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20 best beach wagons for hauling gear and kids in summer 2024: Our review

Summer will be here before you know it and there’s a host of products to add to your shopping cart before you hit the beach.

Today, we’re giving all the love and attention to beach carts — from classic models like the timeless Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon to more modern transportation mechanisms like the Larktale Caravan Coupe V2, and more compact options including the Tommy Bahama Wonder Wheeler.

We know what you’re thinking: If I’m only going to the beach for a day trip, why do I need a larger-than-life cart? Well, here’s why.

Those beach days add up, and you need a centralized wheeler to carry your beach chairs, a quality umbrella and some odds and ends (like bikinis, oversized sunglasses and cover-ups). Maybe grab a cooler too!

RELATED: Best Amazon deals on pool floats

With a quick add-to-cart action, you’ll be thanking yourself for this practical, convenience-bringing essential that everyone will be asking about.

Ahead, we pulled the best ones to keep you locked and loaded during these warmer temps. From Amazon to Walmart, you’re sure to find your next go-to.

Best overall: Quest Beach Wagon with Sand Wheels

Dick's Sporting Goods

Pros:

  • Wheels are large and sturdy
  • Folds easily for storage
  • Includes mesh cover

Cons:

  • Perhaps less stylish than some other brands (only two color options for this model)

Dimensions: 33.5 x 20 x 45.7 inches

Specially designed with sand wheels, Quest’s Beach Wagon is difficult to pass on. It folds for simple storage and transportation, has extra-large cup holders, and can hold up to 225 pounds with a single trolley down the beach path. My favorite part of this wagon is that it arrived pre-assembled, all you have to do is throw in the removable base. The wheels glide and turn exceptionally easily and it’s sturdy enough to withstand a good amount of weight. I love the simple construction of this wagon.


Best beach wagon for kids: Larktale Caravan Coupe V

A grey and green double stroller
Larktale

Pros:

  • Great color selection, sleek, attractive design
  • Fits up to four kids and each seat reclines and offers a harness
  • Height-adjustable handlebar
  • Dual sun canopies and rain cover

Cons:

  • May take up more space and be a bit more difficult to steer through tight places and narrow sidewalks

Dimensions: 9.5 x 30 x 42.5 inches

The Caravan coupe is perfect for larger families. This spacious model fits up to four riders and collapses to fit in a standard-sized sedan trunk. Each seat reclines and offers adjustable harnesses for added safety. I appreciate the storage options in this cart — you can choose from the storage basket, handlebar console, and storage console for use inside or outside the wagon, on top of a convenient self-leveling cup holder and interior pockets to stash toys. Despite the generous size, the caravan was rather easy for me to construct. Everything clicks into place easily, and set-up shouldn’t take much more than 20 minutes.


Best mesh beach cart: Tommy Bahama the Wonder Wheeler

A person pushing a beach cart
Tommy Bahama

Pros:

  • Small, compact design
  • Lightweight
  • Sturdy wheels ideal for rough terrains
  • The internal bag is flexible and deep for optimal storage

Cons:

  • Can not be used to hold children

Dimensions: 26 x 11.5 x 30.5 inches

I recommend the Wonder Wheeler for Tommy Bahama for a more compact option. Although I wouldn’t suggest using this to stow your kiddo, the Wonder Wheeler is ideal for groceries, toys, and more beach materials. A removable tote provides easy access to all the essentials and can easily be used as a picnic bag. While this cart comes in a smaller package, it’s still exceptionally sturdy. The thick puncture-resistant wheels on this cart help it trek easily through a variety of rough terrains.


Best covered wagon: Radio Flyer Beach & Boardwalk Wagon

A red and grey baby wagon
Amazon

Pros:

  • Timeless, classic design
  • Rear storage bar to carry beach chairs
  • Can be converted into bench seating

Cons:

  • Requires a bit more detailed assembly

Dimensions: 47.6 x 24.4 x 38.4 inches

Radio Flyer is the true OG when it comes to wagons and carts. The stylish, timeless firetruck red shade brings me right back to my childhood beach days. While the classic appeal is certainly a selling point, I also appreciate the design. All the details are made to make your beach days more comfortable: the rear storage bar can hold up to two beach chairs, the wagon is easily collapsible, and side zippers can be undone to transform this wagon from hauling mode to bench seating.


Best classic beach wagon: Radio Flyer All-Terrain Cargo Wagon

Radio Flyer All-Terrain Cargo Wagon

Pros:

  • Wheels turn easily
  • Lightweight, but solid materials
  • Wood side panels are ideal for moving large pots and plants, and other gardening

Cons:

  • May not be quite as comfy as softer-sided models, but still roomy

Dimensions: 44 x 20.5 x 21 inches

Meet my very first wagon from Radio Flyer. I spent many days reclining in this little wagon, with few complaints. The extra-large body provides an ample amount of room, and a controlled turning radius prevents tipping. While the wood material is not the most comfortable for sitting, it is impressively strong and surprisingly lightweight. The removable wood side panels also make this wagon perfect for gardening (my mom can attest). For a classic option, go with Radio Flyer.


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Best wagon for all-terrain: MacSports Heavy Duty Collapsible Folding All Terrain Utility Beach Wagon

blue and silver beach cart
Amazon

Pros:

  • Two built-in cup holders
  • Heavy-duty frame
  • Reviewers noted that it performs well on ice and snow, in addition to sand

Cons:

  • Not made to transport children

Dimensions: 31.8 x 21.5 x 17 inches

Mac Sports’ All Terrain Collapsible Beach Wagon Cart has industrial-looking wheels, a roomy interior, and nearly 3K beach-goers who back it up. It holds up to 150 pounds and even has two built-in cup holders to keep your beverages secure.


Best folding beach wagon: Black+Decker Collapsible Utility Wagon

Black+Decker Collapsible Utility Wagon, navy blue
Amazon

Pros:

  • Quick-fold design
  • All-terrain wheels and front wheels rotate 360 degrees
  • Back velcro pocket to keep small and personal items secured.

Cons:

  • Ideal for gear — not advertised for children

Dimensions: 31.1 x 21.2 x 38.3 inches

For a brand that makes high-quality power tools (including toolboxes and kits), Black+Decker offers a Collapsible Utility Wagon that’s waiting for your next beach trip. It features all-terrain wheels, an ergonomic handle, and a quick-fold and easy-transport design, most notably.


Best luxury beach wagon: Wonderfold W2 Luxe Multifunctional Double Stroller Wagon

Wonderfold wagon
Pottery Barn Kids

Pros:

  • Deep design to keep your kids secure and safe
  • 1-step foot brake system 
  • Removable seats with 5 point harness and an
  • Sleek, adjustable push handle with vegan cover.

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mention that this model is on the heavier side, and can be difficult to pull multiple children

Dimensions: 54 x 44.5 x 25 inches

If you have kiddos, you will love this find. Not only does the Wonderfold easily maneuver through all terrains, but it also provides the perfect hideaway for your little one while featuring a removable 50+ UV protective canopy. You’ll also have more than enough space to stash all of your beach-going belongings.


Best beach caddy: Deluxe Beach Caddy

Bed Bath & Beyond wagon
Bed Bath & Beyond

Pros:

  • A large cooler tote keeps beverages readily accessible
  • Includes undercarriage storage and umbrella holder
  • Lightweight for easy transportation

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mention the material is on the thinner side and may get damaged more easily than thicker materials

Dimensions: 41.9 x 28.7 x 37.8 inches

Designed for many adventures, this beach caddy option does the job of carrying it all. The added large cooler tote is the perfect solution for all your picnic packing. Plus, it’s loaded with great features to make your trip more pleasant. From its two large rear wheels to its mesh make (to easily see beach essentials and groceries), you’ll thank us later.


Best beach wagon with storage: Best Choice Products Utility Cargo Wagon Cart

Best Choice Products Utility Cargo Wagon Cart, red
Walmart

Pros:

  • A large number of removable storage options to choose from
  • Canopy to keep things cool and offer shade
  • Powder-coated steel and polyester fabric for long-term use

Cons:

  • Have to remove the basket to fold up the wagon

Dimensions:  44 x 24 x 39 inches

What’s better than a beach cart? One with a hooded canopy of course! This well-designed roller has an incredible amount of storage compartments — including cup holders — and the canopy can be removed. Plus, it comes in royal blue for the same price.


Best compact beach wagon: Seina Compact Folding Outdoor Utility Wagon

Siena wagon
Walmart

Pros:

  • Easy, hassle-free assembly in minutes
  • Folds compactly
  • Durable 600D polyester fabric resists tearing and fading

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mentioned they wish the sides were taller

Dimensions: 29.5 x 17.9 x 18.5 inches

We love this find because of its do-it-all superpowers (which serve well for gardening). Trust us, you’ll want to add it to your cart for less than $80. The best part about this wagon? According to the reviews, it only takes minutes to have it all set up.


Best heavy-duty beach wagon: Mac Sports Double Decker Heavy-Duty Collapsible Utility Wagon

Mac Sports Double Decker Heavy Duty Collapsible Utility Wagon, forest green
Target

Pros:

  • Durable 600D polyester fabric can easily be cleaned
  • The wagon folds up to only 8 inches thick
  • Very easy to maneuver, per reviews

Cons:

  • The wagon is not recommended for transporting children of any age
  • When storing and collapsing, the cart doesn’t stand on its own (has to be laid down or wedged between something)

Dimensions: 29 x 18 x 17.5 inches

What’s great about Mac Sports’ Utility Wagon isn’t just its coveted collapsible functionality. Its extra storage space at the bottom — which looks like a serving tray — comes in handy for easy-grab items like your sunscreen. Plus, it’s durable and can hold up to 150 pounds.


Best durable beach wagon: Huckberry Tupelo Heavy-Duty Wagon

Huckberry Tupelo Heavy-Duty Wagon, sky blue
Huckber

Pros:

  • Unique colors available (sky blue and sunshine yellow)
  • Powder-coated metal frame
  • 600D polyester fabric is both tear-resistant and easy to clean

Cons:

  • Not advertised to be used for pulling children
  • The sides are not as high as some other models

Dimensions: 31 x 20 x 30 inches

We love Huckberry’s Tupelo Heavy-Duty Wagon for its sky-blue color, but also for its powder-coated metal frame that’s built to last. Its nylon fabric is also abrasion-resistant, too, so you know you’re getting quality and convenience with this model.


Best balloon wheel beach chart: RollX Big Balloon Wheel Beach Cart

RollX Big Balloon Wheel Beach Cart, royal blue
Amazon

Pros:

  • The wheels are easily removable for storing and transportation ease
  • Heavy-duty steel frame with mesh bag and beach umbrella holder

Cons:

  • Carries up to 100 pounds (lower than some other models)
  • Must use pump to fill wheels

Dimensions: 37 x 41.9 x 37.8 inches

If you’re in the market for a compact beach cart, RollX’s Big Balloon Wheel Beach Cart is your best bet. While this one features a slim build, the deep pouch still allows for ample storage. Though affixed with an oversized wheel, it’s the perfect wheel-around tool for beach trips and vacations.


Best wagon for gardening: Gorilla Carts Steel Cart With Removable Sides

Gorilla Cart wagon
Amazon

Pros:

  • Impressive 400-pound capacity 
  • Comfortable, straight pull handle makes hauling heavy loads 
  • Four bright color options
  • Easy assembly
  • Grates allow you to keep an eye on your items

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mention that the balance can be off if this wagon is not loaded evenly

Dimensions: 40.6 x 18 x 37 inches

Looking for a tough and durable cart that can hold it all? Well, you’ve stumbled across the ideal beach cart for you: The Gorilla Carts Steel Cart. Measuring 34 inches long by 18 inches wide and offering 10-inch pneumatic tires, nothing can stand in your way.


Best budget-friendly wagon: WHITSUNDAY Collapsible Folding Utility Wagon

Whitsunday wagon
Amazon

Pros:

  • Many styles and colors are available
  • Good quality for the price, per reviews
  • Carrying straps for easy stowing

Cons:

  • The wagon is on the smaller side
  • Handle automatically retracts, which has bothered some customers

Dimensions: 29.1 x 18.5 x 35.8 inches

This wagon may be compact in size, but it can hold a load capacity of 120 pounds. Look forward to an adjustable handle and durable rubber wheels.


Best wagon for easy access: L.L. Bean Collapsible Wagon

blue and black collapsible cart
L.L. Bean

Pros:

  • Front mesh pockets so you can see your items for easy access
  • Made from 600D polyester with PE coating
  • Powder-coated steel folding frame

Cons:

  • Only one color is available (dark blue)

Dimensions: 39 x 21 x 26 inches

Keep it simple with L.L. Bean’s collapsible wagon — it comes with side and front mesh storage pockets for placing drinks, snacks, and more. It can hold up to 150 pounds and when you’re done just fold it up for compact storage.


Best convertible beach wagon: EasyGo Beach Cart Chair

blue striped convertible beach cart to chair
Amazon

Pros:

  • Works as a wagon and a beach chair
  • Folds easily
  • Easy to pull on soft sand

Cons:

  • Reviewers wish it came with a cup holder

Dimensions: 33 x 33 x 37 inches

We’ve found the ultimate hack to upgrading your beach experience. Minimize how much you lug to the beach with this all-in-one beach cart that folds out into a chair. When you’re done unpacking your beach supplies fold the bottom out, then kick up and relax.


Best stylish beach wagon: Old Bahama Bay Beach Wagon Cart

teal and green foldable beach wagon
Amazon

Pros:

  • Takes a large amount of weight compared to some other models
  • Unique style
  • 360° swivel wheels for smooth movement

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mention this model is a bit. on the heavier side

Dimensions: 36 x 18 x 30.9 inches

You’ll be able to carry more without having to sacrifice arm space thanks to the tailgate built into Old Bahama Bay’s beach wagon. It fits up to 225 pounds on the grass and 150 pounds on sand allowing you to pack that extra chair with room to spare.


Best mesh beach cart: Strolee Beach Compact Folding Cart

orange and black mesh push cart
Amazon

Pros:

  • Multiple storage components
  • Tool-free assembly
  • Quiet rolling
  • Oversized wheels for added sturdiness

Cons:

  • Not to be used for transporting children

Dimensions: 33 x 27 x 41 inches

No matter what terrain you’re pushing this through it’ll be able to handle it thanks to the oversized front and back wheels. It even comes with multiple storage compartments and side holders to securely hold your drinks, towels, and more.


How we tested

There are a few things to consider when finding the right beach wagon or cart. For this review, I took into consideration the ease of assembly, durability of the material, and overall functionality of each cart. My 11-month-old daughter also took a few of these wagons for a test ride.

  • A baby sitting in a beach wagon
  • A blue cart positioned in front of a television.
  • A green baby stroller in a room
  • A red baby stroller in a room

Assembly: Beach carts typically require some assembly (however, it’s unlikely to need tools.) Since these are larger items, many arrived with the wheels, poles, and storage pouches detached. I set up each of these beach carts in my small living room, using the directions and a few youtube videos as a guide. I’ve taken notes on which of these wagons required a bit more patience and others that popped into place pretty quickly.

Durability: Beach carts are constructed with a variety of materials — sometimes plastic, sometimes mesh, sometimes wood, and sometimes metal. Typically, some combination of these is used. In addition to observing the thickness and heaviness of each material, I also tested out how easy it was to wipe clean (an important feature for parents of little ones). In terms of durability, the structure of the wheels is also key. I looked for puncture-resistant wheels that could easily glide and roll over a variety of terrains.

Functionality: For a beach cart or wagon to be functional, good storage is key. I’ve tested out the size and security of different punches, cup holders, and detachable totes to ascertain which carts would be best for stowing goods and transporting them on your beach days. In addition to storage, I also made note of how easily these carts are to pull, how comfortable the handles are, and how much weight they can support.


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