Toddlers playing on a beach beside an Out’n’About Nipper Nest travel cot

What travel cot is easiest to put up and pack away?

If you are looking for the best travel cot in the UK that is easiest to put up and pack away, the answer is the Out’n’About Nipper Nest.

Parents rarely have time, space or spare hands when travelling. If you’ve ever wrestled with a heavy cot when your baby is tired and ready for a nap, you know that the setup speed matters just as much as how well your little one sleeps. You need somewhere safe for your baby that sets up fast, so travelling doesn’t feel like hard work before you’ve even unpacked.

Here is why the Nipper Nest is the top choice for families who want to travel without the stress.


What makes a travel cot easy to put up?

Some travel cots are better designed than others. From our testing and feedback from real parents, the easiest travel cots to use, usually share three key traits.

  • A fold that is intuitive: If you need to read instructions every time then it is not intuitive. The best mechanism should feel natural and quick even if you are in a hurry.

  • Lightweight design: A cot might look slim when set up but what really matters is how it feels to carry. Lighter cots that fold down small are much easier to manage.

  • A carry bag that actually helps: Backpack-style or hands-free carry options make a huge difference when you are juggling luggage, a pushchair and a baby.


Is the Out’n’About Nipper Nest easy to put up?

Yes. The Nipper Nest was designed specifically to solve the problem of bulky, complicated travel cots. It’s  built to make setting up and packing away as stress-free as possible.

The Zig-Zag fold design

At the heart of the Nipper Nest is the Zig-Zag fold. This allows the cot to pop up and fold down in seconds.

There are no rigid bars to fight with and no tools required. It uses a smooth and intuitive motion that creates an instant safe space for sleep or play. This makes a real difference when you arrive somewhere late or need to settle a tired baby or toddler quickly.

Packs down small into a backpack

Once folded, the cot fits neatly into a compact backpack carry bag. This makes it incredibly easy to transport. It takes up minimal space in your car boot or an overhead locker, and is comfortable to carry hands-free.

For parents looking for a top rated travel cot that does not feel awkward to move, this compact design makes a real difference.

Man wearing the Out’n’About Nipper Nest Travel Cot in its storage backpack

How does it compare to traditional travel cots?

Traditional travel cots often rely on rigid frames and multi-step locking systems. While they can work well once assembled, they are usually heavier and slower to deal with.

The Nipper Nest takes a different approach. It uses a soft-structure design which means:

  • Faster setup and pack-down

  • Smaller folded size

  • Easier to carry and store

For parents prioritising ease and flexibility, this difference is immediately noticeable.


Easy to use outdoors

Because the Nipper Nest has a waterproof base, it can be used on grass, sand, or other outdoor surfaces.

There is no complicated cleanup routine before folding it away, which makes it ideal for garden use, beach days, and family trips. You can set it up anywhere and pack it away just as easily.


Is it the best travel cot for newborns?

The Nipper Nest is suitable from newborn to approximately 3 years old.

For the youngest babies you can add the optional newborn crib accessory. This creates a raised and snug sleeping space that is easier for you to reach. As your child grows the cot adapts without changing how it folds or packs away.

Parents also love the plush mattress, which is far superior to standard travel cots, ensuring your little one sleeps soundly from day one. This flexibility makes it a strong contender for the best travel cot for newborns that still works for toddlers too!


What parents say about setting it up

Parents regularly highlight ease of setup and pack-away in verified reviews:

"So easy to put up and fold away! Cabin-approved luggage bag and takes up so little room." — Steph

"It’s really lightweight, yet once it’s put up it is the sturdiest travel cot I have used." — Maria W-E

"Easy to use as a cot, playpen or tent, and packs away quickly with no fuss." — Verified Customer


Award-winning for real-world ease of use

You do not just have to take our word for it. The Nipper Nest was awarded Bronze at the Mother & Baby Awards 2026 in the Best Travel Product Over £30 category.

This award is judged by real parents who test products in everyday family situations. The judges called it a "standout for busy families," praising how it blends lightweight portability with a spacious interior.

One mum tester said:

"The Nipper Nest is by far the best travel cot I’ve ever used—lightweight, roomy, really comfy, and so quick to set up! The mattress is noticeably plush, and my kids slept soundly."


At-a-glance specifications

If you like to check the details before you buy, here are the key specs that make this the easiest travel cot to pack away:

  • Suitable age: Newborn to approx 3 years (or until child can climb out)

  • Folded size: 60cm (L) x 22cm (W) x 19cm (H)

  • Set-up size: 116cm (L) x 78cm (W) x 75cm (H)

  • Key Features: Breathable mesh sides, zipped side opening, and waterproof base

  • Included in the box: Travel cot, UPF 50 sun shade, and backpack carry bag

 

Out’n’About Nipper Nest Travel Cot components, including cot, mattress, UV cover, and travel bag.


A final thought

Choosing a travel cot shouldn’t feel complicated. If ease of use, portability and real-life practicality matter to you, the Nipper Nest is designed to make travelling simpler, wherever the trip takes you.

 

Back to blog