Was the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light Worth the Hype? Our In-Depth Review
If you’re looking for the best travel crib, you’ve probably come across the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. As a frequent traveler with a little one, I quickly learned that not all portable cribs are created equal. The BabyBjorn has earned a solid reputation among traveling families for its lightweight design and practical features.
Choosing the right travel crib isn’t just about convenience—it’s about ensuring your baby’s comfort and safety wherever you go. Whether you’re hopping on a plane, taking a train, or renting a car, having reliable gear is essential to stress-free travel.
In this Bjorn travel crib review, I dive deep into everything that matters:
- Portability and ease of carrying
- Setup and folding experience
- Mattress quality and comfort
- Fabric durability and cleaning
- Safety certifications
By sharing detailed test results and personal insights, I hope to help you decide if the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light lives up to the hype.
Disclaimer: As part of our commitment to transparency, we want to let you know that this post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase using an affiliate link I may get a few bucks, an no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Overview of BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light
The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light shines as a super light, compact option designed for families constantly on the move.
When folded, it measures approximately 19.5 inches high, 23.6 inches long, and 6.6 inches wide — a slim profile that slips easily into its carry bag without bulk or fuss.
Weighing in at around 13 pounds, this travel crib ranks among the lightest portable travel cribs available today. I’ve tested several models, and the difference in weight is noticeable, especially when juggling multiple bags during plane connections or navigating crowded train stations.
Its sleek folded size makes it highly adaptable to various travel modes:
- Fits comfortably in airplane overhead bins or under seats
- Slides neatly into car trunks and taxis without stealing space
- Squeezes into tight storage areas on buses and trains thanks to the slim carry case
Speaking of the carry case, BabyBjorn’s design is minimalist but thoughtful. The rectangular shape (about 23.5″ x 18.5″ x 5.75″) slides into narrow spaces effortlessly, unlike some bulkier competitors with rounder or oversized bags. This ease of packing adds an extra layer of convenience that you’ll appreciate during busy trips.
If portability tops your list when hunting for a travel crib, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light delivers a winning combination of lightweight design and space-saving dimensions without sacrificing functionality.
Setup and Fold Experience
Setting up the Pack ‘n Play was a breeze. On our first attempt, it took us 2 minutes and 9 seconds to get everything ready. However, on our second try, we managed to do it in just 1 minute and 16 seconds. This shows that with a little practice, you can become even quicker at setting it up.
When it comes to folding or collapsing the crib, it was also quite simple. The entire process took us around 1 minute and 14 seconds. We really appreciated how easy it was to fold it back up without any complicated steps.
In comparison to other pack ‘n play style cribs we’ve used before, we found this one to be more user-friendly. The setup and folding processes were straightforward, making it convenient for parents on the go.
Mattress Quality and Comfort in BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light
Matrress Thickness
The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light boasts a mattress thickness of 1.25 inches, slightly thinner compared to the Guava Lotus at 1.5 inches.
Materials Used
Crafted from waterproof polyester and a polyurethane cover, the mattress ensures easy cleaning for busy parents on the go.
Secure Attachment
The innovative hook and loop system securely fastens the mattress to the frame, providing stability during your little one’s nap times.
Comfort Level
Despite its slim design, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light prioritizes comfort to ensure your baby enjoys restful naps even while away from home.
Fabric Quality, Cleaning Features, And Safety Certifications Of BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light
The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light excels not only in its design and portability but also in the quality of its fabric and the attention to safety certifications. Here are some key features that make it stand out:
- Machine Washable Fabric: The crib’s fabric is easy to clean with machine washable instructions that involve unclipping the mattress and removing detachable feet for convenience.
- Gentle Detergent Usage: For optimal care, using gentle detergent strips like True Earth fragrance-free is recommended, ensuring the fabric remains soft and safe for your little one.
- Quick Drying Times: Compared to competitors like Guava Lotus, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light boasts faster drying times, taking only about 5 hours for a full dry, making it ideal for busy parents on the go.
- Certifications for Safety: The crib holds an OEKO TEX Standard 100 certification, guaranteeing that its fabric is free from harmful substances, providing a safe environment for your baby. Additionally, its compliance with JMPA standards ensures it meets stringent safety requirements set for baby products.
With these features in mind, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light not only offers convenience and comfort but also prioritizes the well-being and safety of your child during travels. This makes it an excellent choice among various baby travel products available in the market today.
Portability Compared To Competitors Of BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light
When it comes to portability compared to competitors of BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light, the Guava Lotus Travel Crib is a notable mention. While it is lighter, it unfortunately lacks the side zipper opening and backpack carry bag options that some travelers find convenient.
In contrast, when we look at the Bugaboo Stardust Playard and Phil & Teds, they offer different features and weight specifications that may or may not suit every family’s needs.
Pros And Cons Of Using The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light
When weighing the pros and cons of using the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light, I find it essential to highlight what truly sets this crib apart—and where it might leave you wanting a bit more.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design: At around 13 pounds, hauling this crib through airports, trains, or car trips is surprisingly effortless.
- Speedy setup and fold times: I clocked my first setup at just over 2 minutes, with subsequent attempts dropping to near a minute—perfect when baby’s ready for a nap on the go.
- Durable frame: Despite its lightness, the sturdy angled frame feels reassuringly solid during use.
- Machine washable materials: The easy-care fabrics mean cleaning up after spills or accidents is hassle-free (a real sanity saver).
- Tested internationally: I’ve used this crib across six countries, proving its reliability in diverse travel environments.
- Hygienic alternative to hotel rentals: Bringing your own crib means no worries about questionable cleanliness or first-come-first-served stress at accommodations.
- Ideal for resorts and extended Europe trips: Its compact carry case fits narrow train compartments and taxis with ease.
Cons
- Higher price point: It’s an investment that might not suit every budget, especially if you’re only occasional travelers.
- No side zipper opening or backpack carry bag: Unlike some competitors, accessing baby mid-nap requires lifting over the top, and carrying options are limited to the standard rectangular case.
- Slight leg wobble: While stable overall, the legs have a minor wobble that might give you pause if you prefer rock-solid firmness.
- Relatively thin mattress padding: The 1.25-inch mattress is softer but thinner compared to others like Guava Lotus’s 1.5-inch padding, which could affect comfort for longer naps.
This mix of features makes the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light a compelling choice if portability and ease are your top priorities—but it’s worth considering how much those trade-offs matter for your specific travel style.
Practical Tips For Traveling With Baby Gear Using BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light
When it comes to traveling with baby gear, adopting a Bring Your Own Travel Crib (BYOTC) approach can significantly enhance your experience. This strategy not only allows you to avoid the stress of first come first serve at hotels but also saves you from incurring rental fees.
Control Over Hygiene
One of the primary benefits of using your own portable travel crib is the control it gives you over hygiene. Hotel alternatives often lack the cleanliness standards we desire for our little ones. With your own travel crib, you can ensure it’s clean and safe for your baby.
Compatibility with Other Travel Gear
Moreover, this BYOTC approach aligns perfectly with other travel gear like the WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat. This forward facing portable car seat is not only safe and eco-friendly but also loved by parents for its convenience during travel. By combining these two elements – a portable crib and a compact car seat – you can ensure a stress-free travel experience with your little one.
Final Verdict – Is The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Worth The Hype?
After exploring the details of the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light, it’s clear that this portable crib offers a wide range of benefits for traveling families. While it has impressive features like lightweight design, quick setup/fold times, and durability, it does come with a higher price tag.
However, the convenience and comfort it provides make it a worthwhile investment for families who value quality baby gear on the go. If you prioritize ease of use and portability in your travel crib choice, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light certainly lives up to its reputation.
So, is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib worth the hype? Absolutely! Whether you’re traveling internationally or going on a local trip, this travel crib proves to be a reliable companion for your little one’s naps and bedtime. Bjorn Travel Crib review enthusiasts will find this option a top contender in the world of portable cribs.
FAQ Section
Q1) What are the key features that make the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light a popular choice for families who travel a lot?
A1) The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is renowned for its super light and compact design, weighing approximately 13 pounds, and its ability to fold down to 19.5″h x 23.6″l x 6.6″w, making it exceptionally easy to carry and fit into various travel modes.
Q2) How easy is it to set up and fold the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light compared to other portable cribs?
A2) Setting up the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is remarkably simple, with initial setup taking around 2 minutes and subsequent attempts under 1.5 minutes. Folding it back up is also straightforward, typically completed in about 1 minute and 14 seconds.
Q3) What is the mattress quality and comfort level of the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light?
A3) The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light features a 1.25-inch thick mattress made from waterproof polyester and a polyurethane cover, ensuring easy cleaning. Despite its slim design, it prioritizes comfort for restful naps and securely attaches to the frame.
Q4) What safety certifications does the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light hold, ensuring it’s free from harmful substances?
A4) The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light boasts an OEKO TEX Standard 100 certification, guaranteeing its fabric is free from harmful substances, and complies with JMPA standards for baby products.
Q5) How does the portability of the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light compare to competitors like the Guava Lotus Travel Crib?
A5) While the Guava Lotus Travel Crib is lighter, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light offers a winning combination of lightweight design and space-saving dimensions. However, it lacks a side zipper opening and backpack carry bag options found in some competitors.
Q6) What are the main advantages of choosing the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light for international travel?
A6) The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light’s ultra-lightweight design (around 13 pounds) and compact folded size make it ideal for international travel, fitting easily into airplane overhead bins, car trunks, and narrow train compartments.
Q7) What are some of the drawbacks or cons of investing in the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light?
A7) The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light comes with a higher price point, lacks a side zipper opening or backpack carry bag, and has a relatively thin 1.25-inch mattress padding compared to some alternatives.
Q8) Why is the “Bring Your Own Travel Crib” (BYOTC) approach recommended when using the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light?
A8) The BYOTC approach with the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light allows for control over hygiene, avoids hotel rental fees, and aligns perfectly with other compact travel gear like portable car seats.
Q9) Is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light a good choice for two babies, or is it better suited for a single child?
A9) The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is designed for a single child, offering a comfortable and safe sleeping space. For two babies, parents might consider two separate travel cribs or a larger playard.
Q10) What makes the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light a “great choice” for families looking for a portable crib for home and travel?
A10) The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is a great choice due to its light and easy setup, machine-washable fabric, comfortable mattress, and robust safety certifications, making it suitable for both travel and home use.
Hi, I’m Rohan — founder of Baby Travel Hacks and a travel industry professional with over a decade of experience helping families plan unforgettable vacations. After years of creating custom travel itineraries, my journey took a joyful new turn when my wife and I welcomed our baby girl into the world — a tiny adventurer who already loves to explore new places!
Drawing on my professional background and new role as a traveling dad, I created this blog to share practical tips, smart travel hacks, and trusted gear recommendations to help fellow parents plan stress-free getaways with their little ones. Whether you’re gearing up for your first flight with a baby or looking for the best family-friendly stays, I’m here to help you make travel with kids a little easier—and a lot more fun.