The Best and Safest Wagons for Kids by Age
Leaving the house with kids is a vastly different experience than walking out the door alone. Babies, toddlers and even older children require a diaper bag, snacks, a change of clothes, a stroller, toys, and all the other stuff they just can’t live without.
And that lengthy list doesn’t include the gear and accessories required for a family vacation or trip to the beach – you need something big (like a wagon!) to haul everything you need!
If you want to cut down on the amount of stuff you need to bring, or at least make it bearable to haul everything (including children), don’t overlook the benefits of owning a wagon.
Wagons make it easier to have a family outing to an amusement and can hold your cooler and beach toy. The right wagon can also replace your trusty stroller and carry babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Classic red wagons are also the perfect alternative for children who feel like they’ve outgrown a stroller but still want to be carried or taken on a ride!
Related: The Best Toddler Bike for Teaching Your Little One to Ride
Whether you’re looking for a multi-purpose stroller alternative for your first baby or have several children and all their toys to haul, we’ve researched the very best and safest wagons for kids of all ages.
The Best Wagons for Kids of All Ages
Best Overall Wagon: Keenz 7S 2.0 Ultimate Adventure Stroller Wagon
Best Affordable Wagon: Radio Flyer 3-In-1 EZ Folding Wagon
Best Wagon for Yard Play: Step2 Wagon for Two Plus
Best Wagon for Large Families: Wonderfold X4 Quad Stroller Wagon
Best Wagon for Daily Adventures: Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
Best All-Terrain Wagon: Veer Cruiser Stroller Wagon
Best Stroller Wagon: Baby Trend Expedition Stroller Wagon
Best Wagon That Grows With You: Delta Jeep Deluxe Wrangler Stroller Wagon
Best Wagon for Older Kids: Hauck Eco Wagon
Best Wagon for Babies: Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon
Can I Use A Wagon Instead Of A Stroller?
Due to an overabundance of caretakers using a wagon in lieu of a stroller, many are being called stroller wagons or wagon strollers.
Certain wagon models are designed with similar features and can replace a stroller in a ton of situations. When carrying multiple children, cargo, or heading to the beach, they may even be superior. However, a wagon cannot replace every type of stroller.
For example, if you love to run, you won’t be able to switch out your jogging stroller for a wagon. Or, if you prefer a compact umbrella stroller, you probably won’t find a similarly sized wagon. Also, it’s important to note that wagons are not recommended for infants unless it has a car seat adapter.
Wagon Features To Consider
Adjustable handlebar
Whether you are tall or short, you want your wagon handlebar to be just right. Be sure to check if the handlebar is adjustable and how high or low it reaches.
Wheels
Are you looking for a beach wagon, one that can go off-road, or something to pull around the amusement park? Wheels play a major role in where you can take your wagon and how useful it will be in all situations.
Capacity
Most wagons fit up to two children in safety harnesses. However, some wagons can fit four or six children.
Canopy Wagons
Keeping kiddos protected from the sun is essential, so you might want to opt for a canopy wagon and check whether it’s removable or stationary.
Car seat adapter
Since it’s not recommended for babies under six months old to ride in a wagon, you will need a wagon with a car seat adapter if you plan to haul your little one.
Wagon Storage
From a storage basket to storage pockets, it’s helpful to have a wagon with ample space.
Wagon Accessories
Additional accessories include a snack tray, cup holders, sun shades, footwells, and more. Also, be sure to check if things like the canopy or car seat adapter are included or sold separately.
Wagon Safety Precautions
Similar to strollers, wagons also have precautions that must be followed to keep little ones safe. While there isn’t much data about wagons for babies and kids, there are stroller safety tips listed by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
- Always use harness straps as described in the stroller instructions.
- Store heavy items like diaper bags and purses in the basket underneath, not hanging from the handlebars, to prevent the stroller from tipping over.
- Always set the brake when the stroller is parked.
- Follow weight and age limits in the stroller instructions.
How Old Should A Child Be To Ride In A Wagon?
Each wagon will have a specific weight capacity and age limit that should be followed. However, babies should only ride in a wagon if they can sit up and support themselves independently. Even with a five-point harness, many wagons do not offer adequate support for infants and babies.
Is It Safe For My Baby To Sleep In A Wagon?
Because children must be harnessed into the wagon when in motion or wearing a seat belt, a wagon is probably not the most comfortable or safest place to sleep. If a wagon features a car seat adapter and your infant is snug in their carrier, it’s a safe place to snooze, as long as you are within reach.
Best and Safest Wagons for Kids
Best Overall Wagon
Keenz 7S 2.0 Ultimate Adventure Stroller Wagon
Product price: $599.99
Since safety is the most important feature, this heavy-duty kids' wagon is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and meets all safety requirements. It’s equipped with all-terrain wheels, a snack tray with cupholders, and additional storage space on both ends. Plus, two five-point harnesses keep your little ones secure while you’re pushing or pulling.
Best Affordable Wagon
Radio Flyer 3-In-1 EZ Folding Wagon
Product price: $109.99
This bestselling Radio Flyer wagon is a two-seater with a UV protection canopy that also unzips for bench seating. The recognizable red wagon is also foldable for convenient storage in a trunk or closet.
Best Wagon for Yard Play
Product price: $119.99
For walks around the neighborhood or letting your kids play in the yard, consider this durable pull wagon. The plastic exterior is ideal for all types of weather, and it also features a storage space for snacks, drinks, or diapers.
Best Wagon for Large Families
Wonderfold X4 Quad Stroller Wagon
Product price: $495.00
Those with more than two children will love this extra-large collapsible wagon with five-point harnesses for four kiddos. It features a removable canopy and all-terrain wheels. Plus, you can push it or use the pull handle.
Best Wagon for Daily Adventures
Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
Product price: $399.99
With a UPF 50 canopy, all-terrain wheels, and easy storage, this foldable wagon is a must-have for daily adventures. You can change the handle from push to pull mode or modify it by adding a toddler and infant car seat.
Best All-Terrain Wagon
Product price: $699.99
From sand to snow to mud, there isn’t a terrain this high-quality utility wagon can’t handle. It features seating for two, rugged front wheels, a snack tray and an adjustable handle.
Best Stroller Wagon
Baby Trend Expedition Stroller Wagon
Product price: $219.99
This collapsible folding wagon features the best of a wagon and stroller in one convenient product. It’s compact enough to act as a stroller and accommodates an infant car seat by using the universal adapter.
Best Wagon That Grows With You
Delta Jeep Deluxe Wrangler Stroller Wagon
Product price: $399.99
With a car seat mode, stroller mode, and wagon mode, this wagon is useful for years to come. It comes with a removable canopy, adjustable handlebars on each side, puncture-proof tires, a cupholder, and a cooler.
Best Wagon for Older Kids
Product price: $259.48
Because this wagon doesn’t have safety harnesses, it’s best used for older children or hauling toys to the beach. It has a removable canopy and cushioned seats and also folds flat.
Best Wagon for Babies
Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon
Product price: $449.99
Since it accepts any Graco infant car seat and contains several safety harnesses, this is the best baby wagon for your little one. It also has two independent canopies, zippered pocket for storage, and cupholders for parents and children.
For even more family fun this summer, check out our guide to The Best New Outdoor Toys Kids Will Love This Summer!
