The 9 Best Beach Wagons That Store All Your Waterfront Essentials

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Leoni Jesner Contributor Forbes Vetted Contributor Group Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Jun 13, 2023, 02:19pm EDT | Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin When sunshine and warm water beckons you to the beach, you’ll want to come prepared for a relaxing day ahead with a number of key essentials. Your to-pack list will likely include an umbrella , beach chairs and a canopy or tent , but all that equipment can spell trouble when the time comes to haul everything from the car to your preferred spot in the sand.

That’s where investing in one of the best beach wagons will save you the hassle of multiple trips or relying on the family for an extra set of hands. Effortlessly cart your beach essentials from A to B with the best beach carts. Illustration: Forbes/Photo: Retailers Combining the elegance of a shopping cart, the sturdiness of a wagon and the soul of a beach bum, the best beach wagons carry our biggest burdens and save us from the dreaded “sand in every crevice” situation.

Like a classic beach bag , each wagon looks incredibly similar from one to the next, but certain models will better meet your needs than others. After examining reviews, evaluating expert suggestions and relying on a bit of personal experience, we’ve identified nine beach wagons worthy of toting around your essentials. The options are seemingly endless, but this easy-to-shop list will help you find a suitable buggy for a season in the sand.

Best Beach Wagon Overall: MacSports Heavy Duty Collapsible Beach Wagon Best Value Beach Wagon: Whitsunday Folding Utility Wagon Best Beach Wagon For Kids: Radio Flyer Beach And Boardwalk Wagon Best Luxury Beach Wagon: Veer Cruiser All-Terrain Hybrid Best Canopied Beach Wagon: Delta Children Jeep Deluxe Wrangler Stroller Wagon Best Two-In-One Beach Wagon: Baby Trend Expedition 2-In-1 Stroller Wagon Plus Best Beach Wagon For Space: Gorilla Carts Beach Wagon Best Heavy-Duty Beach Wagon: Best Choice Products Steel Garden Wagon Best All-Terrain Beach Wagon: Gorilla Carts GOR4PS Dump Cart Best Beach Wagon Overall A Capable, Beach-Ready Cart For All Your Essentials Amazon MacSports Heavy Duty Collapsible Beach Wagon Materials: Plastic, steel | Dimensions: 36. 2 x 21. 4 x 24.

6 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Weight: 23. 1 pounds Complete with durable 600-denier fabric and a sturdy steel frame, Mac Sports’ heavy-duty wagon will haul every last piece of equipment from the parking lot to the sand without breaking a sweat. Unlike some utility carts that feature thin, flimsy wheels, the oversized wheels on this model make it easier to navigate soft, uneven surfaces like sand or gravel.

The telescoping, locking handle reduces strain when you’re pulling large amounts of weight—a detail you’ll appreciate once you realize this wagon can haul up to 150 pounds. And the synthetic fabric is both mildew- and UV-resistant. Beyond the obvious features, this do-it-all hauler sports two cupholders for drinks (because you’re bound to work up a thirst pulling all that equipment), and the design folds away when it’s not in use to save a little space in your shed or garage.

Pros: Large weight capacity Collapsible design Fabric resists mildew and UV exposure Cons: Can’t stand upright when folded Best Value Beach Wagon An Everyday Hauler That Won’t Break The Bank Amazon Whitsunday Folding Utility Wagon Buy From Amazon Materials: Rubber, steel, canvas | Dimensions: 28 x 16. 9 x 10. 5 inches | Weight capacity: 120 pounds | Weight: 18.

4 pounds When you need a reliable beach wagon but can’t justify spending as much on a cart as you might on a seasonal beach pass, this collapsible hauler should do the trick. It still holds up to 120 pounds and comes in a variety of colors and patterns to help you stand out in the sand. The rubberized wheels add a little grip over wet surfaces and, much like a shopping cart, they swivel 360 degrees to improve maneuverability in tight spaces (like parking lots and crowded boardwalks).

While beach wagons are designed to endure bumps, bangs and rough terrain, this one also comes with a one-year warranty that’ll protect it for a couple seasons by the water. Pros: Telescoping handle Collapsible Available in multiple colors Cons: Thin rubber wheels are difficult to steer on soft surfaces Best Beach Wagon For Kids Room For The Whole Family Amazon Radio Flyer Beach And Boardwalk Wagon Materials: Rubber, steel, recycled fabric | Dimensions: 47. 2 x 41.

3 x 24. 4 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Weight: 32 pounds If you’re traveling to the beach with the family in tow, you might as well invest in a beach wagon that can literally pull double duty. Featuring a three-in-one design that functions as a traditional wagon, bench seat or two-person hauler, Radio Flyer’s compact wagon is designed to adapt to your changing needs.

Its extra-wide tires and linked steering provide a smooth ride over sand, and the profile folds flat when it’s not in use. Of course, you’ll want to minimize any tiny occupant’s exposure to the sun, which is why this wagon features a built-in, UV-blocking canopy. And when the shade isn’t in use, the poles retract into the base and the covering stores in a dedicated pocket, so it’s always available at a moment’s notice.

The interior also contains two seatbelts to keep the little ones secure, as well as dual cupholders to keep them hydrated. And if they happen to make a mess from the parking lot to the beach, never fear—the recycled fabric can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Pros: Three-in-one design provides different seating arrangements Linked steering improves maneuverability UV-blocking canopy protects occupants from the sun Cons: Storage space sharply declines when hauling kids Best Luxury Beach Wagon A Sleek Wagon With All The Bells And Whistles VEER Veer Cruiser All-Terrain Hybrid Materials: Water- and stain-resistant fabric, aluminum, polyeurethane | Dimensions: 37 x 20 x 23 inches | Weight capacity: 250 pounds (cargo only)| Weight: 32.

6 pounds If you’d prefer to haul your supplies in the sports car-equivalent of a beach wagon, the Veer Cruiser All-Terrain Hybrid is the model for you. Hailed as ‘a premium stroller and a rugged wagon,’ this state-of-the-art beach wagon is a modern take on an otherwise classic design. As the name suggests, the Cruiser All-Terrain Hybrid performs equally well over pavement, gravel, sand and other surfaces, with the ability to push or pull any load based on the terrain.

Its front suspension pairs with a wide handle to improve navigation, while a robotically-welded aluminum frame provides a quality finish that can withstand bumps and bangs along the way. Rugged, polyeurethane foam tires make it easy to navigate sandy trails, and the wagon’s synthetic fabric can be sprayed down with a hose at the end of a long day. If little ones are along for the ride, the cruiser is capable of carrying two occupants up to 55 pounds each, even if one is still in the car seat phase (an adapter is sold separately).

Both seats are fitted with a three-point harness system and the wagon meets or exceeds ASTM & SOR safety standards, and it’s JPMA Certified. For good measure, it also comes with two cup holders and a snack and drink tray. After you’ve packed up the car and settled the kids into their seats, a one-handed folding mechanism allows you to reduce the wagon’s size and stow it away until further notice.

Pros: High weight capacity Can transport babies and toddlers Push and pull capabilities Exceeds ASTM & SOR safety standards and is JPMA Certified Cons: Very pricey compared to other models on the market Some features, like the canopy, need to be purchased separately Best Canopied Beach Wagon Find Solace In The Shade Amazon Delta Children Jeep Deluxe Wrangler Stroller Wagon Materials: Leatherette, UV-blocking canopy, wipe-clean fabric | Dimensions: 46 x 29 x 46 inches | Weight capacity: 110 pounds | Weight: 46. 2 pounds For peace of mind in the summer sun, Delta Children’s Jeep Deluxe Wrangler Stroller Wagon employs a UV-blocking canopy and pull-down shades to keep harmful rays away, which is game-changing if you spend a lot of time in the sun with family. A perfect all-rounder for those with young children, the wagon can accommodate two children of up to 55 pounds (with 5-point safety harnesses) or 110 pounds of equipment.

Or, buckle up your baby in a car seat (compatible with various brands) with the included adapter to keep them safe and secure as you venture through the sand. The wagon steers via two adjustable leatherette handlebars in a push or pull fashion that navigate swivel front wheels to easily turn through the sand. In fact, the wheels (the front at 8 inches and the back at 12 inches) are puncture-proof and airless, making them suitable for any terrain.

The wagon includes a removable cooler bag (where you can store up to 16 cans of pop), a cup holder and various storage pockets to tuck away smaller items. Once you’re done for the day, a compact folding and auto-lock latch takes the hassle out of storing it away until the next beach day. Pros: All-terrain wheels Compact fold and quick-release back wheels UV-blocking canopy and roll-down shades for sun protection Cons: Heavier compared to many other beach wagons Higher-price point Best Two-In-One Beach Wagon Leave The Stroller At Home Amazon Baby Trend Expedition 2-In-1 Stroller Wagon Plus Buy From Baby Trend Materials: Polyester, plastic, metal | Dimensions: ‎42 x 27 x 44 inches | Weight capacity: 110 pounds | Weight: 40 pounds Parents understand better than anyone how much gear comes with having a baby, so any equipment that pulls double duty is a welcome addition.

That’s why we love the Baby Trend Expedition 2-In-1 Stroller Wagon Plus that takes the stress out of beach days by combining a stroller with a wagon. You know any baby product is a gem when it boasts a JPMA Innovation Award, and this model won in the Stroller Category for its versatility as a stroller with a baby seat (and universal infant car seat adapter) or two seated areas for toddlers with three-point safety harnesses. The Seat2Mat feature provides additional cushioning courtesy of a lie-down mat, and a large ratcheting canopy (UPF 50+) lets in the breeze without bugs.

Plenty of storage solutions are on hand to safely store your bits and bobs, including a parent storage console and a removable food tray for snack time. Depending on whether you want to push or pull the stroller across the sand, you can adjust the hidden pull handle accordingly. When you’re done for the day, the wipe-clean material means spills aren’t long-lasting and its ultra-compact folding design means it can be stored away practically anywhere.

Pros: Two-in-one stroller and wagon solution UPF 50+ canopy with air flow and mosquito net Hideaway pull handle for push and pull mode Cons: Lower weight capacity than other beach wagons Best Beach Wagon For Space No Need To Sacrifice A Single Inch Amazon Gorilla Carts Beach Wagon Materials: Canvas, sport fabric | Dimensions: ‎21 x 36 x 15 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Weight: 13. 5 pounds If you’re hauling a load that requires an oversized cart, the Gorilla Carts Beach Wagon provides ample space to pack all of your beach, camping and picnic essentials (up to 150 pounds worth) without the squeeze. Plus, the durable sports material is easy to clean and preserve for long-lasting use.

Cup holders on all four corners double-function as phone and tablet stands, while convenient and secure side pockets store those items you want to keep within reach—swimming noodles included. Mobility-wise, the all-terrain wheels should glide over sand, grass and gravel without much strain, but mobility is made easier by an upgraded steering and brake system. Don’t be deterred by its capacity when it’s not in use—the wagon collapses down to half the size of other wagons, according to the brand, which makes it easy to store in smaller spaces.

Pros: Super lightweight and compact folding Stores up to seven cubic feet of gear Approachable price point Cons: Size can cause navigation issues in tight quarters Best Heavy-Duty Beach Wagon Rugged, Corrosion-Resistant And Ready For Any Payload Amazon Best Choice Products Steel Garden Wagon Materials: Wood, steel, rubber | Dimensions: 41 x 18 x 20 inches | Weight capacity: 400 pounds | Weight: 47 pounds If you’re in the market for a beach wagon that can do it all, consider looking beyond the fabrics and folding mechanisms of traditional carts to find something a little more rugged. Capable of carrying up to 400 pounds, this garden wagon is technically built to meet the needs of a diehard landscaper, but its large tires and overbuilt frame can just as easily haul blankets, beach towels and other waterfront-worthy equipment. The corrosion-resistant frame features removable sides if you’re carrying larger objects, and the height is perfectly positioned to limit fatigue whether you’re adding or removing gear.

While most beach wagons are designed specifically for the beach, this wagon can also be used around the home whether you’re sprucing up the flower beds or putting a fence in the backyard. For all tasks that require a capable cart, this is as good as it gets. Pros: Massive carrying capacity Corrosion-resistant steel frame Easy maneuverability Cons: Some assembly required Best All-Terrain Beach Wagon Tackle Sand, Gravel, Pavement And Boardwalks With Ease Gorilla Carts Gorilla Carts GOR4PS Dump Cart Materials: Steel, plastic | Dimensions: ‎38.

7 x 20 x 19. 5 inches | Weight capacity: 600 pounds | Weight: 32 pounds Gorilla Carts manufactures a number of capable carts, many of which are designed for the garden but transition seamlessly to the beach. Case in point: The GOR4PS Dump Cart features grippy inflatable wheels, a padded pulling handle and a staggering weight capacity of over 600 pounds.

Sure, you won’t be able to conjure up enough gear to even remotely exceed that limit, but you can surely pack this wagon with every last piece of equipment knowing it’ll handle the load with ease. The other detail worth discussing here is the wagon’s patented dump feature that quickly unloads the entire payload in one fell swoop like a dump truck. While it’s unlikely that you’ll use the feature to dump your equipment into the sand, the kids will find it useful when they borrow the wagon to build sand castles and bury each other alive.

Pros: Heavy-duty construction Impressive weight capacity Patented dumping feature offers quick unloading Cons: Some assembly required Wagon could unload on a steep hill MORE FROM FORBES VETTED The Best Last-Minute Father’s Day Gifts That Are Still Thoughtful By Lindsay Boyers Forbes Staff The Best Beach Cover-Ups To Wear All Summer Long By Molly Calhoun Contributor How We Chose The Best Beach Wagons Our team of dedicated product journalists embarked on a sandy exploration, determined to find the best beach wagons that surpass all expectations. But we knew that to truly understand the unique requirements of beachgoers, we needed to identify the key features that set the best wagons apart from the rest, which include durability, maneuverability, storage capacity and overall design. The result is an expertly curated collection of beach wagons that combine functionality, durability and convenience.

Whether you’re hauling umbrellas, coolers, beach toys or any other seaside essentials, our expert-endorsed selection guarantees a hassle-free and enjoyable beach experience. What To Consider When Shopping For A Beach Wagon Size Beach wagons come in all shapes and sizes, as evidenced by the extra large MacSports wagon ranked above, but it’s important to consider which size will meet your needs. Traveling with the whole family? A larger beach wagon for additional chairs, towels and equipment will serve you well.

But if you’re heading to the beach with a friend or partner, a smaller model should do the trick. Think about who your beach wagon is for and how many people it should support to gauge a suitable size. Weight You’ll want to consider a few factors for weight.

Firstly, how much the wagon can carry may be a factor if you’re hauling heavy gear across the beach. Keep in mind, the heavier the wagon itself, the harder it will be to drag. If you have a little one in tow, you’ll want to opt for a sturdy wagon that will glide through the sand effortlessly.

If you’re shopping for a cart that is fit (and safe) for carrying children, like the Veet Cruiser All-Terrain Hybrid , you may find they have a higher weight capacity to accommodate the extra load. On the other hand, some wagons that are suitable for children can only support a lower weight. Keep this in mind before adding a wagon to your checkout cart.

Terrain While beach wagons are designed primarily to handle the typical conditions of a beach (sand, boardwalks, parking lots, etc. ), it’s important to consider where you intend to use your beach wagon. If your favorite beaches require long, sandy walks to access the water, a beach wagon with large wheels will be easier to push or pull, especially when fully loaded.

If your preferred beach has a boardwalk or established walkway, a beach wagon that resembles a traditional cart should do the trick. Maneuverability Look for beach wagons with a flexible steering mechanism that allows for easy turning and maneuvering, even in tight spaces. Swivel front wheels or wagons with a 360-degree turning radius can enhance maneuverability and eliminate unwanted frustration.

Beach-Specific Features Some wagons come with beach-specific features, such as sand- and sun-resistant materials or removable fabric for easy cleaning. These features can enhance the wagon’s functionality and durability in beach environments. forbes.

com Amazon Promo Codes | 30% Off In June 2023 | Forbes Do Beach Wagons Really Work In The Sand? Most quality beach wagons are designed with all-terrain wheels that are wide, grooved and sturdy, meaning they should glide over sand and rocks with ease. You will also find some models that are designed to swivel and maneuver the front wheels without strain across any terrain. Each beach wagon in this roundup is more than capable of tackling sand, gravel, tarmac and beyond.

Can You Use A Beach Wagon On Other Terrain? Whether it’s a smooth sidewalk, freshly cut grass or rough soil, beach wagons should be able to trundle through most surfaces. Many wagons feature all-terrain wheels so you can haul your gear around for picnics in the park and elsewhere! But you may also want to consider the handle’s durability. While the wheels can glide without hesitation, you don’t want to overstuff the wagon and risk the handle coming loose as you drag it over harsher surfaces.

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