A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This budget-friendly model from Red Kite combines the functionality of a bassinet and cot into one portable package. It has a newborn insert that sits baby up high to reduce back strain and is perfect for those who have had C-sections.
It's easy to pack into the bag for travel, and it pops up instantly without any assembly. The pull-and-click feature is simple to master, but it has an ability that you need to memorise.
Selecting the right bedside cot
A bedside travel cot offers an ideal and secure place for your baby's sleep and provide them with the comfort they require on an extended journey. They're ideal for holidays or family outings, as well as other adventures. The process of selecting the right one will depend on your specific needs. Some factors to consider include the type of cot you're looking to purchase, how much it weighs and the dimensions. You'll need to ensure that the cot is able to fit inside your car along together with the other baby equipment you'll have to bring.
A bedside cot is designed to be movable and easy to set up. They're typically small and lightweight which makes them the ideal option for traveling with a toddler or infant child. Additionally, they are quick and simple to assemble. They are typically equipped with a mattress that fits perfectly inside the crib. This helps your child get a restful night's sleep.
Some of these cots are equipped with extra features which make them a good option for children and babies. For instance, some have a changing station attached to the side of the cot. And others come with a bassinet for newborns. Some are also equipped with wheels to make them easier to move.
Choose a cot for travel that is sturdy enough for your baby. This will prevent it from tipping over and spilling your baby one's toys and stuffed animals on the floor. It's also a good idea to choose a cot with mesh sides to allow for ventilation, to keep your baby comfortable and content.
Before purchasing a travel cot it's a good idea to check the folding system. You do not want a bed that can easily be opened by a baby and could cause death. The most secure models have locks that are not able to be manipulated by children. Some models even come with buckles to ensure stability and safety.
Bassinets
A bassinet or bedside travel cot is a portable infant sleeping space that allows parents to keep an eye on their newborns. They are great for babies less than six months old and are ideal for travel because they are compact and light, taking up little space. They can be easily stored when not being used.
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. Most also come with a carry bag and are constructed from materials that are safe and easy to clean.
There are many models of bassinets available However, you should search for one that is appropriate to your baby's age and height. It's important to read the reviews and specifications of the bassinet you are considering before making a purchase.
Consider a cot which can be transformed into a bassinet. They are simpler to set up and take-down than regular travel cots and can be suitable for infants up to toddlers. They are often fitted with a toy arch and some even come with an entertainment centre that can play music, light and vibrations.
Many airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights, but this may vary based on the aircraft type and the availability of seats. For example, Lufthansa offers bassinets on its long-haul fleet, and you can reserve one upon booking for a fee. Etihad Airways offers bassinets for babies that weigh up to 24 pounds on its long-haul flight. They can be requested at the time of booking, or using the Manage My Booking feature on the airline's website.
Southwest does not offer bassinets for its flights and Icelandair only offers bassinets on its long-haul routes. Iberia is one of the airlines that offers bassinets. You can request bassinets at time of booking, or by calling Iberia's reservation office.
Drop-side Cots
If you're looking for a bedside travel cot that can be used from birth, look through the range of options available. These cots are bassinet-style and come with their own carrying case and are lightweight, making them ideal for travelling or sleepovers at friends' or relatives home. A lot of these cots feature adjustable height settings and tilting to an incline, which is great for babies with reflux.
A bedside cot makes it easier to reach your baby when they wake up during the night. This is especially crucial if you're breastfeeding, as the close proximity could aid in promoting more frequent and consistent feeding times which is essential to a healthy production of milk. Some cots have a drop-down side and some even come with an inclined option that makes it easy to raise your baby to feed or comfort your baby without having to get out of the bed.
While a cot that is a traveler for bedside use may be convenient but you must use it with caution. Cots that have movable parts such as the drop-side, should be put together with care and inspected regularly to ensure they are working correctly. Older or secondhand cots might have broken rails, slats that are loose or damaged filler bars which can create dangerous gaps where your child may fall or be trapped. Some cots may be older and may not meet current Australian safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a secondhand cot, be sure to visit the manufacturer's website to find instructions before you start making it. It is also recommended to select an crib that was designed with the most recent safety standards in mind.
For a quality option we recommend the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib. This crib is very easy to put together (one of the quickest in our MFM tests) and comes with neat zips to keep everything safe. It can be adjusted in height including an incline option to reduce reflux, and is very compact when folded up for storage.
Travel cots
Travel cots are great for parents who need a safe, comfortable place to put their child down when they're away or at home. Easy to install fold, store and fold, they're perfect for sleepovers or holidays. Some models come with a rocking mechanism or changing mat to help you to calm your baby or change them prior to bedtime.
When shopping for a travel cot, make sure it is rated by the British Standard Institution and designed with your child's needs in mind. Check the age range as some are suitable from birth (look for those with the bassinet built-in) up to three years.
The quality of the mattress is among the most important factors to think about when choosing the best travel cot. Make sure it's comfortable and firm and is covered with a waterproof cover or mattress protector. This is also true for the base of the cot which should be solid and have non-slip feet that keep it from moving when used or while stored.
Other features that are desirable in a travel cot include a mesh window that lets you can keep an eye on your baby as they sleep and bags to make travel more convenient. There are models that are also a playpen, or even include a musical mobile. This will keep your baby engaged and entertained.
A bedside travel cot is a great option if you want to create a secure space for your child. The best ones are easy to fold and unfold and they can be put into bags for transportation. They're typically light which makes them perfect for travel, whether on a boat or plane! If you're not sure which model to choose take a look at the various alternatives and ask other parents for their recommendations. A bedside travel cot is an excellent investment that will pay off for the first few years of your child's life.