Kite — easy to assemble, feels sturdy and folds up somewhat compactly. Much like the Red Kite, we’d recommend investing in another mattress as the one that’s included doesn’t feel particularly comfortable.

• Comes with a folding mattress and carry bag
• Reasonably compact – will be fine if you’re transporting it in your car
• Large mesh ‘windows’ give you a good view of your child and allow them to see out
• Feels durable and sturdy
• A few different colour options
• It’s worth investing in another cot mattress as the one included doesn’t feel comfortable
• Not the most lightweight option available

BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

BabyBjörn is probably the best known brand when it comes to travel cots and, for many parents, remains the best on the market thanks to its prestigious reputation.

Lightweight, stable and durable with a quality mattress, this is definitely one of the highest quality toddler travel cots we tried. It also looks really good so is definitely a good choice if you’re conscious of the aesthetics! It’s not perfect though — alongside being expensive, we found it could potentially be a little draughty in certain conditions as it mounts directly onto the floor.

• Really easy to set up and take down (no loose parts)
• Lightweight so highly portable
• Comfortable and safe mattress included
• Soft sheet also included
• Some airlines will accept it as a carry-on in the included carry case
• Highly durable — even with mischievous toddlers!
• Feels very stable despite the lightweight
• Mattress cover can be machine washed
• No weight limit – suitable until your toddler is able to climb out (around 3 years)
• It’s expensive
• It mounts directly onto the floor so please consider suitable sleepwear for your toddler according to the floor temperature
• The sides are high — great for keeping your toddler in but parents on the shorter side/mums still recovering from a c-section should bear in mind it’s a long way to bend down!

The Graco travel cot is another good low-budget choice that would also work as a playpen due to its spacious feel and transparent mesh sides.

It has a push-button fold that makes it easy to put up and bring down and feels very sturdy and stable on the ground. Although it folds down well, it is on the heavier side at almost 9 kg and the included carry bag doesn’t have a handle for some reason, which makes it a little hard to lug around. The mattress has a folding mechanism which, while great for space efficiency, isn’t the most comfortable.

• Excellent low price
• Easy push-button fold to assemble and fold down
• Very sturdy and stable
• Feels spacious and would work as a playpen
• Folds down reasonably compactly in a car boot
• Large mesh ‘windows’ provide great views for you and your child!
• Heavy compared to most of the other cots on the list
• Unfortunately there’s no handle on the carry bag which makes it an awkward carry
• The included folding mattress is a little uncomfortable – we’d recommend getting another one if your budget allows

How to Choose

Do you actually need a toddler travel cot.

As you can see, toddler travel cots vary hugely in price but some of them can be a real investment, depending on your budget.

If you’ve had a quick glance at Amazon and furrowed your brow at some of the prices, you might be thinking, ‘ Do I even need one?’

The answer could well be ‘no’.

Travel cots are mostly used for, well, travelling.

But most mid-range and above hotels and holiday rentals already come equipped with a cot for your little one, so if you’re only intending to use it for holiday travel then it might be worth checking if the types of places your family usually stays at already has one available. Chances are, they do.

But if you often stay over in people’s homes or if Granny and Grandad have the kids to stay occasionally, then a travel cot will most definitely come in handy.

Where a mattress on the floor might provide a simple place to sleep for your toddler when they’re away from their bed, it doesn’t do much else.

A good travel cot, on the other hand, will be safe and inviting for your little one to fall asleep in and will keep them contained.

Very important when they’re staying somewhere new…

They can even function as a playpen — or a little den for your toddler to play by themselves.

What to Look for in a Travel Cot

If you’ve decided that your family will benefit from owning a travel cot, then there are a few things worth considering before you buy.

There are 3 key things that make for the best travel cots:

Weight and Footprint

Ease of use.

The number one thing that most parents are looking for in a travel cot are that it’s lightweight and compact.

The smaller and lighter the cot, the easier it is to carry around and store.

If you wanted a large and heavy cot, you’d just buy a normal cot instead, right?

Exactly how light and compact will depend on your circumstances.

Some people are simply happy with a product that can easily fit in the car boot and isn’t too heavy to carry to the front door. Others want something truly lightweight and compact that can be taken on a plane or carried around easily on the bus. Size is important, especially if you’re carrying a pushchair too !

If weight is really important to you, take a look at the Maxi-Cosi Iris, Venture Airpod and BabyBjörn Light above.

When we say ‘ease of use’, we mean how easy it is to assemble, pop up and then collapse down again.

The easier and quicker the better — especially when you’ve got a wriggling toddler to put down or even a screaming newborn.

And if the travel cot is destined to be at Granny and Grandad’s house, you want one that’s simple enough for them to be able to work out too.

All the cots in our list score highly on the ease of use metric, although the Maxi-Cosi Iris, Graco Compact, BabyBjörn Light and Nuna SENA Aire are leading the pack. The Nuna can even all be done with one hand!

Another major feature to look for in a travel cot is durability — you want it to last well.

The cots on our list are all suitable to be used until around 3 years of age/15 kg/when they decide they want to climb out of it, which is a good lifespan for such a product.

If you decide to go for a super budget version or one that isn’t well made, you might find that the cot doesn’t reach that point and you’ll need to replace it before your toddler has outgrown it.

It can be hard to judge durability when you’re buying online, so look out for reviews that reference how sturdy and stable the cot is, the quality of the brand you’re buying, and just generally how other users have found it.

Less important than the big 3 factors above but still worth noting are what little extras are provided with your travel cot.

Generally speaking, the more you spend, the more features you’ll get.

They might not all be useful for your circumstances, however, so don’t feel like you have to spend a lot if you’d be satisfied with less.

• A bassinet insert/height adjustability depending on your child’s size and age
• Good ventilation and airflow
• Machine washable covers
• A great mattress
• A handy travel bag

How much to spend on a travel cot will entirely depend on your family’s circumstances — budget, what you’re looking for in a cot, and just generally how much you want to spend.

There’s no right answer here.

A good starting point for determining your budget is to decide how much you’re likely to use a travel cot and what you need from it.

If you’re planning on your toddler using it multiple times per month at your parents’ house, for instance, you’ll probably want to invest in something that you know your kid will love and your parents will be able to use easily.

But if you’re buying a cot for only occasional or sporadic use, you probably don’t want to spend a lot — maybe the Red Kite or Graco Compact will be a better fit at well under £50.

As we mentioned earlier, the more you spend, the more you can usually expect in terms of features. Similarly, the big luxury brands (BabyBjörn and Nuna) are inevitably more expensive than the midmarket ones on the list.

Regardless of how much you have and want to spend, however, we’re certain you’ll be satisfied with the travel cots on our list.

Let us know which ones are your favourites!

Head over to our  advice section  for more tips on travelling with a toddler!

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Stephanie Osborn

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• First Year Products

The best travel cot for babies and toddlers for comfort on the go

Graco FoldLite

Joie Kubbie Travel Cot

Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Graco Contour Electra

Ergo Pouch Easy Sleep Portable crib

Tutti Bambino CoZee Go

Silver Cross slumber travel cot

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Venture Airpod Travel Cot

When thinking of essentials for your little one, you probably already have a cosy cot picked out, but what about a travel cot if you love travelling or visiting friends and family on weekends? In addition to packing your baby's travel system and gathering all the necessities before heading off on holiday with your family, a travel cot will help your little one to sleep as soundly as possible, even when you're away from home.

You probably did a lot of research on the best cot and bedside crib for your baby but may not have considered investing in a travel cot yet. Put simply, a travel cot is a portable, lightweight option designed to fold away compactly. Its collapsible sides and storage bag are some of the features that make it the perfect solution for trips away. Like a travel stroller , it's another one of those holiday essentials that you'll want to invest in when travelling with children under five years old.

You most likely won't need a travel cot for the first few months, especially if you already have a Moses basket , a portable crib or a carrycot suitable for overnight sleeping. If you don't go away very often, then you might be better off borrowing a cot from a friend, as it can be an expensive purchase if you're only going to be using it once a year.

The best travel cots at a glance:

A lot of hotels and holiday cottages may provide travel cots and other baby equipment, so check with them before you travel. If you are away from home often, then a travel cot is a good purchase, as it will last well past the newborn months and will prove extremely useful at other times, too. For example, for your baby's daytime naps when you're visiting friends or staying over with grandparents overnight. We've enlisted the help of expert mum testers to put the best travel cots through their paces, taking into account the weight, size, price, assembly, age suitability and stability. Our annual  Mother&Baby Awards  also help us bring you the best advice about current products on the market. Plus, we spoke to Emily McInnes, a paediatric nurse and certified holistic sleep coach from Sound Asleep Coaching to ensure you get the best advice surrounding travel cots.

How we tested and chose these travel cots

Every year, our panel of real mums tests and reviews parenting products such as travel cots for the annual Mother&Baby Awards.

Our list of the best car seats for travel cots comes recommended by like-minded parents – who have experienced these car seats personally.

The Mother&Baby Awards parent testers are provided with some guidelines while testing so that they take into consideration four key areas: usability, design, quality and value for money. We ask them to score each of these out of 10, as well as give their overall impression of the product.

Find out more about how we test and what considerations we take into account in our testing process.

A number of the travel cots in our list are also previous  Mother&Baby Awards  shortlisters and winners.

The best travel cots 2024

1. Graco FoldLite

Best travel cot for compact fold.

Bronze winner for Best Travel Product Over £30 in the M&B Awards 2023

Suitable from birth to approximately three years old, the FoldLite was hailed by parents for its lightweight frame, but it has also won a prestigious Mother&Baby Awards 2023 Bronze award. The cot collapses to just 26cm wide. Our Mum tester Sarah says, "When folded down for travel, it's small and neat and doesn't take up too much valuable boot space when you're already contending with buggies and suitcases." Testers loved the Home Fold feature to help fold away quickly and clear space within seconds. The cot unfolds and just clicks together; only two of the sides need to click together due to the way it is folded, which makes putting the cot up and down much easier and quicker.

One of our mum testers Archana didn't get along with the cot as well when it came to dismantling it fully though. She says, "Folding into the slide away is easy - and really handy for day to day use - that’s what I liked most about it - however folding away fully and putting in the bag is quite clunky and a chore."

The FoldLite has a mesh lining and two wheels for easy manoeuvrability, making it a useful portable cot for travelling with. It's easy to pop up, says Sarah, whose grandparents popped it up without any instructions. She enjoys using it around the house and says, "The Foldlite travel cot has been most useful to us for quick and easy use around the house with a mobile baby. It genuinely is two clicks to put up or down, and the house fold setting means I can quickly pop it out from next to the sofa if I need to iron or nip to the toilet and pop it back in a few seconds, so it's not taking over the room." She also thinks it would be invaluable for holiday cottages that may not be very well baby-proofed.

The cot also comes with a mattress included. Our mum tester Georgia says, "The only issue I had with it was once wrapping the mattress around the base, you had to pull it quite tightly to then fit it in the bag." Overall our testers love the convenience of having a pop-up cot to hand at home. One thing to be aware of though, as our mum tester Joanna pointed out, is that It has quite a large high sides so it can be difficult to reach within, especially if you have a bad back.

Read our full Graco FoldLite review .

• Two ways to fold, including an extra compact fold when space is limited
• A light weight cot makes it really portable
• The carry bag is very convenient for travel
• Assembly not totally straightforward as one tester had trouble when dismantling the product fully
• Tricky to fit in the travel bag with the mattress
• Two ways to fold for home and easy travel
• Carry bag included
• Fast pop-up assembly
• Super lightweight
• The cot has two wheels for easy manoeuvrability
• Mattress included

2. Joie Kubbie Travel Cot

Best compact travel cot.

If you're looking for a travel cot that's a doddle to set up and folds away in seconds, this is it – no more grappling with unwieldy parts when you arrive at your destination with a tired baby. Our mum tester, Clare, said, "I opted for the Joie Kubbie Sleep travel cot because it has a similar ‘next to me’ style of bassinet to her bedroom crib. Sleeping side-by-side with my baby since birth has allowed me to check on and feed her without leaving my bed, so I really liked the idea that I would be able to do that when not at home too."

We love the clever design, which gives a seamless experience on the go. One reviewer said, "Lovely travel cot, a good size but not too big should last a while as you can move the mattress to the bottom, but can be used for storage first." Another added, "It was easy to assemble and perfect for what we need, compact style, so will be really useful for travelling, which is what we wanted! I Love that it has the raised option for a more "next to me" style." Our mum tester added, "The Kubbie is simple but stylish, has a removal bassinet and mattress, and it can double up as a playpen. Eva is too young to use the cot as a playpen, but I’m sure it will come in handy once she starts to crawl."

It is a sturdy and compact travel cot, ideal for travel; however, some parents thought it was smaller than expected. We love the carrycot to make it easier on your back, and reviewers agreed. One mum said, "initially bought it as an alternative to the next to me crib and travelling. It has worked great for both of us. We love that we could lower the side to easily watch the baby from bed during the night. It's easy to put up and take down and pack it up for travelling." She added, "As the baby gets a bit bigger, we also use the crib as a playpen when travelling." However, while it is compact, reviewers did find it heavy with one reviewer commenting, "It's a little bit heavy to carry for a small person." Another reviewer was disappointed there were no handles on the case to make carrying it easier. That said, it is easy to move from room to room with one reviewer saying, "the wheels and breaks made it easy to move from room to room."

• Includes carrycot insert and mattress
• Wheels and brakes to make it portable
• Compact for travel and easy to assemble
• Heavy despite being compact
• Easy to assemble
• Includes carry cot and mattress
• Suitable from birth
• Wheels to make moving it easier

John Lewis & Partners

3. Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

Best budget travel cot.

This deluxe super lightweight travel cot has a bassinet attachment that clicks easily onto the top, making it perfect for changing nappies. It also has wheels, so it's easy to move around. The best part is that it sets up and folds away in seconds, making it a great travel cot that won't break the bank. Our mum tester Tori likes that it folds up thin to fit in their car boot along with a double pram and a few bags. She says, "I would definitely recommend this product to other mums, it's so easy to put up and down and transport on its handy bag"

Mum tester Sarah agrees, and would also recommend it for anyone looking for an inexpensive no-nonsense travel cot. She says it was lightweight enough for her to carry around, and compact enough to pack in their car along with everything else. She says, "Once I'd done the initial set up of the cot, it was easy to put together and to take apart too." Our mum testers also say the instructions are really easy to follow and everything is easy to wipe down to keep clean while travelling. One thing to be aware of is that the design of this cot is quite low to the ground, which may be something to keep in mind if you have back problems when lifting baby in and out.

Read our full Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot review.

• Can be used for nappy changing with the removable changer and bassinet
• Four airy mesh sides provide all-round ventilation and baby viewing
• Lightweight aluminium legs make it easy to fold the cot down in seconds
• The wheels mean you can easily move the cot from room to room
• The design of this cot means it's quite low to the ground
• Removable changer and bassinet
• Very lightweight - at just 6kg
• 4 mesh sides
• Compact size after folded
• Thick padded mattress included – size L104, W60cm
• Stylish lightweight aluminium legs
• Carrying bag included
• Suitable from birth to 3 years
• 1-year guarantee

4. Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light

Best lightweight travel cot.

This travel cot is a real doddle to assemble – just slip it out of its travel bag, and it practically unfolds automatically, so there's no grappling with poles or fiddling with extra accessories. It's also easy to fold away and is really light and portable, making it perfect for taking with you when you visit relatives or just moving with a baby around your home. Our mum tester Nicola did find the cot to be less attractive than others in terms of design appeal, but said her little one slept well in it and seemed very comfortable. She liked that it also comes with a nice carry bag, which she says makes it easy to transport.

The built-in base helps to keep it standing nice and sturdy in its position, but this is a very lightweight cot. Mum Nicola found it to be less robust than others, saying, "Amelia can push it around by herself." However, she also says it's the easiest travel cot to carry as it's amazingly light." We love that the fabric can be removed and popped in the washing machine – a real bonus if you have a baby with reflux. The materials of this travel cot meet the requirements of OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Class 1 for baby products, which essentially means being kind to your baby's sensitive skin. One thing to keep in mind is that it may be harder to dry, which is quite important if you're away and need to wash and dry it.

Read our full BabyBjörn Light Travel Cot review .

• Can be assembled in one simple movement
• The mattress cover and cot fabric are easy to remove and are machine washable
• It's lightweight but a built-in base means it is sturdy
• Reviewers found it hard to dry
• Machine washable at 40°C
• Made from organic cotton
• Fitted sheet included

5. Joie Excursion Change and Bounce

This versatile travel cot comes with lots of extra accessories, so it's great value for money. You basically get three-in-one, with a full-size bassinet, which snaps easily on and off as required, as well as a changing unit and portable bouncing seat. What makes this travel cot even more unique is that there are also lots of sound and light features, including a soothing sound vibration, plus five classical lullabies and nature sounds. The two integrated wheels make it easy to move from room to room, and there's also a nightlight with three brightness settings to guide you In the dark. Our mum tester, Lauren, said, "The entire unit is neat, compact and fits neatly together, so they are efficient for saving space. The overall design is a simple grey colour with cartoon animals on the entertainment system; the design is simple and modern, suitable for girls and boys, so perfect for those planning on a growing family."

Despite all the extras, it still folds compactly and comes with its own travel storage bag. Our mum tester, Lauren, said, "The changing mat has a nice flat design that can easily fit when packed into a car boot and is very portable. Also, considering the various items included in the travel cot set they are all built to a lightweight design, that's easy to carry for the family on the go!" However, one reviewer, Kathryn, did find it quite difficult to assemble though. "I had to enlist my husband's help," she says, adding that it's sturdy and almost as big as a normal cot. However, she points out that the integrated wheels do make it easier to move. She says the extra accessories that come with the cot would be great for a newborn, but her Olly was a bit too old for them. He did, however, like the sounds, and she says the light was great for night changes without fully waking him. Overall, Kathryn recommends this cot as a real investment that will grow with your baby.

Another reviewer, Nicola, was also impressed and liked that the mesh sides enabled her to check on her little one without getting out of bed. Her daughter also enjoyed being able to see them when she woke up. Nicola says the mattress seems very comfortable for her little one, and she found the colours and pattern of the travel cot to be really appealing. She agreed that the extra accessories aren't really suitable past 12 months though, and also found the cot to be quite heavy. She says, "I would struggle to move it from room to room without help".

• Fast transitions from changing unit, to cot to bouncing seat
• Includes sounds and lights to entertain or soothe your baby
• Quick assembly and folding with a simple push button
• Folds away compactly in a carry bag for convenient storage
• The elevated base helps combat draughts
• With so many features, this cot is quite heavy
• The extra accessories aren't suitable for older babies
• 3-in-1 portable changer and snoozing seat that can be used on or off the cot
• Full-size bassinet that clips quickly snaps on and off included for naptime options
• One quick click – changing unit, snoozing, or bouncing seat
• One quick click – turn the sound & lights module pop on or off
• SecureClick snoozing seat that doubles as a portable bouncer when used off the cot!
• Set up and fold down in seconds
• Packs away in the included carry bag
• Compact folded package for simple storage in even the smallest spaces
• Includes a full-size removable bassinet
• Ultra secure frame with modern exposed tubing
• 2 integrated wheels
• Mesh lined for ventilation on all four sides with an elevated, draught resistant base
• SecureClick changing unit

6. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

Best newborn travel cot.

This stylish, contemporary travel cot takes seconds to put together and is reasonably quick and easy to fold, even with a baby in your arms, making it ideal for travel. We love the bassinet accessory, which makes this brilliant for use from birth, and so does our mum tester Kirsty who says, "The bassinet makes it easy to lift Rikku in and out." She did find it a bit fiddly to detach though.

Doubling up as a play space, this travel cot has padded edges to prevent pinched fingers, and it also comes with an organic cotton sheet included and its own bag to store and transport it in. Kirsty especially liked that the sheet stayed in place with the velcro. The cot has a sturdy aluminium frame and a triple-layered ventilated mattress for superior comfort. Mum tester Nicola thought it was very stylish and said her daughter slept well in it. She loved the "lovely, thick mattress" and extra machine-washable sheet, saying she found it was simple to assemble.

When it comes to set-up, our mum tester Kirsty found it reasonably straightforward. However, she says it doesn't fold very neatly, and she found it fiddly to pack away. While the cot is certainly very sturdy, Kirsty says this makes it feel more heavy and takes up a lot of space in their small car boot. Mum tester Nicola really liked the sturdiness of the travel cot too, but agrees that the only disadvantage is that it's quite heavy. She says, "I think I would struggle to get this from one place to another by myself."

Read our full Nuna Sena Aire review.

• The cot is easy to set up and hold with one hand
• Cot folds with the upper cot still attached
• The advanced air design™ with mesh sides, allows air flow from every angle
• The cot is very easy to clean because it is machine washable and dryer safe
• The ventilated triple-layered mattress is comfortable for baby
• Doesn't fold very neatly or small
• A bit fiddly to detach the bassinet
• One-handed set up and fold
• Upper cot folds with the frame
• Draft-proof with above-ground base
• Skid-proof feet
• Unique zigzag frame
• Advanced air design™
• Mattress's zip-off design is machine washer and dryer safe
• Ventilated triple-layered mattress with removable panels
• Organic sheet is included
• Padded edges
• Travel bag included with easy carry handle

7. Graco Contour Electra

Best value travel cot.

The Graco Contour is a good-value travel cot with lots of extra features. Our mum testers love that it's quick, easy to assemble, and compact enough to fit into smaller spaces without taking up too much room. Our mum tester, Nicolle, said, "The travel cot was very easy to assemble and also to put away. It is lovely and lightweight, so you will not need to worry about carrying it to the car or elsewhere. Artie really enjoys the vibrations and music it settles him, but also it’s great to put him in to play so I know he is safe. The light is also handy if I need to use it at night to check on him. It is also great that it has wheels to move it around easily to make more space."

However, another mum tester, Kathryn, described it as one of the heaviest travel cots they tested. This meant that it was nice and roomy, and a good size for their baby, but Kathryn says it was almost the same size as their normal cot! Despite this, she agrees it's easy to assemble and put away in the carry bag included; plus, the wheels made it easier to move around, and she did like the neutral colour. Mum tester Nicola, on the other hand, points out that while the cream colour does look lovely, she imagines it could get dirty very quickly.

Loaded with extras such as a newborn bassinet, handy changing mat and toy bar, this is definitely a cot that represents great value for money, although, Nicola points out that the changing unit, while it's a great idea, is only suitable for use up to 12 months. It also has a nightlight and musical feature, as well as the option to set the mattress to vibrate to help soothe your baby. The four mesh sides are a great feature, allowing you to keep an eye on your little one, while also being useful for ventilation, but Kathryn found that she did have to bend low to reach her baby. Nicola also felt that the mattress was on the thin side, which meant that her little one didn't sleep as well as hoped.

Read our full Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot review.

• This is a cot that is designed to grow with your child from newborn to toddler
• There is an integrated changing station for added convenience
• The hanging toy bar provides entertainment for little one
• Includes a night light, music and vibration feature to soothe little one
• Some reviewers struggled to assemble it
• Very heavy and quite large for a travel cot
• Removable changing table
• Raised bassinet for newborns
• Removable toy bar with toys 
• Nightlight, music and timer 
• Removable vibration unit
• Sturdy base mattress
• Graco® signature easy-fold
• 2 wheels for easy manoeuvrability 

8. Ergo Pouch Easy Sleep Portable crib

Best back pack travel cot.

For ultimate convenience, this travel crib doubles as a backpack. Suitable from birth until 8 weeks, or when babies start to roll, this makes travelling with a little one really easy. Our mum tester, Nicole, says, "This crib is not only ideal for moving around the house and garden during newborn daytime naps, but it also shines as a travel crib. Whether camping or packing it into a suitcase for international travel, it's a convenient choice."

We love the net to protect your baby from mosquitoes too. One reviewer said, "We used this for our son’s first camping trip. He is currently three months old, and this travel cot was perfect. He actually had the best sleep he’s had so far! So easy to pop up and take down. Super slim so can be stored away neatly."Our mum tester, Nicole, added, "Setting up and taking down the crib couldn’t be easier—it takes a matter of seconds. Aside from the mosquito net, which is a separate piece, the entire crib folds in one motion."

Another reviewer commented, "We love this bassinet! We’ve been using it since we brought our daughter home from the hospital. It’s perfect for safe naps during the day for our little girl. We can easily bring it with us to the park, friends' houses etc. In my opinion, it’s a better, safer (and cheaper) than a lot of other loungers." However, some reviewers mentioned that it is hard to keep clean. Overall, Nicole said, "the superior quality and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for families who are frequently on the go."

• Easy to transport as a back pack
• Includes a mosquito net to protect little one
• Convenient for naps on the go, or outdoors
• Only able to use until 8 weeks
• Can be used as a back pack
• Includes mattress
• Extremely lightweight
• Includes mosquito net
• Ideal for outdoor naps on the go

9. Tutti Bambino CoZee Go

Best travel cot with a playpen.

Ideal for use on the go and at home, this 3-in-1 playpen is perfect for sleeping and playing. It can be used as a bassinet, a playpen and a travel cot. We also love that it is extremely lightweight, so it is ideal for travel; it can be assembled in seconds. One reviewer said, "It's light enough so I can travel with it on a train, but I wish it was a bit lighter. Design isn't as ugly as others. Overall really happy with it."

Reviewers like the zip design, which makes it easier to put baby inside the cot if they fall asleep outside of it. One reviewer commented, "The12-week-old when staying with grandparents, standout feature for me is the zip side. So much easier to put baby down if she falls asleep outside of the cot, and to pick her up too."

It is convenient to use at home, and away with one reviewer saying, "I have been using this crib for my 12 week old when staying with grandparents and it’s brilliant. It’s easy and quick to put up and down and stores flat for putting in the car. Most importantly, my baby is really cosy and comfy using the newborn bassinet part for naps and nighttime sleep. I wish I had just bought this instead of the next to me crib for our house as I don’t keep the side down anyway." However, some reviewers were frustrated by the velcro at the sides, commenting the "only downside is that you can’t put a cot sheet around the mattress due to Velcro strips that secure it and it doesn’t fold down compactly."

• This crib is easy to assemble in seconds
• Can be used as a playpen or cot
• Extremely compact and lightweight for storing or travelling
• Difficult to fit a sheet on the mattress
• Easy to assemble crib 
• Suitable for use as a playpen, crib and travel cot
• Zip side for convenience

10. Silver Cross slumber travel cot

Best long-lasting travel cot.

This travel cot represents good value for money, especially because it can be used from birth up to approximately three years of age. Our mum tester, Carly, said, "With a newborn insert and a place for a flat mattress at the bottom, this will easily last my little one through their toddler years, I’d say, until I’m comfortable with them being in a proper bed!" It's also very sturdy, which means it doubles up as a playpen for smaller babies. Reviewer Will said, "Surprisingly sturdy. This travel cot folds away really nicely; it doesn't take a lot of time to set up either, which is a bonus. I'm really grateful for the design on this one, from the zip at the side to the easy fold-away touch points."

We love that the fabric is made with recycled plastic bottles, making it more sustainable but still stylish. It is also extremely practical with an integrated newborn insert, ideal for having little one close to you. One reviewer said, "As soon as we assembled this cot, we loved it. Sturdy, easy to put up and incredibly stylish and lightweight. The newborn insert is perfectly snug for little ones, and it can be gently rocked, which is a bonus. I took it abroad on a family holiday, and it was easy to travel with only 7kg."

Another reviewer was impressed by how comfortable it is, commenting, "Mattress feels thicker than usual travel cots. My little one slept really well on it, and it was perfect for him to play in while we unpacked." However, while it is easy to travel with, there are no wheels for easily moving it from room to room when assembled. Our mum tester, Carly, loved how lightweight it was and commented, "There are no heavy parts to get it set up, nor is carrying it around in its travel bag an issue. We’ve got a lot of weddings next summer with our little one, so this is going to come in handy!"

• There is plenty of space for baby to stretch out and grow
• Includes newborn insert
• Mesh sides allow great air flow and you can see baby
• Comfortable, thick mattress
• Tricky to move once assembled.
• Full cot size (60cm x 120cm)
• Versatile – can be used as a playpen
• Travel bag included
• Newborn insert included

11. Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Best simple travel cot.

The Sleeptight Travel Cot is an award-winning sleep solution from Red Kite. Stored in a carry bag, the Sleeptight Travel Cot is lightweight and compact folding. Our tester, Joe, said, "We tested the product while we were on a family holiday in Cyprus. We were slightly nervous when looking for a travel cot as our daughter loves sleeping in her own cot at home! The Red Kite travel cot is a fantastic product. Straight from opening the box, you can tell the quality of the product. Even though it is priced competitively, it feels like it is made from premium products_._" It is the perfect choice for holidays, visiting friends and family or for your own home. Mum Kat is really impressed with it after using it several times and says, "it's good quality and not too bulky when folded so fits easily into my small car boot along with all the other baby paraphernalia needed for a night away!"

It's really easy to put up and take down, and Kat says, "It was so helpful that the instructions are printed onto the underside of the mattress - what a great idea!" She points out that you must put it up/take it down in the right order, or you will struggle to get it folded correctly. The mattress doesn't come with a waterproof sheet so Kat used her own with a cot sheet on top of the mattress. She says, "For the price paid, it's exceptionally good value. 10/10!" Joe also commented that it is very stable, saying, "Our daughter moves quite a lot during her sleep, and the travel cot didn't move whatsoever, even being on a titled floor."

Overall our tester, Joe, said, "The product served its purpose as our daughter had fantastic sleep whilst on holiday and the transition back into her cot at home was a lot easier due to the familiarity of the product." However, he did comment that "the travel cot comes supplied with a mattress which is great for travelling, but if I was to use the cot within the UK, or had more space to travel with, I would invest in a separate mattress to put in the travel cot as it is not the thickest - especially for young babies." Our tester, Joe, said, "The product served its purpose as our daughter had fantastic sleep whilst on holiday."

• The cot has a central locking base for extra safety
• It's easy to fold and store in the storage bag
• The see-through mesh sides allow airflow and let you see baby easily
• The instructions are printed on the underside of the mattress, so you won't lose them.
• Mattress is very thin
• No waterproof sheet included for the mattress
• Fully safety tested
• Includes carry bag
• Padded top rails
• Padded mattress secured with straps
• Central locking base
• Large mesh panels

12. Kinderkraft Cot 4 in 1 SOFI

Best 4 in 1 travel cot.

A practical travel cot that also doubles as a playpen, cradle, and everyday cot, the SOFI is a great purchase. It is suitable for babies and toddlers from birth to 15kg, and it's lightweight and easy to fold. Plus, it includes a storage bag, which makes it easy to carry when travelling. The SOFI has mesh sides to ensure you can see your little one and for good airflow. It also comes with a mattress and cover, and the frame can be used as a rocking frame too.

The cot is slightly narrower than some travel cots, but one reviewer says that this was exactly what they needed to fit it into their spare room for their new grandson when he stayed with them. They said that they love that it's on two levels too, so it's suitable for a newborn as well as a toddler, although they weren't sure their grandson will fit past the age of two years.

The fact that this cot is so easy to fold and comes in a cover, means it can be stored under another bed quite nicely. As this reviewer points out, while you use the top level, things can also be stored underneath. They say the only slight problem is the fitting of sheets, "It is fiddly", they say, "and you need to lift the mattress to be able to fit the sheet and tuck it in. But it is doable, so very happy with the purchase."

Read our full Kinderkraft SOFI review.

• The cot doubles as a playpen too
• The cot can be used with or without the rocking function
• The mattress can be used at two different levels
• Attractive design for your home
• Slightly narrower than standard travel cots
• Bit fiddly to fit the sheets
• 4-in-1 – cot, travel cot, playpen and cradle.
• Rocking function
• Easy to store
• Mattress can be set at two different heights
• Lightweight
• Simple to fold

13. Venture Airpod Travel Cot

Best travel cot overall.

Silver winner for Best Travel Product Over £30 in the M&B Awards 2023 Designed to provide little ones with a place to rest and play no matter where you are, the Airpod is assembled in just three easy steps with no tools required, meaning it's ready to go in less than a minute. The Airpod weighs just 6kg and can be folded into a bag no larger than a big shopping bag. Despite how lightweight it is, testers agree that the cot was good quality and felt sturdy and secure. One mum tester says, "I was impressed with the materials used and the quality feel of the cot once it was up. It felt steady and secure when lifting my child in and out of the bed. They were able to nap well, good ventilation through the sides."

Another of our mum testers likes how lightweight and how small the travel cot folds. She describes it as "super portable and barely took space in the car boot. This meant we were able to pack all our other luggage without worrying about space." She also liked that it wasn't too heavy, which made it easy to lug around upstairs when they were staying in hotels without lifts.

All of our testers agreed that a bassinet option would have been great with this travel cot, especially for parents of younger babies. One of our testers, whose baby is five months, says, "It simply wasn't useful overnight with his wake-ups having to bend. I could barely reach him and resorted to giving up using it and ended up having to co-sleep in our bed. This defeats the point of a travel cot." We think that for parents of young babies aged six months and under, this travel cot probably isn't what you're looking for. But for everyone else, this is a great portable travel option, and our testers were able to get the cot set up easily and quickly with simple instructions.

Read our full Venture UK Airpod Travel Cot review .

• Mesh sides provide ventilation and make it easy to check little one
• Lightweight and compact, less bulky than others
• A comfortable mattress for baby
• Unfortunately, there's no raised bassinet
• Lightweight aluminium frame – Just 6kg
• Compact design when folded
• Strong storage bag 
• All round mesh sides
• High-quality, thick mattress
• Suitable from birth to 36 months
• Proudly Designed here in the UK, tested to all British and European Safety Standards BS EN 716-1:2017, all fabrics treated with Fire retardant.

Travel cots – All you need to know:

Choosing the right travel cot for you and your child.

While we know that travel cots are primarily used for sleeping while away from home, there are other uses for them, which makes choosing one an important decision to ensure it is suitable for everything you need. Some things to consider include:

How long do you plan to use it for?: Different travel cots have different age ranges and some might be suitable from newborn up until 6 months or even just 3 months, while others will last much longer, up until 3 years, and you may not need another travel cot. However, the larger the travel cot, then the heavier it might be, and it might not be as compact. Typically a travel cot should last from newborn until 18 months, but there will be some suitable beyond this.

Do you need it for more than sleep?: Travel cots are brilliant for visiting family or friends or when on holiday to help little one sleep comfortably. However, they are also useful for doubling up as playpens or even changing units. If you are visiting a house or staying somewhere which hasn't got any baby proofing products , then your travel cot can double up as a playpen. This type of travel cot has added value as you can get more use out of it than a standard travel cot, but check the manufacturer's guidelines before you buy to ensure it's safe to use as a playpen. Also, some travel cots have changing mat attachments that can clip on the top and make changing nappies much easier when away because you will have a portable changing table .

How much room does it take up when folded?: Think about where and when you'll use a travel cot. If you are throwing it in the car boot when you're going to Granny's, check how bulky it is when folded, and make sure it fits along with your pushchair and still leaves enough room for your luggage. If you're buying for your holiday and you'll be travelling to your destination by plane, boat or other public transport, choose one that folds very compactly to make it easier to pack, and ensure it has a travel bag too. Once your holiday is over, don't forget you'll need to store it at home, so consider how easy it is to store it when it's not in use.

Rapid set-up: Unpacking your travel cot after a long journey with a tired baby can be stressful, so choose something quick and easy to set up. Some travel cots can be assembled and folded with one hand, which is a lifesaver if you're holding your baby.

Portability: Think about whether or not you will need to carry the travel cot, either through an airport, or to a friend's house. It might be that you will want to move it from room to room too. Check the travel cot has a travel bag which will make it easy to carry, especially if it has as shoulder strap or strong carrying handles. Also consider if it has wheels which will make moving the travel cot from room to room much simpler.

Features to consider before purchasing a travel cot

Here are some travel cot features to look out for when deciding on which travel cot is best for you and your baby.

Travel cots come with a mattress supplied, but some are comfier than others. Check how thick it is and whether it provides enough support for a good night's sleep. If not, thicker travel cot mattresses can be purchased separately – but that's an extra expense and something else to pack!

Fold mechanism

As well as checking how simple it is to assemble the travel cot, make sure you can fold it away again easily. Could you do it in a hurry if you're dashing to the airport? If you have older children, make sure inquisitive little fingers can't access the mechanism for folding the travel cot when it's in use.

Most travel cots have mesh sides to encourage airflow and enable you to see your baby easily when they're sleeping. Check the quality of the fabric and how easy it is to wipe clean.

If you want to move the cot elsewhere in the house for daytime naps or playpen use, choose one with wheels for easy manoeuvrability.

Standard cot bedding may not fit your travel cot, so check what size bedding is required and factor in any extra expense. Make sure the bedding fits the mattress securely with no loose fabric.

Choose a travel cot with side panels that zip open and close if you'd like to reach your baby without bending low over the side of the cot. If it doubles as a playpen, a 'window' to crawl through can add to the fun.

If you plan to travel with your baby to a climate where mosquitoes might bother them, choose a travel cot with an insect net, and check it fits the travel cot securely.

What age are travel cots advised for?

Travel cots come in a variety of sizes and styles, and they all have different upper age and/or weight limits. Consider how old your child will be when using the travel cot, and choose one suitable for their age. Most of the travel cots in our list above can be used from birth until your baby weighs 15kg, which is approximately three years old. Keep in mind that once your baby makes the transition from sleeping in a cot to a bed, they'll probably prefer a bed to a travel cot when away from home overnight.

Can I travel on a plane with a travel cot?

Yes! Although all airlines will have their own rules on luggage allowances, if you are flying with a baby , then typically, parents of infants are allowed to take at least two items - e.g. travel cot, buggy or car seat - at no extra cost.

If you're buying a travel cot to take on holiday and are travelling by plane, boat or train, choose one that folds as compactly as possible to make it easier to transport. If you're driving, make sure it fits in your car boot and still leaves enough room for the rest of your luggage.

Think about where you'll keep the travel cot when it's not in use, too. If space is not an issue, you could look into the larger options available.

All travel cots are designed to be light enough to carry, but some are heavier than others. There's generally a pay-off between how light it is, how durable it is, and also how big it is.

If you'll be carrying it a lot on your journey, such as through an airport, then weight may take priority, but if you've got a cruising toddler, and throwing the cot in a big boot is about the extent of your lugging it around, then a sturdier, perhaps heavier, cot would be better.

How to assemble a travel cot

Wrestling with an unwieldy travel cot and a tired baby after a long journey is stress you really don't need in your life, so choose one that doesn't require an engineering degree to set up. While how to put up a travel cot differs depending on the brand, some can be assembled and folded away within seconds, even with one hand – and that's a really helpful feature if you're going to be assembling it with your baby or other children in tow.

Where can I buy a travel cot?

Whether you need one pronto or want to spend your time researching the perfect travel cot, there are plenty of places where you can pick one. We'd recommend these trusted retailers that offer great products and plenty of reviews so you can make sure you're buying the right one for your little one:

Mamas & Papas

Can I buy a travel cot second-hand?

If you're looking to buy a second-hand travel cot, there are a few things to check before you make your purchase to ensure comfort and safety for your little one.

•Firstly, all travel cots should comply with British Standards Institution (BSI) safety standard BS EN 716:1 2008. Make sure you can see this number on your travel cot. If you can't, then it is best not to buy it.

• Check that it assembles and folds down correctly. Perhaps even ask the seller for a demo to check that it is easy to fold and unfold. Overtime the lock mechanism can wear and become tricky.

• Make sure it's sturdy and inspect the frame, which will likely be metal, for any sharp edges.

• Make sure the seller provides you with the original instruction booklet, but also check the base of the cot because some brands print the instructions there.

•It's also worth purchasing a new mattress for the travel cot. However, if the second hand cot does come with a mattress then check it over and ensure it is waterproof.

How to clean your travel cot

If your travel cot has been tucked away in the loft for a few years and it smells a bit musty, or your child has turned it into a bit of a mess, a good tip for cleaning is to use warm soapy water and a sponge.

Make sure to leave it out in the fresh air and sunlight to dry. Another tip when purchasing a travel cot is to choose dark colours which will get less stained than a light grey or beige, especially with all that travelling, a dark colour will hide scuff marks and general wear.

Travel cot safety

There are a number of safety aspects to check on your travel cot for your peace of mind. Emily McInnes, a paediatric nurse and holistic sleep coach from Sound Asleep Coaching, advises that you "ensure that the travel cot has a firm flat surface/ mattress, there are no loose objects attached the cot and no sharp edges and always ensure that the child is dressed appropriately according to the temperature of the bedroom. Be mindful of this when you are in a warmer environment and when away on holiday. If your child is in a sleepsuit, ensure that the tog of the sleeping bag is the correct tog for the temperature of the room."

Some other safety features to consider include:

Stability: Be sure to use the mattress that comes with the cot, as changing it could affect the stability of the cot and could make it easier to tip.

Escaping: Swapping for a thicker mattress could give your tot more height and make it easier for them to escape.

Corners: Be wary of how smooth corners are - make sure there is no chance of your baby's clothes getting caught on them to avoid any chance of strangulation.

Flexible sides: Pop-up-style tents may be easy to erect and dismantle; however, the flexible sides mean that if you were to stumble onto the cot, there would be no ridged sides to stop your fall.

Zips: Make sure you check all zips are secure, as any loose zips that become unattached could potentially become choking hazards.

Wheels: The wheels must be able to securely lock into place or have two wheels and two legs for sturdiness.

Test it out: Make sure you try it out before you travel to check all of the above safety aspects.

Safe sleeping in a travel cot

The general consensus is that you need to be following the same sleeping guidance for your baby in a travel cot as you would at home.

Here's what The Lullaby Trust have to say:

"The same 'safer sleep' rules apply to a travel cot, which should have a rigid frame and base, and a firm, flat mattress, covered in a waterproof material. Travel cot mattresses are often thinner and feel harder than those in a permanent cot, but don't be tempted to place folded blankets or a quilt under the baby to make them 'more comfortable'. If you are very tight for space, you may have to consider re-arranging the furniture in the room to ensure that the travel cot isn't against a radiator, in direct sunlight, and is out of reach of blind cords and hazards."

Emily McInnes also advises that it is wise to get your child familiar with the travel cot before using it when away. She suggests, "You may like to introduce your child to the travel cot in your home environment before your holiday so that it is not completely new when you go away. Try and incorporate some of the sleep associations that you use in your home environment such as a comforter or particular blanket. This will make your child feel more at home when they are in their travel cot in a new environment, and you can use white noise for babies under 6 months and pink noise for babies over six months when away, to help block out any new break-through noises which could impact their sleep."

About the expert

Emily McInnes is a a Paediatric Nurse and Certified Holistic Sleep Coach and she has over ten years experience in healthcare settings. She is interested in and has experience of sleep biology, sleep cycles, circadian rhythm and attachment styles and she applies her evidence based practice to real life situations.

E mily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

The best travel cots to buy in 2024 all tried and tested by parents

Our no-nonsense guide to the best travel cots — rated on the ease of assembly to how much space it'll take up in the boot

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Best travel cots 2023 at-a-glance

The best travel cots - tried and tested, how to choose the best travel cot, are travel cots safe for babies, at what age can babies sleep in travel cots, can babies sleep in a travel cot every night, can i change the travel cot mattress.

The best travel cots should be three things: lightweight, compact and easy to assemble. 

If you're heading away on holiday, staying overnight at a friend's house or visiting family far, far away, the best travel cots offer a safe and secure place for your baby to sleep in comfortably, when you're away from home. 

Unlike the best bedside cots , a travel cot is made to be portable. Therefore, many of today's travel cots are lightweight and very quick to assemble so when you reach your destination, you can construct it in minutes. The best travel cots enable you to do this with just one hand. Let's face it: after all that travelling — be it by train, car or plane — a long journey is bound to take it out of you. So your baby will most probably be tired (and so might you)!

Along with being easy to pop up, these handy sleep solutions will also be easy to disassemble and can be packed down neatly into their own storage bag so you can carry them easily to the car or stow them as luggage. To find out what we believe to be the best travel cots keep scrolling. We've included a range of the top options all tried and tested by parents and their little ones. 

• Best travel cot overall: Joie Kubbie Sleep, £99.99 | Very
• Best travel cot for assembly: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light, £220 | Amazon
• Best budget travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot, £36 | Amazon
• Best travel cot for camping: Little Life Arc 2, £119.99 | LittleLife
• Best travel cot for a plush mattress: Nuna Sena Aire, £249.99 | Very  
• Best travel cot for entertainment:  Graco Contour Electra,  £114.99 | Amazon
• Best travel cot for co-sleeping: Micralite Sleep & Go, £120 | Micralite

1. Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

What we thought: The Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot gets our vote as the best travel cot to buy. 'Not only is it excellent value for money at just under £100,' says our Deputy Editor (and mum of three), Heidi Scrimgeour , 'but we also love that it comes with a newborn insert that zips into place inside the travel cot so that you don't have to bend all the way down to the ground to lift your baby in and out.' 

What our tester thought: ‘Having a tiny baby positioned up higher feels much safer than travel cots that place them on the ground, plus, it’s much easier on mums like me who’ve had a C-section,’ says our mum tester, Charlotte Clarke, who reviewed this travel cot with her 20-month-old daughter, Adelaide.

In co-sleeping mode, the cot sides drop down with a few simple clicks and the cot can be attached to a bed with straps, which are provided. But the innovation doesn’t stop there; the Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot also converts into a playpen with a zippable entrance so that toddlers can roam freely in and out. 

Overall verdict: No matter how you’re using this travel cot, it’s easy to assemble. ‘I like that this has been designed with common sense in mind,’ adds Charlotte. ‘There’s nothing too complicated or hi-tech about it, so it's perfect for sleep-deprived parents.’ Her daughter seemed to agree and slept well in the Joie Kubbie Sleep.

• Read our full Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light

What we thought: BabyBjörn's take on a travel cot is an easy-to-assemble design with mesh sides and a surprisingly soft and thick mattress. Our tester Hollie was able to put up this travel cot one-handed while holding a baby and without reading any of the instructions - a pretty impressive feat. The is the best travel cot to buy if quick and easy assembly is your number one priority.

What our tester thought: Mum Hollie Bond and her 10-month-old daughter Margot, aged ten months, reviewed this travel cot for Goodto. Margot slept well in the cot and had ‘enough space to move around in her sleep,’ but Hollie doesn't think it will be big enough for her to sleep in up to the age of three, as the brand claims. Hollie also had some reservations about using this travel cot as she found the base very low to the ground. ‘I wouldn't want to have the cot positioned anywhere that might be draughty or cold as I felt that Margot was a little vulnerable being so low to the ground.’ However, the low base does mean that the cot is multi-functional and can be used as a playpen at home or on holiday.

Overall verdict: When the holiday is over, everything can then be folded up and put into the handy bag that’s included. ‘When packed up the bag definitely feels sturdy enough to withstand any rough handling in transit,’ adds Hollie. ‘It'll make my holiday less stressful too because it's so easy to assemble. And I can use it as Margot's playpen to keep her safe if we're near a swimming pool.’

• Read our full BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light review 

3. Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot

What we thought: The Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot is a classic, stylish design with supporting legs that are easy to assemble. Its mesh sides are fully padded to avoid injury but also allow babies to see out easily.

What our tester thought: Mum Darryl Baker put this travel cot to the test with her 10-month-old daughter, Cole. Darryl tells us she couldn’t get over how easy this travel cot was to put together. In the past, she has struggled with travel cots borrowed from friends. ‘Kneeling on them, pushing them, and mostly pleading with them to just PLEASE fold down,' she says. But there were no such dramas with this. ‘The knack for putting up and down a travel cot can be tricky, but it's not an issue with the Red Kite Sleep Tight travel cot,’ she says. In terms of comfort, Darryl's daughter Cole slept well, waking just once and settling easily after a feed.

Overall verdict: Weighing just over 7kg, this is a relatively lightweight option, so it's one of the best travel cots to buy if you're looking for something super portable but also sturdy enough for older babies to sleep in. At just £36 (yes, we've double-checked the price), this is definitely the best travel cot to choose if you're looking for a good quality budget buy.

• Read our full Red Kite Sleep Tight Travel Cot review

4. Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot

What we thought: The Little Life Arc 2 is not your average travel cot. It’s one of the lightest in our buying guide, coming in at just 2.5kg, so it's hands down the best travel cot to buy if you're keen to take your baby with you on camping adventures. It's probably not right for you if you're not a fan of the great outdoors, however.

What our tester thought: ‘It comes in a neat, portable rucksack which it is easy to pack the cot in and out of,’ says our mum reviewer Charlotte Clarke, who put this to the test with her 19-month-old daughter Adelaide.

The Little Life is more of a tent than a travel cot and has to be put together with poles and a single specially-designed sheet. Once the poles and sheet have been bent into position, you insert a surprisingly thick, waterproof mattress into the cot via Velcro strips. 

‘This wasn’t the easiest cot to assemble but I think you’d get quicker with practice,’ adds Charlotte. Her daughter tested the cot during one of her naps and after initially finding the mesh sides fun to pull and push, she settled down on the mattress and snoozed for a decent period of time.

Overall verdict: This isn’t really a travel cot for a weekend away – its features include a ventilated, anti-insect mesh, ground pegs for outdoor use, and zip-down panels. ‘This would be perfect if you're travelling in a hot country, attending a summer festival, or going on a UK camping trip,’ said our tester. ‘But for indoor use, you need to attach it to a suitable piece of furniture, which we found a bit difficult to find.’ It's good value for such a niche item - but you’ll probably still need a standard travel cot for indoor overnight trips.

• Read our full Little Life Arc 2 Travel Cot review

5. Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot

What we thought: Once you’ve got this travel cot up, you’ll see why it justifies its £200-plus price tag. Firstly, it comes with a newborn insert that sits up high and saves your back from extra bending – especially good if you’ve had a C-section. And when your baby has outgrown this stage, the insert can be removed and the baby sleeps on a luxuriously thick, padded mattress over a cushioned base. There are lots of other noteworthy stand-out features too such as skid-proof feet, an organic cotton sheet to pop over the mattress, and soft, padded edges.

What our tester thought: The Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot has a unique assembly system which our tester Darryl - who reviewed it with her 10-month-old daughter Cole - found a cinch to use. ‘I’ve read up on it and it’s to do with a zig-zag leg design, which means it pretty much just pushes into place and can be folded away with one hand,’ she says. Easy!

Overall verdict: The Aire doubles up as a playpen, which is always handy, but our tester did find it quite bulky - something that you’d need to think about if you plan to regularly move it around. ‘The only downside is how big it is but if space isn’t a problem in the car, then this can’t be faulted,’ she adds. At 10kg, this isn’t a light travel cot but the design is more focused on the baby’s comfort than on portability. As the most expensive travel cot in our lineup, this will appeal to anyone willing to pay extra for the plushest travel cot mattress we've ever seen.

• Read our full Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot review

6. Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot

What we thought: This travel cot isn't especially portable as it's large and robust - but that does allow your baby lots of space to move around, plus it doubles as a playpen. It comes with a newborn insert, a changing mat, a nightlight with music and vibrating features, and a toy bar so there’s lots to keep your little one entertained and to (hopefully) help send them off to sleep.

What our tester thought: ‘Other than it being heavy and a bit bulky to store and travel with, I think the Graco Contour Electra is an excellent travel cot that has some fabulous features,’ says our tester Hollie, who reviewed it with her ten-month-old daughter, Margot. ‘It folds out really easily into a full-size cot.’

Hollie found this a doddle to assemble and says she didn’t even have to read the instructions. ‘I love that two of the legs are on wheels so, although it was big, I could easily move it around the room to put it in the place I wanted without trying to pick it up and carry it.’

Overall verdict: The Graco Contour Electra is a mid-priced travel cot, well suited for trips around the UK rather than holidays abroad as it’s difficult to carry on and off a plane. ‘I wouldn't want to carry this far or have to pick it up off the airport conveyor belt by myself,’ adds Hollie. ‘And people with small cars might want to consider a travel cot that is more compact.’ It's a brilliant choice if you have other children and need somewhere to pop your baby, knowing they'll be safe and occupied while you fix snacks or oversee bathroom visits.

• Read our full Graco Contour Electra Travel Cot review

7. Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot

What we thought: This is a multifunctional travel cot that can also be used as a playpen and co-sleeper (the latter when the newborn insert is added). It’s extremely easy to put up (and down) with a couple of clicks and zips. Our tester Amelia, who's expecting her second baby, described this as absolutely game-changing. 

What our tester thought: 'This is a very good-looking travel cot with hardy, dark-coloured fabric that looks stylish and neutral and shouldn’t show wear and tear readily,' says our reviewer, Amelia. ‘It’s easy on the eye, and on the back - even when you’re pregnant - and it's even easy on the pocket since you can use it from the day your baby is born right up until they're three years old. 

Overall verdict: One obvious plus point is that it includes a high-quality, ‘very firm’ and wipe-clean mattress, which, when disassembled, folds neatly inside the bag along with the frame. This travel cot only weighs 7kg but Amelia found it a bit bulky, mainly because it comes with such a good-quality mattress included. In terms of value for money, we recommend spending the extra £25 for the newborn insert as it transforms this product, giving you more functionality and sleeping options. A superb choice if you're used to co-sleeping and want to continue doing so safely while away from home.

• Read our full Micralite Sleep & Go Travel Cot review

When picking the best travel cot for your needs, consider where and how frequently you're likely to use it. If you frequently travel with your baby, the weight and portability of the travel cot are the main priorities. But if you just need it for occasional overnight use, then a comfortable mattress and sturdy construction are more important than the travel cot's dimensions. Alternatively, if you'll be using a travel cot for a newborn, it's well worth choosing one with a newborn insert and an integrated changing station to help make nights away from home a little easier.

Here's what to consider when choosing a travel cot:

• Age - Most travel cots can be used from birth, and many come with an in-built bassinet to make things a little cosier for very small babies. Travel cots can usually be used up till the age of three or until the child is able to climb out - at which point it's no longer safe to use.
• Portability - A travel cot should be easy to carry and compact enough to stow in small places. Some cots are small enough to fit in an aircraft's overhead locker or in a small car boot.
• Weight - While lighter than a traditional cot, travel cots vary in weight. The lightest come in at around 3kg, while the heaviest ones weigh as much as 11kg. These extremes offer different benefits depending on how you’re planning to use your cot. A lighter cot is more practical for travelling, but a heavier model will likely be sturdier and longer-lasting.
• Assembly - Putting a travel cot together and taking it down should take a matter of seconds. If it’s taking longer or isn’t staying up, make sure you re-read the instructions before putting your baby to sleep in it to make sure you’ve done everything correctly.
• Mattress comfort - Don’t be surprised at the thickness of a travel cot mattress – they’re much thinner and less plush than the cot mattress you have at home in order to keep the travel cot light and portable. But just because the mattress is harder, doesn’t mean that your baby won’t have a good night’s sleep. Baby mattresses are meant to be firm and younger babies, in particular, can benefit from sleeping on a harder mattress surface. 'To comply with safety regulations you should avoid switching the mattress to ensure that the size is exact and there are no gaps around the edges,' says Baby Sleep Trainer Vickie Bowles of The Baby Academy.
• Extra features - Many travel cots have additional extras such as an in-built changing station for easy nappy changes and the option to use it as a playpen for daytime use. They might also have soothing musical features or a newborn insert to boost comfort for younger babies. Consider which of these features are worth paying extra for, and which ones you can do without. It's a bonus if you can get the extra functionality you want without paying more!

Yes - all travel cots on sale must adhere to British safety standard BS EN 716. The Lullaby Trust advises that parents use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that is in good condition. In addition, a baby’s sleeping space should be kept clear, with no loose bedding. As with a normal cot, babies should be placed in the ‘feet-to-foot’ position so they can’t wriggle down under any blankets. 

For young babies under one year old, avoid placing all duvets, soft toys, and pillows inside the cot. When deciding where to put your travel cot, don’t put it near to a radiator, draughty window, or blinds with cords that might pose a strangulation risk. 

If your travel cot comes with wheels, make sure they are locked in place before putting your little one down. 

Travel cots are extremely safe for babies but Vickie Bowles flags that they should not be used for long periods outside of travel / occasional use: ‘It is always good to remember that travel cots do not offer the same amount of support and comfort for your baby and therefore are not designed for regular sleep over an extended period.’

Most travel cots are suitable for babies to sleep in from birth. If you wish to use a travel cot for a newborn, choose one with a newborn insert. This offers younger babies a smaller space to sleep in than the full-sized travel cot and it's elevated off the ground to save parents’ backs as you don’t have to bend down to floor level to reach your child. 

‘If you have a young baby, I highly recommend using a travel cot with a newborn insert which makes life much easier to settle your baby while travelling,’ says Vickie Bowles. 

A sturdy travel cot will suit an active toddler and most can be used up until the age of three but check the manufacturer's instructions for the upper age or weight restrictions.

No, a travel cot is not suitable for your baby to sleep in every night. Designed for use when you're away from home such as on holiday or visiting friends or family overnight, travel cots are much lighter than standard cots so they're not robust enough for permanent use. The mattress supplied with a travel cot is thinner than a standard cot mattress because it's designed to fold compactly for travelling, so it's unlikely to provide sufficient support for a baby to sleep on every night.

No, this is not recommended. Use the mattress supplied with the travel cot at the time of purchase. Replacing the mattress is dangerous because it could make the structure less sturdy and create a safety risk if the mattress does not fit the travel cot frame exactly.

How we tested the best travel cots

Why you can trust GoodtoKnow. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.

We only include products in our buying guides that we have thoroughly tested and reviewed. We use a robust and consistent testing methodology to review all the products, and we use a pool of parent reviewers to ensure all items are appropriately tested by a child of the relevant age. 

• Read more about how we test and review the products in our buying guides

Heidi Scrimgeour joined GoodTo after a 16-year freelance career as a parenting and lifestyle journalist. She has written features for various publications including The Guardian, Telegraph, Daily Mail, Red, Psychologies and Stylist. She was a parenting columnist for AOL’s Parentdish and baby gear editor of Mother & Baby magazine for six years. Heidi has taken part in various parenting debates on This Morning, The One Show and BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. She has a degree in English & Media Arts and gained a Masters with Distinction from the University of Westminster.  Find out more

Planning a holiday with your little one? You might also be interested in our buying guide on the  best travel strollers or, if you prefer to leave the buggy at home and travel light, our guide to choosing the best baby carriers is worth a read.

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Charlotte Duck is an award-winning lifestyle and parenting journalist who writes who regularly writes for Tatler, the Evening Standard, Yahoo, and Hello Magazine about everything from royal hairstyles to fixed-rate mortgages. She was previously Kidswear Editor at M&S and worked in-house at Boden but, while she loves writing about beautiful children's clothes, she has three children who refuse to wear them. 

• Heidi Scrimgeour Deputy Editor

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• Baby & kids

Best travel cots 2023: Comfortable cribs for babies and toddlers

• Catherine Hufton
• Chris Martin

Travelling with your baby? Ensure everyone enjoys a good night’s sleep with the best travel cots

If you’ve recently had a baby, then the thrilling thought of travelling anywhere, let alone abroad, is precisely why you began your search for the best travel cot. Buy the right one, and you’ll be journeying once more, on UK holidays or overseas, visiting relatives overnight, or dropping off your baby to a friend while you and your partner enjoy a much-needed date night. For all those scenarios, a good-quality travel cot guarantees that your baby gets a comfortable night’s sleep.

Investing in a good-quality travel cot needn’t cost a fortune, however. How much you spend will depend on your requirements: do you need an all-singing, all-dancing cot; or a simple pop-up model that’s easy to use?

These days, many hotels and holiday homes supply cots; but buying your own means you can be confident in its quality, and your baby will be comfortable and relaxed in their own familiar cot, even when they’re in new surroundings.

You’ll find our top picks in the At a glance list below followed by a handy explanation of all the key features to look out for in our buying guide. If you want a little more information before buying, then you’ll find a wider selection of bite-size reviews a little further down the page.

READ NEXT: The best prams to buy

Best travel cot: At a glance

• Best lightweight travel cot: Silver Cross Slumber | £165
• Best travel cot for value for money: Joie Excursion | £190
• Best luxury travel cot: BabyBjörn Travel Cot | £249
• Best budget travel cot: Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot | £37

How to choose the best travel cot for your child

There are some key questions to consider when buying a travel cot. Obviously, it needs to be appropriate for the age and size of your child, but you’ll also want to take note of how portable it is, how quickly it can be assembled – and how much you want to spend.

Are travel cots suitable for newborns?

Most travel cots will be just fine for newborn infants, but you may prefer to get a smaller bassinet that’s specifically designed for young babies. This is because it’s easier to put down a baby in a higher bassinet – babies develop what’s known as the Moro reflex, which causes their arms to jump if they think they’re being dropped; this could be felt if placing them lower down into a travel cot. In addition, a bassinet feels more enclosed and cosy.

You can also now pick up bedside cribs that can double up as travel cots. As you’d imagine, these will be more expensive, but it does mean you’re buying just one item rather than two.

Can a travel cot double as a playpen?

Indeed. Spending a little more on a travel cot that doubles as a playpen will increase its use, delivering value for money. Look for models that have four, rather than two, mesh sides to give you and your baby a better view. A travel cot can also function as somewhere safe to put your crawling, or walking, whirlwind while you grab a snack or go to the loo.

READ NEXT:  The best baby cot to buy

What else do I need to consider?

Make sure you have all the necessary accoutrements. All the travel cots on our list are supplied with a mattress, but sheets aren’t included. You could use a pillowcase, but you may prefer a fitted sheet, and this may be available as an optional extra.

How we test travel cots

At Expert Reviews, we know that not all products are created equal, nor can they be judged on price and brand alone. This is the reason we test every product we recommend, so we can get first-hand experience of how it performs in real life. To put together this roundup of the best travel cots, each model has been assembled by the reviews, and out through its paces with their own children. As well as considering the age and size of child for which each cot is suitable, we consider how portable it is, how quickly and easily it can be assembled, and how much it costs. We also judge the comfort of each mattress by considering how well a child has slept on them, along with the overall design. At the end of each review, you’ll find a quick-view set of details including the age range for which a cot is suitable, its weight, assembly time and cleaning instructions.

READ NEXT: The best baby toys to buy

The best travel cots you can buy in 2023

1. bugaboo stardust: best travel cot for comfort and convenience.

Renowned, and highly regarded, for its range of car seats and stylish strollers (you can read more about these in our best pushchair guide ), Bugaboo recently branched out with its first travel cot: the Bugaboo Stardust. It’s pricey, just like the rest of the Bugaboo range, but that’s the only negative. It tops our list of the best travel cots because it combines style, function, and comfort in ways we haven’t seen before.

First – and this is a gamechanger – it “pops” open, in the same way that a pop-up tent would, and similarly folds down in seconds at the touch of a button. It can also be folded and unfolded without removing the mattress, and the buttons are sensibly and safely positioned out of reach of your child.

While many travel cots either come without a mattress or ship with a thin, uncomfortable bit of material, the Bugaboo Stardust comes with a built-in, multi-layered mattress that’s lightweight and comfortable. It can be raised via a zip-in bed insert, and this transforms the cot into a bassinet that’s perfect for newborns or younger babies.

The pop-up design means that there’s no fiddly assembly required. There are no special techniques to master, nor do you have to rely on separate sections all clipping and locking into place. It folds down into one piece that’s carried in a Velcro-closing bag that’s also included in the box.

Factor in all of its features, and the included extras, and the £225 price doesn’t seem quite so extortionate. In fact, we don’t think you can really put a price on just how easy and quick the Stardust is to use.

Key features – Age range: 0-24 months; Weight: 6.7kg; Cleaning: Hand-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 1 second

Check price at Boots

2. Silver Cross Slumber: Best lightweight travel cot

Price when reviewed: £165 | Check price at Silver Cross

Silver Cross’s Slumber travel cot is contemporary and lightweight, with a pop-up design that can be assembled in seconds. It now comes with the newborn insert that sits at bed height and can be used with or without. This cot looks great, so we had no issue having it out in our living room for downstairs naps through a period of some noisy building work being carried out. Plus, it also doubles up as a great playpen, featuring a padded top rail and zip-down side.

Let’s be honest, babies don’t always sleep particularly well in travel cots, but we were pleasantly surprised during testing, as baby enjoyed a restful couple of nights on a recent trip to the grandparents. The Silver Cross Slumber is lightweight, too, so would be ideal for taking on holiday to create somewhere safe for baby to play in a villa or hotel room.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 7.7kg; Cleaning: Sponge clean; Time to assemble: 5 minutes

Check price at Silver Cross

3. Tutti Bambini CoZee: Best travel cot for style

The Cozee Luxe is the latest update on Tutti Bambini’s Cozee bedside crib . Slightly bigger, it comes with more premium finishings than the original. It’s beautifully made, featuring soft quilted sides, a cotton lining, and sheer mesh sides that will keep baby visible at all times. It also has gold-tone-tipped walnut legs that add to its luxury finish.

The side can be easily zipped down so you can lift baby in and out of the bed for feeds during the night, or zipped up during nap times. The lining can also be removed and washed in the machine, which is always handy with a newborn baby.

Assembly proved quick and easy: it probably took us no more time than the 60 seconds suggested by the brand. This feels like a quality cot that we would be more than happy to have as a permanent by-the-side bed; it doesn’t feel at all flimsy in the way some travel cots do. If your baby regularly stay at the grandparents or a friend’s house, this would be a lovely option to keep out permanently.

Key features  – Age range: 0-6 months; Weight: 11.4kg; Cleaning: Inner lining and mattress cover are machine washable; Time to assemble: 60 seconds

Tutti Bambini CoZee® Bedside Crib/Co-Sleeper with Breathable Mesh Window, Travel Bag and Easy Fold (Oak and Charcoal)

4. nuna sena aire: best travel cot/playpen hybrid.

Nuna’s solution is more expensive and heavier, but comes with plenty of great features and more spacious dimensions of 103 x 76 x 73cm (LWH) – which means there’s more room to sleep and play.

The zigzag leg-folding design is super easy to use; folding it up is particularly satisfying, requiring a simple lifting of the strap in the centre of the cot. Like magic, it folds up into a very compact size, although you do have to wrap the mattress around the outside before putting it all in the carry bag.

The stylish cot is available in two colours, Charcoal (pictured) or Frost, and features an “Advanced air design”, including mesh sides to ensure airflow is optimal and safe. It’s sturdier than most, with skid-proof feet and padded edges.

Suitable from birth, the raised bassinet mode is super useful and can be quickly unzipped when you want to move the mattress to a lower position. The mattress itself sports a triple-layered mesh design and the internal boards are removable, so that the cover can be machine-washed and dried.

Key details – Age range: Birth to 15kg; Weight: 12.3kg; Cleaning: Spot-clean, air-dry mattress cover is both washing machine and dryer safe; Time to assemble: 1 second fold/unfold

5. Joie Excursion: Best travel cot for value for money

It isn’t the most compact, lightweight or easy to put together model in this list, but the Joie Excursion Change & Bounce gets a special shout-out for offering great value for money. In addition to the sturdy, well-built travel cot itself, this good-looking setup comes with a full-size bassinet (that clips on and off easily), a changing table and a bouncer, all included in the price. What’s more, the bouncer can be used either on top of the cot or standalone, as can the changing mat.

As with all of Joie’s baby products, the Excursion Change & Bounce is highly practical. Although a little fiddly to set up and use, once you’ve mastered it, you’ll wonder how you ever did without the added extras. The travel cot itself sports an ultra-secure frame with exposed tubing, plus two built-in wheels to help you easily move it around a room. A mesh lining on all four sides means the Change & Bounce can double up as a playpen, plus it has an elevated, draught-resistant base, and comes with a carry bag for storage.

On the side of the cot is a sound and light attachment that vibrates. It plays five classical lullabies and five nature sounds, plus there’s a nightlight that offers three brightness settings. The bouncer adds a toy bar with two soft toys and a five-point harness. We’ve found ourselves using the BabyBjörn for the odd night away and this fantastic travel cot for longer holidays.

Key features –   Age range: 0-4 years; Weight: 16.49kg; Cleaning: Hand-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 5 minutes

6. BabyBjörn Travel Cot: Best luxury travel cot

BabyBjörn gear isn’t cheap, and the fitted organic sheet adds an extra £20 to this already pricey travel cot. But if you’re willing to pay, it won’t disappoint. The travel cot takes mere seconds to assemble: the legs drop and lock as you open it, after which the mattress drops in.

The mattress is thick and soft, it’s fully washable and it looks good, too. Available in two colours, the mesh sides ensure good ventilation for baby and all-round visibility for parents. We bought this travel cot on the premise that once our little one started roaming around, it would make a safe playpen for him, too. The angle of the legs deliver good stability, even if your toddler leans on the travel cot’s sides as he grows.

One slight downside is the length of the drop when placing your baby into the cot at bedtime. It isn’t a huge problem, but note that this travel cot doesn’t come with a bassinet attachment – so, if you’re short, placing a 10kg child down into it can prove tricky. This isn’t a reason not to buy this travel cot, just something to consider.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 6kg; Cleaning: Machine-washable fabric; Time to assemble: 15 seconds

Check price at BabyBjörn

7. Red Kite Sleeptight Travel Cot: Best budget travel cot

This may not be the lightest or most attractive travel cot here, but it does the job for a fraction of the cost of other models. It does come with its own mattress, although some parents may prefer to buy an additional mattress (around £20) since the one included is quite thin. Setting the cot up and packing it away again can be a bit of a challenge – make sure you follow the instructions carefully – but the sturdy, steel-framed design is reassuringly stable once erected.

There are no bells and whistles here; just the cot, a mattress and a bag. You’ll need to pick up a sheet for the mattress, too, which is available to buy for around £13. If you’re not someone who will be travelling too often with baby, or are on a tight budget, this cot will serve its purpose.

Key features – Age: 0-3 years; Weight: 8.5kg; Cleaning: Sponge clean; Time to assemble: 1 minute

Red Kite Black Sleep Tight Travel Cot

Keep your littles ones safe

What are the best travel cots in the UK for 2024?

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If you’re planning to travel with your baby or toddler in 2024, you might be wondering what are the best travel cots to buy. Travel cots are portable, safe and comfortable places for your little one to sleep when away from home. They’re also great for use as a playpen or a spare cot at the grandparents’ house.

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best travel cot for your family? To help you out, we’ve done some research and compiled a list of the best travel cots in the UK for 2024, based on expert reviews, parent feedback and product features.

Before we get into our top picks, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about travel cots.

What is a travel cot?

A travel cot is a foldable cot that can be easily transported and stored. It usually has a metal or plastic frame, mesh sides and a thin mattress. Travel cots are designed to provide a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for babies and toddlers when they are away from home.

Why do I need a travel cot?

A travel cot can be useful for various reasons, such as:

• Travelling: Whether you’re going on a holiday, visiting relatives or staying in a hotel, a travel cot can ensure that your child has a familiar and comfortable place to sleep.
• Playing: A travel cot can also be used as a playpen, where your child can play safely and independently while you’re busy or need a break.
• Saving space: A travel cot can be a good alternative to a regular cot if you have limited space at home or want to save money. Some travel cots can also be used as co-sleepers or bassinets for newborns.

What should I look for in a travel cot?

There are several factors to consider when choosing a travel cot, such as:

• Size: You should check the dimensions and weight of the travel cot when folded and unfolded, to make sure it fits in your car boot or suitcase, as well as in the room where you’ll use it. You should also check the size of the sleeping area, to make sure it’s suitable for your child’s age and weight.
• Ease of use: You should look for a travel cot that is easy to set up and fold down, preferably with one hand or one movement. You should also look for a travel cot that comes with a carry bag or handle, to make it easier to transport and store.
• Comfort: You should look for a travel cot that has a good quality mattress that is thick, firm and breathable. You should also look for a travel cot that has mesh sides that allow air circulation and visibility, as well as padded edges that prevent little fingers from getting trapped.
• Features: You should look for a travel cot that has extra features that suit your needs and preferences, such as:
• A bassinet insert or zip-down side for newborns or co-sleeping
• A changing table or storage pocket for convenience
• A mosquito net or canopy for protection
• A toy bar or music box for entertainment
• Wheels or skid-proof feet for mobility or stability

Now that we’ve answered some common questions about travel cots, let’s move on to our top picks for the best travel cots in 2024:

Best travel cot overall: Venture UK Airpod Baby & Toddler Travel Cot

This travel cot is a winner for its innovative design, lightweight frame and easy assembly. It features a self-inflating mattress that provides a comfortable and supportive surface for your baby to sleep on. The mattress also has a removable cover that is machine-washable and water-resistant.

The Airpod travel cot has mesh sides that allow air circulation and visibility, as well as a zip-down side that can be used as a playpen or a co-sleeper. The cot folds down into a compact carry bag that weighs only 6kg, making it easy to transport and store.

The Airpod travel cot is suitable from birth to 15kg and comes with a fitted sheet and a mosquito net. It’s available in grey or navy colours.

Best travel cot for compact fold: Bugaboo Stardust Travel Cot

If you’re looking for a travel cot that folds down in seconds, look no further than the Bugaboo Stardust. This travel cot has a unique one-hand fold mechanism that allows you to collapse it in one simple movement, without removing the mattress or any other parts.

The Stardust travel cot has a sturdy yet lightweight frame that can be carried with one hand or stored in a small space. It comes with a premium mattress that is thick and breathable, as well as an additional bassinet insert for newborns up to 9kg.

The Stardust travel cot has mesh sides that provide ventilation and visibility, as well as padded edges that prevent little fingers from getting trapped. The cot also has an integrated zip-in bed sheet that is machine-washable and stays in place.

The Stardust travel cot is suitable from birth to 15kg and comes with a carry bag and a storage pocket. It’s available in black or grey colours.

Best budget travel cot: Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot

If you’re on a tight budget, you can still get a good quality travel cot that won’t break the bank. The Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot is a simple yet practical option that offers great value for money.

This travel cot has a lightweight aluminium frame that weighs only 5kg, making it easy to carry and transport. It has four mesh sides that allow airflow and visibility, as well as two lockable wheels that make it easy to move around.

The Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot comes with a thin foam mattress that can be folded along with the cot. The mattress also has a removable cover that is machine-washable and water-resistant.

The Cuggl Deluxe Superlight Travel Cot is suitable from birth to 15kg and comes with a carry bag. It’s available in black colour.

Best travel cot for toddlers: Nuna Sena Aire

If you have an older or bigger toddler who needs more space to sleep and play, you might want to consider the Nuna Sena Aire. This travel cot is spacious, sturdy and stylish, making it ideal for longer trips or home use.

The Sena Aire travel cot has an advanced air design that allows airflow from every angle, keeping your child cool and comfortable. It also has a triple-layered mesh mattress that is soft and supportive, as well as an organic cotton sheet that is machine-washable and hypoallergenic.

The Sena Aire travel cot has an easy fold mechanism that allows you to fold it with one hand, without removing the mattress or any other parts. It also has skid-proof feet, padded edges and an above-ground base that prevents drafts, bumps and dirt.

The Sena Aire travel cot is suitable from birth to 15kg and comes with a carry bag and a storage pocket. It’s available in charcoal, frost or safari colours.

These are our top picks for the best travel cots in the UK for 2024. We hope this guide helps you find the best travel cot for your family and your travels. Happy sleeping!

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Best travel cot 2023: lightweight cots for travel

Attempting travel with a baby? The best travel cot will make sure you’re suitably armed, and they’re suitably snuggly

The best travel cot? Be honest, it’s something you didn’t even know existed until you became a parent and had to take a trip. Do you have to travel with a bed for your baby? Well, yes, you do, they're just as essential as the best car seats and best suitcases , and luckily there are so many incredible new designs that hitting the road with your littlest is that little bit easier.

We give you the travel cot, the portable crib, and the basket bed … here are all the latest and the best products on the market which allow you to travel light even though you’re now packing an extra person.

How to buy the best travel cot

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

First off, you might be surprised to find out that travel cots aren’t just for travel. If you’re stuck for space at home, regularly splitting time between two places, want a safe place to keep them corralled while you pop off for a second (see above), or like to have a spare for friends’ babies when they pop round for a coffee (the friend, that is, not the baby), a travel cot is a sensible solution.

But when it does come to travel, having your own portable cot means that you needn’t worry about whether that Airbnb has all the necessaries or that hotel webpage is up to date, and it also gives baby a familiar place to sleep, eliminating one more reason for them to get lairy while you’re on the road.

And it’s what you’ll be using it for that’ll mostly dictate the type of travel crib you want. 

Compact foldable cots or bassinets are best for chucking in a suitcase or luggage locker on the plane, while trips by car simply call for something that can fit in the boot. The more lightweight they are, the more you might question the fact that they’re deemed suitably sturdy for a human child, but between rigorous manufacturer testing and great reviews across the board, you can rest assured each of our picks will keep them safe as houses, even if you’re a long way away from yours. 

You might be wondering if travel cots are safe to sleep in? The answer is yes, as long as you buy the right one and your child doesn't sleep in it all the time. Read our guide linked above for more information on travel cot safety.

Finally, for maximum mileage when it comes to the initial spend, look for a model that comes with an included mattress, adjustable levels for rapidly growing babes, and more.

The best travel cots you can buy today:

1. Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Sleep&Go Travel Cot is a well-designed piece of kit that hopes to make travelling with little ones a breeze. It sets itself apart from rivals by being adaptable: it's a travel cot one minute, playpen the next, and can even transform into a newborn co-sleeper. Perhaps best of all, it's able to transform between these functions in seconds thanks to its innovative all-in-one frame.

It lets itself down slightly with the lack of colour options, and the fact that it's not the smallest when folded.

With an RRP of £150, it sits firmly in the upper-mid-range price category, but it's durable materials, solid build, and innovative features mean it more than earns its place at the top of our list.

• Micralite Sleep&Go Travel Cot review

2. BabyBjorn Travel Cot Light

Praise be to Björn Jakobson, granddaddy of all things baby-related — his brainchild BabyBjorn still leads the pack when it comes to travel cots, with this one getting our second spot for its practical, paediatrician-approved design. The foldable travel cot packs down into a neat carry case with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt for easy transportation, and we love how compact it is, not to mention easy to set up, which is a real bonus when there’s unpacking to be done. 

The mattress has been designed in conjunction with paediatric specialists to provide the best support possible, but the only problem is that it’s at floor level, so if you have shorter arms, bear in mind it might take some effort, or the help of a taller family member.  

3. Nuna SENA Aire

The thing about parenthood is that you always have your hands full, and when it comes to travelling with kids, that goes double. So welcome the SENA Aire, a thoughtfully designed travel cot from premium baby gear brand Nuna that can be set-up not only quickly, but with one hand. Its zigzag legs pop-up instantly, and come with padded edges so you cannot trap you finger in a hinge while you’re seeing it up. 

However, the SENA Aire’s main USP is what its name suggests; an advanced air design delivers maximum airflow that will give its inhabitant deeper sleeps. That’s the theory. Elsewhere, the SENA Aire gives the travelling parents everything they need, including a mattress, sheets, an insect net and even cotton sheets. Best of all, it’s all machine washable, and goes neatly into a travel bag.

4. Inovi Cocoon Folding Moses

Here’s one for youngsters taking their first flights. Suitable for the under six months crowd, this simple crib won’t be with you for long, but it’s sure to impress any parent thinking of taking a flight to show-off their new addition. A simple and nice-looking crib that could easily be used at home, the Cocoon is compact and lightweight enough for travel, even complying with international aviation standards (IATA) so it can be taken on a plane as hand luggage, and stowed in overhead locker compartments (minus junior, we hope). 

It also includes a mesh canopy that protects baby from the outside world – including insects, pets and curious passers-by – while being itself constructed atom transparent, breathable mesh panels. The Cocoon is also easy to set-up, with four locking joints on its fold-out base for maximum stability.

5. Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Cot

Like the BabyBjorn travel cot, this Phil & Teds option is suitable for use from birth to three years, making it a good option if you’re after a longer-term solution. The big difference between the two is that this little number is more suited to long-haul travel, with a weight of just 3.2 kilograms and an ultra-compact design that’s formulated to fit in a suitcase, luggage locker, or even the storage space of your buggy. 

Reviewers found it was a bit awkward to set up, but that it was light, sturdy and comfy enough to make up for it, so we reckon it sounds just fine if you’re setting up camp for a while.  

6. SpaceCot Travel Cot

If the combination of quick setup and sturdiness is the holy grail of travel cots, then call us Indiana Jones, because we seem to have found it in the SpaceCot Travel Cot. The makers say it opens and closes in just three seconds — a big boast, but reviewers vouch for its veracity. 

They found it super easy to set up, and loved the included detachable crib levels and mattress that let it work as a cot up to six months, and a playpen up to 30 months. If you frequently find yourself with your hands too full for faffing around, all signs point to this easy-up cot being a good buy.  

7. LittleLife Arc 2

OK, it’s a tent. Get over it. Kids love camping! Seriously though, the tent-style Arc 2 has a lot going for it, especially if you travel a lot because (and this is a stroke of genius) the Arc 2 packs-up into a small lightweight backpack. A pop-up tent weighing a mere 2.5kg, it uses colour-coded, lightweight aluminium poles and comes with a Velcro-attached foam mattress and washable cotton cover. 

Although it can be used indoors perfectly well, as its design suggests, the Arc 2 can also be used outdoors, and be secured with tent pegs. It works as a bed, a playpen, and just as a place to keep a child out of the sun. If you’re an outdoorsy kind of a family, the Arc 2 is a no-brainer.

8. Pop Up Bassinet Koo-Di

Designed for use in the house or out in the garden, at the beach or for trips somewhere rather sunnier, the Koo-Di Sun and Sleep Travel Bassinet looks to be a versatile option for keeping the smallest member of your group happy, cool, and out of the sun. 

The mesh sides are intended for ventilation and peace of mind, allowing you to check on them as they (hopefully) snooze, while the integrated zip-up mosquito net keeps nibbles at bay, and the blackout blind claims to block 93 percent of all harmful rays. That’s all pretty high tech for a travel cot, making it our best bet for travel abroad and hot summer days at home.  

9. Chicco Lullago Zip Crib

This expandable travel crib gives the option for different depths as they grow, giving it more lasting power than some of our smaller picks, and making it, according to happy reviewers, a great transitional cot. Users loved that it was sturdy and easy to put together, but found it a bit heavy to carry — although, while the travel bag is a bit more cumbersome than its BabyBjorn equivalent, some might appreciate that it looks more like your average minimal tote bag rather than a baby-specific behemoth. 

Overall, it’s agreed that the quality is top-notch and the setup simple, but if you have to travel a long way, you might be better placed going for something like Phil & Ted’s travel cot.  

10. Joie Excursion Change & Rock Travel Cot0

Trying to get them off to sleep isn’t the only thing that can prove tricky on the road - there’s also the small matter of changing to attend to. Luckily, some clever clogs at Joie has made a travel cot that doubles up as a changing table. Actually, make that triples up, because it also packs in a soothing rocker with soft toys. And it has wheels! 

With a draught-resistant base and mesh lining for a comfortable sleep, a rocker/bassinet for soothing and naps, and a changing table for you-know-what, reviewers agree this is a great portable option for when you want to streamline your stuff. Just be aware that it’s very large and very heavy, so it’s not the best for small cars and certainly won’t fit in a suitcase, but gosh darn is it versatile.  

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As the Style and Travel Editor at T3, Spencer covers everything from clothes to cars and watches to hotels. Everything that's cool, stylish, and interesting, basically. He's been a part of T3 for over seven years, and in that time covered every industry event known to man, from CES and MWC to the Geneva Motorshow and Baselworld. When he's driving up and down the country in search of the greatest driving roads, he can be found messing around on an electric scooter, playing with luxury watches, or testing the latest fragrances.

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The Best Travel Cots (Reviewed by UK Parents) In 2023

• January 19, 2023

Table of Contents

Comparison table.

Maxi-Cosi Iris

• Has a comfortable foam mattress
• Comes with a travel bag
• Lightweight travel cot (6kg)

Graco Compact Travel Cot

• One of the best budget travel cots
• Cost is significantly lower
• Has a secure hold

Buy this product if want to make sure your travel cot can be used as your baby grows and changes.

• Has a comfortable foam mattress for a better night’s sleep.
• Comes with a travel bag for easier transportation
• This lightweight (6kg) travel cot is easy to carry and it folds to a compact size
• Not suitable for children over three years of age

Check out the last deal for this product

Buy this product if you are looking for a quality product, that is easy to assemble, but has a lower cost attached.

• The easy-view mesh means you can see your child when they are sleeping.
• This is one of the best budget travel cots. The cost is significantly lower than other cots.
• The travel bag has a useful handle and strap fastenings for a secure hold.
• A mattress is not included with this travel cot

Red Kite Sleep Tight

Buy this product if you are looking for an award-winning travel cot for a very reasonable cost.

• Great value for money
• High-quality cot for a reasonable cost
• Has easy-view mesh sides
• This travel cot is great value for money. You get an award-winning, high-quality cot for a reasonable cost.
• The top of the cot has padded edges and top rails to keep little hands safe.
• The easy-view mesh sides are great for easily checking on your little ones as they sleep.
• The fabric of the cot is not removable and is not machine washable

Hauck Disney Dream n Play

Buy this product if you are looking for a cot that doubles as a playpen.

• Suitable up to 15kg
• Mickey Mouse Design
• Only weighs 7kg

This travel cot is great for Disney fans! Mickey is printed onto the side of the cot making for a nice-looking design.

The sides of the cot are made from mesh and measure 128 x 69cm and 76cm high.

When you fold this travel cot up and put it in the travel bag that’s included, its measures 22 x 21 x 76cm.

It’s nice and quick to set up and pack away and you can use it up until your baby is 15kg.

There is an included mattress that comes with the cot but a different one is recommended.

• Not suitable for babies above 6 months of age

Babylo Natura Folding Travel Cot

Buy this product if you are looking for style and substance with the added bonus of a rocking feature.

• Comfortable mattress included
• Floor base pedals
• Folds away quickly and easily
• A comfortable and supportive mattress is included.
• Floor base pedals allow parents to utilise the rocking feature or they can set it to immobile

Hauck Travel Cot

Buy this product if you are looking for travel cots for babies that will grow with them

• Six-part travel cot
• Changing mat is detachable
• Has mesh sides
• The changing mat is detachable and can simply be clicked into place
• Mesh sides allow increased visibility and ventilation
• It can be difficult to assemble and put down and may require extra strength

The Best Travel Cots buying guide and FAQ

What is the best cot to buy.

Choosing the best travel cot from so many fantastic options was difficult. We considered several factors to help us make our decision, including the design, the ease of transport and assembly, and the mattress. The clear winner for us was the Maxi-Cosi Iris 2-in-1 Compact Travel Cot.

Not only is this one of the best travel cots for babies it can also be adapted as your child grows. The cot is simple to use and folds compactly into a useful traveling bag. It is also super lightweight – a huge bonus for parents traveling with multiple bags and suitcases.

The elegant colours and wooden frame make this cot stylish and luxurious.

One of the stand-out features of this travel cot is the mattress. At 4cm thick, it is comfortable and will make your child feel like they are sleeping in their bassinet at home.

What Makes the Best Portable Cot?

Deciding what makes the best travel cot depends on what is important to you. Different families have different uses and needs for their cot so what is important to one family may be less important to another.

Portables cots are used more frequently by some families than others. Some families use them in the same location every time, whereas others use them only for travel purposes. Below are some of the most popular things people look for when choosing a portable cot.

Pack down Speed:

If you plan to use your portable cot when traveling or when your child visits family, a cot that is easy to take down and quick to pack away may be the best option for you. Many travel cots come with an easy-fold design that enables the cot to be packed away in seconds.

If your baby is going to be using the cot frequently and sleeping in there overnight, comfort is likely to be one of your top priorities. Many of the best travel cots come with a mattress for a more comfortable sleep. Some do not have a mattress but instead have a padded base. Although these can also be comfortable, you need to decide what you prefer for your baby.

Can it be used as a playpen?:

A travel cot that doubles as a playpen is preferable for many parents. The opportunity to use the cot for sleeping and play can make life much easier for parents who are traveling. A cot that can be used as a playpen should be larger than average and have a soft and comfortable base. Some of the more popular options will also come with additional features such as a zip-down side and toy basket.

There are several things to consider in regards to material. Firstly, you want to make sure the material is designed to be kind to your baby’s skin and contains no hazardous materials or chemicals. You may also want to consider whether the material is machine washable or wipe clean.

The weight of travel cots can vary greatly. The weight should be stated in the product description so always consult this beforehand. Generally, the weight of a travel cot will be between 6kg-8kg.

Things to consider when buying a travel cot

Portability:.

If you plan to travel on public transport or by aeroplane, you may want to make sure that your travel cot is portable. Many cots are small enough and light enough to carry easily and these are the best option for many parents.

It is also possible to purchase travel cots that come with a bag that has a shoulder strap or carrying handle for increased portability.

You may also want to consider a travel cot that is easy to move around once it is assembled. You can consider having wheels underneath the travel cot. Lightweight cots with wheels are easy to move from room to room, meaning you don’t have to take it down and reassemble it every time you want to use it.

How to Clean:

Choosing a travel cot that is easy to clean can be a lifesaver for many parents. We all know how messy children can be! Look for a cot that has a removable frame cover and a removable mattress cover for the easiest clean.

Additional Features:

There are several additional features to consider when buying a travel cot. These include a changing table, a nightlight, a rocking feature, a detachable side for co-sleeping, a side that zips down, a toy basket, or hanging toys – there are so many features to consider! Think about what is important to you and your baby and which of the features you are most likely to use.

Are Travel Cots Worth it?

Deciding whether a travel cot is worth it really depends on your lifestyle and how much you are likely to use it. Many parents find them worthwhile because, not only can they be used as a bassinet, many of them can also double up as a playpen.

Some travel cots can be pricy, and although they are more likely to be made from luxurious materials, have a stylish look and come with additional features, if you are not likely to use the cot often, you could always invest in one of the best budget cots. These are relatively low in price but are still functional for your baby.

What Age Can a Baby Sleep in a Travel Cot?

The answer to this question varies with each travel cot. Some cots are suitable for newborns and have a detachable bassinet that can be taken out as your baby grows. Some are only appropriate from 6 months of age but can last until your child is three or four years of age.

Some are only suitable for a younger baby and cannot be used once your baby has exceeded a particular weight or length. Consult the product description or manual carefully to ensure that the cot is the correct size for your child.

Are Travel Cots Safe?

This is a question we hear often. Let’s face it, the safety of our children is always paramount.

All cots in the U.K. must meet the European Safety Standards. This means a cot cannot be sold to you unless it is fully compliant with safety rules .

However, as with any cot, you should make sure that you are following safe sleeping practices. Use the original mattress that comes with the cot. If you are required to buy the mattress separately, always choose one that is recommended by the manufacturer or fits exactly with the size specifications.

Additionally, ensure you use a fitted sheet and that there is no loose material that can find its way onto your baby’s face.

How to Get Your Baby Used to a Travel Cot

Going on a trip to find that your baby doesn’t like sleeping in their travel cot can be a disaster for many parents. As a matter of fact, it is more likely that your baby is confused by the change in their sleeping arrangements and isn’t used to sleeping in a different bassinet.

To help your baby get used to their travel cot , you should put your baby into the cot to sleep for a few nights before your trip. This gives them a chance to test out the cot and you’re likely to find that they like it just as much as they like their cot at home.

Having a familiar sleeping area that they like being in will also make it much easier for your baby to adapt to their new environment – making the trip much less stressful for you and your child.

The author: Jose Martinez

At www.toddlerreview.com, we take a data-driven approach to our product reviews. Our team of expert reviewers spends hours conducting online research, analyzing product specifications, and comparing products to identify the best options available. We also take into account feedback from other parents and users to ensure that we’re recommending products that are tried and true. Our reviews are based on a combination of objective data and subjective opinions, so you can feel confident that we’re providing you with the most accurate and reliable information possible.

We know that as parents, you want to be sure that you’re making the best choices for your little ones. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. Our team of reviewers conducts extensive online research to identify the top-rated products in each category. We then compare these products based on factors like safety, durability, ease of use, and practicality to determine which ones are the best options for parents. We also take into account feedback from other parents and users to ensure that we’re recommending products that have been tested and approved by real people.

At www.toddlereview.com, we understand that not everyone has the time or resources to conduct hands-on testing with every product they’re considering. That’s why we rely on feedback from other parents and users to inform our reviews. We scour online reviews and ratings to get a sense of how products perform in real-life situations. We also take into account feedback from our own team of reviewers who may have tested the product firsthand. Our testing process is based on a combination of objective data and subjective opinions, so you can feel confident that we’re providing you with the most accurate and reliable information possible.

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Last Updated on January 19, 2023

10 of the best cots and cot beds for babies and toddlers 2024

Our expert guide to choosing the right cot or cotbed for your needs, advice on what to look for and feedback from families

• Gemma Cartwright
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Choosing the perfect cot or cotbed for your baby to sleep in can seem a daunting task with so many to pick from. Safety is obviously the most important thing to consider, but you'll also want something that fits well and look nice in your baby’s nursery, and ideally be easy to put together.

To help us compile this list of cots and cotbeds, we've spoken to over 500 parents and parents-to-be about the sleep products they’ve used with their babies. We've tested the products with families across the UK. We’ve also spoken to sleep expert Lucy Shrimpton (aka The Sleep Nanny ) for her advice, and consulted sleep charity, The Lullaby Trust for safety advice. You can find further safe sleep information below the list of products.

Lucy Shrimpton advises parents to think practically when choosing a sleep product. She says, “Know where you want your child to sleep: for example do you want something that will last from newborn to 3 years and above, or do you want something smaller that you can upgrade? Really understand your objectives, the life of the product and where it’s going to fit.”

Best cots and cotbeds for babies at a glance

• Best cotbed for convertibility: Boori Eton Convertible Plus Cotbed, £599
• Best cotbed for integrated toddler bed guard: Obaby Maya Cotbed, £350
• Best cotbed for simplicity: John Lewis & Partners Anyday Elementary Cotbed, £155
• Best cotbed for easy assembly: Babymore Luno Cotbed, £339
• Best budget cot: Ikea Sniglar Cot, £69
• Best cotbed for colour options Tutti Bambini Modena Cotbed, £249
• Best cotbed for a modern look: SnuzKot Skandi Cotbed, £349
• Best cot for newborns: Kinderkraft Koya Baby Cot, £329
• Best luxury investment cotbed: Stokke Sleepi Cotbed, £563
• Best cotbed for extra storage space: Obaby Stamford Classic Sleigh Cotbed, £268.76

In our list, you'll from options for different budgets and different sized rooms, and various designs with a plethora of functions to suit every family. You'll find cots that convert into beds for use long past the baby stage, and others that offer great value for those first couple of years only. Each one is best for a different kind of family and situation.

If you're also considering what bedding to pick we have a list of bedding sets for cot beds and toddler beds too. Additionally, if your baby is sleeping in a separate room to you, it's worth thinking about a good baby monitor to keep an eye (or ear) on them. If you need a comfy pillow for yourself, have a look at our list of recommendations. Looking for a great deal? We've found the best Prime Day baby deals and Prime Day toy deals for you.

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Get 54% off the natpat home wellness kit, which should i choose - a cot or cotbed.

Cot – Cots will typically last you until your child is around 2 years old. They tend to be slightly smaller than cotbeds – so good if you’re short of space. Cots are also normally cheaper than cotbeds. “We got a cot rather than a cotbed mainly due to the lack of space in the nursery,” sais parent tester Anita. “We couldn't have fitted anything even slightly bigger.”

Cotbed – You use cotbeds for the first 2 years or so as a cot, and then transform them into a toddler bed when your child is ready to move into their first bed. The bed can then last for another couple of years, or longer with expansion packs. “We went for a cotbed as we wanted something that was long lasting and durable,” explained parent tester Rebecca.

Due to their longevity, cotbeds tend to be a bit more popular. Of the parents we spoke to, who bought a cot or cotbed for their baby, 64% chose a cotbed.

What to look for when buying a cot or cotbed

Length of use – If you have money to invest now, you may want to buy a cotbed that will convert to a toddler bed for more longevity. These do tend to be more expensive as they need to hold more weight for longer: some cotbeds are even versatile enough to last for 10 years or beyond but may require an extension kit. If you’re on a tight budget, you may wish to look for a good value cot instead.

Size – The most popular dimensions are 60 x 120cm for a cot, and 70 x 140cm for a cotbed. However, some brands (including some featured here) make their cots in slightly different sizes, which can affect your mattress and bedding choices. Check the cit will fit into your desired room and ensure there’s room to move around it. Remember that safe sleep guidelines state that your baby should sleep in the same room as you for the first 6 months. If a cot or cotbed won't fit in your room, consider a smaller bedside "next to me" crib or a moses basket until your child is old enough to sleep in their own room.

Mattress – The mattress is one of your most important baby purchases – it should be flat and firm and fit snugly with no gaps on any of the sides. Some cots and cotbeds are sold with mattresses, but do check the quality: it may be better to buy one separately.

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Mattress heights – There’s a lot of bending over involved in putting your baby into a cot or cotbed. Many come with different base heights, enabling you to start with your newborn at a higher level. You then lower the level as your baby grows, especially once they start wanting to pull themselves up. Having different heights can be particularly helpful if you’ve had a caesarean.

Safety – The gap between the bars of cots and cotbeds should not exceed 6.5cm – any more and there may be a risk of babies getting their limbs or head trapped in between. Cots and cotbeds should meet the latest safety standard: BS EN716-1:2008+A1:2013. Mattresses should be checked for the standard BS 1877-10:2011+A1:2012 and/or BS EN 16890:2017+A1:2021.

Extra features – Some cots come with extra storage, which can be handy if your room is on the smaller side. Many cotbeds come with the option of buying a toddler bed guard to prevent your child from falling out of their bed. Some cots also come with a teething rail – you’d be surprised how many babies like to chew on cot sides and this can protect the edges.

Cost – Cots can start from around £40 and go up to around £500 for a high-end luxury model. Cotbeds tend to cost more, starting from around £200, but bear in mind that they’re designed to last longer that a cot, so may be more economical in the long run. Don’t forget the additional cost of a mattress. These can range from anywhere between £20 to £250.

Here are the best cots and cotbeds for babies and toddlers in 2023

1. boori eton convertible plus cotbed, £595.80, – best for convertibility.

Suitable age: from birth and beyond to adult-sized bed (conversion kit sold separately for £199) | Mattress size: 132cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 2 | Size: L147cm x H90cm x D84cm

While most cot beds can be transformed into a toddler bed, with the help of a conversion kit (sold separately), the Boori Eton Convertible Plus Cot Bed goes one better and turns into an adult-sized double bed (L207cm x W147cm x H90cm) or a daybed/sofa, making it the longest-lasting choice on our list.

Parent tester Becki says her Boori cot "has lasted 3 children and is still in amazing condition and so strong and sturdy," so for longevity, this cot really seems to deliver. It has a traditional style that will work in most rooms, and is made from sustainably sourced Australian Araucaria and New Zealand Radiata wood.

With the cot you get the feeling each conversion has really been thought through. When you convert it from a cot to toddler bed, you can leave 3 sides up for reassurance, and add a toddler rail as an extra safety feature. As a double bed, it looks so timeless you'd never believe it was once a cot.

Pros: Will take you right up to adult-sized double bed, sturdily built Cons: Have to buy toddler guard and extension kit separately

Available from: Boori

2. Obaby Maya Cotbed, £340

– best for integrated toddler bed guard.

Suitable age: from birth - 4 years old (approx.) | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L75cm x H89m x D145cm

It's no surprise that the Obaby Maya cot bed is a previous MadeForMums Awards winner, it's a stylish cotbed option with some lovely features and a beautiful, two-tone Scandinavian inspired look that rivals the SnuzKot (although this one only comes in 2 colourways). "The product is absolutely beautiful and worth the money," said MFM home tester Samantha, who tested the Maya with her 3 month old and was really impressed by the design of the cot. She continued, "the cot itself is very stylish and modern — it's lovely to look at."

Although it's an investment and one of the pricier options on our list, our testers thought that it offers real value which makes the price worth it. MFM home tester Sinead, who used the Maya in toddler bed mode with her 2 year old (pictured), was really impressed by the cotbed and said "it is well made and definitely worth the money. The quality and style are definite selling points." Her daughter, Sorcha, was equally impressed too as Sinead said "my daughter is very happy in the bed. It is the perfect height for her to get in and out by herself and she loves the independence it gives her."

It has an adjustable three-position base height and the side is removable so it can easily turn into a toddler bed, lasting up until age 4. It also includes an integrated safety rail, to assist in the transition to toddler bed. It doesn't come with a mattress, but since it takes a standard 120cm x 60cm one, it’s easy to find a suitable cotbed mattress .

Although relatively easy to build and set up — taking about 30 minutes — our testers did report that the instructions could have been clearer, especially when it comes to adjusting the mattress to the different levels.

If you're short on space, it's also available as a mini cotbed ( £285 ).

Pros: Statement-making design, 3 heights, toddler rail included Cons: Expensive, instructions could be clearer

Available from: Baby Planet , Amazon and Obaby

3. John Lewis & Partners Anyday Elementary Cotbed, £155

– best for simplicity.

Suitable age: from birth to 4 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3

For a budget option that doesn’t skimp on quality design and build, you can’t go far wrong with the Elementary cotbed from John Lewis's Anyday range.

Like many of its higher priced competitors, it comes with 3 mattress height positions for use from birth until age 4, plus teething rails for protection. The bars of the cot extend all the way round, which gives a good view into the cot from all angles. It’s also made from FSC pine so it's a sturdy choice, and with a modern white finish it has a simple yet contemporary feel.

The cot comes with clear instructions, but if you're concerned about being able to put it together – or simply don't have time – John Lewis offers an assembly service for an addition £60 which also includes fixing it to the wall (if required) and disposal of all packaging.

Pros : Affordable, modern finish Cons: May be difficult to assemble by yourself

Available from: John Lewis

4. Babymore Luno Cot Bed, £339

– best for easy assembly.

Suitable age: from birth to 4 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L 149cm x D 76cm x H 88cm

Our testers were really impressed by the solid construction and modern design of this cot bed. "It looks more expensive than it is," said MFM home tester Laura, who added, "the oak and white finish is quite pretty and fits in well with my daughter's bedroom."

The optional storage drawer, teething rails, and 3 adjustable heights ensure this cot is practical as well as stylish, and it also earned points for being simple to construct. "It was extremely easy to put together...the instructions were very clear and easy to read with pictures," said MFM tester Gina.

It takes a standard cotbed mattress, although this is not provided. The underbed drawer also comes as an added extra: it'll set you back £69 , but there are other matching items too, including a cot-top changer and furniture.

Pros: Stylish, easy to put together Cons: Accessories cost extra

Available from: Samuel Johnston and Babymore

5. Ikea Sniglar Cot, £69

– best budget buy.

Suitable age: from birth to 2 years | Mattress size: 60cm x 120cm/70cm x 140cm | Mattress base positions: 2 | Size: L124cm x H80cm x D66cm

Ikea is a one-stop-shop for anyone on a budget and the Sniglar cot is no exception. Launched in 2008, the simple design has proved to be a major winner with parents, as it’s been a bestseller ever since.

At just £40, it’s the best value cot on our round-up by quite a margin and with a slim profile and neat frame, it’s just the ticket if you’re tight on space or if you need a more permanent sleeping arrangement at a grandparent’s house.

This was a feature our MFM reviewer praised, saying, “The dimensions of the Sniglar, with its ever-so-slim profile and neat frame – are as small as you can manage in a full-size cot, making it perfect for cramped flats or small spaces.”

The simple design will sit perfectly in most nurseries with customers saying they didn’t feel like they were sacrificing quality for a budget price. One customer says, “I bought it when my baby had to move from ‘next to me’ to a real crib so I fixed it on the lowest position straight away. It really works for us and I couldn’t fault it.”

Pros: Budget option, two sizes available Cons: Only one colour option

Read our full MadeForMums review of the Ikea Sniglar cot

Available from: Ikea

Looking for luxury cot sheets?

6. tutti bambini modena cotbed, £229, – best for colour options.

Suitable age: from birth to 6 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L148cm x H85cm x D75cm

Tutti Bambini’s Modena Cotbed is designed to take you all the way up to 6 years and beyond, converting first into a junior bed, then a stylish sofa bed. It’s a great all-rounder with fixed teething rails on both sides and a 3-position adjustable base.

Depending on your preference there are 3 stylish colour options available, combining white, oak and grey woods to suit all kinds of nursery.

It’s simple and quick to build, with a solid construction that’ll withstand boisterous toddlers. It fits a standard cotbed mattress (140cm x 70cm).

Pros: Quick and easy to assemble, lasts from birth to 6 years Cons: No bedguard on junior bed

Available from: Amazon , Wayfair and Tutti Bambini

7. SnuzKot Skandi Cotbed, £322

– best for a modern look.

Suitable age: from birth | Mattress size: 117cm x 68cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L133cm x H89cm x D72cm

The SnuzKot comes in a number of different colour and style variations, all with the brand's signature curvy shape. It transforms to a minimal-looking toddler bed, with an interim 3-sided option to help with the transition. An extension kit and mattress extender can then be purchased separately to take it up to 10 years.

For a cotbed, the SnuzKot has a compact footprint that makes it great for smaller nurseries. The downside of this is the non-standard mattress size (68cm x 117cm) which essentially means you have to buy the matching SnuzSurface mattress . However, we like this mattress so much it was among the Editor's Choice winners in the 2022 MadeForMums Awards . You may struggle to find fitted sheets that fit perfectly too; even Snuz's own are made to fit cotbeds up to 140cm x 70cm, so they still have to be carefully tucked in.

Putting this cot together takes some time, with our reviewer Carolyn stating, "The instructions don’t seem to flow very well." Once constructed, it's easy to move and there are 3 height levels for growing babies before you convert it to a bed.

Pros: Cool Scandinavian-inspired design, a good compact cotbed option Cons: Mattress is non-standard in size, instructions are hard to follow.

Available from: Snuz , Samuel Johnston , John Lewis , Amazon

8. Kinderkraft Koya Baby Cot, £279

– best for newborns.

Suitable age: from birth to 2 years | Mattress size: 90 x 60 cm and 120 x 60 cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: up to L124.1cm x H81.4cm x D63.6cm | Awards: Bronze – Baby cot/cotbed, MadeForMums Awards 2022

If you're keen to only buy one item from birth but you're not sure about putting a newborn straight into a full-sized cot, this cot offers the best of both worlds. It begins life as a compact cot that works fastened to your bed frame as a bedside crib, offering a drop-side function for easy access to your baby. This is a smaller and more cosy option for newborns that may work in small spaces.

Parent tester Tanpreet said, "The size of the cot is perfect for my little one, and also the fact that it can be extended is a bonus, as we can use it longer instead of buying another one."

Once your child is older it can be converted into a cot that takes a standard 120 x 60cm mattress (not provided). However, it's worth noting the the manufacturer advises that it's only suitable for use to around the age of 2, meaning you may need to move up to a toddler bed earlier than with some of the other models on this list.

Pros: Works as a bedside crib, wheels make it easy to move Cons: Only suitable up to age 2, extra mattress needed

Available from: Kiddies Kingdom , Baby Planet and Pramworld

9. Stokke Sleepi Cotbed, £563

– best luxury investment.

Suitable age: from birth to 10 years (with conversion kit sold separately for £70) | Mattress size: 122cm x 70cm (bed mattress)/166cm x 74cm (junior mattress) | Mattress base positions: 2 | Size: L127cm x H86cm x D74cm

The Stokke Sleepi expands from cot to toddler bed as your child grows with the option to buy a junior conversion to take it all the way up to 9 years.

For easy manoeuvrability the Sleepi comes with lockable swivel wheels, which parent tester Elizabeth found helpful. She says, “Its wheels meant when our daughter was tiny we could use it in the living room for daytime naps.”

Unlike many other cots and cotbeds the mattress is included in the price, saving you having to find one to fit its oval shape. Stokke also says the included mattress is perforated to provide extra ventilation for your baby.

Pros: Lockable wheels, mattress included in the price Cons: No teething rail

Read the full MadeForMums Stokke Sleepi Review

Available from: Stokke and Natural Baby Shower

10. Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed, £268.76

– best for extra storage space.

Suitable age: from birth to 4 years | Mattress size: 140cm x 70cm | Mattress base positions: 3 | Size: L160cm x H100cm x D77cm | Awards: Silver – Baby cot/cotbed, MadeForMums Awards 2022

The Stamford Luxe Sleigh cot bed from Obaby comes with lots of nifty features including a handy drawer (with a 77L capacity) that slides underneath, as well as teething rails to protect your baby’s gums.

Parent tester Hayley said, "this is a very stylish, elegant looking cot. It is very heavy wood, beautifully finished with streak free paint, and the curves of the sleigh shape are very well designed and carved. It is obviously made from quality wood and the drawer is strong and easy to use even though it is quite heavy."

As a cot, it feels sturdy and looks classic and traditional. When you want to move your child into a bed, the sides can be removed to progress up to the next stage, without needing to purchase a separate extension kit. There's a transitional mode where 3 sides can be left up, which parent tester Ruth tested with her 2.5 year old. She described this as "a huge plus over other models" and said "it gave us and her confidence during the transition from her cot."

This solid and durable option will definitely last, and if you want to coordinate your nursery there's a whole host of other furniture options that coordinate with it.

It is worth noting that the drawer doesn’t come with wheels so it may be harder to slide out if you’ve got thick carpet.

Pros: Drawer for extra storage, no extension kit needed Cons: Drawer tricky to manoeuvre

Available from: Amazon and Wayfair

How we chose and tested these products

Are drop-side cots safe.

If you suffer from a bad back or have had a caesarean, a cot which comes with drop down sides could be useful. These cots come with sides that slide down, making it easier to lift out your baby which helps to prevent strain on your back and stomach.

Drop-side cots are legal in the UK provided they have met the required safety standards, but nowadays you will tend to find that fixed sides are more popular. The potential danger with drop-down sides is that if the side gets stuck at a lower level, a young child could become stuck between the cot and mattress, or climb out of the cot entirely.

Cots with drop-sides are currently banned in the USA after instances where they caused a number of baby and toddler deaths. However, it’s important to remember that cots and cot beds in the UK are manufactured under different safety standards, and cannot be compared like for like.

We spoke to the UK’s Baby Products Association (BPA) , who explained that in the UK there have been no reported instances of deaths involving drop-side cots that they are aware of. The BPA says that current safety standards for cots involve rigorous testing, including impact testing, which differ from the standard in the USA.

We also spoke to the CEO of the sleep charity The Lullaby Trust, Jenny Ward, who says, “Any drop down sides should only be lowered when you need to access and look after your baby, and the side should always be fully up when your baby is asleep or left unattended for a short period.”

Providing you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use them correctly, drop down sides are a safe feature to have in the UK.

What mattress is best for my cot or cotbed?

Before deciding on a mattress, it’s crucial to check that it fits the dimensions of your cot or cotbed, which can be done by following the manufacturer's recommendations.

There shouldn’t be any gaps larger than 4cm between the mattress and cot or cotbed, to ensure your baby doesn’t become stuck.

Sleep consultant Lucy Shrimpton says, “The number one piece of advice here is to make sure it is safe with a flat, firm mattress that is not next to a radiator or near blinds.”

If your mattress is too soft there is a risk of suffocation if your baby rolls onto their front, so it’s important to check the firmness of your mattress when choosing one. It’s also important to check for any choking hazards like free hanging zips, though these should be covered when you use a fitted sheet over your baby’s mattress.

Take a look at our detailed guide to baby mattresses for further expert advice, and check out our 10 of the best baby and toddler mattresses for parent-tested recommendations.

Should I get a bedside crib or moses basket first before a cot or cotbed?

Many parents choose the option of having a bedside crib for moses basket for their baby for the first 6 months. These allow you to have your baby closer to your bed, but still follow the safety guidelines of keeping your baby in a separate cot or crib.

Bedside cribs feature sides that can be temporarily removed, which can be handy for night feeds and make it easier to soothe your baby.

Take a look at our detailed guide to the best bedside cribs for further information, where we’ve rounded up the best options that have been tried and tested by parents.

Read more...

• 10 of the best baby sleep aids
• The best baby mattresses
• The best baby sleeping bags

Gemma has two decades of experience in digital content. She is mum to a preschooler, and aunt to 4 children 5 and under. She is particularly passionate about sleep (for babies and parents) and loves testing out gadgets, technology and innovation in the parenting world.

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13 best cot mattresses in 2024 to help little ones (and parents) sleep soundly

These foam, pocket-sprung and natural fibres were tested through naps and overnight sleeping, article bookmarked.

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Whether you’re in the throes of nesting and want everything in the nursery ship shape before baby’s arrival, or you’re approaching the half-year mark and looking to make the big move from parent’s bedroom to your bedside companion sleeping in their own space, you’ll need to consider purchasing a cot mattress .

Typically, cot mattresses come in two sizes: for a standard crib, the measurements are 120cm x 60cm and 140cm x 70cm for a cot bed. As the name suggests, a cot bed is a slightly larger cot with removable sides, which transforms into a toddler bed lasting them until around four years old, so usually offers parents a little more bang for their buck.

With any form of bedding , comfort is key, but when it comes to creating a sleeping environment for babies, safety must be at the forefront. Children’s charity The Lullaby Trust , which spearheads safe sleep for babies, strongly advises that your little one’s mattress is flat and there are no gaps (or at least, no more than a 1cm gap) around the mattress.

While adults may prefer a soft mattress , babies need a firm and flat surface because this helps them move around easily, and ensures they don’t overheat as there’s plenty of airflow. According to The Lullaby Trust , the mattress should be firm enough that when your baby is placed on it, their head doesn’t sink in more than a few millimetres. It’s also recommended that a mattress is waterproof or has a fitted waterproof cover to help prevent bacteria from building up inside the mattress, thus lessening the risk of infection.

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15 best mattresses for children that ensure a great night’s sleep

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9 best cot beds for babies and toddlers that offer a long-term sleep solution

12 best cot bedding sets that see baby into the sweetest slumber

Best mattress 2024: Memory foam, pocket sprung and hybrid models tested by experts

How we tested the best cot mattresses

Our Coxley cot bed from Mamas & Papas (£599, Mamasandpapas.com ) became the home to a variety of mattresses over the course of a month. Our young tester obliged to naps and overnight sleeping (most of the time), while we considered each mattress’s credentials; firmness, fit to the cot, breathability and practicality, such as care, maintenance and price.

All mattresses tested complied with BS 1877-10:2011+A1:2012 (the standard that specifies the materials that can be used for children’s mattresses) and consisted of either foam fibre, which is often the cheaper option, pocket springs designed to be firm, comfortable and supportive or natural fibres, like coconut coir. The mattresses we tested are all available in both cot and cot bed sizes.

The best cot mattresses for 2024 are:

• Best cot mattress overall – Mother&Baby pure gold anti-allergy coir pocket sprung cot bed mattress: £129.99, Amazon.co.uk
• Best budget cot mattress – Mamas & Papas essential fibre cotbed mattress: £49, Amazon.co.uk
• Best for older babies and toddlers – The Tiny Bed Company tiny dreamer deluxe organic coconut and pocket sprung cot bed mattress: £159.95, Thetinybedcompany.com
• Best travel cot mattress – Ickle Bubba fibre cot mattress: £69, Icklebubba.com

Mother&Baby pure gold anti-allergy coir pocket sprung cot bed mattress

• Best : Cot mattress overall
• Type : Pocket-sprung
• Exceptional allergy protection
• Machine washable

From simply stroking this mattress, it felt rather heavenly with the super-soft cover, but that’s just for starters. Given the price point, we were wowed with what this cot mattress offers.

A natural yet luxurious coconut coir layer sits on top of the pocket sprung inner, which produces a firm and safe surface for baby. Adding to that, there are Tencel fibres and Purotex anti-allergy properties offering superlative protection. In plain English, this simply means the mattress is perfect for babies who are prone to allergies, claiming to improve allergy symptoms by reducing house dust mite allergens by 93.7 per cent, cat hair allergens by 92.8 per cent and dog hair allergens by 66.7 per cent.

It’s dual sided, with handy stitched labels indicating what’s what. The baby side is the firmer of the two, while the toddler side is a little squidgier. There’s also a waterproof membrane, which sits under the machine washable cover. And our baby tester seemed very content when napping or sleeping atop this dreamy mattress.

Mamas & Papas essential fibre cotbed mattress

• Best : Budget cot mattress
• Type : Fibre core
• Value for money
• Small zip section
• Could be thicker

A mattress under £50 had us dubious, but carrying a Mamas & Papas label we were hopeful we’d be pleasantly surprised. And we were. All Mamas & Papas mattresses are foam-free and we were impressed with the firmness. You have the ability to flip and rotate the mattress for maximum support, and we can see it going the distance.

It has a level of water repellence, although we’d recommend getting a waterproof protector too. The cover can be removed and machined washed, but as the zipped section is only at the bottom, putting the mattress back in was a bit of a faff. However, considering the price difference, we were surprised there wasn’t a more obvious gap in terms of quality between this and some of the more premium mattresses we tested.

It’s possibly a little shy of the standard 10cm depth, but this didn’t seem to affect naps and overnight sleeping, and being Mamas & Papas, it fit our cot bed perfectly.

Snüz surface duo dual sided cot bed mattress

• Best : Dual sided cot mattress
• Type : Pocket sprung
• Dual sided mattress
• Machine washable cover
• Waterproof layer

Arriving vacuum rolled, there’s some seriously clever technology in this cot bed mattress, which is clear as soon as it springs into action (giving a suggestion of seven days to lie flat before use). This mattress has been designed around the needs of a growing baby, hence the clever dual design.

Suitable for use up to four years, it features a pocket sprung core, which is covered by a firm layer of foam to be used for the first 12 months. Once your baby is past this age, unzip the mattress and flip the internals over for the following three years, which offers a medium firm support. There’s a handy instruction label on the inside of the cover to follow once you reach that stage.

Coming with an anti-dust mite barrier, the top white surface of the cover also has a waterproof membrane. However, it can also be removed and machine washed up to 40 degrees, while the 3D breathable mesh cover kept our young tester cool, even during a freakish autumn heat wave.

Silentnight safe nights snuggle breathable mattress

• Best : Cot mattress with firm support
• Type : Foam
• Foam and FR chemical treatment free
• No waterproof cover

This cot mattress from sleeping giant Silentnight was a snug fit in our cot bed. Price wise, it’s mid-range, and has a polyester inner, which is foam and fire retardant and chemical treatment-free, so there are no nasties hiding inside the mattress.

We found this one of the firmest mattresses we tested, particularly of those in this price range, which our mini tester seemed to approve of with freedom of movement, restful sleeps and a good level of breathability.

The soft-to-touch cloud cover is nice to look at, although short-lived once a fitted sheet is on, but parents will be pleased to hear it can be zipped off and bunged in the washing machine. However, you’ll need to invest in a waterproof cover.

Naturalmat the coco mat

• Best : Cot mattress for natural materials
• Type : Coir
• Five-year guarantee
• Natural materials
• Handmade in Devon
• No waterproof cove

Handmade in Devon, Naturalmat’s coco mat is as angelic as it sounds. The two wool layers, at the top and bottom of the mattress, have been sourced locally from Soil Association-certified organic farms, while the coir that makes up the supportive centre is grown by the world’s only certified organic coconut plantation in Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, the quilted cover – made from a blend of wool and cotton – has been woven tightly in such a way that it becomes naturally fireproof, showing the attention to detail here.

Bedbug and dust-mite resistant, this mattress feels pure and clean. It’s pretty heavy, although you’re unlikely to move it once snug in the cot. We found it to be super robust and we’d be confident in its lifespan but, most importantly, our baby seemed very happy in here. The self-ventilating properties kept our tester’s temperature regulated, while the firmness felt supportive and comfortable.

As the most expensive of those we tested, we can’t deny it’s costly. You’ll also need to factor in the need for a waterproof cover too, which isn’t included.

Baby Elegance cot bed mattress

• Best : Heat regulating cot mattress
• Type : Fibre pads
• Airflow technology
• Tiny zipper takes getting used to

Fitting our cot bed like a glove, Baby Elegance’s cool flow cot bed mattress is a perfectly adequate mid-entry-level baby mattress. The selling point is the coolmax technology to optimise baby’s airflow, and while we can’t vouch that it kept our tester any more regulated, it certainly didn’t do any harm, as there was no clamminess or stirring, even during hotter daytime naps.

The cover is machine washable, although we found the tiny zipper tricky to grasp at first. The mattress is on the lighter side, although it’s the standard 10cm in depth. Providing a pretty firm surface, there are anti-allergy fibre pads hidden inside, offering a hypoallergenic sleeping space.

The Tiny Bed Company tiny dreamer deluxe organic coconut and pocket sprung cot bed mattress

• Best : Cot mattress for older babies and toddlers
• Type : Coir and pocket sprung
• Made in England

Made in England, each of The Tiny Bed Company’s mattresses are meticulously produced by hand in small batches to ensure quality – and that’s obvious with the tiny dreamer deluxe. As the thickest mattress we tested, it felt like a premium sleeping space for our baby.

The brand’s signature soft, white, honeycomb-style fabric covers the top and the side of the mattress, with an additional luxurious layer of organic coconut coir. This is the less firm of the two though, so it’s recommended for older babies and toddlers, which we’re sure will be a treat in time to come.

The bottom side of the mattress is a touch firmer, although with a more mesh-like cover, it’s not quite as snuggly. However, it does benefit from micro air pockets, allowing air to flow more freely to regulate the temperature, and we certainly can’t say our baby noticed the difference in softness.

The cover can be removed and is machine washable, although you’ll need to buy a separate waterproof cover. The Tiny Bed Company also offer a build-your-own service, for a truly custom fit.

ClevaMama anti-allergy cot bed mattress

• Best : Cot mattress for asthmatic babies
• Waterproof protection
• Certified asthma and allergy friendly
• Can’t use immediately
• Light smell when unboxing

Another mattress-in-a-box, you’ll need to allow 48 hours for this mattress to air out and unroll fully. We did notice a bit of a smell but fortunately it had completely gone after a day .

On first inspection, it looks rather basic, but this is purely based on the machine-washable outer cover, which despite its no-thrills look, actually packs a punch, offering 100 per cent waterproof protection and also keeps out any bugs or dust. In fact, this mattress has been certified asthma and allergy friendly by Allergy Standards Ltd, making it a great choice for asthmatic babies. The mattress has been infused with baby-safe anti-fungal and anti-mite treatments, giving parents peace of mind that it’s a safe and clean environment.

It’s recommended you rotate and flip the mattress when needed, and fortunately it’s lightweight so this is easily achieved. It may be on the lighter side, but the support is firm and comfortable, all at a reasonable price.

The Little Green Sheep twist natural cot bed mattress

• Best : Quality cot mattress
• Type : Coir and wool
• Optimum comfort
• No removable cover

From lifting this out of the box, you’ll quite literally feel the quality, as it was the heaviest mattress of those we tested. But that’s because of all the natural materials it features.

Inside, there’s a supportive natural version of latex, a core that’s packed with coconut husk fibres and a layer of wool, which has natural temperature-regulating abilities while simultaneously protecting against bacteria growth and dust mites.

For the eco-conscious this mattress is as natural and pure as it gets. It’s designed to last too – being dual-sided, it supports growing babies and toddlers. Helpfully labelled, the baby side is designed for the first year of use, with a firm supportive core and breathable wool; flip over and it feels spongier and cosy, thanks to the natural latex layer.

It’s worth noting that the cover isn’t removable, so an extra investment in a waterproof mattress protector is required. As for sleeping, our baby seemed super content on this mattress, which offered a clean, comfy and safe environment.

Ickle Bubba fibre cot mattress

• Best : Travel cot mattress
• Waterproof sleeve
• No soft covering

On first inspection, it was obvious that this was the thinnest and lightest mattress of all we tested, but that’s not to say it didn’t offer a firm sleeping surface. The depth is 8cm, which is the minimum, but there’s plenty to like packed into this mattress.

The fibre core offers breathability and even comes with water-resistance and a waterproof sleeve. Again, it’s probably worth investing in a separate waterproof cover for full protection. You can unzip the machine washable cover, which also boasts hypoallergenic properties.

As expected for the price, the no-thrills cover has no soft covering, but once a cosy fitted sheet is added, it feels comfortable. Due to the lightweight nature, this makes a great travel cot option, but having said that, our mini tester showed no resistance to sleeping on it.

CuddleCo fibre core cot bed mattress with 2 in 1 cover

• Best : Midrange cot mattress
• Type : Bamboo fibre core
• Made in the UK
• On the thin side

At £54.99, this is at the lower end of the scale for cot mattresses, but we were pleasantly surprised with how much this product offers for the cost.

The bamboo fibre core provides a firm sleeping space, which has natural hypoallergic and temperature regulating properties. There’s a waterproof layer, although we’d still suggest buying an additional cover for peace of mind. The cover is easy to remove, thanks to a long zip to the side, and it can be bunged in the washing machine.

This mattress is a bit thinner than the standard 10cm depth, measuring in at just over 8cm, but we had no qualms with the comfort or support it offers.

Purflo breathable cot bed mattress

• Best : For breathability
• Type : Fibre padding
• Fully machine washable
• Fully air permeable
• Requires assembly

Developed over 15 years ago, with the expertise of a neonatologist and paediatric sleep doctor, this mattress from Purflo isn’t new to the market but it still offers parents something totally different.

Firstly, you’ll need to “build” the mattress, which is a ten-minute job spent putting together the frame and pulling over the mesh sleep surface. Unlike traditional mattresses, the cover can be completely taken off and washed, for a clean environment.

The truly unique hollow core offers a fully breathable mesh mattress all year-round, and it’s remarkably supportive, which our baby tester seemed to welcome. Hypoallergenic, it’s designed with a specialist fibre padding called amicor, which is approved by Allergy UK, reducing the build up of dust mites and allergies such as asthma and eczema.

If you’re on the move a lot, this is by far the most portable option and comes with its own travel bag.

Silentnight safe nights twinkle breathable mattress

• Best : Cot mattress for snug comfort
• Comfortable quilted covering
• Hypoallergic materials
• No waterproofing

With over 75 years of sleep expertise behind it, and as one of Silent Night’s most premium cot mattresses, we had high hopes for this one.

For an extra £60, compared to the Silentnight safe nights snuggle breathable mattress we also tested, the main difference is the individual supportive pocket springs, which our baby seemed to sleep soundly on.

To the touch, the quilted cover feels like terry towelling, and we wondered whether this might in turn create a hotter environment for our tester to sleep in, but the breathable polyester core seemed to keep our baby’s temperature regulated.

The hypoallergenic materials used are designed to reduce allergies, while the cleverly designed core also means the mattress can still be slept on whilst the outer cover is being washed – although you won’t get that comforting snuggly feel you get with the quilt cover.

At this higher end price tag, it’s a shame there’s no waterproofing element, but we can’t deny that it’s a quality mattress, which should see a child through the first four years of life comfortably.

Cot mattress FAQs

What makes a good cot mattress.

If you’re shopping with a budget in mind, a foam cot mattress may be the least expensive kind available. Spring mattresses may prove to offer more long-lasting support while coir may offer a more breathable option.

According to The National Childbirth Trust , cot mattresses should carry the BSI number BS 1877-10:2011+A1:2012 to ensure they conform to safety standards. They should also be flat and firm, to ensure that they’re supportive and safe for the baby, and should not measure any thinner than 8cm. They should be waterproof too, or come with a waterproof cover so that it can be kept clean and dry.

Can you use a second-hand cot mattress?

The Lullaby Trust doesn’t recommend this and advises that you use a new mattress for every baby. If you’re not able to do this, make sure that the mattress has always had waterproof protection when it was used in the past. It needs to be in very good condition, and there should be no tears or rips in the material.

The verdict: Cot mattresses

All babies are different, fighting naps or waking in the night for no reason. While mattresses aren’t miracle workers, by creating a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby, you’re giving them the best chance. For that reason, we’ve crowned the Mother&Baby pure gold anti-allergy coir pocket sprung cot bed mattress the winner. A great all-rounder, it’s dual-sided for optimal comfort and support, offers allergy and waterproof protection, and is breathable without an eye-watering price tag.

If you’re buying on a budget, we were super impressed with Mamas & Papas essentials fibre mattress , costing under £50.

To help get a good night’s sleep, upgrade your own bed with the best mattresses

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Best travel systems for newborns: tried and tested by parents

In an effort to help new parents, we've researched and tested the top travel systems on the market. From designer brands like Bugaboo to budget prams and compact folds, here are the best travel systems to buy right now.

By Lucy Cotterill | Last updated Oct 13, 2024

Buying a pushchair for your newborn can feel a little daunting. With so many choices available and lots to consider when it comes to transporting your baby safely from A to B, it can be hard to narrow down your options. 

For new parents, a travel system can make a convenient and practical choice, allowing for seamless transfers from car to pram, as well as relaxed and comfortable strolls with your newborn.

If you've already decided that a travel system is for you, excellent! We’ve spent hundreds of hours researching the products loved by real parents (that includes both Mumsnet users and consumers), tested dozens of prams with our team of parent testers and consulted trusted pushchair experts for the latest up-to-date guidance to bring you a round-up of the very best travel systems to buy right now.

Be sure to check out our FAQs further down this page for tips and tricks on what to consider before buying a travel system too.

Best travel systems at a glance

Best overall travel system: Nuna Mixx Next | Buy now

Best budget travel system: Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe | Buy now

Best travel system for a newborn and toddler: Oyster 3 | Buy now

Best versatile travel system: Venicci Tinum Edge | Buy now

Best all-terrain travel system: Mamas & Papas Ocarro | Buy now

Best travel system for rough terrain: Bugaboo Fox 5 | Buy now

Best travel system for a growing family: UPPAbaby Vista V2 | Buy now

Best travel system for easy fold: Joie Versatrax | Buy now

Best travel system for design: BabyStyle Egg 3 | Buy now

Best travel system for country living: Cybex Priam | Buy now

Best lightweight travel system: Nuna Triv Next | Buy now

Best travel system for city living and travel: Bugaboo Dragonfly | Buy now

Nuna Mixx Next

Offers good longevity

Accessible storage basket

Comfortable and well-padded seat

Easy to steer 

Machine-washable covers

Easy to switch between parent- and world-facing modes

One-handed five-position recline

Height-adjustable handlebar

Two hands needed to fold

Sun hood is a little noisy to extend

Price: RRP £1,200 | Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent-facing and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H42 x W60 x D76cm | Weight: 13.1kg | Basket capacity: 4.5kg | Extras included: Rain cover, footmuff and car seat adaptors 

Tested by parents: Read our full Nuna Mixx review

An upgrade to the incredibly popular Nuna Mixx , the Nuna Mixx Next exudes comfort and style at every turn, with some significant improvements that have proven to be a huge hit with Mumsnet users and consumers alike. It can be used with a Nuna carrycot (without needing adapters) or with compatible car seats from Nuna, Maxi Cosi or Cybex using the car seat adapters included in the box.

Thanks to the comfortable seat, easy manoeuvrability, excellent storage and large all-terrain wheels, it easily takes our top spot as the best travel system you can buy today. It’s also worth mentioning that the Nuna Mixx Next is a Which? Best Buy and one of the top-scoring pushchairs in their lab tests.

While slightly heavier than the original model, improvements to the folding mechanism mean the Nuna Mixx Next now folds in upon itself, resulting in a more compact fold that’s around 16cm shorter than its predecessor. It conveniently self-stands, so you don’t need to worry about it getting the chassis dirty as you move it in and out of your car, although it's not a particularly portable travel system for public transport. The Nuna Mixx Next also has more durable rubber wheels than the original Mixx, with improved wheel suspension that can even tackle tricky terrain such as gravel or snow .  

It’s easy to steer (even one-handed), manoeuvres well around tight corners and obstacles, and tackles kerbs with ease. The leatherette handlebar also offers a choice of heights between 106cm and 115cm, making it easy to achieve a comfortable and natural hold for both petite and tall parents. We love the green and red indicators on the brake pedal that provide quick visual reassurance that the brake is engaged - ideal when you’re travelling around a busy urban environment.

Suitable from birth using the lie-flat recline, the Nuna Mixx Next has a comfortable all-season and machine-washable seat with a removable cosy padded liner and a mesh back for breathability during the warmer summer months. The included rain cover offers good protection from the elements on wet days and, although it's a little noisy to extend, the UPF 50+ hood with a viewing window provides good coverage from the sun. It’s even water-repellent, so if an unexpected downpour comes your way, your baby will still stay warm and dry. 

We love how the five-point harness can keep your baby safe and secure but converts to a more convenient three-point harness as your baby grows. If your child tends to nod off on their travels, you’ll also appreciate the one-handed, five-position recline, allowing you to switch from upright to lie flat quickly and easily. The two-handed fold on the Nuna Mixx Next does require some force, but once folded, the pushchair sits relatively compact - although if using it with the carrycot you’d need to remove this first. 

When it comes to storage, the Nuna Mixx Next has an under seat basket with a 4.5kg capacity, which isn’t as generous as the likes of the UPPAbaby Vista V2 , but is easy to access from all directions and provides plenty of space for your newborn essentials . It can even be split into two distinct compartments using the interior wall if required. 

Read next: The best lightweight strollers and buggies

Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe

Value for money

Lightweight

The seat converts to a lie-flat bassinet

Easy one-handed fold

Compact when folded

Height-adjustable handlebar 

Rear-wheel suspension

Tricky to change seat position with a heavier child

Wide frame – hard to fit through narrow doorways

Straps can be fiddly and tricky to adjust 

Quite heavy 

Struggles a little on rough surfaces like gravel and sand

Two-handed fold

Price: RRP £980 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent- and world-facing Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  H53 x W62 x D81cm |  Weight:  10.7kg | Basket capacity:  10kg |  Extras included:  Rain cover and boot cover/apron

Tested by parents: Read our full Maxi-Cosi Zelia review (previous model)

The Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe pushchair may have one of the lowest price tags of all the travel systems on our list, but it's still up there in terms of both design and quality. 

While the original  Maxi-Cosi Zelia  (now discontinued) was only suitable for babies up to 15kg, the Zelia³ Luxe offers greater longevity, lasting until your baby weighs 22kg, which is approximately four years old. While slightly heavier than the original model, the shopping basket capacity has also doubled (from 5kg to a whopping 10kg) providing valuable additional storage space for your  changing bag  or other essentials during a day out with your baby.

One of the major selling points of the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe is the 2-in-1 seat that quickly converts into a newborn bassinet without the need to purchase a separate carrycot - ideal for those who are limited in storage space at home. Our parent tester loved this feature stating, “It saves space in the house and it means the carrycot doesn't become obsolete once your baby is sitting.”   Weighing 10.7kg, it’s also a more lightweight option than some of the multi-terrain models such as the  Mamas and Papas Ocarro  (see below). 

The lie-flat bassinet is suitable from birth and can easily be transformed into a pushchair seat when your baby reaches six months. With a comfortable padded inlay, it offers plenty of space and support for your child as they grow. Alternatively, the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe can be used with a compatible Maxi-Cosi car seat, such as the Mumsnet-recommended  Maxi Cosi Pebble Plus  (using adapters) for a convenient transition between your car and the street.

Described as a compact, urban stroller, the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe is easy to steer and handles pavements and kerbs with ease, however it may struggle off-road, such as on gravel, mud or sand. It’s also worth noting that while the handlebar height is adjustable, this is only by a small margin, so if you’re particularly tall you may find this pram less comfortable to push. 

We like the significant coverage provided by the sun hood and, thanks to the viewing window, you can discreetly check on your baby without waking them if they nod off during your journey. 

The fold requires two hands, but this is relatively straightforward to do. The pushchair clips together for compact storage and can self-stand. There’s also an in-built carry handle which can help distribute the weight should you need to carry it up and down the stairs. 

We love the improvements to the basket when compared to the original Maxi-Cosi Zelia, which although a little trickier to access when being used in bassinet mode, offers plenty of storage space, with a discreet pocket inside to stash valuable items such as your keys and phone. 

Read next:  Our in-depth Didofy Stargazer review

BabyStyle Oyster 3

One-handed recline (this can be done in parent- or world-facing mode)

Lie-flat seat for smaller babies

Puncture-free tyres

Compact fold

Adjustable handlebar

Can be used with a  buggy board

Carrycot is tricky to remove

Covers are not machine-washable

Storage basket could be bigger 

No extras included

Price: RRP £980 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent- and world-facing| Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  H57.5 x W37.5 x L72 cm | Weight:  11.7kg |  Basket capacity:  3kg |  Extras included:  None

Tested by parents: Read our full BabyStyle Oyster 3 review

If you're looking for a travel system to suit your growing family, then the Which? Best Buy  BabyStyle Oyster 3  should be top of your list. This large, well-built pram is designed to last well into toddlerhood. With a choice of seven different colourways, it looks beautiful too.

With a maximum child weight of 22kg, which is around age four, this pushchair is suitable from birth, with a lie-flat seat, supportive head hugger and one-handed three-position recline. To use as a travel system, you can attach the Oyster 3 carrycot (sold separately) which offers a more spacious and comfortable lying position over longer durations with your newborn. For an easy transition straight from the car, car seats such as the  Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus  can also be clipped onto the main chassis using the  Oyster 3 car seat adapters  (sold separately). 

Compared to the original Oyster and Oyster 2 pushchairs, the Oyster 3 has had a major overhaul. Not only is it lighter with bigger wheels for improved handling, but it also boasts a more spacious seat, including a pop-out footrest and an adjustable harness that can better accommodate your child as they grow. 

It’s worth noting that, as a result of the seat changes, it’s a little bigger than the previous model, but for convenience it now has a more compact fold, which can be triggered with the seat attached in both parent- and world-facing modes. You do need to use both hands to operate this, however the fold is smooth and simple, with a handy clip that prevents the chassis from springing open. While we wouldn’t recommend carrying the Oyster 3 regularly, there’s even an integrated carry strap for convenience should you need to. 

The Oyster 3 has a soft padded handlebar that’s adjustable between 101cm and 111.5cm, making it easy to adapt to parents of varying heights. Thanks to the all-round suspension, the four puncture-free tyres also offer a really smooth ride for your baby. 

Our parent tester rated the tight turning circle and a slim base, which made the Oyster 3 convenient for use on public transport and she found it performed well on urban terrains such as pavements and kerbs. Like many travel systems, it struggles more on bumpier or uneven ground, but there is the option to lock the front wheels - helpful when navigating across sand or mud.

Whatever the weather, the Oyster 3 can protect your baby from the elements. We rate the large UPF50+ sun hood with an extendable section to provide additional coverage when the seat is fully reclined. It also has a ventilation window which can keep your baby cool on warmer days. Unlike many pushchairs, the elasticated rain cover for the Oyster 3 (included with the travel system) is straightforward to fit should the weather take a sudden turn for the worse.

The storage basket is easy to access from all directions, and although more than adequate for most  newborn essentials , the 3kg maximum capacity is relatively small when compared to the UPPAbaby Vista V2 or Nuna Mixx Next. That said, we love the inclusion of a discreet zipped storage pocket situated beneath the footrest - ideal for safely housing your keys and phone.

Read next:  The best double buggies, as tested by parents

Venicci Tinum EdgeVenicci Tinum Edge

Stylish design

Easy to fold/unfold 

Comes with lots of accessories

Comfortable height-adjustable handlebar 

Spacious shopping basket

Large sun hood

Easy to switch between parent and world facing  

Harness and straps tricky to adjust 

Bulky and heavy

Brakes require some force

The seat is not particularly padded

Price: RRP £700 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg (approx. 4 years) |  Orientation:  Parent and world-facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes - car seat included   Folded dimensions:  H41 x W58 x D63cm  |  Weight:  12kg |  Basket capacity:  Not specified | Extras included:  Carrycot, car seat, footmuff, changing bag, changing mat, rain cover and adapters

While you may be less familiar with the name, Italian brand Venicci is one of the leading suppliers of quality  pushchairs , officially launching in the UK back in 2011. If you’re looking for a versatile option, the Venicci Tinum Edge travel system makes an excellent choice, with a stylish and practical design combined with lots of additional accessories that make travelling with your baby a breeze.

With a reversible lie-flat seat, the Venicci Tinum Edge is suitable from birth to 22kg. The full bundle includes the Tinum carrycot and car seat, as well as a footmuff, rain cover, mosquito net, coordinating changing bag, changing mat and car seat adapters, meaning you’ve got pretty much everything you need to head out on travels with your baby in tow - whatever the weather may bring.

With some enhancements to the original Tinum, the Tinum Edge features a panoramic ventilation system to help keep your baby cool on sunnier days. It’s now easier to steer, even one-handed, tackling varied terrain well and navigating up and down kerbs without the need to exert too much effort despite its relatively heavy frame. 

While the sideless seat isn’t as padded or cushioned as the  Nuna Mixx  or  BabyStyle Oyster 3 , it has three different recline positions and can be used both world- and parent-facing depending on your preferences, or easily swapping between the two. It’s worth noting that although the straps are adjustable as your child grows, this is a manual process and can fiddly. That said, the integrated hood is quiet to operate and provides good sun coverage, with a handy viewing window that helps you keep a reassuring eye on your toddler when world-facing. 

If you’re a taller or petite parent or sharing the travel system with your partner of a different height, you’ll love the adjustable handlebar height on the Venicci Tinum, which can be adjusted with one hand between 90 and 104cm - a far greater range than some other travel systems on the market. 

The basket is a generous size and includes a zippable compartment for your valuables. While it’s stiff to operate, the centrally located brake is large and easily accessible - reassuring when travelling in busier surroundings.

Read next:  The best pram toys for newborns

Mamas & Papas Ocarro

Dual suspension

One-handed fold 

Tackles off-road terrain well 

Chunky, puncture-resistant tyres

Padded seat with pillow and chest pads

Reflective trim on wheels

A reassuring wrist strap on the handlebars 

Large hood with ventilation 

The basket can only be loaded from the back 

Heavy to carry

Stiff five-point harness

Price: RRP £950 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent- and world-facing   |  Car seat compatible:  Yes   |  Folded dimensions:  H33.5  x W59 x D77.5 cm   |  Weight:  13.6kg   |  Basket size:  3kg   |  Extras included:  Rain cover and bumper bar

Tested by parents: Read our full Mamas & Papas Ocarro review

If you’re living in a more rural setting or enjoy heading on outdoor adventures with your baby in tow, you’ll need an all-terrain travel system that can navigate across a variety of surfaces with ease. 

The  Mamas & Papas Ocarro  is a luxury, all-terrain pushchair designed for both comfort and stability. A Which? Best Buy, the Ocarro achieved an impressive score in lab testing and it’s also compatible with several Which? Best Buy car seats too, including the  Maxi-Cosi Pebble Pro .

Available alone or in bundles of varying sizes depending on your needs, the eight-piece combination pack offers excellent value for money, including the pushchair, adapters, carrycot, cupholder, footmuff, changing bag, Cybex car seat and even an ISOFIX base. 

While it weighs over three kilograms heavier than some of the travel systems we tested such as the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe its robust frame, dual suspension and large all-terrain wheels ensure it can handle almost every terrain completely fuss-free,  from pavements and kerbs to woodland, sand and grass. While it’s narrow enough to fit through most doorways and manoeuvres well, it’s fairly heavy and bulky, so less suited to travel or for those looking for a  lightweight stroller  for public transport. 

Thanks to the padded lie-flat seat with a supportive head hugger (or the Ocarro carrycot if you prefer), the Ocarro is suitable from birth and can see your child through to approximately four years old. The seat is also fully reversible, so you can easily switch between reassuring eye contact for your baby in parent-facing mode to the world-facing mode for your curious toddler who wants to take in their surroundings.

The soft and comfortable leatherette handlebar is a stylish addition, however it’s worth noting that, unlike the height flexibility on the Venicci Tinum and  BabyStyle Oyster 3 , it can only be raised by a small margin - between 100.5 to 105cm. The brake also requires a fair bit of force and isn't particularly easy to operate wearing sandals or flip-flops. 

We love the one-handed fold - something rarely seen in a multi-terrain pushchair. It can be folded with the seat attached in either direction and self-stands for convenience when folded, but it does take up a lot of space in your car. If you have a particularly small boot, you may find it easier to remove the seat first and store it as two separate pieces.   

The sturdy and robust canopy hood with stylish metallic trim is definitely worth a mention. It offers excellent coverage for sunny days but can also be pushed back entirely to improve visibility.

While still large enough to house a changing bag, the 3kg basket on the Ocarro is actually on the small side compared to our other best travel system recommendations such as the  Bugaboo Fox 5  and Nuna Mixx Next. It needs to be loaded from the back and is less accessible when using the carrycot as this sits at a relatively low height. That said, thanks to the clever catches on the Ocarro chassis, you can also conveniently stash your changing bag over the handlebar without it slipping down.

Read next: Our full UPPAbaby Ridge review

Bugaboo Fox 5

Sliding five-point harness

Advanced suspension for tackling bumpy terrain

9kg under-seat basket with hidden pockets and extendable flaps

One-handed fold

12 fabric colours to choose from

Large puncture-proof wheels

Height adjustable handlebar 

The same frame is used for the carrycot and seat

Footmuff not included

Stiff when first assembled

Assembly takes some time

Price: £1,000 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg (around four years) |  Orientation:  Parent-facing and world-facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  Two-piece compact fold 89 x 53 x 34cm; one-piece self-standing fold 44 x 60 x 90cm |  Weight:  10.4 to 12.2kg |  Basket capacity : 9kg |  Extras included:  None (but bundles are available)

Tested by parents: Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review

Released in March 2023, the  Bugaboo Fox 5  is the much-awaited and updated version of the Fox 3, which has a great reputation for tackling varied terrain.

The Bugaboo Fox 5 offers some big improvements to Fox’s much-loved design. It manoeuvres better than its predecessor, offers more storage capacity and has a higher seat and bassinet. It also has an easier-to-operate and more compact one-handed fold, with an extendable footrest and canopy to help adapt to your child’s needs as they grow.

We like the large puncture-proof wheels and bouncy suspension, which provide a comfortable ride for both newborns and toddlers. The pushchair performed exceptionally well on different terrain, including muddy paths, gravel roads and woodland trails, when our parent tester, Beccy, put it through its paces.

Although the fold took time for her to master, Beccy found the one-handed fold and unfold invaluable when out and about with her two children. The handlebar can be adjusted between 92 and 108cm so it’s easy to find the most comfortable setting for your height. 

The generous 9kg storage basket with extendable flaps also adds to the appeal, with plenty of space to house a changing bag or your baby’s essentials. It is quite bulky when folded though, which means it might not be ideal if you have a small car boot.

The seat is easy to recline (almost a bit too easy, so approach with caution) and thanks to the large sun canopy, your baby will be safely shielded from the sun’s glare on bright sunny days. 

While this buggy offers comfort in spades for newborns, the Fox 5 is unique in that the seat and carrycot come as one unit, which some parents may find impractical. Switching from the carrycot to the seat is quite fiddly (requiring the removal of the hood and swapping out the base), however you may only need to do this once and not until your baby reaches six months.

Read next:  The best running buggies

UPPAbaby Vista V2

Excellent storage with a huge basket

Easy to steer and manoeuvre 

Tackles rough terrain well

Includes carrycot for newborns 

Simple one-handed recline

Hood provides excellent coverage

Heavy and bulky when folded

Seat quite thin with minimal padding

Price: £1,000 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent and world facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  H48 x W66 x D84cm |  Weight:  13kg | Basket capacity:  13.6kg |  Extras included:  Rain cover, carrycot, mosquito cover

Tested by Mumsnet:  Read our full  UPPAbaby Vista V2 review

Suitable from birth when used with the included carrycot, or from six months as a standalone pushchair, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 can see you through until your child reaches 22 kg (around four years). The spacious seat offers plenty of room for your growing child and can be placed in both directions - opting for parent-facing when your baby is younger before switching to world-facing when they want to explore their surroundings. 

An upgrade from the original UPPAbaby Vista, Vista 2 has seen some big improvements to the pushchair seat. While Which? lab testing felt that the padding was on the thin side, UPPAbaby has extended the height of the backrest and provided a longer footrest to better accommodate your child as they grow. The sun hood now has a ventilated extension panel for enhanced sun coverage and the five-point safety harness is now fully adjustable without needing to be rethread, although this does create some hanging excess.

Whilst the pushchair is only suitable from the age of six months, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 comes with a newborn carrycot included in the cost. It’s also compatible with the  UPPAbaby Mesa i-Size Infant Car Seat  or with brands such as Maxi-Cosi and Cybex if you purchase separate car seat adapters.

For parents, the handlebar offers some height adjustment (between 101 and 108cm), allowing you to tailor the experience to each parent. The one-handed recline is easy to operate, with a choice of six different positions and a fully adjustable leg rest that can support your child as they grow. That said, the seat fabric is much less padded than travel systems such as the Nuna Mixx Next and  BabyStyle Oyster 3 , so it’s better suited to short journeys than full days exploring with your baby.

The flip-flop-friendly brake has colour indicators for peace of mind, offering quick visual reassurance that the brake has been properly engaged. When you’ve reached your destination, folding the Vista 2 away requires two hands due to its weight, however it clips together once folded for secure and compact storage.

We love the enhancements to the sun hood, with a large UPF50+ canopy that provides extensive shade coverage. It has an expandable section that can keep your baby protected from the sun’s rays even when fully reclined. The mesh viewing window is also a great feature, allowing you to check on your baby while they nap without the risk of disturbing them.

By far the most impressive feature on the Vista 2, however, is the shopping basket - the biggest shopping basket we’ve seen. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 basket can hold a significant 13.6kg, which is a big plus point when you’re stocking up on the  best nappies  at the supermarket. The basket is four times greater than that of the Oyster 3, although the chassis does run through the middle, so it requires a bit of spacial awareness when storing larger items. We love that it’s accessible from all directions as well as the smaller pockets for stashing your valuables.

Read next:  The best baby carrier backpacks to buy

Joie Versatrax

One-handed recline 

Easy to fold

Reversible seat

Tackles a variety of terrain

Comes with a cup holder and carry strap

Large shopping basket 

No locking catch 

Removing the car seat can be a little tricky

Price: RRP £630 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent and world facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  H81.5 x W64.5 x D36.5cm |  Weight:  11.8kg |  Basket capacity:  4.5kg |  Extras included:  Cup holder

If a quick and easy fold is high on your travel system wish list, then the Joie Versatrax is certainly worth a look. Suitable from birth to four years old and sold as part of a travel system bundle for under £700, it offers excellent value for money. As a Which? Best Buy, the Versatrax also scored highly in their lab tests, with a quick and easy fold that can be triggered with the seat attached in either direction. 

Mumsnet users praise this travel system for its effortless fold. This can even be done one-handed - ideal if you’re out and about with your baby and toddler in tow. Once folded, the Verstrax sits relatively compact and can self-stand. 

The pushchair is heavy though, and while we wouldn’t recommend carrying it far, the integrated carry strap can spread the load for simple transportation to and from your car. If we’re being really critical, we would have loved a locking catch to hold the chassis securely in place when folded. 

The Joie Versatrax is suitable from birth thanks to its lie-flat seat, but you can also buy the Joie Ramble XL carrycot for extra-comfy strolls with your newborn. The Versatrax is also compatible with Joie infant car seats like the i-Snug 2 which clips to an ISOFIX base in your car (sold separately) to meet the enhanced i-Size  car seat safety regulations . 

Unclipping the carrycot is quick and simple to do, however some reviewers have found the car seat trickier to detach due to the simultaneous lift and press of a release button. The pushchair seat is comfortable and roomy for your baby and, although a little fiddly, the strap length can be adjusted child to your child as they get taller. The seat itself is a little thin, but it has good padding across the back and harness, with a removable bumper bar for your baby to grab on to as they get bigger. 

Thanks to the all-wheel suspension, the Versatrax is easy to steer across most surfaces, with a relatively small turning circle and the ability to be pushed one-handed. The heavy design makes kerbs a bit more of an effort and, while not an all-terrain pushchair, the lockable front wheels are a big help when tackling rough terrains such as gravel and mud. The handlebar can also be adjusted to a comfortable height for each user and sandal wearers can rejoice as the brake is even flip-flop-friendly. 

We love the shopping basket on the Versatrax (which at 4.5kg is about average for a travel system of this size). It’s easy to access from all directions even when the pushchair seat is fully reclined, and has an internal pocket to keep smaller items close to hand. 

Read next:   The best 360 spin car seats

Babystyle Egg 3

Good longevity with a high maximum weight of 25kg

Can be converted to a double for twins

Highly manoeuvrable and easy to steer

Three-position recline

Easy to adjust the harness 

Tackles varied terrain 

The car seat requires some strength to remove 

Basket is shallow

Need to remove the seat before folding 

Car seat adapters not included 

Price: RRP £1,500 | Suitable from:  Birth (with carrycot) to 25kg   |  Orientation:  Parent- and world-facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  H71 x D32 x W59cm |  Weight:  15.3kg |  Basket capacity:  3kg |  Extras included:  Rain cover

If you want a travel system that really stands out from the crowd, you’ll love the unique and stylish design of the newly launched Egg 3.

An upgrade from the original Egg stroller, the new Egg 3 travel system features some exciting improvements. The new design has a larger-sized seat which not only sits slightly higher on the chassis but also has a taller back and an easy-adjust harness to support your child as they grow, plus it has a larger, extendable sun canopy with magnets for the viewing window and easy one-pull, five-point harness system.  

Built with practicality in mind, the Egg 3 also has an increased basket size (compared to the original model) and the ability to self-stand when folded - preventing any unwanted damage to the handlebar or chassis when you’re packing it away. And if that's not enough, the wheels on the Egg 3 are also slightly larger, helping it perform better across more challenging terrain compared to its predecessor. 

With a distinctive design, this stylish pushchair is suitable for babies from six months through to an impressive 25kg, which could be up to five years of age - the highest capacity travel system we’ve featured. For younger babies, however, you’ll need to attach the carrycot, which comes with a sustainable, chemical-free soft cushioned mattress suitable for up to nine months, or clip on the aptly named  Egg Shell car seat . It’s worth noting though that car seat adapters aren’t included, so you’ll need to factor this in as an extra when considering the overall purchase price. 

With a robust and sturdy design, the Egg 3 weighs in at a substantial 15.5kg - over 5kg heavier than the heaviest travel system on our list - which may be off-putting to some. Despite its weight, it’s surprisingly easy to steer, with a small turning circle and the ability to be steered one-handed, even across grass, gravel and mud. The four-wheel suspension tackles kerbs with ease, without jolting or waking your baby. 

Unlike the BabyStyle Oyster 3 and Nuna Mixx Next which can fold with the seat attached in either direction, the carrycot or pushchair seat need to be fully removed from the frame before you can fold it away. Once folded, the frame sits relatively compact and self stands without taking up too much space in your car. 

While it's on the higher end of the price scale for a travel system, this is certainly noticeable in its modern and stylish design, with great attention to detail including a height adjustable leatherette handlebar and matt chassis. 

Unlike some travel systems which have wheels that can look plasticity, the tri-spoke design on the Egg3’s puncture-free tyres is quite the opposite. They even leave a unique egg-shaped tread - a novel but lovely touch. There’s even an easily accessible flip-flop-friendly brake which uses only the base of your foot, so no squishing your toes in the process.

The basket capacity could be bigger considering the pushchair’s size, with a 3kg capacity which can fill quickly due to its shallow design, however it does come with concealed storage compartments to store smaller items like your phone or purse.

Read next: The best baby carriers, wraps and slings

Cybex Priam

Suitable for varied terrain

Adjustable handlebar height 

A removable bumper bar for easy placement 

Heavy and bulky

Significant initial assembly

The slim narrow seat could be outgrown quite quickly 

Doesn’t lock once folded

Less suitable for public transport  

Price: RRP £1,700 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent facing or world facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  43 x 60 x 95cm |  Weight:  13.6kg |  Basket capacity:  5kg |  Extras included:  Rain cover and car seat adaptors

The robust Cybex Priam comes well regarded amongst Mumsnet users and online reviewers. Thanks to its sturdiness, it’s a popular choice for parents living in a more rural or countryside setting. An updated version of the original Priam from 2019, the 2022 edition offers several big improvements including a one-handed adjustable harness, revised seat design and a carrycot that sits higher up on the chassis.  

Due to the lie-flat recline, the Priam 2022 is suitable from birth through to 22kg, but the seat is narrow so you may find your child outgrows it sooner than age four. The seat can be used parent- or world-facing and, to ensure a comfortable ride for your baby, you can switch between four different recline positions and three leg rest positions.

As a travel system, the Priam 2022 can be combined with the spacious  Cybex Priam Lux carrycot  (suitable until around nine months of age) or the  Cybex Cloud T i-Size baby car seat  using the included adapters - ideal when moving your newborn to and from the car. 

While it's not an all-terrain pushchair, the Cybex Priam 2022 handles the majority of surfaces well with the exception of sand. Its weighty design is less suited to public transport but can navigate well around pavements and kerbs, as well as tackle trickier terrain such as gravel and grass with relative ease. The handlebar height can be set between 99 and 109cm and is easy to adjust when switching between parents or caregivers.

The fold has several steps, but is relatively straightforward, folding to a compact size that won’t exhaust all the space in your boot. At 13.6kg, however, it’s quite bulky to lift and one of the heavier travel systems on our list. 

We love the large central brake pedal which is quick and easy to operate. The included rain cover is simple to install and the generously sized sun hood offers more than adequate sun protection, although you may find the sideless design of the seat can let through some glare. Thanks to the magnetic viewing window, you can keep a close eye on your baby even when the seat is world-facing. 

We’re less keen on the storage basket’s slanted design, which feels restrictive in terms of space, despite its 5kg capacity. That said, you will find some additional small pockets of storage on the back of the seat - a great way to keep your phone close to hand.

Read next: The best all-terrain prams

Nuna Triv Next

Large basket 

Adjustable handlebar height

Smooth on varied terrain 

Large sun hood 

Can’t be folded one-handed

The hood can be noisy when pulled out

Price: RRP £1,000 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent facing or world facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes   |  Folded dimensions:  36 x 59 x 66cm |  Weight:  9.2kg |  Basket capacity:  4.5kg |  Extras included:  Rain cover 

The second Nuna pram featured in our round-up of the best travel systems is the Nuna Triv Next - another Which? Best Buy that achieved the highest lab score of all the products on this list. An upgrade from the original Nuna Triv, the latest edition comes with an even lighter frame and updated wheels for improved handling across varied terrain. 

Suitable from birth to 22kg, the pushchair can be used parent-facing or world-facing, and reclines to one of four different positions, including a lie-flat option for newborns. Alternatively, you can combine the chassis with the comfortable padded Nuna Triv Series carrycot or the Nuna Triv car seat when travelling with a younger baby.

Despite weighing just 9.2kg, the Nuna Triv Next performs surprisingly well over rough terrain thanks to the robust rear wheel suspension, with the ability to navigate across gravel and woodland areas without any significant bumping. We love the five different height options on the leatherette handlebar, allowing for a safe and comfortable hold for parents of different heights. 

Whilst the relatively simple fold does require two hands, the result is a compact and lightweight pushchair that’s easy to carry thanks to the locking clasp and integrated carry handle. As a result, Triv Next is a practical choice for those travelling regularly on public transport. 

The generously sized sun hood can be a little noisy to extend, but is also water-repellent (ideal for those scattered showers) and provides good shade coverage, with a viewing window for discrete checks on your baby while they nap. We love the spacious 4.5kg storage basket which has elasticated sides and can be accessed from all directions, along with the extra zipped storage pocket to the rear of the seat. 

Read next: The best cabin-approved strollers to take on the plane

Bugaboo Dragonfly

Carrycot can be collapsed with the buggy

Excellent storage

Rear storage pocket can be detached and hung on the handlebar

Freestanding when folded

Huge sun canopy with extra extension for sunny days

Sliding, easy-to-adjust five-point harness

Stiff and clunky recline

Takes time to master the fold

No rain cover included

Price: RRP £1,400 | Suitable from:  Birth to 22kg |  Orientation:  Parent- and world-facing |  Car seat compatible:  Yes |  Folded dimensions:  One-piece self-standing fold with seat 36 x 52 x 90cm; one-piece self-standing fold with carrycot 32 x 52 x 90cm |  Weight:  7.9-10.4kg |  Basket capacity:  10kg plus extra 2.5kg when rear pocket is placed on handlebar |  Extras included:  Integrated carry strap; Parasol+ attachment clip

Tested by parents : Read our full Bugaboo Dragonfly review

A great option for those travelling around an urban environment on foot, the  Bugaboo Dragonfly  is designed specifically for city life. With a relatively lightweight frame, this buggy is much lighter than many other travel systems (with the exception of the Nuna Triv Next and Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2). 

Released in June 2023, the Bugaboo Dragonfly features a sliding harness, large extendable sun canopy, leather grip height-adjustable handlebar and huge storage basket with a rear storage pocket that detaches from the basket to be hung on the handlebars like a  changing bag .

While the claim of a one-handed fold is debatable, the pushchair can self-stand once folded, making it easier to carry and store at home or on public transport. It also folds down with the carrycot attached - the first of its kind and a game-changer in the newborn days.

Thanks to its light frame, the Bugaboo Dragonfly is agile and easy to manoeuvre, with a small turning circle that makes it ideal for navigating through crowded city streets or narrow shop aisles.

Its large brake pedal is easy to engage. Parent tester, Laura, says, "The brake is one of the easiest I've used and holds effectively. You simply press the brake down with your foot to engage and disengage it, and this can even be done barefoot or with flip-flops."

As you may expect, however, the Bugaboo Dragonfly doesn’t fair quite so well as other travel systems on uneven ground and struggles in particular when it comes to bumping up kerbs.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a pushchair that allows you to remove the seat or carrycot and replace it with a baby car seat .

Tailored specifically to newborn babies, a travel system can be bought as a standalone pushchair or as part of a bundle, either a 2-in-1 travel system, featuring a pushchair and carrycot, or a 3-in-1 travel system which also has a baby (Group 0+) car seat.

With the ability to attach a Group 0+ car seat (suitable from birth to 12 months), a travel system allows you to move your baby seamlessly from car to pram without disturbing them. The carrycot accessory is a convenient lie-flat option for your newborn that allows your baby to sleep while on the go, ensuring clear airways and healthy hip and spine alignment at all times. 

The size and weight of traditional travel systems (and in many cases the hefty price tag) means they're not for everyone, so it’s important to consider your lifestyle and habits when making your choice.

How we chose and tested the best travel systems

Over 100 hours of research and testing

Tested with real parents

Consumer-recommended

To ensure we're only recommending the very best travel systems, we first looked to the Mumsnet forums , home to 10 million users a month, to get the lowdown on the travel systems real parents rate and would recommend to others.

We then branched out to the wider web, collated reliable and honest consumer feedback from retail sites and bestseller lists. We also spoke to pushchair and baby travel experts from trusted organisations such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) as well as local NCT groups. 

To round out our research, we consulted the views of consumer champion Which? to discover how each travel system performed in their impartial lab testing environment.

Finally, wherever possible, we tested the travel systems ourselves, using a comprehensive testing and scoring system to highlight the best-performing products across the board. Specifically, we tested for safety and stability, assembly, ease of use, comfort, cleaning, materials and value for money. 

What is the difference between a pram, a pushchair, a buggy and a travel system? 

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences between a pram, pushchair, buggy and travel system.

Pram: A pram is a lie-flat travel solution, with a bassinet-style carry cot that allows your baby to lie in a more natural sleeping position. Prams are generally tailored towards newborns and young babies, suitable up to the age of around six months. 

Pushchair: Pushchairs offer additional flexibility as your child grows. Once they can sit up unaided (from around six months), your baby may transition from a pram to a pushchair, with the ability to sit more upright and visually explore their surroundings. With modern designs, many pushchairs now offer a lie-flat option that also makes them suitable from birth.

Buggy: The phrase buggy is often used as a catch-all phrase to describe a variety of products, but most commonly refers to a lightweight stroller that offers practical short-term travel solutions. A buggy tends to be less feature-rich and less able to tackle varied terrain, but is often cheaper and easier to store, with an umbrella fold or compact designs that can be stashed out of sight when not in use. 

Travel system : A travel system is a versatile choice and a practical option for parents who will be regularly switching between their car and travelling on foot. Parents can choose between a 3-in-1 travel system or a 2-in-1 travel system depending on their preference. In addition to a pushchair, a 2-in-1 travel system bundle includes a carrycot, which can be clipped onto the chassis as a lie-flat solution for newborns till around six months of age. 3-in-1 travel systems also include a car seat and will often require adapters to link to the main frame of the pushchair. 

Do I need a travel system?

Because travel systems can be bulky and expensive, it’s worth checking whether or not you actually need one.

If you often travel by car, a travel system will save you time and energy when out and about with your baby as you'll be able to easily remove and attach a car seat.

With a parent-facing carrycot attachment, and sometimes even the main seat unit itself, you'll also be able to lie your child completely flat, which will ensure that they are safe and secure at all times.

If you rarely use a car, or if you know you’ll be on and off public transport daily, then a lightweight buggy may be a more suitable option.

Some lightweight pushchairs, such as the Bugaboo Dragonfly can, however, be used as a travel system, which may just give you the best of both worlds.

Read next: The best car sun shades for babies

Should babies lie flat in a pram?

To be suitable from birth, your pram or pushchair seat needs to recline into a ‘lie flat’ position - as close to 180 degrees as possible. This is because an upright seat can actually restrict your baby’s airways and reduce the amount of oxygen in their bloodstream due to the position of their head and neck. 

Some pushchairs are only suitable for use from six months and, as such, require the addition of a carrycot or car seat to be suitable from birth. It’s worth remembering that your baby should not be kept in a car seat for longer than two hours at a time, and should be removed at the earliest opportunity once you’ve reached your destination. 

Video: how to choose the best travel system

How much do travel systems cost.

Prices range from £250 to over £1,000 and most come as part of a bundle, which could save you money in the long run.

More expensive models may come with a multitude of added extras – think footmuffs, buggy boards and general customisable features – but this will, of course, increase the cost.

Read next: How to clean a pram

What should I look for when buying a travel system? 

Here are some important questions to ask yourself when considering which travel system is right for you: 

What does the price include and what is my budget? First up, how much are you willing to spend on your travel system? Consider what elements you will benefit from the most before deciding between a 2-in-1 bundle with a carrycot, or a 3-in-1 bundle with a carrycot and car seat. Some travel systems can be purchased for under £400, but for more luxury designs or bundles with more accessories, you can easily spend £1,000 or more. 

What is the weight limit? What is the maximum weight capacity for the pushchair? The vast majority of travel systems can accommodate children up to 22kg (approximately four years) however some stop at 15kg, so it’s worth checking the specifications with care. 

How easy is it to attach a carrycot or car seat? Does this require adapters and if so, are they included? Can this be done one-handed? If you’re going to be out and about on your own with your baby, it’s important you can attach and remove the car seat and carrycot without assistance. 

What are the seat recline options? How many recline settings does the pushchair element of the travel system offer, and is there a lie-flat option suitable for use with your newborn? Can the recline be triggered one-handed and with your baby already in the seat? Some travel systems have back recline options only, whereas others can adjust the angle of the footrest too - a helpful feature when travelling with older babies and toddlers. 

Can the seat be switched between parent- and world-facing? Most parents prefer to use their pushchair in parent-facing mode initially, enabling good eye contact and helping you keep a close eye on your baby whilst travelling. As your baby gets older, however, they may become curious about exploring their surroundings, so switching to world-facing can provide them with a better view. If your travel system pushchair has a viewing window in the hood, this can be helpful to allow regular checks that your baby is calm and content. 

Is it roomy enough? As well as the weight limits, it's important to consider the style, size and shape of the seat. Some travel systems such as the Cybex Priam are quite narrow and may be outgrown sooner than their specification suggests.

Does it have a five-point harness? How secure is the harness and is it padded for a comfortable fit? It’s also worth considering how easy it is to adjust the harness height as your baby grows. On some travel systems, this will be a simple, one-handed adjustment, while others will require some rethreading. 

How easy is it to fold? Can the fold be achieved one-handed and if not, how many steps are involved? Does the seat need to be removed beforehand? Is the process fairly intuitive or is it a case of practice makes perfect? It’s also worth considering whether the fold requires physical strength - something which will be even more important if you’re recovering from a c-section .

How compact is the fold? What are the dimensions of the pushchair once folded? Will it fit into the boot of my car or on public transport and does it have a safety clasp to hold it securely in place once folded?

How easy is it to push and steer? How easy is the pushchair to steer and can it cope with varied terrain? It’s worth considering the type of surfaces you will be travelling on most regularly. For city dwellers, most travel systems can navigate across pavements and down kerbs with ease, whereas you may need an all-terrain pushchair if you’re planning on taking your travel system to the beach or local woods. 

How heavy is it to carry? How much does the travel system weigh and are you able to lift this yourself, whether that’s to and from the car or onto public transport? Some travel systems include an integrated carry handle and while it's not something you’ll want to use regularly, this can help distribute the weight when carrying up and down the stairs at home. 

Is the handle height adjustable? Is the handlebar height fixed, or can this be adjusted to suit the parent? Most travel systems offer some handlebar adjustment, but to what margin will depend upon the brand. If you are particularly petite or tall, it's worth checking the lowest and highest height settings to ensure it’s comfortable to push. 

What's the brake like? How easy is the brake to trigger and is it flip-flop friendly? Some central brakes can disrupt your strides when walking quickly but are easier to access if you need to stop in an emergency. If you regularly wear sandals and flip-flops, you’re best to look for brakes that don’t require lifting up with the top of your foot to release. 

How big is the storage basket? One of the biggest variations between travel systems is the size of the storage basket, with our choices ranging from a 3kg capacity to over 13kg. As well as the capacity, you should look at the size and shape of the basket, whether it can be accessed from multiple angles, and whether it is still accessible when used with the carrycot. Some travel systems also offer additional storage such as pockets on the back or footrest. 

Does it come with a rain cover? We can always rely on the British weather to treat us to an unexpected downpour so an included rain cover is a handy accessory to protect your baby from the elements. If it’s not included, how much do they cost to buy as an optional extra? How easy is the rain cover to attach and can this be done quickly when the heavens open? 

Will the sun hood provide enough protection? Is it extendable? On warmer days, it’s important to keep the sun out of your baby’s face where possible. A good travel system will have a large sun hood or canopy, ideally with UPF50+ protection and an extendable section that provides coverage even when the seat is fully reclined. 

How easy is the travel system to clean? What fabric is the seat of your travel system made from? Can the covers be removed for easy cleaning, or is it spot clean only? 

What does it look like? Does it come in colours I like? While it's not the most important factor, the overall look and feel of your travel system is still something to consider, as you’ll want to feel confident when out and about with your baby. What colour choices are available? Is it a modern or traditional design? Do the fabrics and chassis look high quality and luxurious? 

Can I convert it to a double buggy or fit a buggy board? If you’re planning on growing your family, it’s worth considering whether the travel system could be easily converted to a double buggy , or whether a buggy board can be attached to the back. The latter is a great option for toddlers who may tire easily when walking on foot, whilst still encouraging some independence. 

What are the wheels like? What are the wheels made from and are they puncture-free? 

Can it handle off-roading? Does the travel system pushchair have any built-in suspension to tackle more off-road terrains? For more lightweight travel systems that don’t claim to be all-terrain, it’s worth looking for a lockable front wheel, as this can provide greater resistance against gravel and mud. 

How easy is it to assemble and take apart? Finally, for the flatpackphobes amongst us, how easy is it to get started with your travel system? Does it require any significant assembly before use and if so, how intuitive is it and are the steps easy to follow? Some travel systems also feature convertible carrycots, so if you are repelled by the prospect of following an instruction manual, you may want to opt for a design with a separate stand-alone carrycot

Travel system safety advice from RoSPA

We spoke to Nick Lloyd, Acting Head of Road Safety at The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), for some safety advice when buying a travel system:

Always buy from a reputable shop or website. Don’t try to get a cheap deal as you don’t know if you’ll be buying the real branded item or a copy

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to fit and use the travel system

Don’t leave your baby in the car seat for more than two hours (30 minutes if your child is a low birth weight or has medical problems). This can cause fatalities

Read next: Can you take a pram on a plane? Everything you need to know about travelling with a pushchair

About the author

Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby/child product reviews and round-ups. Having written product reviews on her own blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of baby products, scrutinising reviews and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.  

Lucy has personal experience of researching, buying and using travel systems with her own children, as well as completing several tried and tested pushchair reviews over the years.

Originally from a HR background with a degree in Business Studies, Lucy developed a real passion for blogging and writing when her children were young, going on to write for several online publications including US parenting site Pregistry and the Evening Standard. 

When she’s not manically tapping the keys of her laptop, Lucy loves nothing more than to cosy up with her Kindle and enjoy the latest thriller, or compete in Nintendo Switch rallies with her daughters aged six and 10.

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

17 best pushchairs, strollers and buggies for every kind of terrain

We put them through an assault course at (and around) the GHI lab

A pushchair is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make when you start a family . Choosing the right one can make a huge difference when you’re on the move, helping you negotiate supermarket aisles, grass and kerbs with ease, and they should see you through to the toddler years.

But there’s lots to consider. That’s why the Good Housekeeping Institute has been busy putting them through their paces – across multiple terrains – in and around our lab. We essentially put them through an assault course, wheeling them over grass, pavements, up kerbs and up and down stairs.

Whether you’re after a cosy pram for a newborn , a travel system that takes you from car to shop and back again, an all-terrain option for countryside walks, or a lightweight stroller, we’ve got the best pushchairs, prams, strollers and buggies for every purpose.

These are our experts’ top picks at a glance but keep reading for everything you need to consider before you buy, along with our full reviews.

Best all-terrain pushchair

Silver cross reef 2 pushchair.

Best for comfort

Icandy peach 7 pushchair & carrycot.

Best for travel

Silver cross jet 5 compact pushchair.

Best travel system for growing families

Uppababy vista v3 pushchair + carrycot.

Best for durability

Cybex priam 3 piece complete pushchair bundle.

Best modular design

Cybex gazelle s pushchair.

Best single-to-double ready pushchair

Icandy orange 4 pushchair bundle.

Best compact pushchair

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Best city stroller

Nuna triv next stroller.

Best for manoeuvrability

Bugaboo fox 5 pushchair, how to choose a pushchair.

Of course, you want something that’s comfortable for your baby, but you also need to consider your lifestyle. These are the factors we recommend considering before you shop. Where you live : If you’re based in town, a small, nippy model is ideal for negotiating public transport and trips to the shops. But, if you’re in the country and like to head out for walks, a pushchair with larger wheels and good suspension may suit better. Your mode of transport : If you use the car a lot, make sure you measure the inside of your boot to see how large a chassis it can take. Bear in mind that you can remove the wheels of many pushchairs to fit them into a smaller space. For those who use public transport a lot or need to go up and down steps to get into the house, you’ll want a lightweight pushchair that can be folded easily and carried. How much space you have : Live in a small flat with a lift that’s always out of order? Choose a model you can fold easily and put over your shoulder. If you have a large door and hallway and no steps to climb, you can opt for a larger pushchair. Extra storage : Bear in mind that your pushchair will also become your shopping trolley (as you need your hands to push). So, look for an option with a generous shopping basket underneath. How often you travel : Frequent flyers should look for an airline-compliant model that can be folded easily and placed in the overhead locker. If you have an airline you travel with a lot, check their luggage restrictions before purchasing, to be sure your pushchair is suitable

What are the different kinds of pushchairs?

Prams : These let you lay your newborn flat, facing you. They have a chassis (a frame and wheels) and a carrycot suitable for babies up to six months on top, some of which can be used for overnight sleeping. Most can also be used with a seat unit up to the age of two or three (see travel system below). They tend to be sturdier and heavier than a stroller. Travel system : This consists of a chassis and a seat unit, with the option to add a car seat and/or carrycot. Essentially, it incorporates all the attachments you may need from birth to toddler age. It also allows you to transport your baby from the car to the shops and back again without waking them. Stroller : These lightweight buggies are good if you use public transport regularly or do a lot of travelling. They’re generally for use from six months on, although some models come with a lie-flat option that lets you use them from birth. They’re small and fold easily. Some can even go in a plane’s overhead locker. Three-wheel or all-terrain buggy : These come with large wheels. Some can be used for running and some walking. Check before buying if they can be used from birth and how heavy they are. Double pushchair : These come with two seats, either side-by-side, or one in front of the other (tandem). If you have children of different ages, look for models where the seats can be reclined independently of each other. Single-to-double pushchairs : These combine a chassis and seat, and have the option to add an extra carrying solution, suitable for twins or siblings. Many can be used with one or two carrycots, car seats, seat units or any combination of this; for example, if you have a newborn and a two-year-old, you may want one carrycot and one seat unit. Some pushchairs are sold with all you need for two children; with others, you can buy additional items as you need them. This option is ideal if you are having your first baby but plan on trying for a second fairly soon after.

Other factors to consider

Bear in mind that some seat units can recline flat, making them suitable from birth, while others won’t recline fully, in which case they can be used from around four to six months. Check the seat for your chosen model to see if you also need a carrycot or bassinet. Some carrycots are suitable for overnight sleeping – these should have a ventilated base and mattress. Others aren’t, but can be used to lie your baby flat when in their pushchair. Some are softer and collapsible, usually called a bassinet.

What age are pushchairs suitable for?

Many pushchairs will be suitable for children from birth or six months (check when buying) to around 22kg – that’s about four or five years old – and while most parents hope their kids will be walking by two or three, there will probably still be times – picking up from nursery or school after a long day, for example – when you’ll need to call on your buggy.

How we test pushchairs

Before we start testing, we ensure that every pushchair on our list complies with the required British safety standards: 7409:1996 or BS EN 1888:2003.

Then, in the Good Housekeeping Institute lab, our expert starts by checking the brakes and how easy they are to use, seeing whether the safety harness is comfortable, adjustable and easy for a parent to undo (but not a child!), as well as how easily the pushchair opens and locks securely into position. We also put each pushchair through its paces on different surfaces, including a slick floor (similar to what you would find in a supermarket), on pavements and roads, on grass, and up and down kerbs and steps, to see how it performs on all types of terrain. Before taking on the assault course, we put a weight in each pushchair that’s the equivalent of a one-year-old baby and we also put weights in the shopping basket to replicate how you would use it at home. We check the seat position and whether it reclines (if not, whether there’s a bassinet or carrycot available), and we also assess design, style and build, using every single adjustment to make sure they’ll deliver a smooth, comfortable ride for your baby. All of this goes into the scores you'll see below. We also send each pushchair out to parents to use at home for a few weeks to see how they fare in the real world. They give feedback on design, ease of use, manoeuvrability and quality of instructions, some of which we've included in our reviews.

Note that we haven't tested any car seats that may be included as part of bundles available for purchase with your pushchair.

Score: 93/100

This is an update to the brand’s popular all-terrain Reef pushchair and is ideal for those looking to get outdoors. The Reef 2 has bigger wheels and a softer suspension than its predecessor, giving a smooth ride over even bumpy ground.

There’s an extendable hood that offers UPF 50+ protection, blocking 98% of UV rays while you're out and about. It also has a reversible, lie-flat seat, so it's suitable from birth, but you can buy it as a bundle if you want a carrycot suitable for overnight sleeping and a car seat.

The harness has a clever magnetic buckle that snaps in place – handy if you’re holding a wriggling baby – and there’s a large, wipe-clean storage basket underneath. The fold takes a moment to master, but once you do, it’s quick and easy. Our panellists also loved that it folds down without you having to remove the seat. It is fairly heavy, so keep scrolling if you're after a lightweight stroller, but everyone was impressed by the build quality.

Overall, this is a luxe pram with plenty of add-ons that make it the perfect travel solution.

Key specifications

Icandy peach 7 pushchair & carrycot.

This buggy is simple to set up and our tester found it stylish and well made, offering everything a parent could need. We've linked to the pushchair and carrycot option, but it also comes in a handy bundle , which includes the stroller, carrycot, car seat adaptors, rain cover and other iCandy accessories for an extra £100 (it's currently reduced). The carrycot itself has a luxurious, fleece lining, which makes it super cosy. And despite being sturdy, it’s lightweight and easy to steer over different surfaces (albeit slightly harder to push on grass). Folding it down is a little fiddly and it’s still fairly large, but overall, this is an impressive design. “My baby preferred this to her normal buggy and slept so soundly!” said our at-home tester. They confirmed they would definitely recommend it to friends and family, adding that it was “a joy” to use.

Score: 91/100

With a from-birth, lie-flat seat, the option of adding a car seat, and an innovative fold, this is our top pick for those who like to get away. “This pram is easy to drive with one hand, which makes it great for manoeuvring through busy spaces like airports and public transport,” said one happy panellist.

It’s light at just 7.5kg and folding and unfolding is easy once you know how – we had to refer to the instructions provided. The whole stroller folds down into a nice, neat package and the bumper bar acts as a useful pull-along handle for the airport (a feature our panel loved).

You can add accessories, including a foot muff, snack tray and phone holder and it comes in three colours: cinnamon, mineral (a greyish blue) and space (all-black). It also has a UPF50+ hood with a sun visor and a mesh panel for ventilation, making it perfect for warm holidays. All the fabric is made from recycled bottles as well, so it’s a more sustainable choice as well as a functional one.

This is an update to the brand’s popular Vista V2 and, impressively, it can carry three children at once with additional accessories. It comes with a toddler seat and carrycot (that’s suitable for overnight sleeping) and you can also buy an additional rumble seat. There's a ride-on board for older children as well. There are plenty of ways to customise your set-up too, making it ideal for growing families.

It has a large shopping basket that can take up to 13kg, and accessories include a storage bag for the carrycot and insect nets and rain shields for both the carrycot and toddler seat.

“Love this pram! It's incredibly easy to assembly, and feels like a high end premium product from the moment you open the bag,” said our at-home tester who also told us it was easy to swap between the bassinet and seat and praised the sun canopy on the bassinet.

The wheels are large and can tackle most terrains with ease, but do bear in mind that it can get quite heavy with multiple children onboard. It’s easy to fold but it’s not small, so check if it will fit in your boot before buying. Overall, this is a great solution if you’re starting a family and plan to add to it.

Score: 89/100

If you’re looking for a solid pram that can handle heavy use by growing families, this is the one. Our panel member backed this up, saying it felt “well built” and “sturdy”. Note that we’ve linked to the 3 piece bundle with the frame, carrycot and seat pack, but you can also buy the frame by itself and then choose your seating and any accessories at an additional cost. It's a large, robust pushchair, but what it loses in heft, it makes up for in durability and looks (Cybex is known for its designer collaborations).

The frame is based on the classic Eames chair, and all fabric and accessories are high quality, as is the leather handle and bumper bar. It also has good all-round suspension, and large, sturdy wheels for a comfortable ride. It’s easy to push over several types of terrain, although it’s not as good on grass and due to its weight, it’s not the easiest to get over kerbs.

It has a generous hood, a one-hand recline and fold system to make things easier, an extra-large shopping basket and a harness that opens at the push of a button. Our expert also liked the high position of the reversible seat unit and generously-sized carrycot, which is suitable for overnight sleeping.

Another model from Cybex, this one is a modular design with an impressive 20 possible configurations, which means it’s ideal if you have (or are planning for) a big family. You can attach any combination of seats, car seats and carrycots (all sold separately) to suit your needs, and even add a ride-on board so it can accommodate three children at once.

Our panel member really rated this design, telling us: “Having been fairly against the one-up-one-down tandem double pushchairs previously, I have been extremely impressed with this model. The ability to adjust the seats for good visibility of both children has been very reassuring.”

The fabrics feel luxurious with good padding, there’s an extra large hood and sun canopy, and the seat is a generous size. This is also the one to choose if you need to do the family shop. The large basket can take up to 13kg and you can attach an extra 10kg-capacity basket to the handle. Despite the sturdy chassis, it folds down compactly to fit in the boot and you can remove the wheels and seat if needed.

Score: 88/100

The newest release from iCandy, the Orange 4 can accommodate two children straight out of the box, making it a great choice for families with two young children. It also has a ride-on board for an older child. The extensive bundle features a chassis, a seat unit (suitable from around four months) and a carrycot for newborns, along with a whole range of accessories.

The pushchair's chassis is nice and sturdy, while our expert loved the 10kg shopping basket, which can take three to four bags. The rear wheels are large, delivering a smooth ride, while the front wheels swivel to make nipping around the shops easier.

It has quite a wide wheel base, so check it will fit through your front door. The seat unit can be reclined through three positions, facing either outwards or towards you, and it can be placed at different heights – handy if you want to raise your child up to interact with them.

“I like that this is a single to double pushchair with an integrated ride-on board – great for my son who can’t walk that far yet but loves to ride,” said our at-home tester, who also praised the buggy’s “quality” design and “good manoeuvrability”. They found it harder to get up steps than their previous pushchair, but added, “This is understandable as it’s bigger and heavier with two kids on board.” This one will be with you for the long-haul.

This lightweight stroller has small wheels and is easy to move around corners and in shops, but it didn’t tackle tougher terrain well, so this one is best for city dwellers. It’s suitable from six months but can be used from birth if you purchase it with the newborn pack or buy the more structured bassinet in addition to the frame.

It folds quickly and can fit in an overhead locker (although check your airline’s guidelines before travelling). You can also carry it on your shoulder thanks to the handy strap. It comes with a storage bag too, making it a good portable option. “Once folded, it goes easily into the luggage holder on planes and trains, which is a great benefit,” said one of our panel members. “Unfolded, it's very narrow, so it's very convenient and it can be stored easily in your hallway.”

The shopping storage is fairly small but fine if you’re just nipping to the supermarket to grab something for tea.

Score: 87/100

An update to the popular Triv pushchair, this one has bigger wheels than its predecessor and it folds down more compactly too, making it a great city stroller. It can also transform into a travel system with the addition of a carrycot and car seat (if this is what you're looking for, choose the travel bundle ). The neat, swivelling front wheels are ideal for nipping around the shops, it has an easy-to-use, one-touch brake, and the large shopping basket has a useful extra zipped storage pocket.

The handle can be adjusted through five positions to suit parents of all heights; the three seat positions include a lie-flat option for newborns; and it's extra cosy thanks to the Merino wool insert. Plus, it faces both ways, so your baby can either look at you or watch the world go by. These smart features went down well with our panel, who liked how easy it was to adjust the seat, including changing it from back to front-facing, and praised the generous shopping basket.

Other highlights include a handy footrest for toddlers and a UPF50+ hood. Folding is simple, too.

“This pram is fabulous and perfect for little ones! It feels lovely and safe, pushes well, and the wheels are a great size,” was how our panellist summed this one up. We're not sure we need to go on but we will...

This all-terrain pushchair offers a smooth ride and one-handed operation. It glides well over a range of different surfaces and although it’s not as light as some on our list, its good centre of gravity means it takes kerbs well. It can be used with the generous carrycot for the first few months until your little one is ready to move up to the seat unit, at which point you need to remove the carrycot fabric and attach the seat fabric to the frame (there’s a handy video to show you how it’s done).

There’s a large shopping basket, which can be accessed from the front and back so you can grab baby gear easily when you need it. Overall, this is a sturdy, functional pushchair that makes use of one frame for both carrycot and seat, which means you don’t have lots of spare parts cluttering up your home. The seat, canopy and carrycot also come in a range of colourways, which sit on the stylish black or graphite frame.

Inglesina Aptica XT Travel System

Score: 86/100

This pushchair is handmade in Italy and was described by our tester as a “large and stately” design. The included carrycot is generously-sized and beautifully made. It’s also suitable for overnight sleeping and even comes with a stand so it can be used in place of a crib or Moses basket.

The seat unit has a seven-position backrest so you can find a setting to suit your baby from birth to around four years old. It provides a smooth ride thanks to the large rear wheels and dual-setting suspension, but it’s heavy to get up kerbs and the bouncy suspension makes stairs tricky (although you can switch to the harder suspension setting to make things easier).

Our panellists agreed that this is a very comfy buy, praising the “high quality” design and “fluid movement and good suspension.” It’s also easy to fold and you can even roll it along behind you like a suitcase. To open it up again, you simply press the button on the side of the frame and it slides up.

Overall, this is a large, elegant pushchair that will be a cosy place for your baby to sleep from birth.

Thule Urban Glide 3 Stroller

Score: 84/100

This sporty, three-wheel pushchair has been designed with runners in mind. It has a wrist strap and hand brake on the handle, which makes it safer if you have to come to a swift halt – essential for any good running buggy. It also has large wheels, a good suspension and the front wheel can be set to swivel when walking or locked in place for running. Because of the big wheels, it’s a breeze to use on any surface and there’s a large hood to keep wind and rain off your baby.

The smooth handling went down well with our at-home testers. “It provided a comfy ride for my little one and I found it really easy to push; it glides over surfaces and you can use it one-handed if needed,” said one.

The stroller's generous seat can lie flat, making it suitable for newborns, although our expert suggests checking out the additional newborn nest and bassinet for added comfort.

There are extra storage pockets for your keys and phone and you can engage the brake with your toe so there’s no need to bend down. It’s quite wide and has a long wheelbase, so it's not as easy to manoeuvre as some smaller pushchairs, but if you want a design for long walks and running, it's worth the trade-off.

Joie Baby Versatrax Pushchair

This is a good price and delivers everything you want from a pram. “The best pram I've ever used (I have three children and this is the 4th pram I’ve had),” was one impressed panellist's feedback.

It’s easy to assemble, with the four-position seat and wheels clicking straight in. It felt a little stiff to push at first but it soon loosened up and is a good option for zipping around town. It’s also great on grass if you fancy stopping off at the park.

Both the seat back and the leg rest can be adjusted up and down independently, giving you all seat options from flat to upright, so it’s suitable from birth to two or three years.

Note, that one of our panel members did struggle to fold it at first and said the small wheels did make it tricky over some surfaces, so it may not be the best all-terrain option but it does the job for everyday urban use.

The seat can be front- or rear-facing and it’s easy to swap direction using the sliding buttons on the sides. There’s a generous basket with two internal pockets for your phone or water bottle and it comes with adaptors to attach a carrycot or car seat. A neat buy.

Joolz AER+ Stroller

Score: 83/100

This compact, lightweight stroller complies with airline guidelines, so it’s ideal for taking on holiday with you. It also comes with its own carry case for storing in the overhead locker, or in your boot. The seat is adjustable with three positions in total, and it lies flat so it’s suitable for newborns.

It’s easy to recline when your baby is asleep, although it’s not as easy to raise again with your baby in it. The hood also has good ventilation panels to allow the air to circulate during warmer weather.

The front wheels swivel, making it a good mover and it goes through doors and up stairs easily, as it’s so light. When you need to put it in the boot or the airline locker, just push the lever and button on the handle and it concertinas right down and locks when folded. It’s a smart buy for those who want to get away in those early years.

Out n About Nipper Single Stroller

Score: 82/100

This three-wheel stroller is made for long walks through rough terrain, so it’s great for going off-road. One of our panel members took it out for a jog and found it really easy to steer. They confirmed it also “handled all types of terrain really well.”

Though it’s large, it’s lightweight, thanks to the aluminium frame, and the generous seat and large footrest are suitable for children up to the age of three or four. The seat can be used from birth (although don’t use it for jogging if your baby is less than six months old), but there’s also a carrycot that can be added, which faces you so you can bond with your baby on walks.

There’s an additional storage pouch on the back for valuables and the front wheel can be set to swivel for moving around town, or locked in place for jogging or going across rougher ground. Note, there’s a wrist strap but no handle brake, so it’s not one for serious runners, but it makes short work of kerbs and stairs.

Doona X Car Seat & Stroller Nitro Black

Score: 75/100

This is an innovative product that’s ideal for short trips to the shops when you don’t want to disturb your sleeping baby. It’s essentially a car seat that converts into a stroller. We haven’t tested it as a car seat (it has passed car seat safety regulation ECE R129/iSize) but as a stroller, it’s undoubtedly very convenient.

It has three recline positions, including a full recline feature for cosy snoozing, as well as an adjustable headrest and a padded harness and handle. The fabrics are breathable and can be removed for washing.

It's rear-facing and only suitable for little ones up to 13kg, but if you drive frequently and need a smart solution for running errands, this may be the answer.

Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller

This is a small, compact and affordable stroller that’s great for public transport, holidays and trips to the shops, but perhaps not as your main pushchair. The small wheels make it easy to negotiate the shops but aren’t as good on rougher terrain. The seat is comfortable and ergonomic, with lots of padding and a number of recline positions. It also turns into a little bassinet for newborns, using just the seat’s fabric and some clever poppers.

You can add a car seat to create a from-birth travel system using adaptors and it arrives ready in the box, making this one of the most easy to set up and compact strollers around.

Our panellists liked the compact fold and peekaboo flap, along with the fuss-free set-up, but did say they struggled to unfold it, so it may take a bit of practice before you head out.

Alison is head of content for the Good Housekeeping Institute, responsible for product reviews across homes, beauty, wellness, family and food & drink. She lives by the William Morris quote that you should “have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”   

Alison has over 15 years' experience as a lifestyle editor and has written features on everything from misophonia to how to dress like Claudia on The Traitors. She has also interviewed everyone from Dame Joanna Lumley to the Kardashians.     In her spare time, you'll find her hanging out with Monty the cocker spaniel and refreshing the Sezane website every five seconds. 

Sally J. Hall is a parenting tester for the GHI, reviewing everything from bedside cribs and pushchairs to nappies. She has written extensively on pregnancy, birth and the health and development of both pregnant mums and their babies. She has in-depth knowledge of the parenting world, has tested thousands of products and is passionate about finding those that make parents’ lives easier.   

Sally has worked on many major UK parenting titles and was previously editor of both Emma’s Diary and Bounty. With extensive contacts across the parenting industry, she published B Baby Magazine for eight years, which covered the private maternity market across the UK and is the author of books Plant Based Baby and Eco Baby. 

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