Pack’ n plays are an essential, especially for traveling mums! Whether you’re a frequent road-tripper or regularly visit with family, they’re indispensable.
However, not all pack’ n plays are equal! And, you may have some specific boxes you’d like yours to tick off, too.
With this in mind, here are some of the best pack ‘n plays on the market, plus an insightful review. Every one of these pack ‘n plays is both popular and top-rated!
At A Glance: Our Top Ten Best Pack ‘N Play Picks for 2023:
- Best All-in-One Option – Graco Pack’ n Play Travel Dome Playard
- Best Budget Deluxe – Baby Trend Nursery Center
- Best Affordable Option – Kidsry Portable Playard
- Best Deluxe Pack’ N Play – Graco Pack’ n Play Playard Snuggle Suite LX
- Best Rocker – Baby Trend Retreat Nursery Center
- Best for Travel – Graco Pack’ n Play Change ‘N Carry Playard
- Best for Twins – Joovy Room²-Playard
- Best Small Pack’ N Play – Graco Travel Lite Crib
- Best Shady Pack’ N Play – Baby Trend Deluxe II Nursery Center
- Best Minimalistic Option – Guava Lotus Travel Crib
What is the Best Best Pack’ N Play?
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
 | Our Top Pick Graco Pack’ n Play Travel Dome Playard
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Baby Trend Nursery Center
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Kidsry Portable Playard
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Graco Pack’ n Play Playard Snuggle Suite LX
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Baby Trend Retreat Nursery Center
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Graco Pack’ n Play Change ‘N Carry Playard
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Joovy Room²-Playard
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Graco Travel Lite Crib
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Baby Trend Deluxe II Nursery Center
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Guava Lotus Travel Crib
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
A pack’ n play has many uses but is basically a portable, packable playard and crib in one package. Pack’ n plays are ideal to use when traveling away from home.
However, they are suitable for use at home, too. The best pack ‘n plays are those that are suitable for either purpose and safe to use, of course!
Pack’ n plays should always be lightweight, easily foldable, portable, and also sturdy when set up. Your child should be able to sleep and play in it while not managing to get out, of course!
Each pack’ n play could have unique features, though, such as pockets, a mobile, and even a changing-pad. So, the best option for you will be one that has the features you require.
1. Graco Pack’ n Play Travel Dome Playard
Features
- Includes a detachable changing-pad and travel dome
- Available in grey, black, olive, and navy tones
- Optional raised mode
- Baby bassinet
- Built-in storage baskets
- Integrated wheels
- Two-button fold
- Carry bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 33.1 lbs
- 27” wide x 28.5” long x 37” high
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 35” tall
Things We Love!
This sturdy pack’ n play isn’t the smallest or the lightest around. However, it’s perfect for those longer family visits or holidays, as well as using at home.
The set is both sturdy and versatile, having a removable changing-pad and travel dome included, too. The dome is particularly useful for day trips or using around the house, too.
Overall, this is definitely one of the best pack ‘n play all-in-one sets for general use home and away. It’s both portable and sturdy, multi-use, and of good quality, as well!
Pros:
- The set comes with a useful Graco Travel Dome.
- You can select an optional extended UV 50 canopy for the Travel Dome.
- The pack’ n play is very easy to fold.
- It’s perfect for both home use and traveling.
- A very sturdy design with quality finishes.
Cons:
- It may be challenging to assemble straight from the box.
- Don’t place baby in the travel dome on top of beds, tables, or other raised or unstable surfaces.
Overall Thoughts
I think this is an excellent quality pack’ n play, of which each part will likely see plenty of use. The playard, bassinet, changing-pad, and dome are all of equal quality and usefulness.
Additionally, I think the price of this pack’ n play is quite reasonable for what you get. Yes, the extras and its build make it well worth its price tag!
2. Baby Trend Nursery Center
Features
- Removable baby bassinet
- Detachable mobile
- Available in pink, blue, and grey tones and prints
- Detachable parent organizer
- Integrated wheels
- Compact fold
- Optional baby mobile and diaper organizer
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 20.5 lbs
- 28” wide x 35.4” long x 32” high
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 35” tall or 30 lbs
Things We Love!
If you’re looking for a deluxe pack’ n play for a budget price, look no further! This affordable option comes with almost all of the features that much more costly options do, plus some.
It’s available in three versions – with or without a mobile, diaper organizer, or curved sides. So, there’s not only one to suit your budget, but also one that will suit your needs!
I love that even the most deluxe of these versions are still quite affordable compared to other brands, too. The variety of cute pink, blue, and monochrome designs are also quite pleasing!
Pros:
- It includes a good-quality mattress.
- It comes in at an excellent price.
- You can opt for extra crib features, including a mobile, curved sides, and a diaper organizer.
Cons:
- It can be tricky to open and close.
- The mobile isn’t the best quality.
- The playard is unstable without the mattress.
- It’s difficult to put together straight out of the box.
Overall Thoughts
I think this is definitely one of the best pack ‘n plays in the affordable category. Yet, it offers some deluxe features – as such, it suits a picky buyer on a tight budget!
It’s also an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable second crib. Be it for stays with grandparents, close family, or others nearest and dearest; it’s a sound choice.
3. Kidsry Portable Playard
Features
- Includes detachable changing-pad and mobile
- Available in one design with a blue and green tree print
- Removable baby bassinet
- Integrated wheels
- Compact fold
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 25.6 lbs
- 30.5” wide x 42” long x 28” high
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 30 lbs
Things We Love!
This Kidsry pack’ n play is amongst one of the most affordable on the market – yet, it too has plenty to offer! In fact, there’s not much missing compared to pricier options.
If you’re looking for the best pack ‘n play – one that’s low-cost and comes with extras, look no further. It comes with both a changing-pad and mobile!
What customers noticed most about it was the sturdy build of the actual playard, though. In fact, many felt that its build was on par with much more costly pack ‘n plays.
Pros:
- A sturdy and affordable pack’ n play.
- Of similar quality build compared to many more expensive branded playards.
- It comes with plenty of additional features, including a mobile and a changing-pad.
- The set is excellent value for money.
Cons:
- It’s difficult to assemble out of the box.
- It comes with a manual mobile.
- The mobile and changing-pad are low-quality.
- The mattress is a bit uncomfortable.
Overall Thoughts
I think those of you who are budget-conscious or thrifty mums may be pleasantly surprised by this pack’ n play. It’s a quality option with a few extras thrown in, too.
We all know how flimsy more affordable baby items can reveal themselves to be. So, this is a big plus for this Kidsry portable playard!
4. Graco Pack’ n Play Playard Snuggle Suite LX
Features
- Available in black, grey, green, and pink tones
- Optional removable baby bouncer, seat, and/or premium storage
- It plays soothing lights and vibrates
- A changing-pad
- A night-light/look-light
- A removable baby bassinet
- Built-in storage bins
- Integrated wheels
- Push-button fold
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 35.4 lbs
- 28.5” wide x 40” long x 33.3” tall
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 30 lbs
Things We Love!
I love this deluxe Graco pack’ n play and the various versions available! There is an option with a delightful detachable baby bouncer.
Or, you can opt for either one with a built-in seat or one with a removable seat and side storage. Your other option is one with enough premium front storage to pack their wardrobe!
With all these options, you don’t have to wish it came with this or that. Instead, you get to choose the type most useful to you and suitable for your needs!
All units do have one thing in common, though (which I love the most) – the handy little console! It acts as a night-light, vibration-machine, and even plays sounds and music!
Pros:
- It comes with a sturdy, detachable changing-pad.
- It includes a comfy, soft, padded, removable baby bouncer, or either a removable or attached infant seat.
- It has a built-in console with a night light,
- The console plays music and sounds.
- Two-speed vibration gently soothes baby to sleep.
- You can set how long music or sounds play.
- It comes with a large, three-compartment parent organizer.
- The playard is very easy to fold and unfold.
Cons:
- The set may be tricky for some to assemble straight out of the box.
- It can be difficult to detach the baby bassinet to wash it.
Overall Thoughts
I think this is definitely one of the best pack ‘n plays in terms of value, features, and uses. It ticks all the boxes, plus some!
From the infant seat or bouncer seat to the extra storage and changing-pad, and the very useful console, you’re covered. I can’t think of much else to add other than a mobile or canopy!
5. Baby Trend Retreat Nursery Center
Features
- Available in grey with purple, mint, or light grey accents
- Detachable Rock-A-Bye baby bassinet
- A changing-pad
- Removable baby bassinet insert
- Large parent organizer
- Integrated wheels
- Compact fold
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 33.4 lbs
- 41” long x 29.25” wide x 29” tall
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 35” tall
Things We Love!
Coming in at a fraction of similarly featured pack ‘n plays, the Retreat Nursery is quite impressive! I love its detachable baby rocker, though!
Apart from rocking, having its own canopy and toy mobile, and letting baby lie flat, it also has a console! This offers plenty of extra functions for the pack’ n play.
With it, you can play sounds or music, vibrate baby to sleep, or even switch on the night-light. And, yes, this Rock-A-Bye baby bassinet both stands freely and clips onto the pack’ n play!
For these reasons, I can safely say that this entire set is one of the best pack ‘n plays available!
Add the extra-large diaper organizer to all these features, and you’re set!
Pros:
- It includes a detachable Rock-A-Bye baby bassinet.
- The detachable Rock-A-Bye baby rocker has a mobile with toys, a carry-handle, a canopy, and a console.
- The Rock-A-Bye console plays nature sounds and music, vibrates, has volume control, and a night-light.
- The set comes with a large removable parent organizer.
- A quality pack’ n play for the price.
Cons:
- The bassinet pad isn’t easy to wash.
- It doesn’t include a pink option; the Mulberry option is more purple than pink. Be warned.
Overall Thoughts
If this pack’ n play sits in your budget range, I highly recommend it! I think it’s a lovely option with plenty of deluxe features to boot.
It’s actually very affordable compared to other popular premium branded pack ‘n plays I’ve seen around. So, I really do feel it’s a solid choice that’s also great value for the money!
6. Graco Pack’ n Play Change ‘N Carry Playard
Features
- Available in mint/grey or black/white
- A convertible travel pouch/changing-pad
- A detachable built-in changing-pad
- Comes with a hanging mobile with toys
- A removable baby bassinet
- Mesh storage pocket
- Integrated wheels
- Push-button fold
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 24.2 lbs
- 40” long x 28.5” wide x 33.25” tall
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 15 lbs
Things We Love!
This interesting pack’ n play may appear much like all others at first glance – however, this is not the case. Many pack ‘n plays come with a changing-pad and baby bassinet – as does this one.
Yet, where it differs is in the layout of these additions. You see, the changing-pad lies parallel next to the baby bassinet, not overlapping it! So, you can actually use both at the same time!
I love that this model also comes with a little crib mobile with three cute toys, too! On top of this, the set also includes an entirely separate diaper changing-pad that converts into a travel bag!
Pros:
- It comes with a unique, separate travel changing-pad that doubles as a travel pouch, too.
- It has a unique, half-size, side-facing baby bassinet.
- It comes with a detachable manual mobile.
- The baby bassinet and changing-pad fit next to each other for simultaneous use.
Cons:
- The baby bassinet is a little small.
- It only has one small mesh storage pocket.
Overall Thoughts
I think this is undoubtedly one of the best pack ‘n plays for travel thanks to having minimal detachable parts. You see, the baby bassinet and changing table are both integrated.
Detachable parts of pack ‘n plays, typically changing-pads or seats usually don’t fit in the travel bag. With this set, you won’t have to worry about this issue, though!
This is great news for those who want to travel light. And it may be an especially useful feature if you travel in a small car or on public transport.
7. Joovy Room²-Playard
Features
- Square-shaped XL playard
- Available in charcoal or black
- 50% larger than a standard travel crib
- Fitted 100% waterproof cotton sheet
- Integrated wheels
- Compact fold
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 29.6 lbs
- 39.75” wide x 39.75” long x 31” high
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 35” tall
Things We Love!
If you have multiples, shopping for baby items can be double or triple the trouble! Sure, you can get one baby bathtub and bathe them one at a time or share shampoo between them!
However, not many pack ‘n plays can fit two babies during those essential play or naptimes! That’s why I love the Joovy Room² Playard!
It’s a unique, square-shaped pack ‘n play with ample space for two! Though it comes with no extras, you can actually buy the specially designed twin nursery attachment for it, too!
Yes, overall, it’s definitely one of the best pack ‘n plays designed specifically for twins! I love that the set actually comes with a fitted waterproof 100% cotton sheet, as well!
Pros:
- An excellent option for twins.
- Perfect for spacious corralled playtime.
- The 360° mesh sides offer full visibility.
- It comes with a fitted waterproof cotton sheet.
- You can buy the compatible Joovy twins nursery center with a changing-pad and two baby bassinets separately.
Cons:
- It has no suspended baby bassinet – it’s just a playard.
- There are no extras, such as storage pockets or organizers, changing=pads, or suspended baby bassinets included.
Overall Thoughts
If you have twins, I think this is one of the best options for you! However, it’s also great for mums who plan to use the playard for longer play periods where baby needs more space.
It offers that little bit more space for babies to roll and crawl about. No, they definitely won’t feel short of space in this XL pack’ n play!
8. Graco Travel Lite Crib
Features
- Ultra-lightweight travel crib
- Available in mint and grey tones
- Two-height infant/newborn removable bassinet
- Shady bassinet canopy with toys
- Optional raised mode
- Quilted mattress
- Integrated wheels
- Push-button fold
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 19 lbs or 23 lbs (Raised Mode)
- 23.2” wide x 33.5” high x 32.2” long
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 35” tall
Things We Love!
If you live or will be staying somewhere with little space, the Travel Lite is an excellent option! Yes, it is considerably smaller in both size and weight than your average pack’ n play.
Despite this, it still comes with plenty of unique and useful features. These include a shady canopy with toys and a two-height baby bassinet.
So, you can keep baby suspended and in sight for a little longer! In fact, this set is very similar to regular bedside bassinets – the airy mesh sides offer plenty of visibility, too.
Pros:
- It includes a two-height baby bassinet suitable for both newborns and older infants.
- The shady canopy with toys offers comfort and distraction in sunny rooms.
- This pack’ n play is 20% smaller than the traditional Graco playards.
- It’s around 30% lighter than your average pack’ n play.
- It’s very easy to assemble and fold.
Cons:
- The pack’ n plays’ smaller size means babies will grow out of it sooner.
- It’s hard to find suitable sheets for it.
Overall Thoughts
I think this is one of the best pack ‘n plays to use when traveling with babies. Its smaller size and extra features make it ideal for use on trips away with your little one.
However, due to its smaller size, it may not operate as well as a playard or cot for bigger babies. If your child is older or taller than average, you might want to opt for a standard-sized one!
9. Baby Trend Deluxe II Nursery Center
Features
- Music center plays music and nature sounds
- Night-light
- Available in grey with pink floral print and accents
- Removable baby bassinet
- Flip-up built-in changing-pad
- Shady playard canopy with toys
- Large parent organizer
- Storage pockets
- Integrated wheels
- Compact fold
- Travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 28.1 lbs
- 41” wide x 47” long x 22” high
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 35” tall or 30 lbs
Things We Love!
The Deluxe II is one of the best pack ‘n plays to use in a sunny room, thanks to its shady canopy. Otherwise, it also has plenty of room and some other fun features.
These include dangling toys, a flip-up changing-pad, and a console, which is my favorite feature! It plays music and sounds, vibrates, and even has a night-light.
The canopy bar actually converts into a standalone toy bar, too! All you need to do is unzip the canopy from the bar to convert it to this mode.
It can then be used over the baby bassinet and the playard as welcome stimulation. So, baby can be entertained whether nodding off in the bassinet or playing in the playard!
Pros:
- It has a shady canopy that offers comfort in sunny rooms.
- The canopy has three dangling toys and also converts into a canopy-free toy bar by being unzipped.
- Its console plays nature sounds and music, vibrates, has volume control, and a night-light.
- The pack’ n play has ample storage space, including a large built-in fabric/mesh pocket and a parent organizer.
- The changing-pad conveniently flips up from the side of the pack’ n play for use or flips down for storage.
Cons:
- The canopy makes a lot of noise when folding out or retracting, so you can’t adjust it noiselessly while baby sleeps.
- The changing-pad tends to slant when holding baby, making it hard to use.
Overall Thoughts
I think this pack’ n play is an affordable option with plenty of features! The canopy, toy bar, and console offer maximum comfort and stimulation for babies and tots alike.
Add to this the ample storage space, including a diaper organizer and a fabric/mesh storage pocket, and you’re set! Yes, overall, there’s not much amiss with this pack’ n play!
10. Guava Lotus Travel Crib
Features
- Ultra-lightweight and breathable playard
- Available in grey/white
- Zippered side door
- Certified GreenGuard Gold for low-emissions
- Propped legs
- Compact zig-zag fold
- Backpack carry/travel bag
- Mesh sides
- Weighs 11 lbs
- 46” long x 31” wide x 25.5” high
- Suits newborn, baby, or toddler up to 3 years of age
Things We Love!
The Lotus is undoubtedly one of the best pack ‘n plays in terms of portability! Due to the fact it weighs only 11 lbs and sets up in seconds, it’s a delight to use while on the go.
If you’re looking for a pack’ n play to bring with you to work or on short trips out, I highly recommend it! Its unique zippered side-door also offers a convenient way to access baby.
If you’re looking for a wheel-less option, it also ticks this box – four propped legs support the mesh body. The 360° mesh body itself is also highly breathable and offers maximum visibility.
I love the fact that the actual crib pad settles safely on the floor and is GreenGuard Gold certified, too. So, you know baby is safe in more than one way when playing or napping in it!
Pros:
- It quickly sets up in 15 seconds.
- The unique zippered door is perfect for nursing, easily laying baby to bed, and playtime access.
- The 360° mesh sides offer full visibility.
- The pack’ n play features an appealing minimalistic and modern design.
- It’s one of the few pack’ n plays that’s GreenGuard Gold Certified safe.
Cons:
- No sheet is included with this set.
- The pack’ n play has no wheels.
- There is no baby bassinet included – the Lotus is just a floor-supported playard and baby bed.
Overall Thoughts
I think this is an excellent pack ‘n play option for those minimalists or travelers out there! It’s airy, light, and so easy and quick to set up or fold down.
With no extra fiddly bits or weighty additions, you don’t need to worry about packing anything more, either. Yes, it’s a minimalistic pack ‘n play at its finest!
Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Pack’ N Play
So, you’re out to find the best pack ‘n play for your little one? If so, you may wonder how to make the right choice of which to buy – online or offline?
This handy buyer’s guide will help to point you in exactly the right direction!
Why Do I Need a Pack’ N Play?
A pack’ n play is essentially a portable, packable, baby bed and playard rolled into one. As such, a pack’ n play is an essential baby item to have on hand for overnight travels away.
Not only is it useful for trips out, though, but also for setting up at home. In fact, many mothers opt to buy a pack’ n play over and above a traditional baby cot for home!
This preference is due to the fact pack ‘n plays are often safer and easier to move around the house. On top of this, they’re often a lot cheaper and can replace multiple pieces of furniture.
Additionally, a pack’ n play doesn’t just act as a crib; it’s also a playard and often more. Some act as a changing table; others include seats, mobiles, consoles, and more!
At What Age Can I start Using a Pack’ N Play?
Pack’ n plays are usually suitable for use from birth up to around 2-3 years of age. Of course, this can vary per product.
So, be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Each option will also have special features which may make it more suitable for newborn, infants, toddlers, or all ages.
So, be sure to pick your pack ‘n play wisely. A detachable baby bassinet is ideal for newborns, as is a mobile. However, older tots and babes will suit a roomy, supportive playard.
Ultimately, the best pack’ n play is one that will last through all ages, too! As you’ll be using this item for a few years, make sure to pick one you won’t need to replace again!
How to Choose the Best Pack’ N Play
Are you wondering how to choose the best pack ‘n play for your child? If so, these pointers should help you out!
Make Sure It Meets Regulations
Most baby products need to meet safety regulations even to make it onto the market. Pack’ n plays are no different!
Each needs to pass rigorous testing, too, to get given the stamp of approval by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
So, as long as yours conforms to these standards, it’s safe!
Portability
Pack’ n plays are designed specifically with travel in mind. As such, the ideal pack’ n play needs to be lightweight and fold easily in order to qualify as portable.
Even as a busy mom at home, you may need to move the pack ‘n play around the house with you! So, do bear in mind its weight and how easy it is to fold, move, and unfold.
Durability
A durable pack’ n play is one that will actually last the years. After all, you won’t want to be replacing yours every few months or every year when it should last a couple of years!
Features
Overall, a pack’ n play should have a bed and playard. These days, pack ‘n plays also come with a variety of unique extras on top of the basics, though.
These extras include baby bassinets, changing-pads, removable seats, rockers, bouncers, and so much more. The set could even include toys, a mobile, and a sun canopy.
So, be sure to pick a pack ‘n play that fits into your needs and gives you your money’s worth!
Quality
A quality pack ‘n play is one with thought out and refined finishes. These improvements are not simply cosmetic, though!
They make a difference in how the pack’ n play wears and how easy it is to use, too. So, it’s well worth your time to select a pack ‘n play from a well-known brand reputed for quality.
Versatility
A pack’ n play is already a two-in-one playpen and baby bed. However, if it can replace even more baby items, like a changing table or rocker, all the better!
Ease-of-Use
Always be sure to check that the pack’ n play folds easily, packs down compactly, and is easy to use. After all, added frustrations are the last thing you need!
This is especially true while you’re trying to put baby to sleep, pack up and go, or change a diaper! So, it’s important to return a pack’ n play that will make you go crazy before it’s too late!
Conclusion:
There are plenty of excellent pack ‘n plays to select from. Hopefully, this guide has assisted you in selecting the best pack ‘n play possible for your household!
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