A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This budget-friendly model from Red Kite combines the functionality of a bassinet and the cot into a portable unit. It has a newborn insert that can be set up high to avoid back strain and is ideal for those who have had C-sections.
It can be packed into a backpack and pops up in a matter of seconds with no assembly required. The pull-and click functionality is easy to master, but it has a knack you have to master.
Selecting the right bedside cot
A bedside crib will provide your baby with the safety and security they need to sleep during long journeys. They're ideal for holidays and family outings as well as other activities. The right one for you will depend on what you need. A few things to consider are the type of travel cot you're looking to purchase, how much it weighs and the dimensions. You'll want to ensure that the cot fits in your car together with the other baby equipment you'll have to bring.
A bedside cot must be able to move around and easy to set up. They are usually small and lightweight, making them the perfect option for traveling with a toddler or infant child. Moreover, they're quick and simple to assemble. They're usually equipped with a mattress that's specifically designed to fit the dimensions of the crib, which will help your little one have a restful night's sleep.
Some of these cribs come with additional accessories, making them a great option for children and babies. Some travel cots feature an attached changing table to the side, while others come with an additional bassinet. Some come with wheels that make them easier to move around.
Pick a cot that is sturdy enough to support your baby. This will prevent it from falling over and spilling the baby's and their stuffed animal on the floor. You should also select a cot that has mesh sides to allow for air circulation. This will keep your child cool and happy.
It's also a good idea to examine the folding mechanism of a travel cot prior purchasing it. It's not necessary to have an infant bed that you can open easily and could cause the possibility of suffocation. The most secure models include an locking mechanism that cannot be easily manipulated by a tiny child. Certain models feature buckles to ensure safety and stability.
Bassinets
A portable bassinet or bedside cot is a place to sleep for babies that lets parents monitor their children. They are ideal for infants under six months and are ideal for flights as they are small and light, taking up very little space. They are easy to store when not in use.
Apart from the ease of storage and assembling, bassinets are designed to be safe and comfortable for babies to sleep in. Most bassinets are fitted with mesh walls, which allow air to circulate and decrease the risk suffocation. The majority of them come with a carrying bag and are constructed of non-toxic materials and easy to clean.
There are many different bassinet models available. You should choose one that suits your baby's size and age. It's important to read reviews and specifications of any bassinet you are considering before making the purchase.
Consider a cot which can be converted into an infant bassinet. They are easier to set-up and take down than standard travel cots, and can be suitable for infants up to toddlers. They usually come with a toy arched, and some even come with an entertainment centre which plays music, light and vibrations.
Many airlines offer bassinets on long-haul flights. However, it varies based on the type of aircraft and seat availability. You can reserve a bassinet at time of booking with Lufthansa for a fee. Etihad Airways offers bassinets for babies that weigh up to 24 pounds on its long-haul flights. You can request them at the time of booking or later by using the Manage My Booking feature on the airline website.
Icelandair does not have bassinets available on its flights. Iberia is one of the airlines that offer bassinets. You can request a bassinet at the time of booking or by calling Iberia's reservation office.
Drop-side Cots
Check out the options available when you're looking for an affixed travel cot that can be used by your bedside from birth. These bassinet cots are lightweight and come with a carrying case. They are perfect for travel or staying at friends or relatives' houses. These cots are also available with height adjustments and some can be tilted to an incline for babies with reflux.
A bedside cot makes it easier to reach your baby when they get up at night. This is particularly important when you're breastfeeding, since the proximity to your baby can assist in encouraging more frequent and consistent feeding sessions which is essential to a healthy production of milk. Some cribs have a drop-down side and some even have an incline option, which allows you to easily raise your baby to feed or comfort your baby without stepping out of bed.
It's important to remember that although a bedside cot may be convenient, it must always be handled with care. Cots that are movable such as the drop-side, need to be assembled with care and regularly checked to ensure that they function properly. Older or second-hand cots could have broken rails, loose slats or broken filler bars that can create dangerous gaps where your child could fall or get trapped. Additionally, some cots are older and may not comply with current Australian safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a second-hand cot, be sure to visit the manufacturer's website to find instructions before building it. It is also recommended to select the newest cot that has been built using the latest safety standards in mind.
If you are looking for a high-quality option we recommend the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib. It is simple to put together and is among the most efficient in our MFM test. It also comes with neat zips which keep everything secure. It has multiple height adjustments and an incline option for reflux, and is compact when folded up to store.
Travel cots
Travel cots (or extra beds) are a great choice for parents who need an appropriate and secure place to lay their toddler or infant down, whether at home or on vacation. They are easy to fold, store and put up. They're perfect for sleepovers or holidays. url come with a changing mat or rocking mechanism to help change your baby prior to bedtime or to help them settle before bedtime.
If you're looking for a new travel cot, make sure it's certified to the British Standard Institution (BSI) and is made with your baby's needs in mind. Also, make sure to check the age-appropriateness since many are suitable for babies from newborn (look for a model with an integrated bassinet) and up to around three years old.
One of the main things to look for in a quality travel cot is the quality of the mattress. Be sure that it is firm and padded and is covered with an apex-proof mattress cover or protector. The same goes for the base of the cot, which should be sturdy and have non-slip feet to prevent it from moving when used or while stored.
Other desirable features of a travel cot include a mesh window that lets you can watch your baby while they sleep, as well as carrying bags to make transportation more convenient. There are models that can also be used as a playpen, or even come with an electronic mobile. This will keep your baby engaged and entertained.

If you're looking for an efficient and easy way to create a secure sleeping space for your infant or toddler, then a bedside travel cot could be just what you need. The best ones are easy to fold and unfold and they can be put into bags for transportation. They are also generally light, making them perfect for travel, even on a plane or yacht! If you're not sure which model to choose, research the options and ask parents for their suggestions. A bedside travel cot is a great investment that will be invaluable throughout the first few years of your child's existence.