Setup speed matters more in practice than most people expect while shopping — a travel cot that takes ten minutes and two people to assemble is a genuine problem after a long travel day with a tired baby.
Packed size and weight decide whether it’s realistic to bring on a flight or fits in a car boot alongside everything else — check both figures, not just one.
A firm, well-fitting mattress applies here just as much as at home — don’t assume a travel cot’s included mattress is automatically as supportive as your usual cot mattress; check reviews specifically on firmness if it matters to you.