Move the stroller! Strollers are great for trips to parks, beaches, farmers markets, outdoor sporting events, and more because they Carrying a lot of equipment or multiple children. Wagons come in all shapes and sizes, and at a range of prices: from basic plastic options with two seats to luxury models that offer reclining seats, lots of storage, mosquito nets, UV-protective sunshades, and infant car seat adapters. select. If you plan on letting your child ride in a carriage, make sure it has a seat and buckles or harness so you know it’s not just for gear.
To choose Best carriages for kids Safe and convenient, we researched more than 20 trucks in depth, and even Test a few options Assemble them in our New York City lab, outfit them with sandbag “babies” and gear, take them around obstacle courses, and more. We evaluated each van for durability, ease of cleaning and storage, materials and overall value. We continue to test some of these vans at home with the kids to learn more about their longevity, design and quality. These are our top picks.
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why we like it
take charge of Three cars in onethis Radio Flyer pick is sturdy, safe, affordable, and versatile. We love how the foldable stroller easily converts from hauling mode (without a seat) to seating for two to bench seating. Extra-wide wheels and link-type steering make it easy to pull even on grass or sand, and the rear storage bar holds two beach chairs. It can hold up to 150 pounds and is suitable for children 18 months and older.
We appreciate the van’s safety features, including seat belts and UV protected canopy to block the sun. Two built-in cup holders help keep kids (and caregivers) hydrated. The seats are made from recycled “DuraClean” fabric and feature extra padding for easy wiping. When not in use, the truck folds flat using a one-hand mechanism for easy storage.
but please note
There is no locking or braking mechanism.
Details:
- Maximum truck weight: 150 lbs.
- Truck weight: 32 lbs.
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why we like it
This affordable plastic carriage is best for preschoolers and toddlers and has enough room for two smaller children. It is designed with comfort in mind: two undulating contoured seats and deep leg well Let your child stretch.
The wagon has two built-in seat belts, cup holders and extra storage space with compartments under each seat. We love how roomy the carriage body is (especially for carrying stuff other than kids) and long handlewhich makes pulling the car easy.
but please note
The van is not foldable, so getting to and from your destination can be difficult. It still requires assembly, but we found it to be easy and didn’t take much time.
Details:
- Maximum truck weight: 75 lbs.
- Truck weight: 24 lbs.
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why we like it
This is an ideal option if your child is old enough to walk but too small to help carry any gear. This heavy-duty truck is a workhorse in sand or gravel, with Huge internal storage space for towing gear as well as two cup holders.
Whether you’re heading to the beach or to a football match, it can easily accommodate everything you need. this carriage Folds flat to only 10 inches tallso it can be easily stored in a closet, car trunk or garage. It also comes with an easy-to-carry carrying case.
but please note
There are no designated seats or seat belts, so your stuff is safe, but your kids aren’t.
Details:
- Maximum truck weight: 150 lbs.
- Truck weight: 22 lbs.
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why we like it
This Larktale van can carry two passengers (6 months and older, weighing up to 50 pounds) in luxuriously padded reclining seats. It has a five-point safety harness, adjustable handlebars, a quick-folding mechanism, a large external cargo basket, several pockets and a cup holder. Turning is a breeze thanks to Lockable swivel wheels and all-wheel suspensionand the brakes are easily engaged. You can use the handlebars or front pull bar to push it up the curb.
The drop-down footwell provides a more ergonomic seating position and zips open to clean dirt, snack crumbs and other debris. Seats have individual shades UPF 50+ awning With peek-a-boo windows. Infants can join in the fun when you purchase a car seat adapter, while a dual seat kit expands the van to accommodate four kids.
but please note
The seat belt is difficult to fasten and must be rethreaded to adjust the height. This 34.5-pound stroller is heavy and doesn’t ride well on sand, but it has no problem driving on hard surfaces.
Details:
- Maximum truck weight: 112 lbs.
- Truck weight: 34.5 lbs.
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why we like it
Another solid option from Mac Sports, this station wagon 150 lb capacity Will seriously lighten your load. While it’s not designed to transport children, it’s the best way to carry all their belongings, whether it’s to a sporting event or to the beach. For families with older kids and lots of stuff, this can be a lifesaver.
Despite its sturdy frame, we appreciate it light Enough to transport easily: When folded, the van only eight inches thick(!). It comes in fun colors and patterns like pink, red, stars, and camo so families can carry it in style.
but please note
This may not be practical if your child is young and needs something to ride on.
Details:
- Maximum truck weight: 150 lbs.
- Truck weight: 24 lbs.
Our review and testing process
In order to choose the best carriage for children, we spent several hours evaluating more than 20 children’s carriages on the market. We carefully considered design, functionality, materials, product weight, children’s age/height/weight recommendations, storage space and value. We also checked out a few vans that only had gear.
We tested several vans in the lab and at home with children for further evaluation. In the lab, our editors took the buggies through obstacle courses, folded them, assessed their characteristics, and loaded them with sandbag “babies” to replicate the weight of real children. We’ve selected spacious, well-designed strollers to suit every need and budget.
Factors to consider when using a children’s carriage
- Safety: If you plan on letting your kids ride in a wagon, make sure it’s designed for kids to ride in, not just for pulling gear. Before your child gets on board, familiarize yourself with the carriage’s safety features. Children should not ride in a carriage if it does not have seat belts or a designated seating area. If it tips over or stops suddenly, your child may fall and get hurt.
- size: Choose a wagon that’s the right size and purpose for your family, whether it’s for daily walks or the occasional trip to the beach. Look for features that fit your lifestyle, such as foldability, infant car seat accessories, or high storage capacity.
- Load-bearing capacity: Consider how many children you need the carriage to accommodate, their ages and weights, and how long you plan to use it. For your child’s safety and the longevity of your carriage, it’s important to follow weight limit guidelines. If you plan to use the van for several years, it’s best to go with a higher weight capacity. Even after your kids grow up, a wagon can be handy for hauling groceries or other gear like folding chairs, umbrellas, and coolers.
At what age can children ride in a horse-drawn carriage?
Many of our favorite strollers are suitable for children 18 months and older. Most strollers offer less support than a stroller or car seat, so your child must be able to sit upright without help to ride. Some vans can accommodate car seat adapters, allowing you to snap them in to transport younger children.
How to clean a van?
Clean the van according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Many fabric carts allow for spot cleaning, while some have removable sections that can be thrown into the washing machine. If you’re worried about milk and snack stains on your carriage, you can choose a plastic option that can be rinsed and dried outdoors.
How to ensure the safety of children on a carriage?
Many vans have three- or five-point seat belts that should be used on every ride. If your child does not have one, your child should walk beside the carriage rather than ride in it.
who we are
Maya Polton is a former marketing manager turned freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She is also the mother of an 11-year-old son, an 8-year-old son, and a 4-year-old daughter.
Additional reports:
Phoebe Sklansky is an editor and avid shopper who loves helping readers find the best products for their unique needs. She’s researched hundreds of baby products and tested dozens in our lab, from strollers to baby swings to diaper bags. One of her favorite old family photos is of Phoebe and her brother riding their Step2 wagon.
