9 Small Pack n Play for Camper to Save Space
You have landed at the right place if you’re looking for a mini pack n play for campers. Here is why I am the best person to give you suggestions on this subject.
A few years ago, when my niece was less than 3 years old, we went camping. It was overwhelming bringing all the baby gear and products.
Fortunately, I did my research before packing and only included the essentials. It saved us from unwanted trouble and we had a wonderful weekend.
For young children, a pack n’ play and a tent are important. There is no need to squeeze them in between or worry about whether they are sleeping comfortably.
Editor’s choice
Because of its shape and the features it offers, the Joovy Coo Portable Bassinet Playpen is my favorite small pack n play for campers. It’s #3 on the list.
Things to look for in a camper van pack n play
There are a few things that every parent should keep in mind before buying a small pack n play for a camper.
Size and dimensions
People who go camping need a variety of accessories and gear, such as tents, cookware, food, chairs, clothes, etc. There are also numerous baby gears required. There is not enough room in the car.
You can’t replace a pack n play or playard with anything else if you have a baby. For storage purposes, the folded size of the pack n play is very important. Check to see if the dimensions are appropriate for you. It should be pretty small and compactly folded.
Portability
It is definitely important to check the portability of the device. If you choose a pack n play for your camper, it should be very lightweight so that you can easily store and carry it. It will be helpful if the play yard has wheels for quick movement inside the tent.
Safety
Baby products are incomplete without it. Some things to check are:
- To ensure the health of your baby, it must be free of flame retardants (non-toxic).
- When your kid leans on the sidewall, the fence is strong and stable on the ground.
- It has a canopy that provides UV and mosquito protection (a pack n play with a canopy is a must for camping),
- It is surrounded by soft mesh and has a comfortable mattress pad.
Comfort
Your toddler should be able to fall asleep immediately after lying down on comfortable fabric and a comfortable mattress.
The majority of travel cribs do not come with thick mattresses, which many children find uncomfortable and don’t want to stay in.
It’s important to make sure your child is comfortable and cozy in the playard so they can sleep through the night.
Easy assembly
The majority of travel cribs are easy and quick to set up. Few moms, however, find it difficult to set up certain portable cribs.
It is a good idea to practice assembling and disassembling the device so that you can do it fast and easily when necessary. Videos can help you learn how to do it.
Easy to clean
Camping means you’ll have to deal with dust and mud. Despite your best efforts, baby products often get dirty.
It is best to find a pack n play that can either be machine washed or at least cleaned with soap and water. The fabric and mattress cover should be completely removable.
List of small pack n play for camper
1. Graco Travel Lite Crib
Size and Portability
Travel cribs from Graco weigh less than 20 pounds and are 20% smaller than standard pack n’ plays. They occupy very little space in a room.
The device folds compactly into a storage bag so traveling is hassle-free. You can easily fit it into your camper van.
In addition, it has two wheels for smooth movement.
Safety
It has a sturdy construction that makes it extremely durable. A mesh surrounds the kiddo and allows air to flow.
Comfort
It has a firm mattress, but is still comfortable for young toddlers. Baby bassinets are spacious. Since all metal bars are padded, there is no risk of them hitting their heads and hurting themselves.
Easy assembly
After a few practices, anyone can fold and set up the umbrella within a couple of minutes.
What I love
This is a unique model since it contains three stages in a single product. There is a height-adjustable bassinet on the first and second stage. During the third stage, the bassinet is fully removed to create a toddler playard.
In addition, the removable canopy has hanging toys that keep babies entertained.
When should you purchase this one?
It is the best mini pack n play I have ever seen at a reasonable price, and I highly recommend it for small spaces and babies in their early stages. Just choose this one if you don’t want to read any further, you won’t be disappointed.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- As the baby grows, it expands.
- Space-saving since it is compact.
- With attached toys, a canopy shade can be removed.
- It is mobile because of its wheels.
Cons
- Toddlers over two will find it too small.
- There isn’t enough room for rolling around.
2. Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome
Size and Portability
It is one of the best small pack n plays on the market. It is round-shaped and weighs about 13 pounds. In addition, there is no storage bag included with it, and the carry handles attached to it are quite strong. A great option for on-the-go parents.
Safety
Mesh fabric is soft and breathable. Infants are protected from harmful bugs and UV rays with a two-sided UPF20 protection canopy.
Comfort
Even though it might not seem thick enough, the mattress pad is suitable for infants since they need a firm surface to sleep on. You can take a quick nap while eating some marshmallows.
Easy assembly
In just two seconds, the assembly process can be completed. Folding is equally straightforward, but it does require some lengthwise space in a camper if it is to fit.
What I love
There are two colorful toys hanging from the canopy that help to develop the baby’s motor skills.
When should you purchase this one?
Play bassinets are an excellent option for babies who are immobile and just a few months old. Those who like to picnic, camp, and go to the beach will appreciate it.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Canopy protection from the sun and bugs.
- Assembly is quick and easy.
- The bag is easy to carry.
Cons
- There is no carry bag available.
3. Joovy Coo Portable Bassinet Playpen
Size and Portability
Playpens with bassinets are portable and weigh just 18 pounds. For tight spaces, this pack n play is narrow and spacious. Only 25″ wide, it’s smaller than most playpens.
Safety
With a flame-retardant chemical-free construction, the pack n play is non-toxic and JPMA certified. This mesh is see-through and breathable. You can sleep in the bassinet at night.
Comfort
The Coo has a thick and firm mattress. Far superior to packs & plays. But it doesn’t have a waterproof cover.
Easy assembly
Assemblies go smoothly. Two simple steps are all it takes for the bassinet to fold flat with the mattress. This makes it easy to transport.
Easy to clean
It is said that the mattress cover can be removed, but it is so hard to remove it from the mattress for machine washing. When camping, where dirt is bound to accumulate, the “gray option” is more appropriate.
What I love
There is a bassinet on top, and a storage compartment underneath for baby’s essentials.
Simply unzip the divider and place the mattress at the bottom, and it converts into a playpen.
It can also be turned into a rocker for your baby to fall asleep faster.
When should you purchase this one?
With this many useful features, it is the best purchase you will make for the baby. This mini pack n play is perfect for tents and motorhomes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- It can grow with the baby.
- Compact and sleek design saves space.
- Lightweight and portable.
- It is easy to set up and tear down.
- When in bassinet mode, storage is available.
Cons
- Once you unpack the mattress, it has an odor.
- Joovy doesn’t sell the cover separately, so you will not receive any extras.
4. Joovy Gloo Infant Travel Bed
Size and Portability
Gloo comes in two sizes. In addition to the two layers, the large tent comes with an adjustable sun shield that is UPF 50 sun protected.
They are both small, portable, and convenient to carry around.
Safety
Chemicals aren’t present in it. A mesh surrounds it to keep bugs away. The large version provides excellent sun protection. There is no risk of SIDS due to the breathable material.
Comfort
An air mattress that self-inflates provides a comfortable and firm pad for sleeping. A cotton sheet covers the mattress.
Easy assembly
Taking off the locking strap is the quickest and easiest way to set this up. Now you can use it. It’s a bit complicated to fold down. It takes practice. You must empty the mattress of air before packing it.
Easy to clean
Sheets and mattresses can be machine washed and wiped down.
What I love
Without adult assistance, kids can crawl in and out of the zip door.
When should you purchase this one?
You should choose this one if you want a lightweight and compact travel bed that is safe to sleep on. A pack n play is the best camping bed.
5. Baby Delight Go With Me Nod Crib & Playard
Size and Portability
Your case would benefit from a smaller and narrower pack n play. It will fit nicely in a tent without taking up much room.
It weighs just 15 lbs and comes with a carry bag that contains the crib and playard compactly.
Safety
While it meets the ASTM guidelines, kids might still be able to tip it over if they want to. It is well ventilated.
Comfort
There is the same old problem with the mattress, it’s cardboard with little padding. Fortunately, it doesn’t make much noise. Under the mat, you can place a comforter to make it softer.
Easy assembly
It doesn’t take much time to set it up. And it’s easy to fold it up again.
Easy to clean
If the mat becomes messy, remove the cover and wash it.
What I love
I like the side zip door, it’s very helpful. This is convenient for short moms, backaches, and babies.
When should you purchase this one?
A tent or RV van would fit perfectly in this space. The space is narrow, but long enough to let the kids play.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Zipper door is useful.
- Air circulation and visibility are easy.
- It is easy to set up and fold.
- Exceptional quality and design.
Cons
- It could be tipped over by a toddler.
6. KidCo Peapod Travel Bed
Size and portability
The one you need if you run out of space every time you do packing or if your van is too small. It has tent-like features and the kids can use it as a tent.
It weighs just 2.45 pounds, so even your child can carry it. The most compact pack n play folds into a circular bag that fits in any camping bag. It does, however, take up a fair amount of space when opened.
Safety
UV-coated, fire retardant-free fabric is used for the roof and side walls. Netting keeps insects at bay.
Comfort
While the mattress is stable at its place and not so thick, it may not be comfortable for older children if placed on hard ground. Add some padding.
Easy assembly
Fast and easy setup. Take down is quite difficult and requires a lot of effort. Many parents dislike it due to the hassle and time it requires.
Easy to clean
The mattress pad can be removed for proper cleaning.
What I love
It has a large zip door for easy access, and an adjustable mesh window to keep light out.
When should you purchase this one?
Besides being a pack n play, it’s also a beach play yard. The product is affordable and durable.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- A very lightweight product.
- Storage space is small.
- Is quick to open.
- Zipper enclosure with a full zip.
Cons
- It takes a lot of practice and patience to fold it down.
7. Graco Pack and Play On the Go Playard
Size and Portability
It weighs about 20 pounds, so it’s not super light like others. You can store the playard in a van more easily when it’s folded. It’s portable as well.
The tent floor is also equipped with wheels on one side, so be careful when moving it or it might tear the fabric.
Safety
Graco has produced another sturdy model. The wall could take the weight of your toddler and still not topple. Ideal for children with a lot of energy. However, the mesh could be a little rough on infants’ delicate skin.
Comfort
Despite being elevated from the ground, the pad is hard and thin. A couple of sheets may make it more comfortable for toddlers.
Easy assembly
The setup and takedown are not difficult. But it takes longer than travel cribs. The push buttons might get stuck sometimes.
What I love
There is an elevated full bassinet for easy access to the baby. She can play with three soft toys on the toy bar.
When should you purchase this one?
You can choose this one if you want a pack n play with a removable bassinet for the tent.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Bassinet for infants that is full-size.
- Mobility is provided by wheels.
- Baby’s attention is kept with a canopy toy bar.
- Pockets for storing things.
Cons
- It takes longer to set up than a travel crib.
- Some kids might find the pad uncomfortable.
8. Delta Children LX Deluxe Portable Play Yard
Size and Portability
Rather than being a small playard, it’s heavy. It would be nice if a play yard included all the necessary features.
With a weight of 26 pounds, it is portable. With two wheels, it can be moved easily. A travel bag is included for convenience.
Safety
The product complies with all safety standards and is JPMA-certified. It is sturdy and firm to use both the bassinet and changing table. It has a waterproof surface. There is a mesh panel that allows for a clear view of your baby. You will have no worries.
Comfort
As it is elevated from the ground, it comes with a 1″ pad. This makes babies more comfortable.
Easy assembly
It takes a few minutes to assemble, just secure the bassinet and changing station. After breaking everything down, the travel bag fits every part easily. No problems.
What I love
The color combination was my first impression.
Plush toys are included in the removable mobile arm for babies to enjoy. Keeping baby’s toiletries within easy reach is made easy with two storage compartments.
When should you purchase this one?
You can select this one if your tent is quite large and you need a mini pack n play with changing table at an affordable price.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Bassinet and changing table are removable.
- It is safe and sturdy.
- Easy-to-move wheels.
- Pockets for storing toys and a toy bar.
- Travel-friendly and easy to assemble.
Cons
- It’s heavier and larger than most.
9. Dream On Me Travel Playard
Size and Portability
It weighs about 13 pounds and is a medium-sized pack n play. A carrying case makes traveling easier.
Safety
In this one, all materials used are allergen-free. Based on its base plate, the mattress is quite stable.
Comfort
For young children, the mattress quality is good, and it is comfortably padded.
Easy assembly
It doesn’t take much manpower to set it up, but some parents struggle with it a little. It becomes easier after the first time.
When should you purchase this one?
At an affordable price, this is a simple, safe, and sturdy travel crib. Compared to other portable cribs, this one is a little smaller. The baby camping gear would fit in it.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and portable.
- The frame is sturdy and the design is durable.
- Mesh walls that are visible and do not suffocate.
- The mattress pad is comfortable.
Cons
- Has no notable features.
