The Best Wagons for Kids to Take on Outdoor Adventures
Kids’ wagons have stood the test of time for a reason: They make life more fun for little ones, and in turn easier for their parents. Why do kiddos love getting tugged around in these beloved four-wheelers? It’s anybody’s guess—but if you owned your own children’s wagon growing up, you probably still remember the rush. Whether it be the wind whistling by, or the simple thrill of sitting back and enjoying the scenery, one thing’s for sure—these outdoor toys have universal appeal. Although it is possible to find wagons that can be adapted to carry infants, this type of toy is best suited for toddlers and big kids.
Ready to find the best wagons for kids? Here, learn all about the types being sold today, plus all the reasons why you should consider buying one for your family.
In this article:
Benefits of kids’ wagons
Types of kids’ wagons
Best wagons for kids
Sure, kids’ wagons can be downright adorable, but that’s just one of the many draws. Here, find a list of a few other perks:
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Durability: Children’s wagons have a boxy, weighted shape that can roll over all sorts of ground with ease. The most advanced models can handle everything from the rocky dirt in your backyard to shelly sand at the beach. The tire specifications of a kids’ wagon will tell you just how “off-road” it can go.
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Size: By design, kids’ wagons are meant to hold a lot without sacrificing mobility—whether that’s a lot of toys, a lot of children or a lot of pounds in general! That’s why parents love them for trips to the farmer’s market or park, where they can pack their kids, produce and picnic all in one place. Of course, you’ll want to pay mind to weight limits, age grades and safety instructions before stuffing them to the brim.
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Versatility: Even the most basic kids’ wagons (simple carts with open tops) can be used in many different ways. Children can use one to tote their toys around (which develops their cleanup, organization and motor skills), while you can use one to tote them around. But as you’ll soon see, the possibilities don’t stop there. Some newer models can be adapted to cart around babies, toddlers and even multiple siblings at once. Check your model’s description to discover all the ways it can be (safely and properly) used.
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Entertainment: Kids’ wagons are great because the bigger models let children ride along with their siblings or friends. Better yet, unlike with strollers, they can usually face each other for conversations and play. The top kids’ wagons also include space for toys, food and even drinks—yes, we’re talking cupholders! That way, your tyke can feel like they’re riding in supreme style, which may just convince them that they want to go run errands with you.
Before you decide on the best wagon for your kid, you should figure out what you’ll be using it for. If it’s mostly for Instagram photo-ops and short strolls around your home or neighborhood, a traditional model may be just right. But nowadays, there are also high-tech kids’ wagons with fancy features worth considering. All in all, there are two main types of children’s wagons available. But know that even within those categories, designs can vary dramatically. To find the best option for you, keep scrolling to read about specific models with unique capabilities that have caught our eye. But first, brush up on the basics.
Toy Kids’ Wagons
Chances are, you’re familiar with Radio Flyer, the most famous purveyor of classic kids’ wagons. But the brand isn’t the only one to sell toy wagons. These cart-like pull toys—crafted from wood, metal or, more recently, plastic—work well for playtime, whether it’s your kid or their stuffed animals being whooshed around. But newer souped-up models come with canopies, drink holders, seat belts and other extras for additional comfort and safety. That means they can handle more advanced adventures.
Stroller Kids’ Wagons
Sometimes, you just need more room (and versatility) than even the best traditional wagon—or stroller!—can provide. Cue these special push-and-pull four-wheelers, which offer all the perks of a regular stroller (think: fabric shades and car seat clip-ins) but have higher weight limits and extra storage space. Note, however, that some places (including Disney parks) ban stroller wagons because of their bulk. And understandably, these baby, toddler and kids’ wagons often cost more than their traditional counterparts.
Whether you’re driven by nostalgia or necessity, there’s a great kids’ wagon out there for your family. Here, shop some of the best models on the market, guaranteed to deliver good times aplenty.
Best classic kids’ wagon
Really, you can’t go wrong with any of Radio Flyer’s assortment when it comes to the best wagons for kids, but we like this all-terrain model for its classic build combined with no-nonsense tires. The rugged vehicle goes on and off road smoothly, with the added benefit of a controlled turn radius that prevents tipping. It also holds up to 200 lbs. and has a fold-under handle for simpler storage. If you’re looking for a red wagon for kids in-line with what you had as a child, this is the one for you.
Ages: 18 months+
What we love:
- Rugged 10" air tires
- Long, foldable handle
- Holds up to 200 lbs.
What to consider:
- Assembly required
- Steel frame may get hot
- No protection from the sun
Buy it: Radio Flyer 34" All-Terrain Steel & Wood Wagon, $150, Target.com
Best beach kids’ wagon
If your summers are spent almost entirely at the seaside, a special beach wagon for kids might be worth the investment—especially if you’ve previously struggled trudging through the sand with tons of gear in tow. While many of the all-terrain kids’ wagons work well at the beach, this trendy wood and steel cart was made just for the challenge. The heavy-duty toddler wagon (which holds 286 lbs.!) fits towels, toys and—yes—tots. It’s also just plain stylish.
Ages: 18 months+
What we love:
- Large air tires travel easily across soft sand
- Collapsible handle for easy storage
- Holds up to 286 lbs.
What to consider:
- Assembly required
- Weight capacity is reduced to 132 lbs. when traveling across soft sand
- To prevent rust, the wagon must be wiped clean and stored in a covered area
Buy it: The Beach People Beach Cart, $245, TheBeachPeople.com
Best collapsible kids’ wagon
Parents can’t get enough of this collapsible wagon for kids—just look at the hundreds of five-star ratings on Target. It holds 55 lbs. per seat and accommodates popular infant car seats, so it counts as a baby wagon as well as a toddler and kids’ vehicle. A removable UV-blocking canopy (with an accompanying storage pocket), roll-down shades (for additional sun protection and privacy) and a diaper-slash-bottle organizer all come included. The wagon can be pushed or pulled over on- and off-road terrain. You’ll also appreciate the easy-turn wheels, adjustable handlebars and one-touch parking brake. And compact foldability is a given. Did we mention the five-point safety harnesses for older kids? This stroller-wagon hybrid truly has it all at a relatively affordable price point.
Ages: 0 months+ with car seat adapter and 6 months+ in stroller mode
What we love:
- No assembly required
- Easy-fold for storage
- 5-point safety harnesses
- Car seat adapter included
- Removable UV canopy
- Airless tires with back-wheel suspension
What to consider:
- Holds up to 110 lbs.
- Car seat adapter is compatible with a selection of Graco, Evenflo, Britax and Chicco models
Buy it: Delta Children Jeep Wrangler Stroller Wagon with Included Car Seat Adapter, $320, Target.com
Best wagon for multiple kids
All aboard the coolest little kids’ wagon! Wonderfold’s latest innovation is this four-seater wagon designed for passengers 6 months and up. The travel system offers all the conveniences of a traditional stroller—one-step unfolding, plenty of pockets, front-wheel suspension and a foot brake—alongside the endless possibilities and fun of an all-terrain wagon. It has two bench seats (each with a weight capacity of 99 lbs.) fitted with five-point safety harnesses, to keep your littles secure. And, once your kids are grown, simply remove the seats and use the wagon to cart beach supplies or camping gear. Bonus features include an adjustable UV canopy, a deep carriage-well for storage and a zippered front door kids can easily climb through. Plus, children can face each other as they ride along in style. What could be better for playdates or large families?
Ages: 6 months+
What we love:
- Holds up to 300 lbs.
- One-step foot brake
- Easy-fold for storage
- 5-point safety harnesses
- Adjustable height handle
- Removable UV canopy
- All-terrain pivoting wheels
What to consider:
- Expensive option
- It’s bulky and will take up a lot of space even when folded
Buy it: WONDERFOLD W4 Original Stroller Wagon, $899, Amazon.com
Best baby wagon
The Veer is certainly one of the more luxurious kids’ wagons on the market, but fans argue that the features are unparalleled (it’s made using aircraft-grade materials!). The two seats hold up to 55 lbs. each, and adapters (sold separately) accommodate the most popular infant car seats, making it a stellar baby wagon. That said, it’s also one of the best wagons for toddlers, courtesy of the cup holders and ultra-convenient snack tray. You can push or pull this stroller hybrid on smooth paths, over bumpy terrain and through narrow doors. The folding wagon for kids also boasts three-point harnesses, performance braking and multiple configurations.
Ages: 0 months with the car seat adapter to 5 years+
What we love:
- Holds up to 350 lbs.
- ASTM-compliant and JPMA-certified
- Compact fold that weighs just 32 lbs.
- Cup holders and snack tray
- All-terrain tyres
- Can be cleaned with a hose
What to consider:
- Infant car seat adapter sold separately
- Some customers report that it is heavy and difficult to steer
Buy it: The Veer All-Terrain Cruiser, $699, GoVeer.com
Best toddler wagon
If you’re looking for a basic but versatile toddler wagon, this is it. The foldable wagon for kids comes with a UV-blocking canopy, seatbelts, cup holders and bonus single reclining seat for naps on the go. It has a weight capacity of 120 lbs. and offers two modes for travel: push and pull. Also of note, the side zips down to create stationary bench seating. The only other thing we want to flag: This model isn’t explicitly “all-terrain”—if you want something with similar features but a sturdier base and tires, try another Radio Flyer model.
Ages: 12 months+
What we love:
- Reclining seat
- 5 point safety harnesses
- Rear brake
- Adjustable UV canopy
- Dual push and pull handles
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Affordable price point
What to consider:
- Holds up to 120 lbs.
- Assembly required
- Isn’t suitable for all terrains
Buy it: Radio Flyer Discovery Stroll 'N Wagon with Canopies Folding Wagon, $179, Walmart.com
Best stroller kids’ wagon
There are tons of reasons why parents call this Keenz model wagon the overall best stroller wagon. It has three adjustable heights, taking it from a baby wagon to a big kids’ wagon. (It’s designed for children who can sit independently and are up to 45 lbs.) Other smart features include one-step brakes, lockable front wheels, adjustable handles and five-point harnesses. On top of all that, it comes with a cooler bag (a huge bonus) plus other convenient storage. Plus, the collapsible wagon for kids folds down to a much smaller, self-standing size. We also love that it’s suited for children with special needs. Thoughtful add-ons like drapes and curtains can help prevent sensory overload, while ample space provides room for medical devices. Need extra room for multiple siblings? Check out the all-new Keenz 7s four-person stroller wagon for the same great features, plus a footwell and two additional seats.
Ages: 12 months+
What we love:
- 5-point safety harnesses
- Mesh curtains
- Cup holder and cooler bag
- Handle with adjustable height positions
- JPMA-certified
What to consider:
- Holds up to 110 lbs.
- Some customers report that it’s difficult to maneuver
Buy it: Keenz Stroller Wagon, $499, Amazon.com
Best kids’ wagon with canopy
Yes, we’ve already spotlighted a couple kids’ wagons with canopies, but here’s another awesome option for babies, toddlers and up. The Evenflo Pivot seamlessly shifts from stroller to wagon model with a flip of the handle. Better yet, independent tots can easily climb in thanks to the drop-down feature at the front. Meanwhile the ultra-durable tires let you traverse any terrain with baby in tow (yep, even the beach!). It comes with two seats, seat belts, cup holders, storage baskets and—of course—two sun-stopping UPF 50+ protective canopies.
Ages: 6 months to 5 years
What we love:
- UPF 50+ canopy
- Compact fold
- All-terrain wheels
- Push-and-pull modes
- Drop-down feature
- Customers report that it’s easy to maneuver
What to consider:
- Toddler and car seat adapter sold separately
- Holds up to 110 lbs.
Buy it: Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon, $400, Evenflo.com
Best budget kids’ wagon
Did you know Step2, one of our go-to baby toy brands, makes toddler wagons too? This model has space for two children, under-seat storage, safety belts, deep molded footbeds and double cup holders within easy reach of your little rider. It’s made from EverTough plastic that promises unmatched durability and can be wiped down with a household cleaner. Plus, the easy-latch door makes it easy for kids to hop out of the cab once you’ve reached your destination. This affordable option is perfect for twins, siblings or best friends!
Ages: 18 months +
What we love:
- Fold-away handle
- Cup holders
- Under-seat storage
- Treaded wheels
What to consider:
- Holds up to 75 lbs.
- No protection from the sun
- Not suitable for all terrains
Buy it: Step2 Wagon for Two Plus, $120, Step2.com
Best kids’ wagon for winter
Dreaming of a wagon that can cruise across sandy beaches, muddy fields and snow-covered plains? We hear you. Whatever the season, enjoy outdoor excursions with the Rambler Wagon by L.L. Bean. The classic red kids’ wagon has 10” pneumatic tires, removable hardwood side rails and carries a whopping 600-pound maximum load. Plus, the comfy padded seat has a waterproof cover. The best part? It comes with attachable skis that work well on snow and ice.
Ages: 3 years +
What we love:
- Holds up to 600 lbs.
- Heavy-duty wheels
- Roomy enough for two children
What to consider:
- Assembly required
- No safety harness
Buy it: L.L. Bean Rambler Wagon XL Winter Set, $359, LLBean.com
Best Kids’ Wagon for Toys
Last up on our list of the best wagons for kids is this miniature model that’s perfect for toting around toys. Made from recycled plastic and other sustainable materials, this toy wagon is BPA- phthalate- and PVC-free. The chunky wheels were made to withstand the outdoors without scratching up your precious indoor floors. Oh and did we mention that this model is dishwasher safe too? (Warning: This wagon isn’t designed for kids to sit in.)
Ages: 18 months+
What we love:
- Eco-friendly materials
- Can be used indoors and outside
- Cotton pull rope can be stored inside the wagon
What to consider:
- Designed to carry toys not children
Buy it: Green Toys Wagon, $29, FatBrainToys.com
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