• Play yards are not only for playing anymore.Paul Christensen/Digital Vision/Getty Images
  
  When searching for a portable play yard, the number of options available to you can sometimes be overwhelming. There are generally three categories of play yards available. These include basic play yards, play yards that contain a raised bassinet and/or changing area, and deluxe play yards that contain mobiles and other toys to entertain your baby. Portable play yards are excellent options for traveling with baby or just visiting Grandma for the night. They are also helpful to have at home, keeping baby safe, secure and close by as you complete your daily routine. Keep in mind your budget, space limitations and other factors when making the choice to buy a portable play yard.
  
  

Basic Play Yards

• Basic Play Yards usually contain a netted area for a larger baby to play in or sleep in if necessary. When choosing, be sure to fully inspect any model before you buy it. It should be able to be locked into place easily and effectively. Look for a washable mattress and removable sheets. Be sure that it is light enough for you to transport easily, but heavy enough so a baby cannot tip it over. If you opt for a wooden play yard, be sure the slats are not more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart to avoid entrapment.
  
  A good option for a basic play yard would be The Crib Yard Play Yard, available from One Step Ahead. Another option is the Cosco Funsport Play Yard.
  
  

Play Yards with Bassinets

• A newer trend in play yards is the addition of a bassinet and/or changing area. Usually, these areas are high up and attach to the sides of the play yard, giving you the added flexibility of having a basic netted play area available when necessary. Be sure to inspect the bassinet and make note of the weight limit and size constraints. Be sure there is a strap on the changing table to keep the child safe during diaper changes. While using the play yard with a bassinet, it is possible to use the large netted area underneath for storage. Two options worth looking into are the Graco Modern Pack and Play with Bassinet and Changer or the Safety 1st Deluxe Play Yard.
  
  

Deluxe Play Yards

• The newest type of play yard available is the deluxe play yard. These play yards often contain bassinets, changing tables, musical mobiles for newborns, mosquito netting or a sunshade. Some often come with wheels for easier moving. Keep in mind that these types of play yards are much heavier and can be a bit bulky to move around. If you are buying a play yard with the intention of using it for travel, be sure that a deluxe play yard will fit in your car's trunk. You can often leave the bassinet and changing table pieces behind if the play yard is too heavy or cumbersome. Two choices for these types of play yards would be the Eddie Bauer Complete Care Play Yard or the Baby Trend Columbia Play Yard.