There are many types of baby gear that are, arguably, indispensable to most new parents – a versatile pack and play is one of them.
Often also called a playard, it offers a portable solution as both a safe play area and a cozy sleeping spot for babies and toddlers, giving parents their very much-needed break (once in a while) during the first few years of parenthood. From basic models that are perfect for travel to more elaborate setups equipped with features like bassinets, changing stations, mobiles and the likes, the right pack and play can do it all.
This article will guide you through the best pack and plays available on the market, examining key features such as ease of use, durability, and added functionalities. From minimalist designs suited for travel to feature-rich models for everyday convenience, we’ll help you choose the best pack and play that fits your family’s unique needs.
What is the best pack n play that will suit most families? The UPPAbaby Remi ticks all the boxes in terms of safety, ease of use, versatility and comfort. Go for the Lotus or BabyBjorn though if you’re looking for the best travel crib, otherwise, Graco’s Day2Dream or Sit ‘n Grow are some excellent choices when it comes to pack n play with bassinet or diaper changer station.
The Joovy Room2 is great for twins or multiples while everyone’s favourite Newton pack n play is another excellent large pack and play for babies. Meanwhile, Bugaboo’s Stardust Playard is a great compact option if space is an issue. Nothing beats 4moms’ Breeze Plus when it comes to ease of setting up though, likewise, nothing beats Graco’s Pack and Play when it comes to price.
Our Top 10 Best Pack and Play for Baby– A Quick Summary
What Is a Pack and Play?
A pack and play is a versatile, collapsible playard designed to provide a safe space for infants and toddlers to sleep and play, both at home and while traveling. It typically features mesh walls for breathability and visibility, and includes a padded mattress that fits snugly at the base.
Many models also come equipped with additional features such as removable bassinets for newborns, built-in changing stations, and pockets for storing baby essentials. This multifunctional piece of baby gear is popular among parents for its convenience, safety, and ability to adapt to various needs as a child grows.
Do You Need a Pack and Play?
Whether you need a pack and play depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. Here are a few considerations to help you decide:
- Travel and Mobility: If you travel often or need a portable, safe space for your baby to sleep and play at different locations, a pack and play is very useful.
- Space Constraints: For those with limited space at home, a pack and play can serve multiple functions such as a bed, playpen, and even a changing station, making it a space-efficient choice.
- Extended Use: Pack and plays can be a good investment as they can be used from the newborn stage through toddler years, offering a long-term solution for sleeping and playing.
- Safety: When you need a secure environment for your baby while attending to other tasks, a pack and play provides a safe, contained space.
If these factors align with your needs, a pack and play might be a worthwhile addition to your baby gear.
Otherwise, if all you want is just to create a safe play zone for your little one, then playmats, jumpers, activity centers, and baby gates are great alternatives to keep them contained for a short period of time.
In this article:
Best Pack and Play Reviews
OVERALL BEST PACK AND PLAY
Item Weight: 20 pounds
Dimensions: 40.5 x 26 x 28.5 inches
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth to 35” tall; 20 pounds (bassinet)
Included: bassinet, mattress, organic cotton mattress cover, storage bag
- Machine washable triple-layer, temperature-regulated mattress
- Easy to set up
- Zip-on mesh bassinet included
- Zip open panel on the side for direct access
- GREENGuard Gold certification
- Carry bag included
- Mattress cover included (organic cotton)
- Price point
Why We Love It
To us, the overall best pack and play has to be safe, easy to use and set up, and versatile. And the UPPAbaby Remi is every single bit of that (yes, they are not loved just for their strollers).
For firsts, this pack n play crib includes a plush, triple-layer mattress to ensure a comfortable sleeping environment for babies. Because of its air mesh material, it is highly breathable with top-notch temperature-regulating capability, the organic cotton mattress cover offering an additional layer of comfort.
The playard walls are made of mesh that promotes good air circulation and allows parents to keep an eye on their child easily from any angle. There is a side panel that opens up for children to crawl through during plays (or for you to reach baby more easily) and we particularly like the above-ground design that keeps baby draft-proof.
Its innovative one-handed setup and takedown mechanism is what sets it apart from other pack and plays though. Unlike many others that can require complicated and time-consuming setups, the Remi allows for a swift, hassle-free experience, which is particularly valuable when traveling or moving the playard between locations (there’s built-in wheels even!).
Of course, we cannot not mention the bassinet attachment which gives versatility to be used from newborn stages up to toddler years. It takes on a zip-on design, meaning you can set it up easily and pack away without the bulk, all in line with the whole portability concept.
Things to Take Note Of
VERDICT: The UPPAbaby Remi Playard is highly suitable for families who travel frequently or visit relatives often, due to its easy one-handed setup and fold-down feature.
Families who prefer baby gear that complements their home decor will love this playard with bassinet too because its elegant design and color options blend seamlessly with modern interiors.
BEST VALUE BABY PACK N PLAY
Item Weight: 39 pounds
Dimensions: 47 x 29 x 33 inches
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight: from birth up to 44 lbs (playard); up to 15 lbs (infant bassinet); up to 20 lbs (portable bassinet)
- Features two bassinets
- Wipe-clean diaper changer
- Integrated storage organizer
- 2 carry bags, 1 each for playard and bassinet
- Straightforward and quick assembly and disassembly
- Sturdy build quality
- Multiple colour and pattern choices
- Size and weight
- Price
Included: bassinet, portable bassinet, 2 carry bags, storage organizer
Why We Love It
The Day2Dream Playard is renowned for its versatility, featuring both a portable bassinet and a full-sized infant bassinet, plus a diaper changer and ample storage. This all-in-one setup covers a broad range of needs from napping and playing to changing diapers, all within one compact unit. See why our editors think it is the best value pack and play?
The portable bassinet, in particular, is a standout feature. No, we don’t mean the full-size newborn bassinet that is within the playard itself – that’s very common, you can find it in any standard playpen with bassinet, an elevated spot inside the playard for younger babies to sleep. This portable bassinet we’re talking about can be detached from the playard altogether, has 2 height positions, folds compactly, and even has its very own carry bag.
Attached on the playard, it is raised up to position baby at your eye level. Take it off and you can place it right by your bedside, or anywhere you want really, meaning you can actually move a sleeping baby around the house without disturbance. Such level of portability and flexibility is not quite seen in many other models, which is why we think it is the best pack n play with bassinet.
Things to Take Note Of
While it offers many features, it is relatively larger and heavier compared to simpler playards. This could be a consideration for those with limited space or who require a playard that’s easier to transport.
On the same note, it may have a higher initial cost than some basic models, despite the great value. We think the investment is justifiable by the extensive functionality and longevity of the product though – this is certainly the best pack and play with bassinet we have come across in a while!
VERDICT: The portable bassinet is incredibly beneficial for families living in multi-story homes. It enables parents to maintain a close watch on their sleeping baby whether they are upstairs or downstairs, without having to move the entire playard.
Parents looking for the best pack and play with changing table will appreciate the inclusion of a storage organizer, which usually requires one to purchase separately. Placed right next to the diaper changer, it is a significant plus to store all those essentials.
BEST TRAVEL PACK N PLAY
Item Weight: 15 pounds
Dimensions: 45.5″ x 25.5″ x 31.5″
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth to 3 years (or tall enough to climb out)
Included: mattress, removable fabric and mesh cover, backpack carrying case
- Ultra-portable design
- Lockable side zipper door
- Quick and easy setup
- Eco-friendly and safe materials
- Thicker insulated mattress
- Airflow and versatility
- GreenGuard Gold certification
- Size
- Cost
Why We Love It
The Guava Lotus is designed with travel in mind, period. Extremely lightweight and folds compactly into a backpack-style carry case, this is the best pack n play for travel be it through airports or carry on hikes. In fact, its design allows it to be checked as luggage or taken as carry-on on most airlines!
It cannot be the best pack and play for travel if it has any trace of packing complexity – our team here is very strict about this because well, there’s gonna be a lot of frequent location changes that accompany traveling! In that regard, we’re happy to report that the Lotus can be set up and taken down in seconds, thanks to a unique folding mechanism. It’s literally as simple as removing the crib from its backpack, unfolding the frame, and securing the mattress in place.
Another distinctive feature is the side zipper door which can be fully unzipped to allow easy access to the interior. Not only is it useful for getting baby in and out of the crib, it also transforms the crib into an open play area. The crib is otherwise made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials that are free from phthalates, lead, and heavy metals. It is GreenGuard Gold certified for those who are particular, ensuring a safe environment for babies to sleep and play.
Things to Take Note Of
While the Lotus is compact when folded, it has a slightly smaller sleeping area compared to some traditional cribs so that might be a consideration as your child grows.
This travel pack is also at a higher price point compared to some other travel cribs. However, many parents find the durability, ease of use, and safe materials justify the cost.
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT PACK AND PLAY
Item Weight: 13 pounds
Dimensions: 44 x 25 x 32 inches
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth to 3 years (or tall enough to climb out)
Included: mattress, storage bag
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Easy setup
- Quality materials
- Best travel crib for flying
- Price
- Size
Why We Love It
Weighing in at only 13 pounds, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is one of the lightest pack n plays on the market. This makes it incredibly easy to transport, whether you’re just moving it from room to room or taking it along on a trip.
Parents love that this crib can be set up in one simple movement. It unfolds in seconds and is ready to use almost immediately, which is particularly valued during late-night arrivals at destinations or quick changes between activities. We find it a tad easier in this regard compared to the Lotus, although breaking it down requires a little more effort.
Despite its light frame, the crib comes with a soft and comfortable mattress that ensures a good night’s sleep for the baby. The mattress cover and crib fabric are both removable and machine washable, which is a huge plus for maintaining cleanliness.
Things to Take Note Of
While compact and convenient for travel, we note that the crib’s sleeping area may seem a bit small for older toddlers or very active sleepers. The carry bag comes with double handles only so there is no shoulder strap, a small feature that we think will enhance its transportation.
It is also on the higher end of the price range for travel cribs. However, many parents find that the durability, ease of use, and safety features justify the investment.
BEST LARGE PACK AND PLAY
Item Weight: 29.6 pounds
Dimensions: 39.8″ x 31″ x 39.8″
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth to 35” tall
Included: waterproof mattress and sheet, travel bag
- Multiples friendly
- Twin nursery option
- Mesh sides for ventilation and visibility
- Padded floor
- Friendly price point
- Size
- Weight
Why We Love It
One of the most praised features of the Joovy Room2 is its exceptionally large play area. This big pack and play offers nearly 10 square feet of space, allowing plenty of room for twins or multiple children to play safely and comfortably. Understandably, this makes it a favourite for parents with more than one young child.
Constructed with a heavy-duty steel frame and reinforced stitching, the Joovy Room2 has a low center of gravity design to withstand the rigors of active toddlers. The heavy-duty padded floor offers a soft, safe surface for children to play on, while the mesh sides provide excellent visibility and ventilation ensuring that the play area is both comfortable and secure.
Despite its size, the Joovy Room2 is straightforward to set up and take down. It has a folding mechanism that works smoothly and locks securely, and the portability is enhanced with the inclusion of a travel bag which makes it easier to move or store when not in use.
Things to Take Note Of
VERDICT: The Joovy Room2 is ideal for families with twins, siblings close in age, or those who often host playdates. It provides ample room for multiple children to play safely and comfortably, making it a practical choice for households where shared play space is essential.
Do get the Twin Nursery Center if you have twins – the bassinet’s removable center divider gives each child their own sleeping space and there is changing table included that can be removed/flipped over when not in use.
BEST SMALL PACK AND PLAY
Item Weight: 17 pounds
Dimensions: 38.8″ x 25″ x 33.5″
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth to 2 years or up to 33 lbs; 20 lbs (bassinet)
Included: bassinet, mattress, bag
- Folds up to just 14cm
- Adjustable height mattress
- Folds with mattress inside
- 1-second unfold
- Zip-in bassinet
- Lightweight and portable
- Free from harmful substances
- Price
Why We Love It
The Stardust Playard is known for its ultra-compact design, which is ideal for small spaces and for parents who prefer a minimalistic yet functional playard. It folds and unfolds in seconds, literally, thanks to its all-in-one design that doesn’t require removing any parts.
Yup, the included mattress fits perfectly inside. You don’t have to remove it to fold it in – as long as the bassinet insert is not zipped on, you can fold everything up in one go. It pops open in one simple movement and folds back down in just seconds, needless to say, such incredible ease of use is its standout feature, attracting busy parents who need a hassle-free setup.
Lightweight and easy to carry, this compact pack and play comes with a premium travel bag and a padded mattress. All materials used are free from harmful substances, aligning with Bugaboo’s commitment to safety and quality.
Things to Take Note Of
The Bugaboo Stardust tends to be at a higher price point compared to other pack and plays, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious families. However, many find the durability, design, and brand reputation justify the cost. Nonetheless, here’s a cheaper alternative for those who are interested.
VERDICT: For families living in apartments or homes with limited space, the Stardust’s compact design is a major advantage. It offers a streamlined footprint that fits well in smaller living areas, allowing for easy storage and quick setup without sacrificing functionality or comfort.
Likewise, the ease with which the Stardust can be folded and transported, combined with its included travel bag, makes it the best portable pack and play for families on the go.
BEST 4 in 1 PACK AND PLAY
Item Weight: 30.5 pounds
Dimensions: 38″ x 29.5″ x 38.3″
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth to 25 pounds
Included: bassinet, portable bassinet, floor seat, diaper changer, storage console
- Versatility
- Portable bassinet transforms into a floor seat
- Ease of transition (no tools required)
- Integrated storage
- Integrated diaper changer
- Wheels for mobility
- Size and weight
- Complexity
Why We Love It
This Graco Sit ‘n Grow Playard is designed to grow with your child. It offers four distinct modes of use: infant bassinet, raised full-size bassinet, toddler cot, and spacious playard. The portable bassinet is a particular favourite though because well, it transitions seamlessly into a floor seat when need be.
By its own, it can be attached onto the playard to provide an elevated sleeping area for newborns/young infants. Alternatively, take it off to place it on the floor or anywhere you want around the house. As baby grows and begins to sit up and interact more with their surroundings, adjust the structure a little and it transforms into a floor seat – a supportive, semi-upright seating area on the floor, no tools required, no separate baby gear to buy!
Left it in another room? Don’t worry, the playard itself is still a playpen bassinet combo with the inbuilt full-sized raised bassinet. It otherwise houses an easy-to-clean diaper changer and removable storage console (with 3 pockets) for all those essentials, the wheels on one end making it easy to move this portable pack n play around the house.
Things to Take Note Of
As a 4 in 1 pack and play, it is larger and heavier than more basic models, which could be a factor for those with limited space or who require a more portable option.
And while it transitions smoothly between stages, setting up and converting the pack and play might take more time and effort initially compared to simpler models.
VERDICT: Families with infants who are planning for more children will find the Sit ‘n Grow Playard an excellent long-term investment because they can use the same playard for different stages of their child’s development, from newborn through toddler years.
The combination of several baby equipment into one compact solution helps to conserve space while still providing all the necessary areas for a baby’s sleep, play and relaxation, perfect for families living in smaller homes or apartments.
EASIEST TO SET UP PACK AND PLAY
Item Weight: 23 pounds
Dimensions: 43 x 29 x 30 inches
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth up to 30 lbs; 18 lbs (bassinet); 25 lbs (changer)
Included: bassinet, changing table, convertible mattress, travel bag
- One-push open, one-pull close
- All-in-one design including diaper changer
- Quality construction
- Compact and portable
- Price
Why We Love It
The 4moms Breeze Plus is renowned for its innovative design that allows it to be opened or closed with just a single push or pull. Yup, no multiple steps hassle or adjustments that are common with other pack and plays – just push down on the central hub to set up, and pull down on the same spot to take it down.
It includes a convertible mattress that can be positioned as a comfortable sleeping pad for the lower playard area (suitable for older infants and toddlers), or it can be used in the higher bassinet setting for newborns. We like this multi-use functionality because not only does it maximizes the value of the pack and play, it also simplifies transitions between different life stages.
The Breeze Plus otherwise includes a removable bassinet and a diaper changing station as part of its all-in-one design. Both are detachable when need be, with the latter adopting a flip-over design to keep it out of way when not in use. Parents love that the integrated approach not only simplifies the initial setup but also makes it easy for them to adapt the pack n play’s configuration as baby’s needs change throughout the day.
Things to Take Note Of
BEST TODDLER PACK N PLAY
Item Weight: 17 pounds
Dimensions: 51 x 29 x 35 inches
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth; 15 pounds (bassinet)
Included: mattress, storage bag
- Exceptional breathability
- Significant reduction of suffocation risk
- 2x larger floor space
- Side zip opening
- Compact fold for travel
- Machine-washable core and cover
- Travel bag and sheet included
- GreenGuard Gold certified
- Space required
- Price
Why We Love It
One of the standout features of this Newton baby pack and play is its exceptionally breathable design. Thanks to an innovative patented technology that is the core of its breathable (and fully washable) mattress, it boasts “not having significant suffocation risk” and is the only pack and play that won this out of the top 3 bestselling pack and play for toddlers on the market.
In particular, we find the Newton pack n play especially suitable for older toddlers due to its spacious design and robust safety features. Its floor is actually 2x larger than that of leading competitors, hence better accommodate the active nature and increased mobility of older toddlers. The enhanced breathability further reduces the risks associated with suffocation and overheating – critical concerns for this age group.
Despite its sturdy design, it is lightweight and includes a travel bag, making it highly portable for families on the go. The materials used in the Newton playard are not only child-safe but also easy to clean – the fabric can be completely removed and machine washed, even the core of the mattress.
Things to Take Note Of
Many newton travel crib reviews would note this – the larger footprint of this pack n play for toddlers might require a bit more room when set up, which could be a consideration in smaller living spaces.
The price point may be higher compared to basic models as well, but many parents find the advanced safety features and superior materials justify the investment for the added peace of mind.
BEST BUDGET BABY PACK AND PLAY
Item Weight: 18.96 pounds
Dimensions: 39.5″ x 28.3″ x 54″
Pack and Play Age Limit/Weight Capacity: from birth up to 25 lbs
Included: mattress, storage bag
- Affordability
- Ease of use
- Signature Graco push-button fold
- 20% more compact fold
- Storage pouch included
- Integrated wheels
- Basic features
- Comfort
Why We Love It
There is no beating the price of the Graco Pack and Play. Exceptionally affordable yet no skimping on the essentials and quality, parents get to enjoy all that they require without the high price tag associated with more premium models, hence making it accessible for a wider range of families.
Aside from the price tag, another distinctive feature that sets this pack and play apart from the rest is the folding feet and wheels which allows it to achieve a fold that is 20% more compact compared to other models without this feature. It’s pretty simple actually, nonetheless a brilliant design – the feet and wheels tuck neatly into the playard frame when folded, thereby reducing its overall footprint and enhances its compactness and portability.
The playard is designed for hassle-free use, with intuitive set up and take down mechanisms that don’t require extra tools or extensive effort (yes, you get the same beloved Graco push-button fold that is the brand’s signature). You even get the same mesh storage pouch that is otherwise present in pricier models, as well as a carry bag for no-fuss travel and storage.
Things to Take Note Of
VERDICT: Families seeking an affordable solution without sacrificing quality and essential features will love the Graco Pack and Play’s great balance on functionality and cost-effectiveness.
With its folding feet and wheels for a 20% more compact fold, this playard is ideal for families who travel frequently or need a portable sleeping and play solution that is easy to move around.
Crib vs Pack and Play: Is a pack and play as good as a crib?
A pack and play can serve as a great alternative to a traditional crib, particularly in terms of portability and versatility.
Ideal for travel and moving between rooms, pack and plays can easily be set up and taken down, often coming with added features such as changing stations and storage pockets.
However, for long-term, nightly use, cribs might be preferable due to their durability and stability. Cribs often offer adjustable mattress heights and can convert into toddler beds, accommodating a child’s growth over a longer period.
Therefore, while a pack and play offers flexibility and convenience for temporary arrangements, a crib provides a more permanent, sturdy sleep solution for everyday use.
How We Come Up with Our Best Pack and Play Picks
Our process for selecting the best pack and plays is thorough and parent-focused. We begin by meticulously reviewing safety certifications to ensure each product meets or exceeds industry standards, including certifications from recognized institutions that ensure every item is free from harmful chemicals and constructed to prevent accidents.
We then test for durability, ease of use, and versatility in real-world scenarios to ascertain how each model stands up to the demands of daily life, how well they accommodate daily routines of varying family dynamics. Our selections are further refined through detailed assessments of consumer feedback and expert opinions, focusing on long-term reliability and parent satisfaction. Only those pack and plays that excel in comfort, convenience, and longevity make our list.
By combining rigorous testing with comprehensive reviews, we ensure that our recommendations not only provide peak functionality but also the highest level of safety. Our comprehensive approach ensures that parents can trust our recommendations, confident in the knowledge that they are choosing from the most reliable and tested products on the market.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Pack and Play
1. Safety Standards
2. Ease of Use and Comfort
Opt for a pack and play that is easy to set up and fold down. Features like push-button folding mechanisms can make the process quicker and prevent frustration.
Look for a pack and play with a comfortable mattress that supports your child’s back and is suitable for sleep. The inclusion of a padded mattress can significantly enhance comfort.
3. Portability
If you plan to travel or need to move the pack and play between locations, choose a lightweight model with a compact fold. Models that include carrying bags are especially convenient for travel.
4. Versatility and Durability
Some pack and plays come with added features like removable bassinets, changing stations, and adjustable mattress heights, which can provide more value as they adapt to your growing child’s needs.
Check the materials and build quality. A well-constructed pack and play will withstand the wear and tear of frequent use and travel, offering better longevity and safety.
5. Size and Space
Consider the size of the pack and play when set up and folded down, ensuring it fits well in your living space or in your car when traveling.
Other FAQs
Yes, it is safe for babies to sleep in a pack and play, provided it meets current safety standards such as those set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Ensure the pack and play features a firm, flat mattress and tight-fitting sheets, with no extra bedding or soft toys that could pose a suffocation hazard. Always use the pack and play according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it is set up correctly and safely.
A pack and play is a versatile item that serves as both a playpen and a sleeping area, often equipped with additional features like bassinets, changing stations, and storage compartments. They are designed to be portable but are generally bulkier and heavier than travel cribs.
Travel cribs, on the other hand, are specifically designed for sleeping, emphasizing portability and ease of use. They are lightweight, compact, and ideal for travel, making them easier to set up and carry, especially during air travel.
While pack and plays offer more functionality and can be used for a longer duration, travel cribs focus on simplicity and convenience for short-term use.
No, it's generally not recommended to use a crib mattress in a pack and play.
Pack and plays are designed with specific dimensions and safety standards that differ from those of standard cribs. Using a crib mattress can lead to improper fit and safety risks, such as gaps that a baby could get trapped in.
Also, mattresses made for pack and plays are usually thinner and firmer to provide safe sleeping conditions in the more flexible structure of a pack and play. A thicker crib mattress could be too soft, increasing the risk of suffocation.
For the safest setup, use the mattress or pad specifically designed for your pack and play model, ensuring it fits snugly without any spaces around the edges.
