How long can you use a travel cot for?

Most accessories, such as changing tables, bassinets and nap seats, can be used up to 9 kg or until the child can sit, kneel or get up unassisted (approximately 6 months). If you are looking for an option to use for your older baby or toddler, you will need to check the size of the cribs you are interested in.

Travel

cots differ widely in size. Some of the more compact cribs are light to transport and easy to store, but for this reason they will only last between 3 and 18 months.

Others are larger and you can use them from 3 or 6 months to 3 years or even 5 years, such as with the Bushbaby Nestegg folding travel cot. However, most foldable cribs, such as the Samsonite folding bubble crib, are a great option for camping, but they usually only last 6 to 18 months due to their size. Because travel cribs aren't as sturdy and durable as traditional cribs, they probably won't last as long as a crib. Since many babies use a travel crib from 3 months to 5 years old, you may need to replace the crib from time to time if it wears out.

Online magazine for pregnant women The age ranges of travel cots really vary, so always look at what the manufacturer suggests and if there is a weight limit. Most travel cribs range from three months to three years old, but some come with cribs designed for newborns and others can support a child up to five years old. Most standard travel cots can be used with a newborn baby and are even more comfortable if the crib is supplied with a carrycot. This allows the mattress to be hung in the crib at waist height, rather than sitting on the base of the crib.

A carrycot is suitable from birth to around 3 months. Old mattresses are also often soft and saggy, which may mean that they pose a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) due to the greater likelihood that the child will cover his face if he rolls up on the mattress first. If you already have a small child, you should buy a larger travel crib that fits their body size appropriately. In addition to that, make sure to choose a travel crib that is designed to fit your baby's age.

Travel cribs generally fall into two; the first is the typical traditional crib that is mostly manufactured with a sturdy frame with fabrics around it, and this type of crib folds easily when not in use. If you're ready to find one that's perfect for you, check out this list of options for the five best travel cribs. Also check how the crib folds: look for one that is compact and has a carrying handle or shoulder strap. While travel cots are safe for babies and toddlers to sleep for short periods of time, they are not designed to sleep regularly for a long period of time.

If the travel cot goes directly to the car, the only thing that worries you is the size of the trunk (and how much luggage you carry). Most travel cribs are designed with cloth mesh sides that will keep some insects out, but an open top crib doesn't cut it if insects, and especially mosquitoes, are a problem. Equipped with your child's favorite toys, the crib is a perfect place to keep him safe and happy during the day as well. Regular use, air travel, and putting the crib in the back of the car will probably leave it a little poor quality, so opt for a travel cot with removable covers that can be washed in the machine or a cloth that can be wiped clean.

To ensure that all safety precautions are met, The Lullaby Trust recommends buying new cribs whenever possible, however, a second-hand travel cot can be a good cost-effective option, especially if you only plan to use it occasionally. Some travel cribs also work as a changing pad and have an easy-to-clean clip-on attachment that fits over the crib. Using a travel cot at home and taking it on trips will allow your baby the comfort of sleeping in a bed they are used to, no matter where they are. The different travel cots are suitable for specific age ranges and their use outside the guidelines is not safe.

Kayode Alhassan
Kayode Alhassan

Kayode Alhassan is an experienced travel enthusiast with a focus on providing valuable information about hotels in Courbevoie. He is committed to helping travellers make informed decisions. Kayode holds a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from the University of Surrey.