10 Best Bike Trailers in 2021

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Bicycle Wagon Reviews and Buyer Guide

Do you have kids at home? Then you know how hard it is to get anything done, much less find some time for yourself to exercise while doing something you love, like riding your bike, especially if you’re always alone with the kids.

Don’t fret! We’ve got awesome news for you. With a handy bike trailer, you can now get fit and healthy by spending time outdoors while your kids tag along without all the fuss and the hassle! Take a look at this list of the best bike trailers for kids in 2021.

Best Bike Trailers – Our Top Picks

Burley Bike Trailer

Burley Bee Bike Trailer

Here’s one of the best options for an easy to use entry-level bike trailer with plenty of cargo to hold both your kids and their essentials for a fun day outdoors. In case you’re looking to tow your furry friend, Burley also creates one of the best dog bike trailers.

The Burley Bee bike trailer features a hammock-style seat with a helmet pocket and a five-point harness for maximum safety, plus the option of adding padding for extra comfort. It’s lightweight and designed for a compact fold for portability and easy storage and transportation, but it can carry up to 100lb, including whatever gear you want to store in its large rear cargo space.

To ensure your kids’ safety, the cart comes in a bright and sunny yellow color and features plenty of reflective material on the cover, tires, and the kid carrier’s front and rear, as well as a neon orange safety flag. 

  • 2-seater cargo bike trailer
  • Safe and durable
  • Passed three durability tests
  • 5+ years parts warranty
View more by Burley Design

Thule Chariot Cross Sport Stroller

Thule Chariot Bike Trailer

If you’re looking for a great buggy that can accommodate a wider range of activities, Thule’s kids’ stroller delivers. From biking, jogging, strolling, and skiing, this cross-sports stroller makes any activity fun and easy.

Each order comes with a bicycle trailer kit and a strolling kit (and the option of a jogging kit) that you can conveniently store onboard and pull out whenever you wish. Changing gears to match your activity is quick, easy, and hassle-free.

The comfortable seats are well-padded and fitted with the necessary safety harness, and can be reclined with one hand so your kid can take a peaceful nap as you go along, especially since the stroller is designed with an adjustable leaf spring suspension to ensure a smooth ride.

  • Single-seat front push stroller
  • Removable XL cargo space
  • Two-color options
  • Lifetime limited warranty
View more by Thule

InStep Bike Trailer

InStep Bike Trailer

A great and affordable trailer with single and 2-seater options and four color choices is InStep’s bike cart for kids. This tow-behind child carrier is suitable for most types and styles of bicycles, and comes at a relatively cheap price!

It’s got a five-point harness, a 2-in-1 canopy featuring an inner bug shield and an outer weather shield, a rear vent window, and a safety flag, so your child is always protected no matter what. The best part is, it moves smoothly along while you cycle, due to the high-performance 16-inch wheels with molded rims.

The folding frame design and quick-release wheel make it easy to assemble, use, and store, and transport. And, it can carry up to 80lb weight plus an extra 12lb for valuables in the rear storage.

  • Single or 2-seater tow-behind bike trailer
  • Four color options
  • Affordable choice
  • 1 year limited warranty
View more by Instep

Schwinn Echo Bike Trailer

Schwinn Echo Bike Trailer

Do you want the perfect toddler bike trailer? Schwinn’s echo bike trailer is perfect for small kids, from babies to toddlers. They’ve got pull behind and front push designs with one and two-seat options, the choice between 16 and 20-inch wheels, as well as red and yellow material.

The cart has all the essentials covered, from the harness seats that can accommodate 40lb per seat plus a 12lb storage space, the 2-in-1 canopy for protection against bugs and weather elements the smooth ride provided by the air-filled tires, and the portability from the folding frame and quick-release wheels.

Most importantly, this wagon comes with a stroller kit so you can walk or jog with ease, and you can fit it with a universal coupler for added versatility.

  • Single or 2-seater convertible buggy
  • Pull behind trailer with a stroller kit
  • Two-color options
  • 16 or 20-inch wheels
View more by Schwinn

CoPilot Bicycle Trailer

CoPilot Bicycle Trailer

This one’s a more affordable option for a 2-seater cycle trailer that converts into a stroller. It comes in two slightly different styles, but both in bright and reflective yellow.

As with the previous tow behinds, it can accommodate up to two children weighing a maximum of 100lb and has some toy tethers and pockets, and a rear storage area for your kids’ things. In terms of safety, the seats are padded and are fitted with 5 point harnesses, the stitching is reflective, the covers are tinted, and webbing light clips have been added for extra visibility.

The frame of this folding bike trailer is made of rugged steel, which can be folded and flattened in seconds for easy storage and transport. The best part? This cart can be attached to disc brakes and regular bikes.

  • 2-seater collapsible bike trailer
  • Pull behind trailer with stroller kit
  • Two styles to choose from
View more by CoPilot

Thule Chariot Lite Sport Stroller

Thule Chariot Lite Sport Stroller

Here’s another amazing bike stroller from Thule: the Thule chariot lite sport stroller, made for biking, jogging, strolling, and skiing, so you can get fit and healthy while your little ones tag along.

It comes in single and 2-seater options in a lovely teal color and includes a biking and strolling kit (plus a jogging kit you can purchase separately) that can be stored on-board when not in use and can be changed quick and easy so you can shift from one activity to another with ease.

The suspension system and adjustable handlebar make for an easy and comfortable ride for both parent and child, and the trailer can be folded compact for hassle-free transport and storage.

  • Single or 2-seater convertible trailer
  • Bicycle and stroller kit included
  • On-board attachments storage
  • Lifetime limited warranty
View more by Thule

Schwinn Trailblazer Bike Trailer

Schwinn Trailblazer Bike Trailer

Another awesome baby bike trailer for kids from Schwinn is their trailblazer bike trailer, which comes in a bright red color and either 16 or 20-inch wheels to suit your needs.

It’s a suitable attachment to most types of bikes because of its universal coupler, and you can easily convert it from a trailer to a stroller since it comes with a handy stroller kit including a handlebar and a front wheel.

It holds an adequate 80lb weight capacity, protects your little ones from bugs and the weather, ensures a smooth ride, folds and packs up neatly, and is versatile for many types of outdoor activities so both you and your kids can have fun.

  • Single or 2-seater convertible trailer
  • Pull behind trailer with a stroller kit
  • Two color options
  • 16 or 20-inch wheels
View more by Schwinn

Allen Sports Deluxe Trailer

Allen Sports Bike Trailer

This Allen bike trailer is another cheap but quality option for those looking for either a single bike trailer or a 2-seater. It’s made of lightweight steel frames for easy mobility and transport, coupled with rugged steel tires for better performance on any terrain.

It’s easy to set up and comfortably fits two children with a maximum payload of 100lb and features a foot guard to protect your kids’ feet. It also features a cabin venting system to help with air circulation and includes an easy attach bike trailer hitch so you can easily install and remove the carriage from your bike.

  • Single or 2-seater bike trailer
  • Foot guard and cabin venting for safety and ventilation
  • Easy attach bike hitch
  • Lifetime warranty
View more by Allen Sports

Weehoo iGo Two Bike Trailer

Weehoo iGo Two Bike Trailer

This lovely open-air type bike wagon by Weehoo is pretty popular, and for good reason. Aside from the pretty design, it’s durable and features a whopping 19L storage capacity.

The two-seater bike trolley for kids aged 2 to 9 years old, although the open design is safer for older kids. It’s a pull behind type with a hitch that can easily be installed and removed, is equipped with a two crank and drive train so kids can pedal along with you, and comes with rear footrests so they can comfortably lay back once they get tired from pedaling.

Of course, it’s also got a five-point harness for maximum safety, is lightweight at just 35lb, and the seats are adjustable so your kids can sit comfortably regardless of age, size, and weight.

  • 2-seater bike trailer
  • Open cockpit design
  • Adjustable seats, rear pedals, and footrests
  • Easy install hitch
View more by Weehoo

Aosom Elite 360 Bicycle Cargo Trailer

Aosom Elite 360 Bicycle Cargo Trailer

Our final pick is Aosom’s 360 swivel 2-seater bicycle cargo trailer and jogger. It comes in 5 color options, all with a pulley to attach to your bike, and a handlebar for easy strolling and jogging.

The trailer features spacious sling seats with 5 point harness systems each seat, and accommodating up to 88lb, while the removable canopy protects your kids from sun, rain, and debris. The frame is made of strong steel, and the 20-inch wheels ensure a smooth ride on any terrain.

Plus, you get full control and mobility from the locking swivel front wheel and the full suspension system. The only downside is that this wagon is only made for a Type A bike hitch, so make sure to check whether it’s compatible with your bicycle before purchasing.

  • 2-seater convertible cargo bike trailer
  • Comes with a hitch, pulley, and handlebar
  • 20-inch wheels
  • Five color options
View more by Aosom
How to choose the right bicycle trailer for kids

How to Choose The Right Bike Trailer For Kids

As you’ve seen in our top picks for the best bike trailers for kids, they come in many different options and varieties in style, design, seat capacity, and so on. With this many options to choose from, the decision on which one to buy can be difficult.

But, not to worry! We’d like to help you make the right and informed decision, so you can choose a bike trailer that fits your needs and budget, and most importantly, your kids will love. After all, you’re buying it for them, right?

In order for you to choose wisely, here are the most important things that you need to consider:

Find a Brand You Trust

While it’s true that you can always find great deals of high-quality products from lesser-known and up-and-coming brands and suppliers, if you want to be sure that your child is comfortable and safe, and the bike cart will last you for a long time, the best decision may still be to stick with a trusted company.

There are many well-known brands loved by consumers worldwide, from old industry pillars to new competitors. You can check out companies such as Via Velo, the more affordable Bell Bike Trailer, or some of the brands we mentioned here, like Schwinn and Thule.

What you’re paying for here is the guarantee of high product quality and excellent customer service.

Types of Bike Trailers

When it comes to what kind of bike trailer you need, there are many different types that suit different purposes, the first question being, who or what is it for? In this article, we are focusing on bike trailers for children, but there are also tow behinds available for pets, and random items such as groceries or heavy cargo.

For children’s trailers, you can get enclosed ones or open-air types, depending on the age of your kids. There is also the question of how many wheels the trailer should have. Two wheels are great for balance and weight management, while one wheel is perfect for uneven terrains. 

Furthermore, trailers are also designed for different outdoor activities and sports, so you’ll need to consider that as well. We’ll go over the different types of trailers in more detail below.

Number of Kids

This one is basic- how many kids you have will determine how many seats your trailer should have. There are lots of single seat and 2-seater trailers out there, and the rare 3-seat trailer if you have a larger family.

You might even want to get a 2-seater even if you only have one child right now, so you can readily accommodate another kid in the future. In the meantime, it just means more space for your little one, and a bit of extra storage for you.

Kid’s Age

Another important consideration is how old your kids are. Do you have an infant, in which case it would be optimal for you to look for a bike attachment for a baby, where he or she can be safely tucked and comfortable at all times? You might want to get a kid carrier that fully reclines so your baby can nap as you navigate the outdoors.

Or do you have rowdy toddlers who need to be securely seated in place and protected from the elements? Why not a general-purpose trailer with a 2-in-1 canopy, so your kids can be safe and comfortable while being shielded from the elements?

Perhaps, you have a kid who would enjoy an unhindered view and lots of fresh air? Try an open cockpit type of wagon with a five point harness, so your kid can enjoy the outdoors as much as you do without compromising their safety.

Then again, if you have an older child, a great option, would be a bike extension for kids, such as this tandem bicycle trailer from WeeRide.

Tandem Ride Behind Bike from WeeRide

With this ride-behind bike, you and your kid can share the full cycling experience together.

Where Will The Trailer Be Used?

Next, ask yourself where you’ll mostly be using your trailer. For one thing, do you live in the city, where it’s all asphalt and cement? Are you in a hilly suburb where you would like a little more versatility? Or will you be navigating wet roads, rough paths, dusty soils, or sandy spots?

The road condition is important because it will affect the type, size, and number of wheels on the trailer. As we have mentioned earlier, getting a two-wheeled bike trailer is the best option for even weight management and riding on flat and even paths. It’s also great if you’re just starting out using a bike and a bike trailer.

On the other hand, a one-wheel trailer may seem intimidating and harder to balance, but it’s perfect for uneven terrains that are difficult to navigate. A single wheel gives you more mobility, control, and versatility so you can overcome tough and rough paths.

What Will The Trailer Be Used For?

Moving on, this one’s more for you and your needs. What outdoor activities do you enjoy and see yourself doing with your kids in tow? Is it simple trips to the grocery, leisurely walks in the park, biking around the neighborhood, jogging in the morning, or even skiing?

For one thing, pull behind bikes, a.k.a ones you attach at the rear of your bike to get pulled as you pedal, are more suitable for, well, biking. Meanwhile, convertible trailers that turn into strollers are better suited for walking and jogging, so you can push the trailer in front of you as you go.

Need the bike trailer for more than one activity? Then a combo trailer might be the right choice. These come with attachments that make the carriage compatible for biking, strolling, and more. Some trailers come with these kits already included, some you’ll need to purchase separately, while some are altogether incompatible with any attachment or modification.

Bike Stroller Jogging

Is it Compatible With Your Bike?

Finally, the bike trailer must be compatible with your bike. This is a no-brainer. The design and size of the tow behind should not interfere or come into contact with the bike’s rear wheel, for example. And, more importantly, the hitch or attaching mechanism of the bike trailer should be the right type for your bike.

There are trailers that come with universal bike trailer couplers, so they can easily fit most bike types, and there are also specialized or specific type hitches made especially for certain bikes. Make sure to check what type of hitch or coupler the carriage has and whether it will fit your bike before you order.

How to Attach a Bike Trailer

Once you decide on which trailer you want, you will need to learn how to hook up the bike tow behind onto your bike. Don’t worry, though. This is quick and easy, so you can do it even with the most basic knowledge. You’ll just need a wrench set to get it done.

  1. Before you get started, identify first what kind of hitch system your bike trailer has, meaning, is it with or without a coupler? Does it have a quick-release skewer or fixed nuts attachments? This will determine the steps you’ll need to follow.
  2. For a fixed nut hitch, you’ll need to unscrew the rear tire nut, then slide the fixed nut hitch over the rear wheel bolt. But, for a quick-release hitch, you need to wrap the strap under the seat around the post of the bike seat. Then, squeeze the skewer clamp, pass the strap through the skewer, and release the skewer before pulling the strap tight.

Conclusion

There are close to a dozen bike trailer types for different uses and purposes, so picking the best bike trailers for kids can be difficult. But, as long as you follow our comprehensive buyer’s guide and take into account all the important factors, you’re off to a good start. 

Do you have any questions? Comment them down below!