7 Steps to Getting the Right Toddler Travel Bed for Your Child

Don't lose sleep trying to decide which Toddler Travel Bed is right for your child. It used to be when parents took their kids overnight to grandmas that grandma and grandpa had a second-hand crib that the toddler could sleep in. Or when traveling on vacation parents would rely on some crummy old crib setup by the hotel.

We know that parents want their little ones to be safe and comfortable when they are away from home - but it is not always easy. It just takes one night away from home when your son or daughter cries all night because the bed they are sleeping in just isn't comfortable for them. Or, you see the bed that has been set up for them to sleep in - and you just know that it is not safe. The solution may be to get a toddler travel bed for your child - there are many options available - here are our tips to help you choose one that is best for you and your child.

1. Lightweight - make sure that the bed is light enough to carry. When you are travelling with your toddler think about strategies to keep your load light. One way to do this is to buy a travel bed that is light. It should certainly weigh less than 6 pounds or under 3 kilograms. The lighter the better.

2. Easy to carry and load into your car. The bed you select should have its own travel case and when packed away it should be no larger than 24x8x8(in.) or 60x20x20(cm.). No matter where your travels with your child take you - on a plane on a cruise ship or to grandpa's house you have to carry all the gear and it all has to fit into tight spaces - like your car trunk or as checked baggage on a plane. A small, compact bed will help with this.

3. Easy to set up - the last thing you want is when you get to your destination is having to fumble in setting up the bed for your child. It should be a simple process to set up and a simple process to fold it back up again when you are finished. Set up time and fold up time should take less than 1 minute, and it should be able to be done by one person.

4. Easy access to your child - being able to reach in to pick up your child with ease should be a prime consideration when purchasing a toddler travel bed. Look for one with a zip down side panel that can be lowered for quick access to your toddler.

5. Mesh panels for good air flow. When travelling the room your child may be sleeping in may be stuffy. Choosing a bed with mesh panels on the side will maximize the amount of air circulating past your child helping to keep your son or daughter comfortable during their sleep-time.

6. Light and comfortable mattress. The mattress in a toddler travel bed can sometimes be heavier than the bed frame itself. Look for a travel bed that comes with a foam mattress - it will be both comfortable for your child and lightweight to carry.

7. Warranties. Think of the purchase of a toddler travel bed as an investment in your family's peace, happiness and safety. Make sure that the bed you purchase will be used for many years. Bed manufacturers of well built beds will provide a life time guarantee - make sure that your bed has this kind of guarantee. In addition, the retailer that you buy from is important as well. If you get the bed home and it is not what you expected - will the retailer take it back - with no arguments or difficulties?

If you travel (even to the relatives) a couple of times a year having a toddler travel bed will make it so much easier for you and your family. We think that it is an essential piece of baby gear. If you a considering a travel bed for your toddler daughter or son refer to these seven tips when making your purchasing decision.

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