How to Fly with a Pack n Play (Stress-Free)

Travelling with kids is an adventure in itself, but adding your baby’s or toddler’s preferred sleep arrangement to the mix requires even more thought. Parents looking up “how to fly with a pack n play” frequently have questions about airline regulations, packing logistics and how best to get their gear from home to hotel with a minimum of hassle. Fortunately, there are ways to make flying with a pack ‘n play more manageable.

This post will take you step by step on what to know when flying with pack ‘n play: the airline rules, how to pack and what gear can help you, as well as airport tips that make it easy. If you’re a travelling parent — for the first time or the 15th time — you’ll take home expert advice for easy, peaceful travel.

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Why Bring a Pack ‘n Play When Flying?

Most parents will tell you one big item they consider a must-have for a baby (or toddler) is a pack n play (a.k.a. travel crib) for one reason: peaceful, safe sleeping. Even hotels and rental homes can’t always guarantee a crib, and borrowing from friends is not always an option.

Here’s why you should take a pack-n-play when you fly:

• Routine aids in children’s sleep. Known sleep settings reduce travel anxiety for infants and toddlers.
• Guaranteed safety. You know exactly what your child is going to sleep in.
• Versatile and portable. A number of the models also function as play yards, safely containing ​​your little one wherever you are.

Airline Policies on Flying with Pack ‘n Plays

Are Pack’ n Plays Considered Baby Gear?

Good news for parents who are wary of additional fees! Many airlines treat a pack’ n play as baby gear — not unlike a stroller or car seat. In most cases, that means you can check it for free, on top of whatever your regular luggage allowance is. Some key points to know:

• Check your airline’s policy. Though most U.S. airlines — including Delta, United and American — let you gate-check one or even two baby items (think stroller, car seat, pack ‘n play) for free, budget and international carriers’ policies can vary.
• Pack’ n play is also checked. It cannot be taken onto the plane like a stroller that can be gate-checked.
• It takes more gear to travel with more children. If you’re travelling with a pair of little ones — twins or more — most airlines will let you check one extra set of gear for free per child.

Tip: Print or save your airline’s baby gear baggage policy to your phone in case you run into confusion at check-in.

Quick Airline Comparisons

Airline	Gear Allowance	Notes
Delta Airlines	1 stroller + 1 car seat or pack ‘n play	Must be checked, not gate-checked
American Airlines	1 stroller + 1 car seat or pack ‘n play	Same as Delta
Southwest Airlines	1 stroller + 1 car seat (Pack ‘n play as extra, often free)	Check with agent
United Airlines	1 stroller + 1 car seat or pack ‘n play	Policies subject to change

How to Pack Your Pack n Play for Air Travel

Use the Original Travel Bag (or Upgrade)

The majority of pack-n-plays include a plush carrying case. And while convenient, it’s typically not sturdy enough for the rough treatment normally accorded to airline baggage.

• Upgrade to a bag with padding or a hard side. Gate Check and Zohzo offer types of padded, shoulder-strapped bags with ID cards.
• Reinforce vulnerable areas. You may want extra straps or some tape to keep zippers from breaking under rough handling.

Label It Clearly

Large, clear labels for securing your pack ‘n play so nobody loses or mistakenly takes it. Tag the bag with your name, phone number, and destination. Opt for a bright luggage tag or ribbon to identify it faster.

Minimize Accessories

Bring all the extras, including mobiles, sheets or a bassinet, at home. Airlines count your pack-n-play as a piece, and everything else can get misplaced.

Clean It First

You can wipe down and fold your pack-and-play at home. Your future self will thank you over and over while lying in bed in your hotel room! Pack a wadded-up fitted sheet in your carry-on in the event your luggage is lost.

Weigh and Measure

Although pack’ n plays are typically under the airline weight limit for checked baggage, it’s wise to weigh it before you depart. Large/Heavy non-stock items may incur an additional fee.

Pack N Play vs Travel Crib

One of the first choices many travelling parents make is whether to take a Pack’ N Play or travel crib with them. Both designs offer a safe place for your child to sleep outside of the home, but there are a couple of distinctions to note.

What Is a Pack’ N Play?

A Pack’ N Play is a durable, self-contained portable playard. These usually feature a sturdy frame, mesh sides for breathability and occasionally extras like a bassinet insert or changing station. Pack N Plays are popular for their durability and versatility. They’re also usually larger and heavier than a standard travel crib.

What Is a Travel Crib?

Below are the best travel cribs that are designed for portable use. They tend to be lighter, have a sleeker fold, and might use soft or tented materials. The majority of the models tuck neatly into a super-compact carrying case. Travel cribs generally do not have the heavier frame or conversion options of a Pack’ N Play, but they make up for that with lightweight.

Differences Between a Pack N Play vs Travel Crib

The choice between the two depends on your child’s age, how you travel with your child and how much you’ll actually use it outside of sleep. Key differences include:

• Portability: Travel cribs win in this category, as they fold up smaller and lighter. Perfect for single-parent travel or shorter layovers.
• Multiuse: You can use Pack’ N Plays as a sleep spot, play space, and often even as a place to change diapers. The tactic is clunkier but handles more use.
• Durability: Pack’ N Plays are designed for more active toddlers, while travel cribs accommodate younger babies or calmer sleepers.

Tip: If your destination is urban and walkable, carrying a lighter travel crib might help. If you’ll need a long-lasting playard where you’ll be staying, a Pack’ N Play is the safer bet.

Advantages of Traveling with a Pack N Play

It’s more portable and less cumbersome than you think. Despite the bulk, most families opt to travel with a Pack’ N Play for these obvious reasons:

Consistent sleep space: Children sleep well (and more) in their own beds. A Pack’ N Play provides that touch of home, whether in a hotel room or an Airbnb.

Safe confinement: Not all hotel and rental houses are toddler-proof. A Pack ‘N Play provides peace of mind, especially when you are in the shower or trying to get unpacked.

Multi-purpose: Rest easy or take a nap; single-level bassinet; can be used later as a Playard. If you’ve got a kid under the age of 3, a Pack’ N Play most often does the work of two or three.

Cost savings: Renting a crib at your destination can be expensive, and not everywhere provides trustworthy options.

How To Travel With a Pack N Play

Worried about airline rules or airport hassle? Here’s how to fly with a Pack’ N Play with minimal stress.

Know Your Airline’s Policy

Most large airlines consider a Pack’ N Play the same as any other piece of infant gear (a stroller or car seat, say). But many let you check it either free at the ticket counter or at the gate, independent of your regular baggage allowance. Call ahead to confirm before stuffing your bag, as some budget carriers are stricter about specialty or oversized items.

Quick Checks: Search “how to fly with a pack n play” plus your airline for current policies.

Pro Tip: Print a copy of the policy and keep it in your pocket or save a copy to your phone, just in case there is any confusion at check-in.

Pack It Properly

A Pack ‘N Play will typically have a travel bag included, and those are great for basic defence. For smooth flying:

• Take off any attachments (bassinet, toy bars, changing station) to slim down.
• Make sure everything inside is packed in firmly so it doesn’t have room to move during transportation.
• Encase the crib in a large plastic bag (or, if you prefer, a padded, airline-approved travel case) for added security.

Label it with your name and contact info so you can be identified. Most parents tie on a bright ribbon or colored tag for easy visibility.

Check vs. Gate-Check

The way you are getting your Pack’ N Play on the plane is typically in one of two ways:

• Counter Check: Drop off at check-in for your flight. It will go with your checked bags and meet you at the baggage claim at your destination.
• Gate Check: If you need the stroller in a layover or are concerned about damage, request to take the stroller through security and check it at the gate.” This can be up to some airline discretion and staff discretion.

Protect Against Damage

While the vast majority of Pack’ N Plays get to you with no damage, it’s always good to have that extra level of padded security in a bag option. Do not store things like diapers or blankets in the same bag as they could add extra pressure and also might create the chance of a split seam.

Consider Other Remedies

For some parents, it’s easier to send a Pack’ N Play to a hotel or rent a travel crib. But on short flights and direct routes, toting your own ensures your child has something familiar and safe to eat.

Tips for Checking a Pack N Play

• Arrive early: Give yourself extra time at the airport for awkward or bulky items.
• Get the right bag: Invest in a padded, airline-approved travel case. Some even have backpack straps for easier airport navigation.
• Reinforce weak points: Add tape to zippers or the carrying handle if they look flimsy.
• Double-check requirements: Some airports or airlines ask you to sign a waiver for checked baby gear.
• Inspect on arrival: Open the Pack’ N Play as soon as you get it at your destination to check for damage.

Best Tip for Flying with Kids

The real key to flying with kids is managing expectations and prepping for surprises. Bringing your own Pack’ N Play can help your child sleep better, which can mean a smoother trip for everyone.

• Plan sleep: Start prepping a week in advance by letting your child sleep in the Pack’ N Play at home so it feels familiar on the go.
• Snacks and entertainment: Pack more than you think you’ll need!
• Stay flexible: Delays happen. Focus on your child’s comfort and rest, and try to stay patient (even if other travellers aren’t).

Choosing a Travel-Friendly Pack’ n Play

When purchasing a Pack ‘n Play specifically for travel, it’s important to choose one that’s easy to carry and transport. Look for features that make it more practical for travelling.

• Features to Look For:
  • Lightweight design: A Pack ‘n Play with a lightweight frame is easier to carry.
  • Compact fold: Ensure it folds down to a size that is easy to pack and store.
  • Carrying bag: Most travel-friendly models come with a carrying bag that makes transport easy.
• Top Recommendations:
  • Graco Pack’ n Play Travel Dome LX Playard: A compact, lightweight option for travel, known for its ease of setup and portability.
  • BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light: One of the best portable cribs for travel, known for its easy assembly and compact design.

Conclusion

Traveling with a Pack ‘n Play doesn’t have to be difficult. By knowing the policies of Airlines, making sure your Pack ‘n Play is travel-ready, and considering other options such as renting or borrowing, you can make travelling with your baby as smooth and pleasant as possible. By planning and preparing, you’ll be ready for your next adventure with your little one.

FAQs About How to Fly with a Pack n Play