Whether camping, jet-setting off abroad or planning a staycation, travel with a toddler is always going to be a little a different. Sleeping arrangements are often different from home, but making sure everyone gets a good night’s sleep is still a priority – with no accidental falls off the the bed.
These toddler bed guards or bed rails are perfect for travel and suitable for older toddlers, although do check specifically for the ages. Some are very compact, inflatable but we also offer some other cheap alternative ideas too!
What are bed rails and bed bumpers?
Bed rails and bed bumpers both serve the same purpose: to stop young children from rolling out of bed. Sometimes they are known as guard rails.
Travel bed rails are lightweight, portable and easy to use so they can be transported from home to grandparents or by car or plane easily in your baggage. Some come with their own travel bag, keeping any parts together and clean.
There are varying types of travel bed bumpers, from inflatable bed rails to ones made of foam and some are more sturdy like a gate – those whilst compact, are generally too bulky to take on a plane, but fine to throw into the car trunk/ car boot.
Inflatable bed guards are a good all rounder for travel with kids as they are lightweight and the most compact.
Do I need a bed rail?
No, not always, especially if you have a travel bed or travel cot or crib. A portable bed rail is a great idea to save space, as you can use them on normal beds which means you can save space in your case and avoid bulky luggage.
What can I use instead of bed side rails?
Consider using a bed on the floor to reduce falls or roll guards or foam bumpers.
You may not wish to purchase an item just for one specific family trip, so also consider rolled up towels under the sheet to make a bumper or if you planning on a road trip and have a pool noodle packed, it can also double up as the perfect bed rail for toddlers.
Are bed rails safe for 2 year olds?
Hiccapop are a popular brand for inflatable portable beds for kids are state that their bed rails are, “They are designed for children between the ages of 2-5, and allow for children to get in and out of an adult bed by themselves. It’s important never to use a bed rail or bumper for children under two, as they can pose a safety hazard for small children.” We recommend you always consult a medical professional when seeking advice.
In a hurry? Here are our quick glance recommendations!
- Best budget-buy bed guard: Towels or a pool noodle are tricks other parents have recommended!
- Best bed guard for travel: Hiccapop Inflatable Bed Guard
Comparison Guide to the Best Travel Bed Rails For Toddlers
| Image | Name | Dimensions and weight | Notes | Material |
  | Hiccapop Inflatable Bed Rail for Toddlers | 10 x 7.99 x 4.02 inches 2.2 lbs | Recommended age: 2 years and up Travel bag included No pump needed | Nylon |
  | Hiccapop Bed Rail Bumper | 52 x 7 x 4.5 inches 12 Ounces | Recommended age: 24 months to 5 years Water-resistant, washable cover Non-skid silicon bottom No pump needed | Foam and silicone beaded non-skid fabric |
  | Milliard Bed Bumper | 40 x 7.09 x 4.53 inches 1.68 lbs | Recommended age: 2 months and up Water-resistant, washable cover Non-slip bottom No pump needed | Foam |
  | Delta Children Inflatable Bed Rails | 48 x 7 x 5 inches 1.96 lbs | Recommended age: 24 months+ Fits Twin, Full, Queen, and King Size beds Foot pump included but can be used without. | Non toxic material |
  | Sunnyglade Portable Bed Rail Bumper | 48 x 7 x 5 inches | Recommended age: 3 years and up Maximum Weight Recommendation: 220 lbs Carry bag included Foot pump included | PVC |
  | DreamyPanda Toddler Bed Rail Bumper | 50 x 4.5 x 7 inches 1.9 lbs | Age Range: 2 and up Carry bag included Easy-zip bamboo fabric cover No pump needed | Bamboo fabric |
Best Travel Bed Rails For Toddlers
This inflatable bed rail from Hiccapop is one of a kind because you don't need a pump to inflate or deflate. The bumpers are designed to quickly inflate with a few breaths and instantly deflate with the push of a finger. Hiccapop bumpers also have a security flap that, along with the bumper's non-slip silicone bottom, ensures the rail stays securely in place. The bumpers deflate into a lightweight and compact size and with the included travel bag you can take it with you anywhere.
- Dimensions: LxWxH10 x 7.99 x 4.02 inches
- Material: Nylon
- Weight: 2.2 lbs
- Recommended age: 2 months and up
- Travel bag included
- No pump needed
Hiccapop Bed Bumpers is a safer and more comfortable bed guard rail compared to traditional metal bed rails. The bumpers work with all standard size sheets, is water-resistant, washable, hypoallergenic and BPA and chemical-free. You can install the bumper in seconds: simply unroll the bumper and place it securely at the edges of the bed under the fitted sheet. It will stay in place with the help of its non-skid silicon bottom together with the pressure of the sheet against the mattress.
- Dimensions: 52 x 7 x 4.5 inches
- Weight: 12 Ounces
- Recommended age: 24 months to 5 years
- Dimensions: 40 x 7.09 x 4.53 inches
- Weight: 1.68 lbs
- Recommended age: 2 years and up
This product from Milliard is perfect for transitioning from crib to big bed as it works with any size bed from toddler to king. It's also perfect for travelling as the bumper folds in half and secures closed with the tab on top, transporting easily with included carry handle. The super soft cover is removable, machine washable and has a waterproof backing to keep the foam damage free. The bumper has a non-slip bottom to keep it securely in place. Installation is easy as you only have to place the bumper under the fitted sheet.
This inflatable bed rail is made by a family-owned company, Delta Children, to prevent the little ones from falling or rolling out of bed. It has an easy-to-clean waterproof cover and it fits on Twin, Full, Queen and King size beds. It also comes with its own foot pump that can inflate the rails in under a minute. Set up is easy as you just have to slide the bed rail bumpers under the fitted sheets. It is also ideal for travel, just fold and roll it in your luggage or carry on and it's good to go.
- Dimensions: 48 x 7 x 5 inches
- Weight: 1.96 lbs
- Fits Twin, Full, Queen and King Size beds
- Foot pump included
- Recommended age: 24 months+
Another one from the inflatable bed rail bumpers is this 2-pack bumper from Sunnyglade. Made from durable, water-resistant material, these bumpers are also compatible with any bed size or crib mattress. The package comes with a lightweight and compact foot pump that inflates the bumpers in approximately 30 seconds. Simply slip the bumpers under the fitted sheets and with the help of Grip Strips, the bed rails will stay securely in place. Deflation is also as easy as inflating the bumpers thanks to the large opening in the air valve that allows air to enter and escape quickly. This item is perfect for travel and sleepovers because it comes with a lightweight nylon bag, complete with drawstring enclosure.
- Dimensions: 48”(L) x 7”(W) x 5” (H)
- Maximum Weight Recommendation: 220 lbs
- Recommended age: 3 years and up
- Foot pump included
- Carry bag included
The DreamyPanda bumper can be used as a bed guard by placing it on the edge of the bed under the fitted sheet or can be placed between you and your little one for peaceful co-sleeping. One thing that sets this bumper apart from its competitors is its machine-washable, easy-zip bamboo fabric cover - bamboo fabric is one of the softest fabrics in the world. Also, this bumper is not inflatable so there's no need for a pump, but it conveniently folds down and also comes with a travel bag so you'll be able to take it on your travels or sleepovers.
- Dimensions: 50 x 4.5 x 7 inches
- Weight: 1.9 lbs
- Age Range: 2 and above
- Carry bag included
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