With the summer months right around the corner, it’s that time of year again to get the kids outside. While a wagon isn’t exactly a necessity for fun outdoors, it can be really useful on long walks or on outings when you need to bring a lot of stuff (which is like, every outing with kids, right?).
Read on for a look at the new and improved kids’ wagons on the market today, along with Truly Mama’s top wagon picks.
In this article:
Kids’ Wagons: More than Just a Toy
Kids’ wagons aren’t what they used to be. Newer models go beyond the traditional wagon design and come loaded with features like sun covers, snack trays, and all-terrain wheels for functionality and convenience. Think of them as larger strollers equipped to cart around multiple kids in comfort and style.
These options are perfect for older toddlers or preschoolers who may want to walk some of the time, but don’t have the stamina for an entire morning at the zoo or the park. They’re also ideal for kids who feel too confined in a stroller or want to see the world more—every child is different and some may put up less of a fight with ample room to look around in a wagon. Plus, the storage options mean you can avoid carrying a packed diaper bag and throw everything you need in the wagon.
What to Look for in a Kids’ Wagon
Strollers are great, but when you have a lot of stuff to cart around or your older kids need a break from walking, a wagon is the way to go. There are dozens of wagon options on the market in a range of different prices. Here are some common features to look out for when comparing wagons:
- Multi-kid seating. Most wagons are designed for two children who can sit up well on their own, but some allow for up to four kids and others come with infant car seat adapters, perfect for an infant and a toddler. What is best for you comes down to the ages of your kids and how many will be riding in the wagon at a time. And, even if you have only one or two children, you might still want to spring for the multi-kid option so you can stash your stuff in the wagon instead.
- Sun and water covers. Protection from the sun is a big plus when you’re out and about. Many strollers come with canopies that are easily removable or fold down when you don’t need them. And some come with water covers to keep the kids dry just in case it starts to rain.
- Snack trays. Every parent knows snacks are key for an enjoyable outing. To help contain messes and spills, some wagons come with snack trays that snap right into the wagon, giving your kids a place to store their goldfish crackers. Some of these trays also have cup holders, so your kids have a designated spot to keep their sippy cups and you don’t have to help them find their water bottles at the bottom of the wagon every few minutes.
- Beach and all-terrain capabilities. If you’re planning to stay on paved roads, this may not be important to you, but if you know you want to take your wagon to the beach or on more rugged terrain, you’ll want to look for one equipped for the task. Some wagons are designed for this purpose with swivel-wheel steering and larger tires.
- Pulling vs pushing. Traditional wagons have one option for moving — pulling them behind you. But newer models allow you to pull or They’re basically like a stroller, but bigger and with more storage. If you’ll be using your wagon often, getting one that is easy to maneuver in this way may be worth the investment.
- Fold function. This one’s important if you want to be able to take your wagon with you on-the-go. Bigger can be better for fitting more kids and stuff in, but you have to make sure that the wagon can fold up easily enough for you to transport if needed.
It can be hard to narrow down your choices, so we picked our eight favorite kid’s wagons to suit any lifestyle and budget.
7 of the Best Kids Wagons
Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
While this bad boy is certainly an investment, it’s worth considering if you spent a considerable amount of time outside, or plan on having more children. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon Wayfarer is designed for two children, with two seats, two snack trays, and two full UPF 50+ sun canopies. You can also flip it from use as a stroller or a wagon, and even attach an infant seat in it. We love the all-terrain wheels that can take you from the beach to summer carnivals or just through your neighborhood for a stroll.
Read Review
The Evenflo All-Terrain Stroller Wagon also features a nice-sized snack tray with built-in cup holders, so your little one can easily access snacks and drinks while you stroll. It is designed for two children and comes with two seats, two snack trays, and two full UPF 50+ sun canopies. You can also attach an infant seat to it, so it’s perfect for a toddler and baby. The all-terrain wheels allow you to easily maneuver along gravel, dirt, grass and concrete.
Features:
- UPF 50+ protection
- Folds up for easy storage
- Weighs 34.7 pounds
- Will hold up to 110 pounds
Customer review:
“I absolutely love this wagon! I highly recommend it. Every time I’m out with it someone asks me where I got it & how cool it is. It’s so smooth, I love the shades , it’s easy to fold and unfold & I love all the cup holders. One thing I dislike is how hard it is to get into my sedan sometimes but it still fits just takes a bit of practice!” — Allee Baby review
Keep in mind:
At almost 35 pounds this option is on the heavier side and may be difficult to lift in and out of the trunk of a vehicle.
Wonderfold Multi-Purpose Four Passenger Wagon
This is a top-of-the-line wagon that can hold up to four kids. If you have a larger family, or are thinking of adding to your crew, this may be the option for you. This wagon is large, but it also conveniently folds up in a shockingly small package for easy storage. Plus, the heavy-duty wheels make for a smooth and comfortable ride and it can hold up to a whopping 300 pounds of kids or supplies. And one last feature? It converts into a playyard!
This wagon is really more like a giant stroller with more storage. The push handle allows you to guide the wagon along in front of you and the foot brake ensures the wagon is secure when sitting idle. It has a zippered panel, so your kids can climb in and out on their own (which they’ll love, guaranteed.) This bad boy comes equipped with 5-point harnesses and a removable UV protected canopy. Plus, once your kids have outgrown this wagon, you can take the seats and canopy out to convert it into a utility wagon perfect for hauling camping gear, gardening supplies, or sports equipment.
Features:
- Weighs 50 pounds
- Push handle
- Collapsible
- Steel frame that can support up to 300 pounds
- Can be converted into a play yard
- Optional pull strap
Customer review:
“Amazing wagon! Very roomy but not so large that it doesn’t fit in the vehicle. Pushes perfect, smooth and light to the touch. Lots of leg room and plenty of room to grow! The zipper opening is a huge plus, the kids love climbing in and out on their own through there.” — Wal Mart review
Keep in mind:
This option is on the pricier side so it’s definitely an investment, but it’s versatile with many uses so it could serve your family for many years, especially if you have more than two kids.
Veer Cruiser
This is another option that operates a lot like a stroller, but with wagon storage and seating. The Veer Cruiser has two seats and can hold up to 110 pounds. It is built more like a mountain bike than a wagon with large, airless tires and swivel-wheel steering, making it great for camping or moving along trails and rugged terrain.
The veer cruiser is a popular wagon for many reasons, including its sturdy design that will maneuver easily over bumps and rocks. It includes two seats, with two cup holders and one snack tray. You can pull the veer cruiser along behind you like a traditional wagon or lock it in place for easy pushing. This wagon is also compatible with infant car seats, but the adapter is sold separately.
Features:
- Front swivel wheels
- 3-point safety harnesses
- Weighs 32.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 37 x 20 x 25 inches; folded 37 x 20 x 14 inches
Customer review:
“We live in the desert, so a wagon that could handle all terrain was a must for us! The veer was so far the only one that stood up to that challenge! We can take it through the dirt, gravel, grass and even sand without any problems! The canopy is a must for the hot Texas sun! The basket adds great additional storage too!” — Allee Baby Review
Keep in mind:
This wagon does come with a snack and drink tray, but many other accessories, like a retractable canopy, are sold separately at an additional cost.
Baby Trend Stroller Wagon
The best part about this wagon is that it comes with seat mats that provide extra cushion and fold down for your child to nap on. If you have a younger toddler who isn’t a fan of strollers, this could be a good option for giving your child a bit of freedom, while keeping them comfortably contained. It converts from push to pull and comes with plenty of snack and storage place. Plus, this is definitely an affordable pick for multi-kid stroller wagons.
The Baby Trend Stroller Wagon comes with two seats, both equipped with 3-point harnesses for safety and security. It comes with a stroller style push handle that collapses down for easy storage under the wagon. In addition to the snack tray for the kids, this wagon also comes with a gray and cup holder at the push handle for the parent to use. Like similar models, this wagon also comes with an infant car seat adapter, so young babies can ride in the wagon as well.
Features:
- Canopy with UPF 50+ protection
- 3-point harnesses
- Weighs 42 pounds
- Dimensions: 42 x 27 x 44 inches
Customer review:
“This stroller/wagon combo is so convenient for our 2 and 4-year-old boys. The quality is everything I’d expect from Baby Trend. We’ve used it for a couple short walks, and it’s comfortable to push and maneuver.” — Wal Mart review
Keep in mind:
One potential drawback of the Baby Trend Stroller Wagon is the space. It is smaller than some other models. If you do add a car seat, another child may feel a bit cramped.
Radio Flyer 3-in-1 EZ Folding Wagon
Designed for kids ages 18 months to five years old, this wagon offers convenience and comfort. As the name suggests, this wagon folds easily for convenient storage and can also fit in most vehicles, so it’s great to travel with. You may also recognize the Radio Flyer brand from your own childhood wagon, so you know this brand is well-established and trusted.
One unique feature of this wagon is it’s quiet-ride tires, so if you’re out and about during nap time, your kid can take a quiet, peaceful snooze in the Radio Flyer. It also converts into three different riding modes, which is helpful as your child develops or goes through stages where they don’t want to ride the same way anymore. The thick padded seats offer comfort and the seatbelts help keep your kids secure.
Features:
- Designed for kids ages 3-10
- Holds up to 150 pounds
- Can convert to flatbed or bench
- Dimensions: 39.37 x 18.5 x 32.68 inches
Customer review:
“Great grandson only one but he absolutely loves this wagon. He sit right next to the back with seat belt buckled and looks at every single thing so intrigued to be outside. The top makes it so nice to keep him out of the sun or even a mist rain. Live watching him enjoy his ride. Worth every penny.” — Buy Buy Baby review
Keep in mind:
Like with the Veer Cruiser, many of this wagon’s accessories are sold separately, including a canopy and all-terrain tires. If these add-ons are important to you, keep this cost in mind.
Hauck Eco Wagon
If looks are your thing, then check out the Hauck Eco Wagon, with its unique, yet attractive design. This wagon is also more affordable than some other options, so if you’re looking for a high-quality wagon for simple outings and not exactly off-roading, the Hauck Eco is a good choice.
This wagon has two cushioned seats for a soft, comfortable ride, and while not exactly designed for rough terrain, the wheels glide well on smooth surfaces, making it easy to maneuver along paved sidewalks. The Hauck Eco Wagon comes with a detachable canopy and sturdy fabric that’s easy to wipe down. Plus, this wagon has a locking brake, so it stays in one spot when you’re not pulling it.
Features:
- Removable and washable fabric
- Removable weather shade
- Cushioned seats
- Holds up to 120 pounds
- Dimensions: 38 x 39 x 30 inches
Customer review:
“The wagon is much bigger than pictured I think. Very slick looking. Everyone compliments and asks where we got it from. Doesn’t fold as small as I would like because the wheel base is so wide. The handle is very comfortable to pull, if you let the handle go, it doesn’t slam on the ground. Great on sand and concrete. Actually jogged a mile with it and it was fine to hold. Easy to pull two kids in.” — WalMart review
Keep in mind:
One potential drawback is that this wagon doesn’t come with any harnesses or seatbelts, so you’ll need to make sure your child stays sitting.
Step 2 All Around Canopy Wagon
This wagon’s unique low-to-the-ground design makes it easy for young children to get in and out of by themselves. The door also comes with a latch, so it stays put during the ride. Equipped with two child seat belts for safety, and a fold down storage compartment for drinks, snacks or toys, this wagon offers many features at a great price.
The seats on the Step 2 All Around Canopy Wagon can flip into trays or convert into a flatbed for hauling toys or equipment. The wagon handle also folds underneath the wagon for easy storage.
Features:
- Seat flips into a flatbed, seat or table
- Side door
- Six cup/snack holders
- Dimensions: 19.5 x 41 x 39.5 inches
- 2 safety belts
- Rear storage compartment
Customer review:
“I was so excited to stroll my little one around, she loves it. Can fold seats down and hull groceries or pumpkins just makes things a lot more convenient! Another fabulous part is there are holes in the bottom to drain water so it can be easily rinsed or if left in rain doesn’t pool water. Folds up easy and is light enough to lift into our vehicle.” — Buy Buy Baby review
Keep in mind:
One thing to keep in mind is that this wagon does not fold or collapse, so it may be harder to store and may not easily fit in the back of a vehicle. It also has a pretty limited weight capacity of only 75 pounds when compared to a lot of the other stroller wagons we reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are stroller wagons worth it?
Some stroller wagons can be an investment, but depending on how often you plan to use it and your family’s lifestyle, they can definitely be worth it. They can be great for hauling supplies long after your child outgrows the seating too.
What is the best stroller wagon?
This comes down to personal preference and which features matter most to you. Some stroller wagons are best equipped for all types of terrain, while others offer more seating or better storage. Make a list of the features you want included in a wagon and decide how much you’re willing to spend, then look for one that meets your needs.
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