2025’s Stroller Wagon Showdown: How to Pick the Right Wagon for Kids

It’s a stroller.

It’s a wagon. 

It’s a stroller wagon! 

If you’re new here, I pretty much rave about stroller wagons constantly.  The basic theme of my first time parents’ guide is that parents should avoid super expensive strollers, and instead invest in a stroller wagon later on. 

What are they?  What makes them so great…and why, suddenly, is every family at the zoo walking around with one of these things? 

If you’ve got multiple kiddos, or plan to have multiples (shhh, we won’t tell) you owe it to yourself to go down the stroller wagon rabbit hole to determine if it suits your family.

Spoiler alert, it will…and it does.  

Out of the endless list of baby essentials, the question of “what-shall-we-push-baby-in” quickly climbs to the top of the list. 

It’s one of the more expensive items you will buy and whatever decision you make, you’re gonna be stuck with it for multiple years.  

In my opinion, I would get an inexpensive stroller (they are still necessary) and save up to invest in your dream stroller wagon, even if you only plan on one child. 

Why?  I’m glad you asked! 

The Infant Car Seat Conundrum 

One detail I didn’t realize during my first pregnancy, many stroller wagons are built to hold an infant car seat. 

I kind of thought that if I wanted to push a baby in a stroller wagon, I had to wait until they were out of their infant car seat, typically that 6 or 7 monthish mark.

This is no longer the case, as many brands engineer adapters which allow for the infant car seat to connect right onto the wagon.  

Waiting until your baby becomes “of age” for the stroller wagon is no longer a thing.

You can enjoy the same easy newborn transfers, from car to stroller wagon, as you would car to stroller. No need to wake up a sleeping baby, just disconnect from the car seat carrier, plop (gently) onto stroller wagon adapters and shake a leg. 

For me personally, this was a pain point, which is why my family chose a pricey stroller over a stroller wagon – if you’re in the same boat, our hope is this review might change your mind.

The best part, if you have multiple kids and a baby, you don’t have to bring a stroller and a wagon. One stroller wagon can handle them all.

Longevity

The stroller wagon is hands down going to last longer than your stroller. 

Once my child turned two, she was done riding in the stroller.  

Once my son discovered his older sister didn’t like the stroller, he did exactly what she did (surprise, surprise) and was also immediately turned off. 

The wagon is different, and the frequent trips to Costco for all the caseloads of baby wipes and diapers we’re consuming alone have made the investment worthwhile.

As you’ll see, some stroller wagons should really be kept on sidewalks and smooth surfaces, while others are more all-terrain, built for life off the beaten path – case in point, Veer.

It is much easier to push or pull a wagon stroller than a double stroller with 2 kids in it, if you have the best stroller wagon.

Best Stroller Wagon List  

1. Veer Cruiser
2. Radio Flyer
3. Gladly Family Anthem
4. Keenz DUO Wagon
5. Joey The Wagon
6. Bob Renegade Wagon
7. Larktale Caravan V3
8. Evenflo Pivot Xplor
9. Wonderfold W4
10. Burley Hopper
11. Munchkin Ultra-lite Stroller Wagon

1. Veer Cruiser ($699 + XL $799) – The Cadillac

Veer is numero uno, the best stroller wagon on the market. 

These guys created the stroller wagon crossover in 2017 and in our opinion, the competition has pretty much been playing catchup ever since.  The company continues to innovate with accessories like beach wheels, unique color options, and coolers that attach right to the wagon.  

It’s lighter, smoother, and more versatile than other stroller wagons.

With Veer Cruisers, you have the option to seamlessly flip back and forth from pull to push mode – a critical stroller wagon attribute in our opinion, and a feature not found in all wagons (or found, but found lacking in function).

We also love the different seating arrangements – infant car seat facing me, close to the handlebar, or on the far side of the wagon, away from me facing outward.  Mix and match, customize it however your family (or more specifically your kids) want to be sitting.    

All-Terrain Cruiser (2-seater) and All-Terrain Cruiser XL (4-seater) are the original stroller wagons pioneered by Veer.  The brand recently released their City Cruiser and City Cruiser XL option, built for tight turns in cramped spaces – City has more of a shopping cart “stroller push” feel to it.

I’ve rented the two-seater for a vacation from Baby Quip, and our family currently owns the All-Terrain XL.  Even though we only have two children, for us, bigger is better. 

When you commit to a stroller or stroller wagon, you typically find yourself buying more adapters and add-ons from that same company.  In our opinion, you’re not going to find a better company to hitch your wagon to (pun intended) than Veer, it’s a superb ecosystem of products. 

Expensive yes, but these guys are the genuine creator of the whole stroller wagon industry.  Craving more deets?  Read the full Veer Cruiser review. 

3. Gladly Family Wagon (Anthem2 $429 + Anthem4 $699) – Value Seeker

Another favorite of ours is Gladly Family.  We rented a Gladly Family Wagon Anthem 4 for a vacation to Hilton Head Island, and we were not disappointed.

One key takeaway is that Gladly is more spacious than Veer. If you have 4 kids sitting in it, they will be able to sit very comfortably. This does, however, come at a price — meaning Gladly is a bit bigger and clunkier all folded up.

When its time to pack up and head home, the wagon didn’t leave much room for travel cribs and other gear in the trunk of the car.

We also experienced an issue folding the Gladly wagon up, which was a headache while trying to get the kids situated in a busy parking lot. I thought it was a one-off experience, but I have since read other reviews online of owners having similar issues.

One last aspect I have to mention is maneuverability. The push and pull functions, along with the turn radius isn’t bad, but it does fall short of what we’ve come to expect with Veer.

Another distinction with Gladly is the padded interior.  The interior of Veer is more of a rubber material, which I actually like, as it makes them a ‘hose washable’ stroller wagon — but for some, the padding may be preferred.

I’ve cleaned the Nuna Car Seat enough to know that the less toddler-soiled items I need to scrub and machine wash, the better.

The interior on Gladly wagons however can feel a bit cozier and more snug for your kiddos.  Veer offers a comfort seat that gives the same cloth feel, or, if you’re lazy (and cheap) like me, you can just bring a couple blankets for the gang to sit on. 

Not a big deal, it is, however, a noticeable difference to consider. 

Both Veer and Gladly include the ‘Nap System’, which is a big plus.  The ability to pop in an insert and allow your child to lay flat can’t be overstated.  A quick 20 minute nap might be (will be) just what the doctor ordered.

Best of all, the ‘Lounge Pad’ as Gladly calls it, is an accessory included with your stroller wagon purchase. 

Gladly Anthems ride lower to the ground than say the Larktale Caravan v3 or Wonderfold W4’s. 

We like giving children the option to climb in and out of the wagon, and staying more engaged in their environment – Anthem2 and Anthem4 definitely fall into this ‘low rider’ category.

I break it down further in our complete Gladly Wagon review, but when it’s all said and done, there’s a lot to like about Gladly.    

4. Keenz DUO ($599.99) – A Dynamic 4 Seater

Although Keenz does offer two other stroller wagon styles, the DUO is the only one with a footwell.  

Regardless of seating arrangements, we’ve found that stroller wagons with footwells tend to last longer as children can more comfortably rest legs and sit inside.

Keenz’s solution to this is a ‘Relax and Ride Reclining Seat System’ – which can add to the longevity of a ride and provide a place to nap but will be an add-on not included with purchase.  

The Keenz DUO is comparable to both Wonderfold W4 series as well as Larktale Caravan v3, but at a better price point.  That price point does however hold back on some of the creature comforts you’re going to get with the others. 

One example, no cupholders.  

The activity tray (included with purchase) inside the wagon might be the only spot for parents to rest a water bottle or cup of coffee.  And if your children are anything like mine, leaving a drink within arms reach will quickly (immediately?) result in spills. 

Another key difference is the push/pull feature.  

There are inevitably times when parents need to pull the stroller wagon.  

Even though the vegan leather handlebars on both sides of DUO look beautiful, the pull strap included with Wonderfold W4 might actually make pulling the wagon easier than the dual handlebars you get with both Larktale Cravan v3 and the Keenz DUO.

Gravity and physics come into play here, which is outside my realm of expertise.  

All I know is that when you’ve got a wagon filled with snacks, blankets, and mini humans, the lower attachment point on the Wondefold “pull-strap” (as well as the “stay put” handlebar on Radio Flyer Voya) makes pulling more manageable than an elevated handlebar…even though I am a sucker for leather.   

Don’t let that scare you off.   If you’re in love with the higher wall stroller wagon vibe, and you plan on using the wagon for strolls around the neighborhood block (not the rocky trail by the creek), the Keenz DUO is worthy of consideration. 

5. Joey The Wagon ($600) – A Slick Low Rider

Joey does not have a 4-seat option, they only offer a 2-seat stroller wagon, and they do it pretty darn good.

Joey’s got all the perks.  They offer a Nap Accessory, allowing a child to lay horizontally and snooze (which we love), along with Canopies, a Rain Cover, and an Infant Car Seat Adapter.  All these perks are available, although sold separately. 

In our opinion, Joey is a lot like the Gladly Anthem 2 but with a more classic look.  

It’s the Veer Cruiser, but not as rugged or customizable.  Joey might be more for younger kids (they advertise only up to age 5) as the space inside is a bit compact.  

This stroller wagon comes in 5 unique color options (ooh la la the Pink is precious).  

There’s a lot to like with Joey, as we prefer the lower side wall stroller wagons.  We also love this style of handlebar that drops for the push/pull function (no straps or dual handlebars).  

Joey the Wagon is lightweight at 37lbs, easy & intuitive to break down, and it has a compact fold.  

One con, the storage basket.  The opening on the storage basket is a bit narrow and partially hidden under the seating area – it only pops out about 4 inches off the front of the wagon.  All this means that the basket itself won’t hold my array of diaper bags, it’s built for one-off snacks and baby wipes.  

Other than the storage basket there is not much to rag on here.  

The handlebar height would be our only other negative, as it’s not adjustable – tall people beware (I wish I knew what the air felt like way up there).  

The Joey Wagon is a high performer that will meet or exceed your expectations.      

6. Bob Renegade Wagon ($649) – Nice for a Neighborhood Stroll

Typically best known for their joggers, Bob decided to launch their Renegade Wagon in 2023.  No 2 or 4-seat variations on this wagon, there is just one option – and it’s actually built for three children.  

Roomy enough for two kids side by side on the far end, the Renegade gets narrower towards the handle bar end with a harness for one more child.  

It’s got the step footbreak, push and pull option, and is fairly priced (sales price of $389) for a fairly good product.

Could it be great for sidewalks and supermarkets, yes.  Would I trust it for daily use on rocky terrain, I’m not so sure.

7. Larktale Caravan V3 ($699.99) – Big Space with Compact Fold

One great perk about the Larktale is all the goodies that come included with your purchase.  They don’t make you pay for those loveable extras like the storage basket or cupholders.  

The Caravan v3 even comes with the foot well cover – not as cozy as Veer’s ‘Nap System’ or the Gladly’s ‘Lounge Pad’ – but as previously stated, these are incredibly underrated, allowing a child to lie flat in the stroller wagon and take a nap.  

Unlike the competition, the footwell cover from Larktale is included with purchase as opposed to being sold separately.  Just throw a blanket over top to cover up some of those crumbs and viola, it’s a nap on-the-go.  

Caravan v3 can morph from a 2-seater to a 4-seater with the addition of a 5-point harness insert (this however is sold separately).  

In terms of the inside space, this thing is an aircraft carrier of sorts – very roomy and comparable to the Wonderfold W4 models. 

The Larktale Caravan V3 is offered in 5 unique colors – we opt for black as it hides the according-style metal crossbars on the outside of the wagon.  A key part of the design which allows this huge wagon to fold up so compactly, they are at times a bit gaudy.  

Am I nitpicking…perhaps.  This stroller wagon certainly has its strong suits worthy of consideration. 

8. Evenflo Pivot Xplor ($349.99) – The Stroller that Wagons

Evenflo is a hybrid of sorts.  This brand has the look and feel (when you push it) of an all-terrain stroller, but hey, there’s a wagon inside!  We own an UPPA Baby Stroller, and the push of the Pivot Xplor is extremely similar. 

Evenflo offers three different wagons, all of which are 2-seaters – similar to Joey, there is no option to stroll four children in an Evenflo. 

One perk is the overall weight of the wagon, coming in at under 40lbs (along with Joey and Veer). 

Another cool perk is the handlebar – Evenflo has a design all its own, and it has a sort of ‘flip’ over the top to morph from stroller to wagon. 

It can’t be stated enough, if you get good use out of your stroller wagon (which is the goal right?), you’re going to eventually find yourself in a scenario where you need to pull instead of push.

We think Veer has perfected the handlebar mechanics, but Evenflo has the quirky ability to switch which side the handlebar resides on – go from push to pull, and pivot around in tight spaces.  

The closest comparison-wise to the Pitov Xplor would be Gladly Anthem.  They both have that open and low to the ground feel for the children, but they both also come with their drawbacks. 

One of the most glaring cons with Evenflow Pivot Xplor, it is hard to physically pick up and store in the car.  Even though the stroller wagon is light, the unit as a whole is a bit awkward and clunky to lift.  

Another con is the way this wagon handles smaller bumps in the road – not so much while pulling the wagon, but the issue is magnified when pushing.  

This can lead to painful straining, on both the handlebar itself (am I breaking this thing?) and your back, as you fight to lift the front wheels and clear sidewalk curbs.  The problem worsens as you add weight to the stroller wagon.    

If you can afford to wait, we’ve seen the price drop to as low as $175, making the stroller wagon a reasonably priced option for parents trying to save.  If you’re looking for a barnyard bargain, Evenflo Pivot Xplor might be the one for you.  

I might however wait until you’ve heard from our best bargain on the list, Radio Flyer.    

9. Wonderfold W4 (Elite $699 + Lux $899)

In terms of options, Wonderfold has a boatload.  

Selling everything from stroller wagons on the cheaper side, to those among some of the most expensive on our list – the special ‘Volkswagen’ Stroller Wagon will run you a cool $1500.

At the recent ABC Expo in Las Vegas, the company revealed new Batman and Superman wagons.   

Wonderfold offers 1-seat wagons, 2-seaters, 4-seaters, and even their new Lux Pro 6-seater.  Some open from the front, some open from the side. They even have a bike seat type add-on that can be clipped to the front handlebar (not sure if this thing is actually for sale yet).

With a variety of different styles and choices, we focus on their best selling W4 series. 

I can’t really file it under pro or con, but one key difference to keep in mind with Wonderfold W4 is the higher walls, deeper carriage, or the higher ‘off the ground’ feel.  

It’s just more vertical than other stroller wagons. 

While they do offer an X2, low-to-the-ground push/pull stroller wagon, most everything else from Wonderfold is going to have a similar high wall design. 

For our family, this is a con.  Our kids love to climb in and out of the stroller wagon on their own – “I can do it myself!”  

We also find ourselves off the beaten path from time to time, and with stroller wagons lower to the ground I just feel more secure – even with two rambunctious toddlers there’s no chance of tipping over. 

I have other friends however who would disagree.  

They would say the Wonderfold gives their kids a ‘world and space all their own’.  What I see as disconnecting the kids from their environment, they see as offering a necessary escape hatch from their surroundings. 

Parents of children with special needs for instance have spoken favorably as to how the deep carriage design helps their family enter certain spaces in the stroller wagon that previously had seemed impossible. 

There are other quirks and perks with Wonderfold, for all the deets read the Wonderfold W4 Wagon review.  Some perks would be the magnetic seat belts and reclining seats – the biggest con for us is that all that space leads to one super heavy wagon. 

Like, ultra heavy.

At 63 lbs, the W4 Lux is almost twice as heavy as other lighter stroller wagons on the list.  This all equates to difficulty pulling, with a ‘strap’ (not a handlebar — unless you pay extra), and transferring into a vehicle.

Do they look cool? Yes. 

Are they enormous? Yes.

For their popularity (and price) does the W4 function the best? mmmm….

For us, it’s unfortunately a lot of fluff and fancy without the substance. I have yet to talk to a Wonderfold parent who hasn’t complained about the difficulty traveling with their wagon, which is the point of getting one, right?      

10. Burley Hopper Family Bundle ($729.90) – Camper Family’s Dream

The Burley Hopper is the only wagon on this list that has the interesting ability to double as a bike trailer.  If your family trips include a lot of biking, this may be worth consideration. 

Although the Hopper can be purchased for $599.95, that is only going to allow you to haul cargo as opposed to a child.  If you want the insert which allows for child transport (5-point harness for up to two passengers), you will have to pony up for the family bundle.

Should you plan on using the Burley Hopper for more than one child, you will need to purchase two child transport seats, which puts the price tag up near $900.

Although I have been accused of having champagne taste buds, that’s a lot of whompum. Perhaps too rich for our blood.

11. Munchkin Ultra-lite Stroller Wagon ($299.99) – Light As a Feather

Typically, when I think of Munchkin, I think of placemats and children’s water bottles.  After digging in a bit more, these guys really do all things baby.  

As the stroller wagon fad picks up steam, it appears they’ve decided to try their hand at creating their own version of the wagon.

The claim to fame here is the Ultra-lite feature, as it’s the only stroller wagon on this list to weigh under 30lbs.  If you’ve read any of my other reviews, such as the top 5 travel cribs, you know I don’t do heavy, so this is a perk we really like.

That goal of being the lightest does however come with its downsides.  In our opinion, this might not be the wagon for the offroad family, as the sturdiness and all terrain ability is lacking (if present whatsoever).  

Basically, it’s built for two kids only, no infant car seat adapter, and keep it on a smooth surface.  

If this will suit your family, the perks are nice – canopies and snack tray included (bonus), plus a light compact folded wagon that will fit in most any trunk.  

Stroller Wagon Shout Outs

Ingenuity Pop ‘N Ride Stroller Wagon, Jeep Wrangler, and Ever Advanced would be honorable mentions to make the list.  

Another off the wall brand with some flavor, Familydoo boasts a 6-seat electric stroller wagon.

Jeep Wrangler bodes a ton of storage space and is our favorite of these late additions, due to the bang for your buck.

Roll it On Home

When all is said and done, and the dust clears, we are left with a handful of stroller wagons we’d ride or die with, and a few we must insist you avoid.

If you want the absolute best stroller wagon on the market, there is nothing that compares to a Veer Cruiser. 

Now, saving money on my children is one of my most favorite hobbies.  Deals and bargains make me gitty, and I’ve written about it extensively in Amy Baby’s Free Baby Stuff and Free things to do with Kids.  So if you are the bargain hunter, go with the Radio Flyer Voya. 

Should you be willing to spend a bit more, we prefer the low-ride, single handlebar push-pull models, such as Gladly and Joey. 

That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!