Don't lose sleep trying to decide which Toddler Travel Bed is right for your child. It used to be when parents took their kids overnight to grandmas that grandma and grandpa had a second-hand crib that the toddler could sleep in. Or when traveling on vacation parents would rely on some crummy old crib setup by the hotel.

Safety and comfort is number 1 at all times when it comes to your child - and even more so when travelling with you son or daughter. Have you ever had that one night when your child cries all night - and you just know it is a result of them sleeping in an uncomfortable bed? How about getting to a hotel room and you see the crib they have set up for your son or daughter - and there is absolutely no way that you will be placing them in there to sleep - not clean - not safe - and so on. You may be ready for a toddler travel bed. There are many good quality beds to choose from - but how do you decide on the one that is the best option for your family. Read our 7 tips to help clarify your decision.

1. The lighter the better. All things considered - the lighter the bed the better. The bed you choose should be under 6 pounds (in metric that's under 3 kg.). Travelling with a baby means that you have other gear as well - diaper bag, stroller, etc. Everything you buy - including your toddler travel bed should be ultra lightweight.

2. Compact in size. Whether you are off on a 2 week trip to Europe or just an overnight to grandma's all of your gear has to be compact to fit into your trunk, or to check in on a plane. Make sure that the travel bed you select can be easily packed away (in its own travel pack). The bed when collapsed should be smaller than 60 x 20 x 20 (centimeters) or in inches 24 x 8 x 8.

3. No hassle set up and put away process. Speed and simplicity are the keys when setting up or putting away your toddler travel bed. You arrive at your destination - your child is tired - you don't want to struggle to get the bed set up. You want a bed that one person can handle on their own for set up and for putting it away in its travel pack. The bed you get for your child should be easily set up in less than one minute or so, and it should be put away in a similar amount of time.

4. Easy access to your child - being able to reach in to pick up your child with ease should be a prime consideration when purchasing a toddler travel bed. Look for one with a zip down side panel that can be lowered for quick access to your toddler.

5. Mesh panels for good air flow. When travelling the room your child may be sleeping in may be stuffy. Choosing a bed with mesh panels on the side will maximize the amount of air circulating past your child helping to keep your son or daughter comfortable during their sleep-time.

6. Foam mattress. A toddler travel bed with a foam mattress helps to keep the bed light - more importantly it will be comfortable for your child.

7. Guarantees and returns. A toddler travel bed is an investment in your child's comfort, safety, and happiness. You want to make your purchase with confidence. Look for a bed that has a lifetime warranty. And make sure that it can be returned to the retailer with no hassles if it just isn't right for your family.

A toddler travel bed is an excellent piece of baby gear for families with babies under the age of 3 years old. Keeping these 7 tips in mind when you purchase a toddler travel bed will ensure that the one you decide on will be a good fit for your family.