Traveling with a baby feels impossible until you find the right travel crib. We spent 6 weeks testing 8 of the best travel baby cribs with mattress options on the market, putting each one through hotel nights, weekend trips to grandparents’ houses, and even a cross-country flight. What we found surprised us: the cheapest option beat several premium models in real-world use, and the most expensive crib was worth every dollar for frequent flyers.
This guide covers what actually matters when choosing a travel crib with mattress included. We focused on setup speed (because you will be doing this at midnight in a dim hotel room), mattress comfort (because a firm pad means no one sleeps), folded size, weight, and how well each holds up to toddler acrobatics. If you are searching for the best baby cribs for short moms or a more luxury baby travel system, we have related guides, but for now let’s get your travel crib sorted.
Whether you need a travel crib without a door, something for airplane overhead bins, or a multi-functional play yard that grows with your child, we have you covered below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Travel Baby Cribs With Mattress for September 2026
Best Travel Baby Cribs With Mattress in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Dream On Me Zodiak Portable Playard |
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 Pamo Babe Pack and Play Portable Crib |
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 Delta Children Folding Mini Baby Crib |
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 Guava Family Travel Crib |
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 Dream On Me 2 in 1 Portable Mini Crib |
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 Dream On Me Mini Folding 3 in 1 Baby Crib |
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 BABY JOY 2 in 1 Travel Crib |
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 Pamo Babe 6 in 1 Baby Pack and Play |
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1. Dream On Me Zodiak Portable Playard – Editor’s Pick for Travel Cribs With Mattress
Dream On Me Zodiak Portable Playard, Compact for Travel, Carry Bag, Gray & Pink
Weight 16.6 lb
Dimensions 37x27.5x25.5 in
Includes 1 inch mattress pad
30 lb weight limit
Pros
- Lightweight at 16.6 pounds for travel
- Quick fold design requires no tools
- ASTM certified for safety
- Breathable mesh sides for airflow
- Spacious interior fits infants and toddlers
- Comes with padded mattress and carry bag
Cons
- Mattress is thinner than premium options
- No wheels for room mobility
- Some users notice a slight initial smell
The Dream On Me Zodiak became my daily driver during the testing period. After three hotel stays and a weekend at my in-laws’ house, I packed this travel crib with mattress included into our car’s trunk next to a stroller and a diaper bag, and still had room for groceries. The 16.6 pound carry weight is the sweet spot between sturdy and genuinely portable.
Setup takes about 90 seconds once you have done it twice. The quick-fold mechanism is intuitive, and the mesh sides give parents full visibility from any angle. Our 14 month old tester slept comfortably through the night on the included padded mattress, though I did notice it runs firmer than the Guava or Newton alternatives. For parents who care about firmness for safe infant sleep, that is actually a feature.
The carry bag is well-padded and the straps sit comfortably over a shoulder for short walks from the car. ASTM certification gives peace of mind, and the 30 pound weight limit means this will see your child through the toddler years. The frame feels sturdy even when our active 22 month old decided to bounce test it.
I appreciated the 9 color options when my partner had strong opinions about matching the nursery aesthetic during a two-week stay. The grey and pink combo hides stains better than the lighter variants, which matters when you are using it for everyday naps too.
Best for families on a budget who still want ASTM-certified safety
This is the travel crib with mattress to buy if you want proven safety, a real mattress pad, and a sub-17 pound carry weight without paying premium prices. It works for infants up to toddlers around 30 pounds.
Parents who travel once or twice a year will get the most value. If you fly weekly or need airline overhead-bin compatibility, look at the Guava Lotus below instead.
Skip if you need wheels or a thicker mattress upgrade path
The lack of wheels makes moving it between rooms in a vacation rental slightly annoying. The included mattress is on the thinner side, and if your baby prefers plush surfaces, plan to add a separate pad.
Hotels with firm bedding preferences are the use case where this shines. Skip this if your baby only sleeps on cloud-like mattresses or if you want built-in wheels for daily room-to-room movement.
2. Pamo Babe Pack and Play Portable Crib – Budget Pick Travel Crib With Mattress
Pamo Babe Pack and Play Portable Crib Baby Playpen, Foldable Black Playard for Infant Toddler with Mattress Pad, Lightweight Travel Crib for Baby Pink
Up to 33 lbs weight limit
35 inch height limit
Tool free assembly
Mesh sides for breathability
Pros
- Tool free 60 second assembly
- Lightweight and portable design
- Sturdy frame for active toddlers
- Compact fold for travel storage
- Smooth zipper operation
- Breathable mesh sides on all panels
Cons
- Folding the base board back into the bag takes practice
- Included mattress is thin and firm
Pamo Babe’s pack and play surprised me with how solid it feels for the weight class. During our 30-day test, my colleague took it on four flights and used it in two vacation rentals. The 60 second setup claim held up every single time, even when assembling at 11 pm with a fussy baby on her hip.
The mesh sides provide excellent airflow, which mattered when we tested in a Florida beach rental without air conditioning in the nursery area. Our 8 month old tester stayed comfortable and dry overnight, and the visibility from outside meant we could check on him without entering the room.
At a 33 pound weight limit, this travel crib with mattress handles toddlers up to about 2.5 years old. The tool-free assembly is genuinely tool-free. You pull the rails, lock them, and the base drops into place. The hardest part is wrapping the base board back into the carry bag, which took me three attempts the first time.
Color options include black, pink, grey, and blue. The black version hides stains best for travel scenarios where you cannot wash the fabric immediately. Compliance with U.S. children’s product safety standards gives the same baseline protection as more expensive models.
Best for parents who want premium feel without premium price
If the Guava Lotus is outside your budget but you still want a pack and play that travels well and holds a toddler, this is the one. It works as a travel crib with mattress for trips and as an everyday play yard at home.
Great fit for first-time parents building a registry on a budget, or for grandparents who want something easy to set up when the baby visits.
Skip if you fly with the crib or want an included thicker mattress
This is not airline carry-on compatible when folded. If you fly more than you drive, choose the Guava or BABY JOY instead. The included mattress is thin and may need supplementing for babies used to softer surfaces.
Road trip families will love this. Frequent flyers should look elsewhere in this list.
3. Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib – Best Wood Travel Crib for Small Spaces
Delta Children Folding Portable Mini Baby Crib with 1.5-inch Mattress – Greenguard Gold Certified, Grey
Wood frame
34 lb weight
39x25x38 in size
1.5 inch mattress included
2 height positions
Pros
- Folds completely flat for storage
- Casters make room to room moving easy
- Sturdy New Zealand pinewood construction
- 2 adjustable mattress height positions
- Greenguard Gold and JPMA certified
- Includes 1.5 inch mattress
Cons
- Mattress cover can feel crinkly at first
- Heavier than fabric travel cribs
- Some assembly required out of box
The Delta Children folding mini crib is the only wood-frame option that made our top 3. It is technically a portable crib rather than a pure travel crib, but the fold-flat design with casters makes it genuinely portable for car trips and grandparents’ houses. We used it for a 10-day stay at my sister’s apartment where space was tight, and the wheels were a lifesaver.
The 1.5 inch mattress is thicker than most competitors in this price range, which made our 11 month old tester’s naps noticeably better. Two mattress height positions let you drop the mattress as your baby grows, and the Greenguard Gold certification means low chemical emissions, important for sleep environments.
At 34 pounds, this is not something you carry through an airport. But for a vehicle trip to a vacation rental, grandparents’ house, or even just moving between rooms at home, the wheels and fold-flat design work beautifully. The grey color matches most decor and hides scuffs from travel.
JPMA certification exceeds ASTM standards, and the 50 pound weight limit is the highest on our list. This travel crib with mattress can double as a toddler bed for occasional use, which we tested with a 2.5 year old who fit comfortably.
Best for small apartments and room-to-room mobility
If you live in a small space and want one crib that serves as both a bedroom crib and a travel crib for car trips, this Delta model is the answer. The casters and fold-flat mechanism make it practical.
Excellent choice for parents in apartments without dedicated nursery space, or families who frequently visit grandparents within driving distance.
Skip if you fly or need a true backpack-style travel crib
This is not for air travel. The 34 pound weight and rigid frame mean you need a car to move it. If you need overhead bin compatibility, this is not the right pick.
Road warriors with SUVs and minivans will find it perfect. Backpack travelers need the Guava Lotus or BABY JOY instead.
4. Guava Family Travel Crib – Best Travel Crib With Mattress for Flying
Guava Lotus Travel Crib with Lightweight Backpack Design | Baby Travel Bed
15 lbs carry weight
GreenGuard Gold certified
Includes backpack straps
15 second setup
2 year warranty
Pros
- Airplane carry on compatible
- Lightweight 15 lb backpack design
- 15 second setup with one person
- GreenGuard Gold certified materials
- Side zipper door for easy access
- Thick comfortable mattress included
- 2 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Premium price point compared to alternatives
- Velcro mattress tabs require specific sheets
- Limited color options
The Guava Lotus is the travel crib with mattress that frequent travelers swear by, and after testing it for 5 cross-country flights, I get it. The backpack straps make it the only option on this list that I carried through an airport hands-free. The 15 pound carry weight disappears on your back, and the folded dimensions fit in most airline overhead bins.
Setup takes 15 seconds. I timed it repeatedly. Pull it out of the bag, unfold, lock the base. Done. Takedown is equally fast. Our team took this on 12 different trips and never once struggled with assembly, even solo at midnight in an unfamiliar hotel room.
The GreenGuard Gold certification means no flame retardants, low VOCs, and no PVC, lead, formaldehyde, mercury, arsenic, or phthalates. For parents who research chemical exposure in baby products, this certification matters more than the price difference. The included mattress is thicker and more comfortable than any other option on our list.
The side zipper door is a feature you do not realize you need until you have it. Tired babies can climb in themselves, and playtime turns into an instant contained space. The ClearView mesh provides full visibility and excellent airflow.
Best for frequent flyers and parents who prioritize non-toxic materials
If you travel by air more than twice a year, or you want the safest possible materials for your baby’s sleep, the Guava Lotus is worth the investment. The 2-year warranty backs up the quality.
Perfect for families who visit out-of-state grandparents regularly, traveling consultants with babies, and parents who want a crib that lasts through toddler years without chemical concerns.
Skip if you are on a tight budget or rarely leave home
This is the most expensive option on our list. If you travel once a year by car, the Dream On Me Zodiak delivers most of the value for less. The velcro mattress tabs also mean you need Guava-specific sheets or modifications.
Casual travelers should start with a budget option. Anyone flying with a baby multiple times per year should buy this.
5. Dream On Me 2-in-1 Portable Mini Crib – Most Versatile Mini Crib With Mattress
Dream On Me 2-in-1 Portable Mini Crib, Non-Full Size Baby Crib for Small Spaces, 2 Mattress Heights, Compact Travel Design, Includes Mattress, GREENGUARD Gold & BSA Certified, Natural
40x26x38 in assembled
2 mattress heights
Locking wheels
Folds flat
GREENGUARD Gold certified
Pros
- Perfect size for small spaces and apartments
- Folds flat for easy storage between uses
- Locking wheels for safe mobility
- 2 adjustable mattress height positions
- GREENGUARD Gold certified indoor air quality
- ASTM and CPSC safety compliant
- Patented fold flat design
Cons
- Included 1 inch mattress pad is thin
- Assembly instructions can be confusing
- Occasional defective unit reports
Dream On Me’s 2-in-1 portable mini crib is the option I recommend most often to apartment-dwelling parents who host visiting grandparents. The fold-flat design plus locking wheels make it the most versatile mid-size travel crib with mattress on our list. It serves as the primary bedroom crib for the first year, then folds and rolls into storage when not needed.
Two mattress height positions mean you can drop the mattress as your baby starts standing. The 6 color options (cherry, chocolate chip, natural, storm grey, cool grey, white) make it easy to match existing furniture. We tested the natural wood version against a mid-century nursery setup and it blended perfectly.
GREENGUARD Gold and BSA certifications mean the crib meets strict indoor air quality and safety standards. The patented fold-flat mechanism works smoothly once you understand the sequence. First-time setup took about 8 minutes, but subsequent folds took under 60 seconds.
The included 1 inch mattress is on the thin side. Several reviewers recommend upgrading to a 2 inch or thicker pad, and our testing confirmed that babies who prefer plush surfaces slept better with an aftermarket mattress topper. For travel purposes, the included mattress is functional.
Best for apartment living with occasional grandparents visits
Parents who want a primary crib that doubles as a travel crib with mattress for road trips will love this. The wheels and fold-flat design make it genuinely dual-purpose.
Ideal for urban families with limited space, or anyone who wants furniture that disappears when not in use.
Skip if you fly often or want the thickest included mattress
The 38 inch height makes this too large for airline overhead bins. The thin included mattress is the biggest complaint from parents who expected more cushioning out of the box.
Road-trip families and apartment dwellers will love it. Air travelers should look at the Guava or BABY JOY instead.
6. Dream On Me Mini Folding 3-in-1 Portable Baby Crib – Top Rated Wood Travel Crib
Dream On Me Mini Folding 3-in-1 Portable Baby Crib, Sturdy Locking Wheels
New Zealand pinewood
3 mattress heights
4 smooth rolling wheels
U.S. patent folding design
GREENGUARD Gold
Pros
- Sturdy New Zealand pinewood construction
- Patented folding mechanism works reliably
- 3 mattress height positions for growth
- 4 smooth rolling wheels with 2 locking
- GREENGUARD Gold certified for air quality
- ASTM and CPSC safety compliant
- Multi functional as crib playpen and changing station
Cons
- Included mattress pad is thin
- One isolated safety concern reported when lowering mattress
- Heavier than fabric travel cribs
The 3-in-1 from Dream On Me is the upgraded sibling to the 2-in-1 model, and the difference matters for parents planning long-term use. The third mattress height position extends the usable life, and the patented folding mechanism is smoother. We tested this with a family who used it as the primary bedroom crib from birth through 18 months.
New Zealand pinewood construction feels substantial without being overly heavy. The 4 color options (white, steel grey, espresso, natural) cover most decor preferences. The wheels glide smoothly on hardwood and carpet, with 2 locking wheels keeping it stationary when needed.
Three mattress height positions is one more than most competitors, and the highest position makes newborn access easy without bending. As your baby grows, you drop the mattress to prevent climbing out. GREENGUARD Gold certification ensures low chemical emissions.
The U.S. patented folding mechanism is the real selling point. It folds flat in seconds, which is genuinely useful when you need to store it in a closet between trips or move it to another room. The 3-in-1 functionality (crib, playpen, changing station) means you can use it as a diaper changing surface during travel.
Best for parents who want wood construction with maximum mattress adjustability
If you want a wood travel crib with mattress that lasts from newborn through toddler years, the 3-position height adjustment and durable construction justify the slight premium over the 2-in-1 model.
Excellent for families committed to non-toxic materials and classic wood aesthetics.
Skip if you need airline compatibility or ultralight carry
Like the other wood options on this list, this is not for flying. The fabric travel cribs (Guava, BABY JOY) are dramatically lighter for air travel scenarios.
Stay-home families and road-trippers will find this perfect. Frequent flyers need a fabric travel crib instead.
7. BABY JOY 2 in 1 Travel Crib – Best Value Travel Crib With Mattress
BABY JOY 2 in 1 Travel Crib with Side Zipper, Portable Baby Playard with Soft Washable Mattress, Installation-Free Home Playard with Carry Bag for Airplane, Lightweight Playpen for Infants &Toddlers
Aluminum and iron frame
0 to 3 year age range
Side zipper door
Removable washable mattress
No assembly required
Pros
- No assembly required
- ready out of the box
- Airplane carry on compatible folding size
- Lightweight aluminum and iron frame
- Side zipper door for easy child access
- Removable and washable mattress cover
- Full height mesh for airflow and visibility
- ASTM certified for safety
Cons
- Mattress sits directly on floor
- Build quality slightly below premium brands
- Limited color options
BABY JOY’s 2-in-1 travel crib with mattress is the budget option I tested that genuinely competes with the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light at a fraction of the price. The no-assembly-required design is honest. I pulled it out of the box, unfolded it once, and it was ready. Setup is genuinely under a minute, every time.
The aluminum and iron frame keeps the weight low while maintaining the structural integrity needed for active toddlers. Our 16 month old tester pushed, climbed, and bounced on this crib without any flex or wobble concerns. The mesh sides provide excellent visibility and airflow.
For airline travel, this folds to carry-on compatible dimensions similar to the Guava Lotus but at a much lower price point. Reviewers confirm it fits in overhead bins on most major airlines. The side zipper door is a feature typically found on more expensive models.
The removable and washable mattress cover is a practical feature that parents appreciate during travel. Spills, diaper explosions, and general grime wash out easily. The grey color hides stains between washes, though the silver variant is also available.
Best for budget-conscious families who still want carry-on travel compatibility
If the Guava Lotus is outside your budget but you still want a travel crib with mattress that fits in an airplane overhead bin, BABY JOY delivers the core experience at a lower price.
Perfect for first-time parents who want a travel crib without overspending, or as a backup for grandparents’ houses.
Skip if you want premium materials or the thickest mattress
Build quality is solid but not at the Baby Bjorn or Guava level. The mattress is thinner than premium options, and the floor-resting design means no bassinet mode for newborns.
Budget-focused families and casual travelers will appreciate this. Frequent flyers who want the absolute best should still consider the Guava Lotus.
8. Pamo Babe 6 in 1 Baby Pack and Play with Bassinet – Best for Newborns
Pamo Babe 6 in 1 Baby Pack and Play with Bassinet – One-Step Setup Travel Crib, Small Portable Playpen for Babies, Portable Baby Bassinet, Changing Table, Toys Bar & Extra Large Storage Bag
6 in 1 functionality
Bassinet for 0 to 4 months
Playpen for 1 to 3 years
One step open/close
CPC certified
Pros
- 6 in 1 functionality for excellent value
- One step setup is quick and easy
- Bassinet mode included for newborns
- Changing table included in package
- Large storage bag for travel extras
- 360 degree rotating toy bar with plush toys
- Silent lock wheels with one touch brake
- CPC certified safety standard
Cons
- Limited to one color option
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
- Higher upfront investment than simpler options
The Pamo Babe 6-in-1 is the most feature-rich travel crib with mattress on our list, and it earned its place by solving a problem most competitors ignore: the newborn-to-toddler transition. The included bassinet mode works for babies from birth through about 4 months, then converts to a playpen for the toddler years. Parents with newborns get genuine value here.
One-step open and close is the simplest mechanism in our test group. You pull up, the frame locks, and the bassinet is ready. Folding it down takes about 10 seconds. Our team appreciated this when transferring a sleeping baby from car to indoor space.
The dual-mode bassinet (fixed and soothing rocking) is a unique feature. Babies who need motion to settle get the rocking mode, while older babies in the bassinet stage sleep better in the fixed mode. The 360 degree rotating toy bar provides entertainment during awake time in the crib.
Included extras like the waterproof changing table, large storage bag, and silent-lock wheels round out the package. CPC certification meets U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. The only downside is limited color availability (black only at testing time).
Best for newborns and parents who want one crib that grows with baby
If you have a newborn and want a travel crib with mattress that handles the bassinet stage, then transitions to a toddler playpen, this 6-in-1 design is hard to beat. The changing table and storage add real-world value.
Excellent for first-time parents who want maximum functionality, or families with newborns planning travel in the first year.
Skip if you fly often or want a simpler travel crib
This is not designed for airplane carry-on. The bulkier frame and additional features make it heavier and larger than dedicated travel options. If you want pure travel crib simplicity, choose the Guava or BABY JOY.
Newborn-focused families and home travelers will love it. Frequent flyers should look at dedicated travel options above.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Travel Crib With Mattress?
Choosing the right travel crib with mattress depends on how you actually travel. A family that flies monthly needs a different crib than one taking annual road trips. Here is what matters most based on our 6 weeks of testing.
Mattress thickness and firmness
The biggest complaint we saw in real parent forums was about firm, thin mattresses. Standard pack and play mattresses often leave babies refusing to sleep. Look for at least 1 inch of padding, with 1.5 inches or more being ideal for babies who prefer plush surfaces. Greenguard Gold certified mattresses avoid chemical off-gassing that can bother sensitive babies.
For related guidance, our floor mattresses for baby guide covers thicker options, and the non-toxic baby mattresses guide covers chemical-free alternatives if you plan to upgrade.
Weight and folded dimensions
If you fly, anything over 15 pounds becomes a burden. The Guava Lotus and BABY JOY both fit airline overhead bins and stay under 16 pounds. Wood travel cribs like the Delta and Dream On Me 2-in-1 are heavier but offer sturdier construction for car travel and home use. Match the weight to your primary use case.
Setup speed and ease
You will set up your travel crib with mattress when you are tired, in an unfamiliar room, often with a crying baby. Seconds matter. The Guava Lotus and BABY JOY both set up in 15 seconds or under. Wood cribs take longer but offer better long-term durability. Test the setup mechanism before your first trip if possible.
Safety certifications
ASTM certification is the baseline. Greenguard Gold certification means lower chemical emissions. JPMA certification exceeds ASTM standards. CPC certification covers Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements. For newborns especially, certifications matter more than price.
Bassinet mode and age range
If you travel with a newborn, bassinet mode is essential. The Pamo Babe 6-in-1 includes this. Most pure travel cribs start at 3 to 6 months. Weight limits typically range from 30 to 50 pounds, with higher limits extending usability through toddler years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best travel crib with mattress for flying?
The Guava Family Travel Crib is the best travel crib with mattress for flying. It weighs 15 pounds, folds to carry-on compatible dimensions, and includes backpack straps for hands-free airport navigation. The BABY JOY 2 in 1 is a strong budget alternative that also fits overhead bins.
Do travel cribs come with mattresses included?
Most travel cribs include a basic mattress pad, though thickness varies significantly. The Guava Lotus includes a notably thicker mattress than competitors. Wood travel cribs like Delta Children and Dream On Me models include 1 to 1.5 inch mattresses. Budget options often have thinner pads that parents frequently upgrade.
Can a travel crib be used everyday as a primary crib?
Travel cribs can be used for everyday naps and nighttime sleep, especially wood portable models like the Delta Children Folding Mini Crib or Dream On Me 2-in-1. Fabric travel cribs like the Guava Lotus work well for everyday use too, though they have shorter height limits than full-size cribs. Many parents use a travel crib as the primary bedroom crib for the first year.
What age is appropriate for a travel crib?
Most travel cribs work from around 3 to 6 months through 2 to 3 years, depending on the model. Newborn-specific options like the Pamo Babe 6-in-1 include bassinet mode for babies from birth. Always check the weight limit (typically 30 to 50 pounds) and height limit before purchasing for your specific child.
How do you clean a travel crib mattress?
Most travel crib mattresses have removable, washable covers. Remove the cover and machine wash on gentle cycle with mild detergent. For the mattress itself, spot clean with baby-safe disinfectant and allow to air dry completely. The BABY JOY and Guava Lotus both feature fully removable and washable mattress components for easier cleaning during travel.
Final Verdict: Which Travel Crib With Mattress Should You Buy in 2026?
After 6 weeks of testing 8 of the best travel baby cribs with mattress options, our top pick for most families is the Dream On Me Zodiak Portable Playard. It balances price, weight, safety certifications, and ease of use in a way that works for both car trips and occasional flights. The 11,000+ reviews confirm what our hands-on testing showed: this is a reliable, well-rounded travel crib with mattress included.
If you fly frequently, the Guava Family Travel Crib is worth the premium for the backpack design and airline-friendly dimensions. For newborns who need bassinet mode plus travel functionality, the Pamo Babe 6-in-1 delivers unmatched versatility. Budget-conscious families will appreciate the BABY JOY 2-in-1, which provides core travel crib features at a lower price.
Every travel crib with mattress on this list meets baseline safety standards and includes a usable mattress. The right choice depends on your travel style, budget, and how long you plan to use the crib. Whichever you choose, you are giving your baby a safer, more comfortable sleep environment away from home.