There used to be great debate between using strollers or wagons, but that little discourse has been put to rest in style by the rise of stroller wagons. What is a wagon stroller, you ask? On balance, it's a wagon with all the essential stroller capabilities, so you and your baby can get the best of both worlds.
What is a Wagon Stroller?
The previous knack against strollers is that they can only accommodate a single child. But alas, double strollers and wagon strollers came into play and gave parents more options for their everyday duties.
Wagon stroller, in particular, can accommodate several children. And it combines the advantages of both a wagon and a stroller. These units are stable, spacious, comfortable, and have excellent storage options to accompany you in an eventful walk down the local park or zoo.
If you're looking for something agile to pair with your wagon stroller, check out this diaper bag for mod and dad.
What Age is Wagon Stroller for?
Wagon strollers are typically designed for toddlers and older kids, although some units also feature attachments that make them suitable for infants.
They are generally great for picnics or a trip to the local park, but they are often cumbersome to bring on the road or during air travel. This is mainly because these strollers are bulky and heavy. If you're looking for a stroller that you can bring with you on your travels, this award-winning suitcase stroller is more primed for the job.
Having said that, there are parenting styles and families that will surely benefit more from wagon strollers. In particular, those who have multiple children, require ample storage, and a shared love for outdoor adventures!
Why a Wagon Instead of a Stroller?
Well, why not both? A wagon stroller is perfect for little ones (toddlers) because it gives them more wiggle room and storage space, while you can push forward or pull the stroller like you would a normal wagon.
In addition, you and your child can explore your surroundings more unobstructed. Not to mention that wagon strollers simply have more storage than your average pram. You get to bring more stuff and perhaps stay longer on the go.
Is it Better to Travel with a Stroller or Wagon?
If the kid is expected to spend a lot of time in the stroller or wagon, then the stroller will provide a more comfortable setup over time. You'll also get a bit of reprieve since standard wagons are bulky, harder to maneuver, and are often not collapsible.
On that note, wagon strollers are still difficult to navigate when you find yourself in crowded attractions or cities. As such, you are often better off traveling light with a compact stroller.
Can You Put a Newborn in a Wagon Stroller?
If the specific stroller wagon has accessories to support a newborn, then it can be used from infancy. However, most wagon strollers are simply designed for older kids.
What Places Do Not Allow Stroller Wagons?
There are places that simply don't allow wagons or standard strollers, no matter how ludicrous that sounds. Others, like airports, have special conditions for both, especially if you intend to bring them on board. For example, a wagon stroller will need to be gate checked due to its sheer size.
On the other hand, some museums and theme parks may allow compact strollers, but prohibit the use of wagons or wagon strollers in their premise.
Disney, for their part, states in their Walt Disney World Resort Property Rules that “Strollers that are greater than 31” (79 cm) in width and 52” (132 cm) in length. Stroller wagons are also prohibited.”
As a standard practice, it's best to confirm with the venue first, so that you can plan accordingly.
Top 7 Best Wagon Strollers for Adventures
Best Overall: Evenflo Pivot Xplore
The Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon is popular among families looking for a versatile, wagon stroller for outdoor adventures. The wagon can seat two kids comfortably and has plenty of storage to keep your essentials within arm's reach.
Even if it's bulkier than a standard stroller, Pivot Xplore is fairly compact when folded, which makes it just as suitable as a travel stroller. For its size, it also fits seamlessly in most car boots when collapsed.
Pivot Xplore Key Features:
Max number of kids: 2
Age: 12 months+
Car Seat Adaptor: Yes
Dimensions Open: 27” x 39” x 45”
Dimensions Closed: 27” x 45” x 39”
Maximum weight capacity: 110lbs
Wagon stroller weight: 34.7lbs
Pivot Xplore Pros:
Easy to switch pull and push modes – The Pivot Xplore functions as both a stroller and a wagon, with a unique ability to switch between “push” and “pull” modes. This versatility shines when you're traversing different terrains and limited spaces.
All-Terrain capabilities – Pivot Xplore performs well on sand, gravel, grass, and pavement, making it an excellent and practical choice for different outings.
Includes a 5-Point safety harnesses – The stroller wagon comes with two 5-point harnesses to ensure that your children remain safe, comfortable, and secure during the ride.
Pivot Xplore Cons:
Heavy and bulky build – To make way for its versatility and durability, Pivot Xplore comes across bulkier than traditional strollers and travel prams.
Few compatible seat adapters – Although it can accommodate toddlers and older kids, Pivot Xplore has a thin selection of compatible car seat adapters, which is sold separately.
Best All-Terrain: Veer All-Terrain Cruiser
The posh-looking Veer All-Terrain Cruiser is a premium stroller wagon for families who love outdoor adventures and need a sturdy, versatile solution for transporting kids and gear.
Notably, the wagon comes down to a nice fold, although it might still be a bit too bulky in small compartments. Another standout thing about the Veer All-Terrain Cruiser is its compatibility and support for a wide range of accessories. However, these add-ons will need to be purchased separately.
Veer All-Terrain Cruiser Key Features:
Max number of kids: 2
Age: 12 months+
Car Seat Adaptor: Yes
Dimensions Open: 37” x 20” x 23”
Dimensions Closed: 37” x 20” x 14”
Passenger capacity: 110lbs
Maximum Capacity: 250lbs cargo only
Wagon stroller weight: 32.6lbs
Veer All-Terrain Cruiser Pros:
Car seat compatibility – Families with infants will be pleased that the Veer Cruiser is compatible with most major infant car seats (with an additional adapter), making it a viable stroller option from infancy onwards.
Rugged all-terrain performance – The large wheels and enhanced suspension system allow a smooth ride from dirt paths to sandy beaches.
Spacious seating for two – The Cruiser seats two children comfortably with a 3-point harness system for safety. The spacious wagon can hold children and extra gear with ease.
Veer All-Terrain Cruiser Cons:
Expensive wagon stroller option – While The Cruise performs admirably in the outdoors and has great aesthetics, it's notably pricier than standard wagon strollers.
Many accessories are sold separately – To compound its pricing woes, many features that parents look for, like sun canopies or storage organisers, are sold as add-ons, which bumps the overall cost of the kit.
Best Budget: Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon
The all-purpose and budget-friendly Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon offers comfort and practicality at a reasonable price. In fact, it even comes with a UV protection canopy that can be removed when not needed.
Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon Key Features:
Max number of kids: 2
Age: 12 months+
Car Seat Adaptor: No
Dimensions Open: 37” x 19” x 11”
Passenger capacity: 120lbs
Wagon stroller weight: 39.46lbs
Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon Pros:
Affordable price – Pricing is one of the biggest selling point for us and our testers. We found the wagon featured-pack for its price range, which makes it more practical than many luxury options.
Foldable for storage – The flat-fold design of the Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon makes it easier to transport and store compared to bulkier wagon models.
Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon Cons:
Not built for rough terrain – The materials and build of Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon aren't designed for rough terrain, although the wagon presents no issues traversing smooth surfaces and pavement.
Best Maneuverability: Keenz 7s
The Keenz 7s is unique in its stronger focus on maneuverability, which other wagon strollers perform average at best. It's a perfect choice for navigating urban spaces and establishments with tight corners and spaces. Not to mention that the smooth steering is accompanied by a stable base that keeps the children unbothered and safe.
Keenz 7s Key Features:
Max number of kids: 2
Age: 12 months+
Car Seat Adaptor: No
Dimensions Open: 37” x 30” x 14”
Dimensions Closed: 47” x 27.5” x 15.5”
Passenger capacity: 55lbs x 2
Maximum Capacity: 300lbs cargo only
Wagon stroller weight: 33lbs
Keenz 7s Pros:
Compact and lightweight – Owing to its reinforced materials and lightweight design, Keen 7s is relatively lighter than your typical wagon stroller. It's also easier to push or pull when navigating, and more compact when folded.
Built-in canopy – The Keenz 7s comes with a retractable, adjustable canopy that provides good sun protection and can be cast away when it's not required.
Keenz 7s Cons:
Expensive pricing – The Keenz 7s is more expensive than some other stroller wagons, making it a bigger upfront investment.
Best Lightweight Wagon Stroller: Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon
Putting Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon to the test is pretty straightforward, and so as the results! The wagon stroller is among the lightest in the market, but it still surprises in its all-terrain performance. Even if you are taking care of one infant or toddler, the extra space the wagon brings can be used efficiently for storing gear and baby essentials.
Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon Key Features:
Max number of kids: 2
Age: From 12 months, but has the ability to add an infant car seat
Dimensions (Open): 40.16” x 24.8” x 39.76”
Dimensions (Closed): 24.85” x 20.5” x 29”
Maximum weight capacity: 100lbs
Wagon stroller weight: 30.5lbs
Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon Pros:
Car seat compatibility – Unlike other lightweight options in the market, the Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon managed to squeak in car seat compatibility in its design. This is big for families who plan to use the stroller from infancy to toddlerhood.
All-terrain performance – The Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon's all-terrain wheels stabilize it in a variety of surfaces, including gravel trails if you're taking the family to the outdoors.
Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon Cons:
Lack of advanced suspension – While the all-terrain wheels can clear rough surfaces, the lack of an advanced suspension system means there will be bumpy rides ahead as the surfaces become more uneven, which can be uncomfortable for children.
Best for Large Families: Wonderfold W4 Elite Quad Wagon Stroller
The heavy-duty Wonderfold W4 Elite Quad Wagon Stroller can hold up to four children, making it perfect for large and growing families. Even better, each child is supported by a 5-point safety harness to keep them protected during bumpy rides.
Wonderfold W4 Elite Quad Wagon Stroller Key Features:
Max number of kids: 4
Age: 6 months+
Dimensions Opened: 49” x 23” x 51.5” with canopy
Dimensions Closed: 29” x 18.5” x 43”
Maximum weight capacity: 300lbs total
Wagon stroller weight: 60lbs
Wonderfold W4 Elite Quad Wagon Stroller Pros:
Increased and dynamic seating capacity – The wagon comfortably seats up to four children making it ideal for large families. The seats are also removable and can be adjusted to different heights for added flexibility.
Removable UV Canopy – The Wonderfold W4 Elite Quad Wagon Stroller also sports a removable and adjustable UV-protection canopy that can be customized to shield your kids from the sun. The canopy features a mesh panel for ventilation to keep the kids cool at all times.
Wonderfold W4 Elite Quad Wagon Stroller Cons:
Heavy and bulky – The wagon stroller struggles in tight spaces, and its large frame and hefty weight make it quite challenging to transport or load into smaller cars.
Best Beach Wagon Stroller: Burleigh Wagon
If you love beach hopping, surfing, or just the general atmosphere on the beach, then you'll love the Burleigh Wagon. The wagon itself is a certified quad stroller in the US with 4 seatbelts to keep kids secure during the ride.
But perhaps the coolest detail about the Burleigh Wagon is its simple flip panel that houses a spacious cooler that can carry enough goods for a full-on beachside picnic. The wagon also comes with a funky umbrella and 2 charging ports for utility.
Burleigh Wagon Key Features:
Max number of kids: 3
Age: 12 months+
Dimensions Opened: 43.6” x 22.8” x 22.4”
Maximum weight capacity: 330lbs total
Wagon stroller weight: 44lbs
Burleigh Wagon Pros:
Full-sized storage – The Burleigh Wagon boasts impressive storage space beneath the seat, making it the perfect equipment for a quick escape at the beach for the whole family.
Built-in charging ports – The charging ports are a nice touch to the thoughtful design of Burleigh Wagon. When on the outdoors, it's a luxury to have the ability to recharge your gadgets without having to go back to your hotel or car.
Burleigh Wagon Cons:
Limited mobility – While the wagon has no issues traversing sandy beaches and rough surfaces, it's still quite limited in mobility. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something to keep in mind when you plan to take the wagon somewhere else.
Choosing the Best Stroller for Outdoor Adventures
Stroller wagons are generally great for the outdoors and some light urban adventures, which is evident in our showcase of the best wagon strollers we've reviewed and tested.
Overall, we believe choosing the right stroller for your family is still largely a lifestyle choice. Hence, we've categorized these carriers based on their advantages and under which scenarios and applications they tend to shine the most.
If you're still a little short on options and would like something you can bring with you at every step of your journey, including your flight, then we recommend Ternx travel stroller as an all-in-one solution for traveling with kids.
