Planning a getaway trip or a family vacation?
You’ll need the best travel baby monitor for parents on the go.
Traveling with a baby can be a stressful experience, but being prepared and aware of how you can ensure your little one’s safety makes the trip all the more pleasant.
Certain tools are simply essential, such as toys specifically developed for travel.
A baby monitor is every parent’s must-have tool, but finding the best travel baby monitor specifically designed for families that love to travel can be a little bit trickier than usual.
Whether it’s a one-day road trip or a vacation that you have planned – we got you covered.
The best travel baby monitor is light and easy to use.
However, they come in all shapes and sizes, and often have different functions.
How do you know which one’s the best? From portable baby monitors to a baby monitor without Wi-Fi, there’s a whole range of options for parents to consider before purchase.
We’re here to make it easier for you.
With our help and advice, you can find the best travel baby monitor to fit your needs.
Factors That You Just Have to Know
Before purchase, there’s a few things that you just have to take into consideration.
By following our guidelines, you can ensure a stress-free travel experience for you and your newborn. We know how much parents worry, so let’s help you alleviate that stress.
There are several important factors that you have to consider.
The best travel baby monitor meets most, if not all, of these factors.
Here’s what you need to know:
• Key Factor 1: Range
The best travel baby monitor provides adequate range.
The device has to work effectively at greater distances due to the dynamic nature of traveling. When you’re away from your baby, you need to have a high quality signal.
Range refers to the maximum distance between the transmitter and the receiver.
Losing connection or experiencing a signal loss can be very stressful for parents.
The sudden and unexpected loss of audio can even make you panic.
You need to be able to use the monitor effectively at all times.
Otherwise, you risk missing important alerts and overstressing yourself.
This is where a baby monitor without Wi-Fi shines. For example, radio frequency (RF) monitors provide greater distance coverage, and are generally considered more reliable.
That’s because they don’t rely on an internet connection in order to function.
A baby monitor without Wi-Fi is less vulnerable to signal loss and, therefore, a better option for parents that want to have peace of mind with a device as essential as this.
In general, the recommended range is 800-1,000 feet.
However, you have to bear in mind that certain obstructions, such as walls, may reduce the efficiency of the signal and, as a direct result, lower the actual signal range of the monitor.
Either way, the best travel monitor for you and your baby provides adequate range.
• Key Factor 2: Battery Life
For families on the go, a good battery life is crucial.
The best travel baby monitor can be used for longer periods of time on a single charge.
Naturally, the battery life various from product to product. Since it’s not always possible for traveling families to find an electrical outlet, having a long battery life is important.
How long should it be able to run on a single charge?
Well, that depends on the type of situations you’re going to find yourself in on the road.
Usually, 8-10 hours of battery life should be more than enough.
Some of the best baby travel monitors provide even longer usage on a single charge.
Besides battery life, consider how long it takes for the monitor to recharge fully.
In general, the best travel baby monitor can be recharged in several hours.
However, it’s important that you fully charge your monitor before heading out. If you’ve just bought the baby monitor, make sure to charge the parent unit battery for 12 hours.
Another thing that you have to consider is what type of batteries the device uses.
Some devices use rechargeable batteries, while others use replaceable batteries.
What would suit your needs best?
Well, rechargeable batteries are efficient and cost-effective. On the other hand, replaceable batteries are generally considered more useful when you’re traveling with a newborn.
That’s because you can simply bring spare batteries and not have to worry about finding an electrical outlet and charging your device for hours when the indicator light comes on.
Make sure to keep all of these things in mind when it comes to battery life.
The last thing you want to see is a red battery light.
• Key Factor 3: Portability
A good, high quality portable baby monitor is a must-have for parents on the go.
Portable basically means that the device is easy to use, carry and transport. When you’re traveling, managing space is always a problem, and that’s why portability matters a lot.
What do you need to consider?
The best portable baby monitor is small and lightweight.
Therefore, it doesn’t take much space or add significant weight to what you’re already carrying. It fits into your bag nicely, and you can take it out or store it away easily.
The camera and the parent unit shouldn’t take too much space.
Ease of use is important for a portable baby monitor, but you also have to consider the monitor of the device. In particular, a handheld monitor is considered the best option.
Why? Because it doesn’t need a separate unit.
With a portable baby monitor you can quickly and easily check on your baby at all times.
Portability goes hand-in-hand with ease-of-use. When traveling, time is of the essence. You want to be able to take out your portable baby monitor in a second for a quick check.
That said, the best portable baby monitor is small, lightweight, easy to pack into a bag and to take out whenever you need to check on your baby when you’re on the move.
• Key Factor 4: Audio/Video
Most parents prefer video monitors that include audio.
The best travel baby monitors have both.
However, the choice is based on your personal needs and preferences.
Having said that, audio-and-video monitors are becoming the norm. That’s because parents want to ensure maximum safety whenever they are away from their baby.
Audio-only devices transmit sounds and sometimes include the function of two-way communication. However, not being able to see your baby can up your stress levels.
What’s the advantage? Well, audio-only options are less expensive.
A high baby monitor camera costs more, but it’s practically essential.
Being dependent solely on audio is psychologically less effective.
Since they don’t transmit video, they use less power and have a longer battery life.
However, the best travel baby monitors include the benefit of being able to see your child on a screen, as well as hearing them. These are specifically audio-and-video devices.
Since babies under 6 months are at a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), you need to have the advantage of a video feed whenever you’re away from your baby.
Being able to see your baby on a screen by way of a high quality camera is so much more stress-free than simply listening to audio cues when you’re away from your little baby.
The functions that come with audio-and-video devices in certain products include night vision and even temperature sensors. These functions significantly raise the cost.
If you have to choose between an audio-only option or an audio-and-video monitor, it’s generally considered a much safer option to get a monitor that transmits both.
Seeing your baby on a screen and hearing them will give you more peace of mind.
• Key Factor 5: Connectivity Options
Connectivity options have to be considered carefully before making a purchase.
In general, there are three options available: analog, digital and Wi-Fi.
Analog monitors are the most inexpensive option.
Consider it only if you’re on a budget, because they’re prone to interference.
Hearing static instead of your baby is a huge drawback.
Besides, they only include sound.
Digital and Wi-Fi options are more secure and provide extra features.
On the other hand, some of the best travel baby monitors are digital. Unlike analog devices, they provide clearer sound quality, increased security and improved range.
Overall, it’s a safer choice for you and your baby.
On top of that, a digital monitor includes audio-and-video feedback, as well as a range of extra features that may be of interest to parents who are focused on maximizing safety.
Wi-Fi options have advanced features, as well, but they require a constant, uninterrupted internet connection in order to effectively transfer audio and video to your device.
However, when you’re traveling, you don’t always have a connection.
That’s why the best travel baby monitors are non-Wi-Fi.
If the connection goes down or if it’s slow, you will experience lag and buffering.
As such, a baby monitor without Wi-Fi, such as a digital one, provides constant feedback, and that’s precisely what makes it the best travel baby monitor for parents on the move.
The Best Travel Baby Monitors: Top 5 Picks
Knowing the factors that determine the quality of a baby monitor is important.
After all, your purchase depends on your own personal needs and preferences. That said, here’s our selection of the best travel baby monitors to help you enjoy a stress-free trip.
1 • Infant Optics DXR-5 Portable Video Baby Monitor
A portable baby monitor is one of the best options for traveling families.
What makes this option stand out is its lightweight and compact design.
The easy-to-use monitor is straightforward to operate even if you’re clumsy with technology. The intuitive controls work great and the system is generally responsive.
The Infant Optics DXR-5 does not use Wi-Fi. Instead, it uses FHSS radio technology to transmit the audio and video signals between the camera and the parent unit successfully.
If you’re looking for an impressive baby monitor without Wi-Fi – this is it.
The audio picks up on the slightest sounds and movements.
The camera provides sharp video feed.
It offers range for up to 800 feet and a battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge, which exceeds the recommended amount, and it even has built-in infrared night vision.
The reason this option is considered as one of the best portable baby monitors is due to the multitude of functions it provides, all of which are high quality, especially the picture.
Plus, the benefit of having clear audio is invaluable.
Infant Optics DXR-5 even has a two-way communication system.
For parents that love to hit the road, the Infant Optics DXR-5 is a perfect solution, a reliable and user-friendly option with a range of features designed with quality in mind.
2 • Motorola MBP33S Wireless Video Baby Monitor
The Motorola MBP33S is a popular choice and one of the best travel baby monitors.
What makes it good?
Well, the MBP33S is a perfect combination of design and portability. The portable parent unit is well designed with convenience in mind, making it a perfect option for traveling.
The 2.8″ screen delivers a clear picture.
On the other hand, the camera positioned on a table or mounted on a wall to observe your baby includes a variety of features, including panning, tilting, angle adjusting and zoom.
No matter the angle you’re trying to get – the MBP33S provides.
Yes, it has a smaller screen, but the camera is sharp and adjustable.
One thing to note is that the MBP33S has a lower than recommended range of up to 590 feet. It’s fine for your home, but what about travel situations? Consider the limitations.
The biggest downside of this portable baby monitor is its battery life.
The battery life of the MBP33S is up to 2.5 hours of continuous use.
That’s not ideal. However, it can be recharged quickly.
When choosing the best monitor without Wi-Fi, you have to take into account the pros and the cons in order to make an informed decision before making travel arrangements.
Due to its compact design, the MBP33S provides a 320 x 240 resolution.
In comparison to some of the best travel baby monitors, that’s below standard. However, that’s enough to monitor your baby’s activity safely, especially with built-in night vision.
Yes, the MBP33S provides clear video even in low-light conditions.
Overall, the MBP33S is an easy-to-use baby monitor without Wi-Fi that makes a few compromises here and there, but still manages to hold up against its competition.
If you’re on a budget, this portable baby monitor is a bit more affordable.
3 • Angelcare AC517 Baby Movement Monitor
The Angelcare AC517 is a high-end portable baby monitor.
It’s a bit pricy, yes, but it offers a variety of advanced features. If you want to monitor your baby’s movements and breathing patterns – then the Angelcare AC517 is for you.
Let’s talk design. The reason why the Angelcare AC517 is one of the best travel baby monitors is due to its portability. But, you have a movement sensor pad to worry about.
That sensor pad has to be placed under your baby’s mattress in order to work.
It’s one more item to pack.
The 5″ screen is one of the best on the market. Plus, the Angelcare AC517 has a rechargeable battery that provides 8 hours of use, which is ideal for long distance travel.
The sleek and modern design of this portable baby monitor is sure to fit your taste.
Besides the clear camera picture – the Angelcare AC517 also has infrared night vision.
The range is suitable for traveling families, and it goes up to 820 feet.
The major selling point of this portable baby monitor is, of course, its unique and well-executed feature of movement monitoring, which takes this option to another level.
The sensor pad sends an alert if no movement is detected after 20 seconds.
While the The Angelcare AC517 has a variety of features – it’s generally easy to use.
On top of that, it’s a baby monitor without Wi-Fi. Even the movement pad is completely wireless, which makes this portable baby monitor an ideal option for parents on the go.
4 • HelloBaby Video Baby Monitor
Another great baby monitor without Wi-Fi, the HelloBaby is a popular, convenient and an affordable choice for parents planning a trip. It has everything you might possibly need.
The compact design and the 3.2″ inch screen make it a portable baby monitor.
The camera provides a clear picture and includes infrared night vision.
It’s a medium-sized screen compared to alternatives, but the camera is sharp.
Regarding the range and battery life, the HelloBaby knocks it out the park. Its range goes up to 960 feet, while the battery life can last for up to 8 hours of use.
The parent unit has a two-way communication system, allowing you to talk to your infant when you’re not around. If they’re acting up or crying, your voice can help soothe them.
Some of the bonus features include built-in lullaby sounds. It even has a night light.
The HelloBaby portable baby monitor is convenient and easy to use.
With a simple menu system and a responsive navigation tap, the HelloBaby portable baby monitor is easy for parents to navigate, especially when short on time while traveling.
While it may not have all the fancy features as more high-end options, the HelloBaby is one of the best travel baby monitors for parents that are looking for something affordable.
5 • Babysense Video Baby Monitor
If you’re looking for a baby monitor without Wi-Fi, this is another great choice.
Similarly to the Angelcare AC517 device, the Babysense comes with two sensor pads that provide real-time information on your baby’s movements, breathing and activity.
This advanced feature inevitably ups the price of this portable baby monitor.
Like the rest of our suggestions, this is a baby monitor without Wi-Fi. So, you don’t have to worry about a poor internet connection when you should up enjoying your baby trip.
The audio quality is excellent. You can hear and monitor your baby’s breathing to perfection. There’s additionally a two-way communication system in the parent unit.
The Babysense portable baby monitor also monitors the temperature in the baby’s room.
From night vision to movement detection sensors – the Babysense monitor has it all. On top of that, it’s remarkably easy to use, which is a crucial benefit when you’re traveling.
However, the baby monitor camera lacks a bit of finer clarity than some of the more advanced portable baby monitors use. Nevertheless, the camera still holds up well.
6 • More Products to Explore
There’s just so much variety when it comes to the best travel baby monitors.
It can be real headache to find the best one. We’re here to help you as much as we can.
From audio settings to camera quality, parents have lots of things to take into account.
Our selection of best travel baby monitors serves to point you in the right direction.
Naturally, there are dozens of other options that work quite as well, if not better, depending on your individual needs and preferences. Make sure to do your research.
Overall, a baby monitor without Wi-Fi is going to be your best bet.
That’s why we’ve exclusively covered non-Wi-Fi options.
That said, let’s sum things up and include additional choices for you to consider:
- Infant Optics DXR-5 Portable Video Baby Monitor
- Motorola MBP33S Wireless Video Baby Monitor
- Angelcare AC517 Baby Movement Monitor
- HelloBaby Video Baby Monitor
- Babysense Video Baby Monitor
- Infant Optics DXR-8 PRO Video Baby Monitor
- Motorola Comfort75 Video Baby Monitor
- ANMEATE Baby Monitor
- GoodBaby Baby Monitor
Tips for Using a Travel Baby Monitor
It’s one thing to find the best travel baby monitor, but another to use it effectively.
A baby monitor without Wi-Fi is a crucial tool for parents on the go. You have to keep tabs on your infant if circumstances demand that you temporarily leave them on their own.
In a best-case scenario, you don’t even end up using it. However, having a baby monitor without Wi-Fi is a must when you’re traveling in order to be able to keep your baby safe.
So, here are a few tips and tricks on baby safety when using a baby monitor:
• Test the monitor before leaving home.
Having bought the best travel baby monitor for your needs, you first need to test it.
Especially if you’re not familiar with how these devices work, you need to become comfortable using it at home so that you can use the baby monitor safely on the road.
Try it out in different rooms. Keep an eye on the battery life.
Get familiar with the features. Make sure everything is working properly.
Is the audio clear? Does the camera work?
Try it out during the night, too.
Learn how to use your baby monitor effectively before you even start packing your bags.
• Mind how you position the monitor.
Choosing the right placement and camera angle is key.
The monitor should be placed near, but not too close to the baby. You want to have an adequate view not only of your precious little angel but the baby’s entire sleeping area.
That way you can efficiently pick up on any sounds and movements your baby makes.
Consider interference, as well.
While the best baby travel monitors usually don’t face much interference, it’s important to test it out at home. Avoid placing the monitor next to any kind of electronic device.
It’s important to know this even though you likely don’t have any appliances in your baby’s room. Electrical devices and walls can affect the signal and cause interference.
Bear in mind is that the baby monitor should be out of your baby’s reach.
You want to prevent accidents and to ensure that the baby video monitor doesn’t find its place on the floor. If you have other children, make sure to take extra precautions.
Lastly, it’s important to consider the environment. What does that mean? It concerns the lighting and background noise. You want to be able to hear and see your baby clearly.
The best travel baby monitor is only as good as your placement.
• Experiment with volume and sound sensitivity.
Audio volume and clarity is just as important as the video feed.
By adjusting the volume settings, you can determine the sensitivity of the sounds picked up by your device. Tinkering with this is important if you find yourself in a noisy area.
Make sure to get a travel monitor that provides high-quality audio.
Higher sensitivity picks up even the slightest sounds and movements of your baby.
However, this depends on specific needs and preferences. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with the audio settings so that you can change and improve things on the fly.
Take some time to experiment with the features.
For example, when it’s night, you will probably need to adjust the volume because you already hear everything fine. During the day, however, you need to boost the volume up.
Keep these things in mind and you will find the right balance and be able to adjust it.
• Monitor the room temperature.
The best travel baby monitors can detect temperature.
This is a crucial part of keeping your baby safe when you’re temporarily away.
Why? Because your baby can get cold or hot in your absence. By monitoring the room temperature, you can detect when it’s time to respond by helping warm or cool your baby.
A sharp screen and camera quality go a long way, but additional features help, too.
Remember, the ideal room temperature for a baby ranges from 68 to 72°F.
Make it a habit to check your baby’s temperature, whether it’s day or night.
Keep your baby comfortable when they’re awake and when they’re asleep.
• Keep a close watch over your baby.
A baby monitor without Wi-Fi is a must-have for parents planning a getaway.
The best travel baby monitors are meant to help you when you have to leave your baby unattended for a while, but they’re not meant as an excuse to leave them on their own.
Using audio and video monitoring gives you that peace of mind when something comes up and you can’t be present with your baby. But your absence should never last too long.
With a young baby, you need to be present as much as possible.
Watching your baby on a screen is useful but not a substitute for your presence.
The best time to use a baby monitor without Wi-Fi is when your baby is asleep or napping. When they’re awake, they may react badly to your sudden going away.
So, keep these things in mind. Even the best travel baby monitor can’t make up for the observation, responsiveness and monitoring you provide by actually being there.
In Conclusion
Traveling with a baby may seem daunting, but it’s all about preparation.
With our selection of best travel baby monitors, you can have constant audio and video vision of your little one when you’re temporarily away, which takes away the stress.
Whether you’re going to visit your family across the country, or whether you’re going on vacation, you need the best baby video monitor to make the experience enjoyable.
But, with so many options available, it can be difficult to find the right baby audio and video monitor. Hopefully, our selection of choices and tips can point you the right way.
It’s all about considering the factors at play and keeping your personal needs in mind.
From screen and camera quality to night vision and room temperature sensors, the features at first seem overwhelming, but with time their usefulness becomes clear and necessary.
Consider everything and test the baby monitor out before traveling.
You want to make sure that everything works properly, from the monitor camera and the pan and tilt settings, to the way audio is transmitted and to checking for any interferences.
Finding the best one is certainly a challenge, but peace of mind is always worth it.
Mother of three and a primary school teacher. I’ve always loved being around children and helping them, so I chose my path as a teacher. It is sometimes hectic with three children, but I am 100 percent into it and wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.