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The 9 Best Collapsible Wagons of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These game-changing wagons make hauling a breeze

Mac Sports folding wagon collaged on a green background

The Spruce / Marcus Millan

Transporting beach essentials, gardening tools, or even children can be made easy with the use of foldable wagons. These wagons allow you to haul all your items in one convenient package while providing easy maneuverability on different terrain. Plus, when you're finished using it, simply fold it down and store it compactly in your trunk or closet. Say goodbye to the hassle of carrying multiple bags and hello to simplified transportation with foldable wagons.

“I’ve used it as my main transportation system for my triplets for three years,” says Anne Marie Hegler, general manager of WonderFold, an Irwindale, California-based company specializing in collapsible stroller wagons. Hegler says her folding wagon is a staple for trips to Target, Costco, and grocery stores. “None of those places have a cart that can fit all of my kids,” she adds.

We conducted thorough testing of 18 different models of foldable wagons, ranging from basic to upscale designs, to help you find the best one that suits your needs. Our testing took place over a three-week period at the beach, where we put the wagons through different terrains such as gravel and sand. We evaluated them on ease of use, performance, quality, and value.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Sekey Collapsible Cart with Brake

Sekey Collapsible Cart with Brake

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Performance
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Tread wheels

  • Compact footprint when folded

  • Durable fabric

What We Don’t Like
  • Velcro-like closure

If you're looking for a wagon that has it all, the Sekey Collapsible Foldable Wagon is the perfect choice for you. During testing, we were impressed by its durability and sturdiness. The wagon’s frame is made of alloy steel, so it will weather well in outdoor elements, especially in coastal areas where metals are susceptible to corrosion from the salty air. The wagon’s fabric is also designed with outdoor use in mind. The durable 600 denier polyester fabric is commonly used to make backpacks and outdoor gear. This makes it an ideal material for withstanding the wear and tear of dirty gardening tools, sandy toys, and other items.

The wagon has four wheels made of polyurethane (PU) and has treads that are gentle on indoor flooring while allowing easy movement on pedestrian surfaces like sidewalks and parks. While moving the wagon through the sand, we noticed that the wheels rolled smoothly without any dragging sensation. The wheels can rotate 360 degrees and come equipped with bearings specially designed for quiet operation. The wagon itself is pretty spacious with a 220-weight capacity. We were able to load up a good amount of beachwear and had no problems hauling it all.

The wagon’s frame folds flat like an accordion to just 8 inches. You can stop there or put on the wagon’s cover, which fits over the wagon’s body and fastens with velcro straps. The cover protects the wagon while you’re transporting or storing it. It also helps with safety by covering the metal frame and keeping it away from fingers and other items that could get tangled in the mechanism. At 25.3 pounds, it is not the lightest wagon available, but even when collapsed, you can still roll it behind you. Overall, we highly recommend this wagon to individuals who frequently visit the beach or need assistance transporting items across various terrains.

Dimensions: 38.58 x 23.23 x 42.13 inches | Weight capacity: 220 pounds | Material: Alloy metal, PVC plastic wheels with rubber tread | Overall Weight: 25.3 pounds

Best Budget

Seina Compact Collapsible Wagon

Seina Compact Collapsible Wagon

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Performance
    3/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Lightweight

  • Small footprint

  • Sturdy steel frame

What We Don’t Like
  • Not great on sand

Looking for a reliable folding wagon that won't break the bank? The Seina Compact Folding Utility Cart is an affordable option that can easily transport a variety of items. At just 15 pounds, this wagon is the lightest on our list. We tested it out on various surfaces including the sidewalk, sand, and rampway at the beach. We discovered that the small tires were not ideal for sandy areas. Nonetheless, we think it's perfect for navigating narrow aisles at the grocery and sidewalks in dense urban areas. It has a sturdy steel frame and 600D polyester fabric like our Best Overall pick, so it's just as durable at a fraction of the cost.

Setting up and folding the cart was a breeze. It fit perfectly in our trunk without any problems once we were finished using it. However, be cautious when handling it since the metal frame's mechanism is exposed when collapsed and could pinch fingers, especially with children around. The T-style handle is adjustable but might be more difficult to use than the traditional closed-loop wagon handle. When deciding whether this wagon works for you, keep in mind that the wagon can only bear a maximum weight of 150 pounds. We still believe that it is a great solution for anyone who needs to transport items such as groceries or sporting equipment.

Dimensions: 29.5 x 17.9 x 18.5 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Material: Alloy Steel, 600D polyester fabric, rubber wheels | Overall Weight: 15 pounds

Best Oversized

Gorilla Carts Folding Wagon

Gorilla Carts GCSW-7P Collapsible Folding Wagon

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Performance
    4/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Step-and-lock brakes on front wheels

  • Multiple storage pockets

  • Two exterior side pockets

What We Don’t Like
  • Cup holders are not shallow

The Gorilla Cart Folding Wagon is a great choice for those looking for a spacious wagon with extra features at a price similar to its competitors. The size of the wagon's bed is 25 by 8 inches, with a capacity of 7 cubic feet, providing ample storage space. It comes ready to use straight out of the box. It was good to go after unwrapping the cushion and placing it in the wagon. We tested it out at the beach, filling it with items and pulling it across various terrains, including the parking lot, grassy areas, and sand. However, we did notice that the tires had some trouble moving on top of the sand and tended to drag through it instead. Apart from that, the wagon handled other surfaces well.

We were impressed by the step-and-lock brakes on the front wheels of this wagon, which were not present in other wagons we tested. These brakes are particularly helpful when navigating uneven terrains. The wagon also features expandable pockets on both sides that can hold long, vertical items such as umbrellas or pool noodles. Additionally, there are zippered pockets to store valuables like keys. However, the drink holders are not very deep and are not suitable for holding drinks while the wagon is in motion. They are better used when the wagon is stationary. This type of wagon is versatile and can be used for various activities, not just at the beach. For example, we also used it to transport photography equipment to and from various locations. The Gorilla wagon collapses in a quad-fold style. But instead of using Velcro straps to fasten the wagon’s cover for storage, the Gorilla’s straps clip together and can be tightened or loosened for more secure storage. There is also a handle on the outside of the cover, so the wagon is easier to carry. 

Dimensions: 36 x 21 x 15 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Material: Metal frame, polyester | Overall Weight: 21 pounds

Best for Gardening

Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon

Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Performance
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Removable fabric

  • Oversize, wide wheels

  • High weight capacity

What We Don’t Like
  • Heavy

Most wagons can be cleaned with a hose or spot-cleaning, but the Beau Jardin (French for "beautiful garden") wagon is different. Its polyester material can be removed from the metal frame and washed, making it perfect for carrying and storing dirty gardening tools. We didn't test it for gardening, but we tried it out at the beach, and it was effortless to transport sandy beach essentials back and forth. This is thanks to the heavy-duty 7-inch wheels that provide good traction on various surfaces. Folding and unfolding the wagon was a breeze and required no assembly.

Although it is one of the heaviest wagons on our list, the Beau Jardin weighs just under 30 pounds but can hold up to 300 pounds, making it ideal for carrying all your gardening tools. You can keep your gardening gloves, pruners, trowels, and other tools organized with several netted pockets. With its oversized wheels, moving it across grass, sand, and pavement is a breeze.

Dimensions: 35 x 20 x 30 inches | Weight capacity: 300 pounds | Material: 600 denier polyester fabric, steel frame | Overall Weight: 27.8 pounds

Best for Beach

Mac Sports Heavy Duty Collapsible Beach Wagon

Mac Sports Heavy Duty Collapsible Beach Wagon

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    4/5
  • Performance
    5/5
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Wide tread wheels

  • Mildew resistant fabric

  • Durable steel frame

What We Don’t Like
  • Heavy

The Mac Sports Heavy Duty Beach Wagon has 4-inch-wide wheels, which should provide better traction than skinny wheels on sandy or pebbly beaches. During our test of the wagon, we discovered that it performed exceptionally well in sand. While the bulky wheels were great for navigating different surfaces, they did prove to be difficult to store. We also found it to be a bit heavy to transport. Despite the inconvenience of its size and wheels to some, we had no trouble hauling our cooler, beach bag, toys, and drinks.

The wagon has 600 denier polyester fabric and a steel frame to weather harsh salty coastal conditions. The fabric can't be removed like the Beau Jardin wagon but can withstand a hosing down after a day at the beach because it is mildew resistant. While the wagon has a weight capacity of 150 pounds, the manufacturer recommends only loading up to 50 pounds when hauling in deep sand. This will ensure smooth rolling and prevent the wheels from getting stuck. The telescoping handle is another standout feature that allows anyone in the family to haul the wagon comfortably. We can attest to its quality, even though it is expensive. We've used it several times at the beach, and it still looks brand new every time. If you're looking for a dependable wagon that can withstand deep sand and last for a long time, this option is a great pick.

Dimensions: 36.2 x 21.4 x 24.6 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Material: 600 denier polyester fabric, steel frame | Overall Weight: 24.5 pounds

Best for Kids

Veer Cruiser Stroller Wagon

Veer Cruiser Stroller Wagon

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy folding

  • Rugged, oversized all-terrain wheels

  • Cup holder included

What We Don’t Like
  • Shade structures sold separately

If you're a parent, you know how challenging it can be to take your children shopping or on a stroll in the park. Keeping them safe while carrying all necessary supplies can quickly lead to a stressful experience. That's why you might find investing in a folding wagon helpful. The Veer Cruiser is a versatile wagon that combines sturdy sides with easy folding capabilities, making it a great option for families. Setting it up was a breeze. We just had to attach the wheels, and it was good to go. We found that it performed exceptionally well during testing, with rugged wheels that navigated through gravel and sand without any issues. We even pulled it across 100 feet of sand without any trouble. Once we finished using the wagon, we were able to fold the seat backs and fabric sidewall flat against the bottom of the wagon. Storing this wagon in the trunk was easy, thanks to its simple folding mechanism that outshines other wagons that fold in a quadrant or accordion style.

While the wagon comes with two cup holders and plenty of storage space, a range of accessories are sold separately, such as canopies, storage baskets, toddler seats with five-point harnesses, weather covers, and a travel bag. It also accommodates infant car seats from all major brands, with adapters that are sold separately. However, keep in mind that purchasing these accessories can increase your overall costs. Kids can be messy, so parents can appreciate that all parts of the wagon are hose-washable. The weight capacity of the wagon varies depending on its intended use. The Cruiser can hold 55 pounds per seat for up to two children and can hold up to 300 pounds of cargo when no children are on board.

Dimensions: 37 x 25 x 23 inches. 37 x 20 x 14 inches folded | Weight capacity: 110 pounds (55 pounds per seat) or 300 pounds of non-human cargo | Material: Aircraft grade aluminum frame, foam filled tires | Overall Weight: 32.5 pounds

Best with Seating

Radio Flyer All-TerrainWagon with Canopy

Radio Flyer Off-Road EZ Fold All-Terrain Wagon with Canopy

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    4/5
  • Performance
    4/5
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Unzips for bench seating

  • Easy to fold

  • Removable canopy

What We Don’t Like
  • Assembly required

The Radio Flyer 3 in 1 Off-Road EZ Fold Wagon with Canopy is a great addition for families because of its seating. Assembly was a breeze, with the bulk of the work consisting of a simple attachment of the wheels. Once assembled, the wagon was extremely user-friendly and effortless to operate, fold, and transport. We put it through its paces during our beach trip, where we were able to load it into our vehicle with ease, wheel it through the gravel, and even pull it along the beach for about 100 feet.

After testing, we discovered that the wagon one was capable of navigating through various terrains with ease. Although its storage capacity is slightly limited, the added feature of an overhead canopy made it a great choice for families with young children. It felt sturdy and long-lasting, but we did notice that the canopy's fabric may deteriorate quickly due to frequent attachment and detachment. With the zippers on the sides of the wagon, you can easily convert it from a hauling wagon to a bench seating wagon for your kids. This wagon comes with seat belts to ensure your little ones' safety during movement. It also can carry up to 150 pounds and has two front cup holders and a rear storage pouch for the canopy. We highly recommend this wagon if you have kids or pets to transport. However, if your goal is solely to have a beach canopy, this wagon may not be your optimal choice.

Dimensions: 32.7 x 39 x 18.5 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Material: Metal, polyester fabric, plastic wheels | Overall Weight: 22 pounds

Best for Pets

Arcadia Trail Pet Wagon

Arcadia Trail Pet Wagon

PetSmart

What We Like
  • Back of wagon opens like a tailgate

  • Includes collapsible food/water dishes

  • Features a waste bag dispenser

  • High weight capacity

What We Don’t Like
  • No brakes

You can put a pet in pretty much any wagon, but the Arcadia Trail Pet Wagon is intentionally designed for dogs. We like that this pet wagon can also be used to transport groceries, coolers, or other gear, unlike most pet strollers, designed with the stroller as the primary purpose. Two collapsible silicone food and water dishes are included with this wagon attached with carabiners, and the wagon's tailgate folds down to store the dishes in mesh holders. The wagon also has external storage pockets for treats, toys, and other pet items, including a compartment that dispenses waste bags. 

Pet wagons, in contrast to pet strollers, are a relatively recent invention, and as such, there are a few features we hope to see refined in future models. The fabric on the Arcadia Trail wagon cannot be removed for washing, making it difficult to clean up any accidents that may occur while transporting your pet. The wagon also lacks brakes to help lock the wheels, and the instructions warn that the wagon can tip if a pet steps onto the open tailgate. All in all, we still think this wagon is a great option for pet parents to transport their furry friends.

Dimensions: 37.4 x 19.3 x 21.7 inches | Weight capacity: 250 pounds | Material: Rust-resistant powder-coated steel frame, water-resistant polyester fabric, polypropylene wheels | Overall Weight: 25.5 pounds

Best Extra Long

Mac Sports XTender Wagon

MacSports XTender Wagon

Amazon

What We Like
  • Accommodates long items

  • Mildew and UV-resistant fabric

  • Durable powder-coated steel frame

  • Comes with protective cover

What We Don’t Like
  • Not designed to transport children

At 52 inches long, the Mac Sports XTender is the longest wagon on our list. It’s made of durable outdoor fabric, and the powder-coated steel frames can be stored in their carrying cases when the wagon is collapsed. It also includes two exterior mesh storage pockets designed for water bottles on the front of the wagon, but there’s a missed opportunity for another exterior storage pocket on the back of the XTender. Instead, the back houses an unsightly warning label.

The wagon carries a maximum of 150 pounds and can hold 5.6 cubic feet of cargo. Since more of your load can be laid flat on the XTender rather than piled on top of each other, this can help keep everything steady.

Dimensions: 52.25 x 19.95 x 20 inches | Weight capacity: 150 pounds | Material: Mildew and UV-resistant 600 denier polyester fabric, powder-coated steel frame | Overall Weight: 25 pounds

Compare

Ease of Use Performance Quality Value
Sekey Collapsible Cart with Brake
Best Overall:
Sekey Collapsible Cart with Brake
5 5 5 5
Seina Compact Collapsible Wagon
Best Budget:
Seina Compact Collapsible Wagon
5 3 5 5
Gorilla Carts GCSW-7P Collapsible Folding Wagon
Best Oversized:
Gorilla Carts Folding Wagon
5 4 5 5
Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon
Best for Gardening:
Beau Jardin Folding Beach Wagon
5 5 5 5
Mac Sports Heavy Duty Collapsible Beach Wagon
Best for Beach:
Mac Sports Heavy Duty Collapsible Beach Wagon
4 5 4 5
Veer Cruiser Stroller Wagon
Best for Kids:
Veer Cruiser Stroller Wagon
3
Radio Flyer Off-Road EZ Fold All-Terrain Wagon with Canopy
Best with Seating:
Radio Flyer All-TerrainWagon with Canopy
4 4 4 4
Arcadia Trail Pet Wagon
Best for Pets:
Arcadia Trail Pet Wagon
MacSports XTender Wagon
Best Extra Long:
Mac Sports XTender Wagon
Final Verdict

After testing 18 wagons, our top pick is the Sekey Collapsible Foldable Wagon, because it’s a durable, reliable, and affordable workhorse that easily folds into a neat, portable flat rectangle when you’re done using it. If you’re looking for an affordable wagon that can handle most indoor and outdoor everyday tasks, the Seina Heavy Duty Wagon is an excellent value for an all-purpose starter wagon.

Other Options We Tested

Mac Sports Double Decker Wagon: During testing, we were impressed by all the extra space this wagon had to offer. While the upper part of the wagon acted as a basket, the lower part had an extendable shelf for stowing longer items like canopies, umbrellas, or collapsible chairs. We encountered some problems with the handle getting stuck once it was locked into place and having difficulty opening it.

Mac Sports 2-in-1 Outdoor Beach Cart + Folding Lounge Chair: Although this wagon/lounge chair had potential, it fell short during our testing. We were not impressed with the quality of the product items and found it hard to transition from cart to chair after assembly. Additionally, the material used for the lounge chair felt stiff and was not very comfortable to use.

How We Tested the Folding Wagons

To find the best folding wagons for any scenario, we tested 18 different models over three weeks. As part of our testing process, we evaluated the wagons on different terrains, including sand and gravel, focusing on the beach. We also took note of the ease of assembly, whether it came preassembled, and how easy it was to open.

Once assembled, we loaded the wagons with beach essentials such as towels, umbrellas, and coolers to test how well they moved. We tested the wagons by pushing or pulling them on a smooth, paved surface and through the sand on the beach. We also considered any additional features the wagons had, such as pockets, adjustable handles, and brakes.

After each use, we thoroughly checked the wagons for any signs of wear and tear to evaluate their durability.

What to Look for in a collapsible wagon

Purpose

Before you choose a wagon, consider how you will use it. If you want an all-purpose wagon that can get coolers and gear to the beach, sports games and tailgates, groceries to your home, and camping and gardening equipment across outdoor terrain, the Sekey Collapsible Foldable Wagon is a versatile option that you can repurpose for different tasks. If you want a wagon that’s suited to a specific task, be sure to prioritize your needs. For example, if you want a wagon designed specifically for a pet, check out the Arcadia Trail Pet Wagon, which features designated spaces for the included collapsible food and water dishes and a dispenser for waste bags.

Kids in wagons

Keep in mind that the majority of wagons are not safe for transporting kids. Stroller wagons like the Veer Cruiser are designed to the same safety standards as strollers, making them ideal for transporting young children. Unlike most strollers, stroller wagons are likely big enough to support an adult. Recently, Anne Marie Hegler, general manager of Wonderfold Wagon, says she’s seen an increase in wagons used for breastfeeding. Hegler says that stroller wagons are also especially popular for children with special needs who need to travel with medical equipment like oxygen tanks or feeding pouches. 

Material

If you plan to use your wagon exclusively outdoors in a garden or for camping, consider wagons made of materials that will withstand harsh weather. The Mac Sports Beach Wagon features a mildew and UV-resistant fabric, which makes it a great option for your summer beach trips.

Weight Capacity

Collapsible wagons require people's power to move them. If you have the strength to pull heavy loads, you may want a wagon that can handle up to 300 pounds. For the elderly or young people who want to sell Girl Scout cookies door-to-door, there are lightweight wagons available. The Seina Folding Wagon is one of the lightest wagons on our list; it can carry 150 pounds but only weighs approximately 15 pounds. 

Storage capacity

A wagon’s overall dimensions should include its frame, which can be vastly different from the wagon bed, where you’ll place most of your gear. If you’re using a wagon to transport things like soil that’s measured in cubic feet, you may be interested in the storage capacity of the interior as well as the wagon’s weight capacity. 

Ease of Use 

Having a wagon that can be folded up and put away quickly will make using it much less of a hassle. Keep an eye out for wagons with flimsy locks. Some covers fit over wagons and are secured with a Velcro-like strap that is not strong enough to hold the wagon’s weight. We prefer covers with latches that snap securely together.

FAQ
  • How much weight can a folding wagon carry?

    Pay close attention to the maximum static and dynamic load weights specified in the wagon's user manual. As an example, if a wagon has a static load capacity of 265 pounds, that means it can support that weight when the load is not being moved. However, the same wagon might only support a 132-pound dynamic or moving load. 

    Stroller wagons that have individual seats for children may list weight maximums per seat. For example, the two-seated Veer Cruiser says the wagon will hold a 55-pound child per seat or 300 pounds of non-human cargo.

  • Do foldable wagons work on sand?

    Yes, but the type of sand is also a factor. Deep sand is more difficult to traverse than packed, wet sand. As a general rule, try to look for wagons with wide tires for extra traction. For this reason, beach wagons typically feature oversized, wide wheels.

  • How do you fold a collapsible wagon?

    Most wagons are either designed to fold like an accordion or a quad fold. The metal frame of an accordion-style wagon can be folded flat, as the name implies, by lifting a pull in the center of the wagon. A quad-fold wagon may also utilize a pull in the middle of the wagon’s floor to bring the four corners of the wagon into the center, where it can be secured by a strap or cover.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Laurie Mansfield Reiter, a journalist with years of experience in researching, testing, and recommending home and garden products. For more than five years, Reiter has personally owned and used our overall pick, the Mac Sports Wagon Classic, in a hilly Los Angeles beach neighborhood as well as on the urban streets and parks in Brooklyn, New York. In preparation for this article, she interviewed Anne Marie Hegler, general manager of WonderFold Wagon. She also consulted the certification standards from the American Society for Testing and Materials and the safety standard for carriages and strollers from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Daniela Galvez, Senior Commerce Editor for The Spruce updated this list with insights gathered from testing various beach wagons in beaches across the country. She also added additional picks and reporting.

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