Imagine this: You’re at a family gathering, and your little one starts getting fussy. It’s nap time, but there’s no crib in sight. That’s where a Pack ‘N Play comes in. Sounds great, however, does its usefulness extend beyond that?? What exactly is a Pack ‘N Play, and why do so many parents swear by it?
What is a Pack ‘N Play?
A Pack ‘N Play, also known as a playard, is a portable crib that you can also use as a safe playing space for your infant or toddler. Most Pack ‘N Plays feature a metal frame surrounded by breathable mesh. Designed for convenience, it collapses and folds compactly, typically fitting into a carrying bag for easy transport.
Pack ‘N Plays are ideal for travel, small spaces, and grandparents’ homes and can even be used as a primary or secondary sleeping option at home.
Types of Pack ‘N Plays
Not all Pack ‘N Plays are the same. While they all serve the same basic purpose, they come in different styles to fit various needs. Understanding these differences will help you find the best one for your family.
Related: Best Pack ‘N Plays
The 3 Main Types of Pack ‘N Plays Include:
- Traditional Pack ‘N Plays: Basic models with a sturdy frame, mesh sides, and a simple foldable design.
- Care Station Playards: Feature-packed models with extras like changing tables, storage organizers, and newborn nappers.
- Lightweight Travel Cribs: Ultra-portable options designed for easy transport, often with backpack-style carrying cases.
1. Traditional Pack ‘N Play:
A traditional Pack ‘N Play is a no-frills, reliable option designed for both sleep and play. It features a small mattress or pad, mesh sides for airflow and visibility, and an automatic folding system for hassle-free storage.
Most models include two wheels for easy mobility and come with a carrying bag for convenient transport. While they are lighter than Care Station Playards, they are still heavier than travel cribs, making them a decent option for occasional travel but not the best for frequent trips.
2. Care Station Playard:
Care Station Playards go beyond the basics, offering a versatile, all-in-one solution for parents. While their sleeping and play areas are similar in size to traditional models, these Playards include multiple add-ons, making them bulkier and less portable.
Common features include:
- Full-size bassinet
- Newborn bassinet
- Portable napper (sometimes doubles as a rocker)
- Changing table
- Storage organizer
- Soothing devices (musical box or crib mobile)
Although they fold for storage, only the base unit and full-size bassinet fit into the carrying bag, meaning other accessories must be packed separately. These Pack ‘N Plays are best for home use or as a convenient sleep solution at grandparents’ houses.
3. Lightweight Travel Crib:
A lightweight Pack ‘N Play, often called a travel crib, is built for portability. Weighing significantly less than traditional and Care Station models, these cribs are ideal for families who travel often or have limited storage space.
Unlike other Pack ‘N Plays, travel cribs have a minimalist frame, typically made from aluminum or plastic, with mesh sides for ventilation. They sit directly on the floor, providing added stability and safety.
The best travel cribs fold down compactly into a carrying case—sometimes designed as a suitcase or backpack—making them easy to transport, even on planes. While they lack extra features like changing stations or storage, their lightweight design makes them perfect for on-the-go families.
What Is a Pack ‘N Play Used For?
Pack ‘N Plays are incredibly versatile, making them a must-have for many parents. They serve multiple purposes, from safe sleep to travel and playtime. Here are six practical ways you can use a Pack ‘N Play:
1. Using a Pack ‘N Play for Everyday Sleep:
You can use a Pack ‘N Play instead of a crib for everyday sleep, especially in the newborn stage. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) considers it a safe sleep space for babies.
However, Playards can’t fully replace traditional cribs in the long run. While Pack ‘N Play mattresses work well for naps, sleepovers, and even longer vacations, they aren’t as thick or supportive as standard crib mattresses. As your baby grows, a full-sized crib may provide better comfort.
⚠ Safety Tip: Never place a crib mattress inside a Pack ‘N Play! Crib mattresses are too thick, creating a suffocation risk if a baby rolls to the side. The mesh sides don’t provide enough resistance, so a baby could become trapped between the mattress and the playard’s edge. To lower the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), always use the included Pack ‘N Play mattress or one specifically designed for your model.
2. Using a Pack ‘N Play as a Playpen:
A Pack ‘N Play is an excellent solution for creating a safe play area for your baby. When you’re alone with an infant, it can be challenging to find time to go to the bathroom, let alone clean or cook. A Pack ‘N Play provides a secure space for your baby while you handle everyday chores.
Some, like the Newton Baby Travel Crib & Play Yard, have a zippered door on the side. This feature has many advantages, including transforming the Playard into a fort for toddlers. They absolutely love it!
3. Using a Pack ‘N Play as a Travel Crib:
Bringing your own Pack ‘N Play while traveling saves you a lot of trouble. Babies tend to sleep better in a familiar environment, and you won’t have to worry whether your accommodation has a suitable baby bed.
All Pack ‘N Plays fold into a carrying bag, but their weight and size vary significantly. If you travel often, especially by plane, opt for an ultra-light travel crib. There’s a big difference between carrying a 13 lb or 40 lb Pack ‘N Play through an airport!
For car trips, you have more flexibility. We used the Baby Trend Nursery Den Playard, a care station-style playard. For shorter vacations, we took it along without issues, but we only packed the playard and full-size bassinet, leaving the extra accessories at home. Even though it’s heavier and not as compact as a travel crib, we had no trouble fitting it in the trunk with the rest of our luggage.
✈ Pro Tip: If you fly often, a lightweight travel crib makes airport travel much easier!
4. Pack ‘N Play for Grandparents’ House:
A Pack ‘N Play is a great option for naps, playtime, and sleepovers at grandparents’ or other caregivers’ homes.
For the best versatility, consider a Care Station Playard. It has features that support babies from infancy through toddlerhood—like a mini nursery in one! Plus, when not in use, it easily folds away for storage.
5. Pack ‘N Play as a Newborn Bassinet Alternative:
Instead of buying a separate bassinet, you can use a Pack ‘N Play with a built-in full-size bassinet. While a traditional bassinet lasts only a few months, a Pack ‘N Play can be used for years, making it a budget-friendly choice.
If you choose a Pack ‘N Play, pick a traditional model or a Care Station Playard and place it next to your bed. For overnight sleep, always use the full-size bassinet attachment inside the Pack ‘N Play!
⚠ Safety Note: Do not let your baby sleep overnight in an add-on napper, newborn lounger, or nest-like bassinet that attaches to the top of a Care Station Playard. These are convenient for supervised daytime use but are not safe for unattended sleep.
6. Using Pack ‘N Play outside
A Pack ‘N Play can be set up outside as a safe place for your baby to nap or play. Just remember to provide shade and use a mosquito net if needed.
Do You Really Need a Pack ‘N Play?
While a Pack ‘N Play isn’t essential baby gear, many parents find it invaluable. It provides a safe, portable space for sleep and play, making life easier for busy families.
To decide if a Pack ‘N Play is right for you, consider your lifestyle:
If you answered yes to any of these, a Pack ‘N Play might be a smart addition to your baby gear!
Final Thoughts
A Pack ‘N Play is more than just a portable crib—it’s a flexible sleep and play solution that can adapt to your baby’s needs. Whether you choose a traditional model, a feature-packed Care Station Playard, or a lightweight travel crib, you’ll find it a useful tool in your parenting journey.
Need help choosing the best Pack ‘N Play for your family? Check out our in-depth reviews of the top-rated models!