The Best toddler beds for the Airplane. What it is, why you want it, and how it is used.
If you are a frequent flyer and your child a toddler, then airplane beds for toddlers might be the next sleep option to consider. With so many airlines now charging to let children fly on your lap, it might make sense to invest in this new type of sleeping arrangement that will give your little one a more comfortable place to rest their head while they take a nap. In the article below we’ll discuss how these tiny beds can help you get some much needed shut-eye on those near impossible long haul flights!
What are toddler airplane beds?
Toddler airplane beds are miniature, lightweight, and foldable sleeping options that can be set up in just a few seconds. This is great for those long haul flights where your child may not want to sleep on their lap or cuddle with you. The best thing about these beds is that they’re designed so any part of the bed folds down flat to create a surface area for playing games while seated. In this article we’ll show you some examples of what’s currently available in terms of toddler airplane beds but first let’s take a look at how these little gems might help get your peace and quiet back!
Are toddler airplane beds safe?
They are as safe as an airplane seat. These beds have been designed to attach and detach from the seat so that you can move them around without undoing your belt or removing it completely, if necessary. Most will allow your child to be strapped in with the airplane seat belt as well.
The Best Toddler Beds for the Airplane
Jet Kids Bed Box
This is by far the most expensive of all the options on this list but for good reason. You child can ride on it through the airport if they are old enough to hang on! Plus it is the most comfortable and highest rated by parents. If you fly a lot this one is totally worth investing in!
- FIRST CLASS EXPERIENCE - JetKids by Stokke BedBox is the world's only premium, ride-on suitcase for kids with an in-flight bed or leg-rest feature. Once the...
- FUN & FUNCTIONAL - This spacious carry-on size suitcase holds all of your child’s must-haves, and once packed, can be pulled or ridden by your little one...
- TRAVEL ESSENTIALS - JetKids by Stokke BedBox was designed with front swivel wheels for easy maneuvering, an adjustable strap so you can pull or carry it over...
Fly Tot Inflatable Bed
This inflatable bed is compact, lightweight and easy to store. It comes with a handle for some hands free carrying too! The only downside is that it’s not designed for children who are taller than the average toddler so other seats may be requested if you have one of these onboard. It is very highly rated and much small than some of the options.
Flyaway Kids Bed
This inflatable bed is also lightweight and easy to store. It will take up almost no room in your carry on. It’s not as comfortable but it does come with a built-in pillow for your toddler!
It inflates in 90 seconds making it super easy to blow up and get your toddler to sleep!
Maliton Foot Rest
This foot rest bed is perfect to fill in the gap between the the airplane seat and the tray table so that you have a makeshift little bed. This is the cheapest option by far and they take up very little room. You can fit this easily in a carry on bag or hand luggage.
- Attention: Emirates, KoreanAirways, Hawaiian Airlines, Asiana, Virgin Atlantic, Airfrance, Air Malta, Egypt Air and Qantas don't allow this product on their...
- Must Have Airplane Travel Accessories For Parents: Fill the gap between two seats with this travel pillow to extend the seat length. The extra surface can allow...
- Double Cap Valve And Adjustable Height: Inflate only the lower chamber for 1-level height, only the upper chamber for 2-level height, or both chambers for full...
Are toddler airplane beds allowed on all airlines?
I don’t believe there is a universal “yes” or “no.” Most airlines allow them as long as it’s not a bulkhead seat. If you’re unsure, I would contact the airline for your upcoming flight to find out if they are allowed and what type of bed will be most suitable for your toddler in terms of size requirements.
Some airlines don’t have a policy and then it is up to the flight crew, in my experience they don’t notice much. If they ask you to take it down, just do so and ask about the policy from the airline after the flight.
How easy is it to inflate an airline toddler bed?
It’s actually quite easy to inflate an airline toddler bed, especially if you have a pump. (Most of the high end toddler airplane beds come with one.)If not then it is possible to blow into the opening at the top of your travel bed with just about any air-filled object like a balloon or bowl.
What should I look for in airline toddler beds?
Airplane beds are a great way to ensure your toddler is comfortable and well rested while flying. As such you will want to make sure that the bed has all of the features they need, including an enclosed opening on top with plenty of room for head or feet movement. In addition, travel beds should have straps at both ends so it can affixed to the back of the seat in front of you, as well as a pocket for storing any personal items.
Tips for Airplane Toddler Beds:
- You will need to buy your toddler their own seat in order to use the bed.
- You may want to purchase a small travel blanket or pillow for maximum comfort.
- Make sure you have a window seat or a middle seat for your toddler.
- When you child is asleep position their head at the top of the seat so they are not putting too much weight on the bed that may cause it to unwedge. Also it will keep the tray table from coming loose and hitting them.
- Make sure you follow the weight limit and height limit of the toddler bed. You 7 year old may want to take a turn but it may not work.
- Please be respectful to the flight attendant if you encounter turbulence and hold your child (if they are under 2) or strap them in to the regular seat.
- You will need to bring your own pump which inflates the bed. There are some great tiny pumps here.
I hope this inspires you to think of an airplane toddler bed for your child. I have done dozens of flights with toddlers and I would have given anything for a toddler bed in those days.
If you are looking for more information on Traveling with Toddlers check out my posts on:
Best Toy Airplanes for Toddlers
Best Portable Potty for Travel
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Last update on 2024-09-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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