A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This budget-friendly model from Red Kite combines the functionality of both a bassinet & the cot into a portable unit. It comes with a baby insert which raises the baby to avoid back strain. This is ideal for those who have had C-sections.
It's easy to put into the bag for travel, and it pops up instantly without assembly. The pull-and-click feature is easy to master however it comes with an art that you must learn to.
Choosing a cot for your bed
A bedside travel crib provides your baby with the security and safety they require to sleep on long journeys. These are perfect for family excursions, holidays and other adventures. The right one for you will depend on the needs you have. The main factors to consider are the type of travel cot you're looking for as well as the weight and the dimensions. You'll also want to consider whether the cot will fit inside your car, especially when you consider all the other baby gear you'll have to bring along for the journey.
A bedside cot should be easy to transport and set up. They're small and light making them ideal for travelling with a child or baby. Additionally, they are easy to put together and are simple to put together. They're usually fitted with a mattress that fits perfectly inside the crib. This will help your child get a restful night's sleep.
Some of these cribs have added accessories that make them a perfect option for children and babies. For instance, some come with a changing station attached to the side of the cot. And others have an extra bassinet for newborns. There are also a few that are equipped with wheels that make them easier to move around the room.
Select a travel cot that is sturdy enough for your baby. This will stop it from falling over and spilling the baby and their stuffed toys on the floor. It's also recommended to choose a cot with mesh sides for ventilation to keep your baby comfortable and content.
It's also a good idea to check the folding system of a travel cot before buying it. There is no need for an infant bed that you can open easily which could lead to suffocation. The best models come with an locking mechanism that is not able to be manipulated by a child. Certain models feature buckles for security and stability.
Bassinets
A bassinet or bedside travel cot is an infant sleep space that can be moved around that allows parents to monitor their babies. These are perfect for babies who are under six months old. They can be an excellent aid on flights because they are small and light, taking up a small amount of space. They can also be put away easily when they are not in use, making them perfect for travelling.
Bassinets aren't only simple to store and assemble but they also offer a safe and comfortable place for babies to rest. They are generally fitted with mesh walls that allow air to circulate easily and reduce the risk of suffocation. The majority of them come with a carry bag and are constructed of non-toxic materials and easy-to-clean.
There are numerous bassinets available. You should choose one that suits your baby's size and age. You should also look into the specifications and reviews of any bassinet you are thinking of purchasing prior to making a choice.
You may want to think about a cot that can be converted into an actual size bassinet. They are much easier to set up and remove than regular travel cots, and can be used for babies up to toddlers. They usually come with a toy arch and some even have an entertainment center which plays music, light and vibrations.
Many airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights. However, this can differ based on the type of aircraft used and seat availability. You can reserve a bassinet at time of booking with Lufthansa for a cost. Etihad Airways offers bassinets for babies up to 24 pounds on its long-haul flight. You can request them at the time of booking or later by using the Manage My Booking option on the airline's website.
Southwest does not have bassinets for its flights and Icelandair only has bassinets on its long-haul routes. However, there are some other airlines that offer bassinets, like Iberia. You can request bassinets at the time of booking, or by calling Iberia’s reservation office.
Drop-side Cots
Check out the options available if you're looking for a travel cot to be used by your bedside from birth. These bassinet-style cots come with a carrying case and are light, making them ideal for travelling or sleepovers at the homes of friends or relatives' homes. These cots also come with adjustable height settings, and some can be tilted upwards to accommodate babies with reflux.
A bedside cot makes it easier to reach your baby when they get up at night. This is especially crucial if you're breastfeeding, as the close proximity can help to promote more frequent and consistent feeding which is essential for healthy milk production. Some cots have drop-down options, and some even have an inclined position, making it easier to raise your child to feed and comfort them without needing to get up from bed.
While a travel cot for bedside use may be convenient but you must make sure you use it with care. Cots with movable parts like the drop side must be carefully assembled and regularly checked to ensure that they are operating properly. Older cots, or second-hand ones may have loose slats, broken filler bars or rails that create danger gaps that your child might slip through or become trapped in. Also, some cots are older and might not be compliant with current Australian safety standards.
Before you begin to put together the crib from a second hand one, you should read the instructions on the manufacturer's site. Choose a cot that is constructed to the most recent safety standards.
We recommend the Chicco Next2me side sleeping crib as a high-quality alternative. This crib is very easy to assemble (one of the quickest in our MFM tests) and has zips that keep everything secure. It can be adjusted in height, including an incline option for reflux, and is compact when folded for storage.
Travel cots
Travel cots are ideal for parents who need a safe, comfortable place to rest their child while they're away or at home. They are easy to fold, store and set up. They're ideal for sleepovers or holidays. Some models come with a changing mat or rocking mechanism to help change your baby prior to bedtime or calm them down before bedtime.
If you're in the market for a new travel cot, be sure that it's rated according to the British Standard Institution (BSI) and made with your baby's needs in mind. Also, make sure to check the age-appropriateness of the product as many are suitable for infants from newborn (look for one that have a built-in bassinet) and up to three years old.
One of the key things to look for in a quality travel cot is the quality of its mattress. Check it's firm and padded and includes an apex-proof mattress cover or protector. The cot's base should also be solid with non-slip footings to prevent it from moving when it is in use or stored.
Other desirable features of the travel cot are mesh windows so you can keep an eye on your baby as they sleep and a carry bag to make transporting simpler. You can find models that can also be used as a playpen, or even have a musical mobile. This will keep your child engaged and entertained.
A bedside travel cot is a great option if you want to create a safe environment for your child. The top models fold down and up quickly and easily into a carrying bag for easy transportation. They are also usually lightweight and therefore ideal for travel, whether on a yacht or plane! If you are unsure which model to choose take a look at the various options and ask parents for their suggestions. A bedside travel cot is a great investment that will prove invaluable throughout the first few years of your child's life.