Best Bike Trailers For Kids (Tested & Reviewed)

Looking for a bike trailer for towing your kids? Awesome! You’re about to have a ton of fun with your family!

But first, you have to find a good trailer. Unfortunately, there are a TON of bicycle trailers on the market and it can be confusing what to look for. Do you need a double trailer or a single trailer? Suspension or no? Should a trailer have metal wheels or plastic ones?

To help you get the best trailer for YOUR family and YOUR budget, we’ve tested, reviewed, researched, and surveyed parents to help you find the very best bicycle trailer for your unique situation. (Read all our detailed trailer reviews here).

Below, you will find a list of our favorite trailers for kids. Then, we will give you some things to consider before buying a trailer so you don’t waste your time or money.

Our Top Picks

BUDGET TRAILERS	What We Love	Price
Retrospec Retro Rover Plus	Comfortable seating and straps	$199 (single) / $229 (double)
Allen Sports Deluxe	Solid steel construction	$180
Schwinn Trailblazer	Folds small for storage	$169
MID-RANGE TRAILERS
Wike Junior	Durable floors, smart harness design	$319
Burley Bee	Durable, cargo space	$379 (single) / $399 (double)
Thule Cadence	Lots of storage space, folds flat	$349
Hamax Traveller	Lightweight, easy conversion to stroller	$499
HIGH END & MULTI SPORT
Thule Chariot	Suspension, jog/ski kits, resale value	$1,399 (single) / $1,499 (double)
Burley D’Lite	Optional plus size tires, converts to cargo trailer	$999 (single) / $1,049 (double)
Hamax Outback	Roomy interior, well-ventilated	$699 (single), $749 (double)
Tout Terrain Singletrailer	Single wheel design, suspension	$1,400

Retrospec Retro Rover Plus

Price: $199 (single) / $229 (double)

Quick info: Single or double versions, 20″ wheels, not e-bike compatible, bike trailer only, 40 lb (single) / 80 lb (double) capacity

The Retrospec Retro Rover Plus is a shockingly good bike trailer for its price point, and the comfortable seat is our favorite part. Many “budget” trailers skimp when it comes to comfort, and that’s not the case with the Rover. We found that our little passengers were far happier for far longer in this trailer than the competition.

Another thing that sets the trailer apart from other afforrdable trailers is the fact that it has 20″ wheels (rather than 16″), making it smoother to pull and easier to roll up and over obstacles.

Storage is another strong point. Between the interior pockets, exterior pockets, and a rear trunk roomy enough to fit a balance bike, this trailer holds its own against trailers twice the price. It also folds down flat for easy transport, and the colors are noticeably more fade-resistant than what we’ve seen on pricier trailers.

The tradeoffs are minor. The windows are clear rather than tinted, so sun glare can be an issue on bright days. It also won’t work with a thru-axle without a Robert Axle Project adapter.

Read Our Review: Retrospec Retro Rover Plus

Allen Sports Deluxe

Price: $180

Quick info: Single or double versions, 16″ wheels, not e-bike compatible, bike trailer only, 50 lbs capacity

The Allen Sports Deluxe is the most robust “budget” trailer we’ve tested. It’s made of durable steel so won’t flex or bend and has metal rather than plastic wheels; something that’s rare at this price point.

Despite this solid construction, the trailer manages to remain relatively lightweight. It’s 24 pounds for the double trailer and 22 pounds for the single version. It’s also easy to pull.

The interior lacks some of the bells and whistles that higher end trailers have, but it does offer 5-point harnesses and padding at the neck. The seats do not have much padding and the fabric floor shows wear quickly.

Still for families who only plan on shorter, infrequent rides, this is an excellent, durable option especially considering the low pricetag.

Read Review: Allen Sports Deluxe

Schwinn Trailblazer

Price: $169

Quick info: Single or double versions, 16″ wheels, not e-bike compatible, bike trailer only, 45 lb max capacity

Chances are you had a Schwinn bike as a kid.  Yup, that’s how long this company has been around.  If you’re looking for a basic, budget trailer that will get the job done, consider the Schwinn Trailblazer.  You won’t find any bells and whistles on this trailer, but it won’t fall apart and it doesn’t weigh a ton.

Unlike many budget trailers, it has pneumatic (air) tires and metal rims. It also folds down pretty flat for storage and transport. When you are ready to ride, the single-click assembly and tool-free wheel attachment make it perfect for spontaneous rides and quick trips to the park.

Where the Trailblazer falls short is in its speed and weight limitations. With a maximum speed of 10 MPH and weight capacity of just 40 pounds (plus 5 pounds of cargo), it’s best suited for casual neighborhood rides with younger children.

Read Our Review: Schwinn Trailblazer

Wike Junior

Price: $319

Quick info: Double seats, 20″ wheels, not e-bike compatible, bike trailer only, 100 lb capacity

Unlike any other trailers on this list (or in the U.S. market for that matter), Wike trailers have a unique look and serve as the ideal trailers for families who like to do lots of around-town riding and commuting. 

The Wike trailers are durable, comfortable, and heck, they look nice!  We also appreciate that these trailers fold up small, making them nice for storage and transport.

At 18 pounds, the Wike Junior is notably lighter than competitors like the more expensive Burley Bee and Thule Cadence (listed below), while still offering premium features like a hard plastic floor and generous cargo space. We particularly love the smart harness system that allows a single child to sit in the center for better balance or accommodates two children with separate 5-point harnesses.

With an affordable pricetag, the Junior delivers excellent value with its thoughtful design features, quality construction, and lifetime frame warranty. The only real downside is that it might be a bit snug for two older kids – but for everyday family cycling and around-town adventures, it’s hard to beat.

Read Our Review: Wike Junior

Burley Bee

Price: $379 (single) / $399 (double)

Quick info: Double seats, 20″ wheels, not e-bike compatible, bike trailer only, 100 lb capacity

When thinking of bicycle trailers, Burley is probably the name that comes immediately to mind.  Known for high-quality products and good value, Burley deserves their positive reputation.  They offer trailers across the price spectrum starting with the Burley Bee.

For parents who only need a bike trailer (and not a stroller or jogger), the Burley Bee is a top pick of nearly every family we’ve surveyed. It’s a bike-only trailer that’s durable and well-constructed. It can carry one or two kids and includes 5-point harness straps.

The Bee is notably lightweight thanks to its aluminum frame, while still providing excellent safety features including a roll cage design and UV-protected windows. The 20-inch wheels with metal rims and spokes make for smooth towing, and the water-resistant cover keeps kids dry in wet weather.

While it lacks some premium features like a reinforced floor or suspension, the Bee makes up for it with ample storage space and thoughtful design elements. Available in both single and double versions, it’s an excellent value for families who want a high-quality trailer without spending a fortune on extra features they might not need.

Read Review: Burley Bee

Thule Cadence

Price: $349

Quick info: Double seats, 20″ wheels, e-bike compatible, bike trailer only, 100 lb capacity

Like Burley, Thule is a trusted name in the outdoor gear world, particularly known for their car racks and carriers. Their entry-level trailer, the Thule Cadence, offers similar quality to the Burley Bee but with a few unique features.

The Cadence hits most of the important marks for a quality trailer: durable construction, 20-inch pneumatic tires, and robust safety features. What makes it stand out from other entry-level trailers is the inclusion of a sunshade, a feature normally reserved for more expensive models

It has a narrow interior which is a disadvantage for kids who like to argue, but can be an advantage for the adult navigating tight spaces.

Read Review: Thule Cadence

Hamax Traveller

Price: $499

Quick info: Double seats, 20″ wheels, e-bike compatible, bike trailer AND stroller, 100 lb capacity

You’re probably familiar with Hamax carseats, but the Norwegian company also makes great bike trailers. 

The Hamax Traveller strikes a nice balance between an entry-level trailer and a more expensive premium model. At $499, it fits squarely in the mid-range category and functions as both a bike trailer and a stroller.

The conversion from bike trailer to stroller is fast and easy, and it is smooth rolling in either mode. There is also a foot brake for safe loading and unloading while in stroller mode.

While it lacks some premium features like suspension or padded seats, the Traveller does offer some higher-end thoughtful details like a rubberized, washable floor mat. It has a high weight capacity and plenty of cargo space.

Where the Traveller falls a bit short is ventilation. The limited airflow can make it warm for passengers in hot weather. The harness placement is also a bit awkward. That said, for families wanting a versatile trailer-stroller combo without breaking the bank on a more premium model, the Traveller is a solid choice.

Read Review: Hamax Traveller

Thule Chariot Cross

List Price: $1,399 (single) / $1,499 (double)

Quick info: Single or double, 20″ wheels, suspension, e-bike compatible, bike trailer AND stoller, jogging and ski kits available seperately, 100 lb capacity

No doubt: the Thule bike trailers (particularly the Thule Chariot) are the nicest trailers on the market.  The Thule Chariot is the very first thing I bought when I found out I was pregnant. 

The Thule Chariot Cross (and the even more expensive Chariot Sport) are the crème de la crème for active families thanks to the multitude of available accessories.  The trailer can do double duty as a stroller, jogger, and ski sled.  The Cross has suspension for off-road riding, plenty of storage, and will last for years.

The Chariot is definately an investment, but the quality matches the price tag. Because they are so durable, and well known and respected, you can also sell them second hand for a really good price.

The aluminum frame acts like a roll cage for maximum safety, and thoughtful features like adjustable suspension, reclining seats, and a five-point harness make it comfortable for kids. While it’s not quite as roomy as for older kids, for young tots and their parens, the Cross excels at everything from around-town errands to off-road adventures.

Read Review: Thule Chariot Cross

Burley D’Lite X

Price: $999 (single) / $1,049 (double)

Quick info: Single or double, 20″ wheels, suspension, e-bike compatible, bike trailer AND stoller, jogging and ski kits available separately, 100 lb capacity

The Burley D’Lite X is one of the most popular trailers on the market, and for good reason. It has several attachment options for a variety of outdoor activities, is easy to clean, and collapses for easy transport.

What really sets Burley apart in my opinion are helpful accessories like the plus-size tire kit and thru-axle converters. They also have top notch customer service and hold their value well for resale.

It offers adjustable suspension, comfortable padded seats that recline independently, and one of the easiest trailer-to-stroller conversions we’ve seen. While it’s heavier than a dedicated bike trailer, the versatility makes it worth the trade-off for active families who want one trailer that can do it all. It can even convert to a cargo trailer once your kids are grown. (We still use ours for groceries).

My one complaint with the trailer is that the door and cover closures are a bit sloppier looking that other trailers at this pricepoint.

Read Our Review: Burley D’Lite X

Hamax Outback

Price: $699 (single), $749 (double)

Quick info: Single or double, 20″ wheels, suspension, e-bike compatible, bike trailer AND stroller, jogging and ski kits available separately, 88 lb capacity

The Hamax Outback is a highly functional multi-sport trailer with suspension. It comes in single and double versions, and has reclining seats and padded seats, which make naptime much more comfortable. The trailer is both wider and taller than its competitors, making it a good option for older kids.

The really attractive thing about the Outback is the price! It offfers many of the same premium features as the Thule Chariot or Burley D’Lite X but at a more affordable price point.

The plush, comfortable seats and huge enclosed storage space make it perfect for long adventures, while easy conversion between bike trailer, stroller, jogger, and ski modes gives active families plenty of versatility.

While it’s heavier than its competitors and I don’t like the storage quite as much as the Chariot, for example. The interior pockets are tiny and there isn’t an easy way to haul a balance bike.

That said, the Outback makes up for it with superior weather protection, good ventilation, and a rubberized floor that’s easy to clean. For families wanting a premium trailer that will last through multiple kids without breaking the bank, the Hamax Outback delivers excellent value.

Read Review: Hamax Outback

Tout Terrain Singletrailer

Price: $1,400

Quick info: Single capacity, 24″ wheel, suspension, e-bike compatible, bike trailer only, 55 lb capacity

The Tout Terrain Singletrailer isn’t the trailer for most families, but you might not be “most families.” This trailer is the BEST option for parents who like to take their child along on singletrack or bikepacking adventures.

Unlike traditional two-wheeled trailers, the Singletrailer’s unique single-wheel design and 8 inches of suspension travel let you tackle technical terrain that would be impossible with other trailers. At less than 18 inches wide, it’s remarkably lightweight and maneuverable.

The only bummer, of course, is the cost. It’s expensive!

Read Review: Tout Terrain Singletrailer

7 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Bicycle Trailer

#1: Do You Need a Single Trailer Or Double Trailer?

The first and most obvious criteria to choose a trailer based on is whether you want to use it for one child or for multiple children.  Even if you don’t have a second child yet, if you plan to have one soon, you might want to invest in a double trailer.  You can always use a double trailer for a single child.

The disadvantages of a double trailer compared to a single trailer is that it is harder to maneuver through tight spaces and it is heavier than a single.  For this reason, I always recommend parents of only children to stick with a single trailer.  Still, if you need to carry multiple kids, it is a no-brainer to immediately look for a double trailer.

One thing to look at is the weight capacity.  Even though a trailer is listed as a double-trailer it may have a maximum weight capacity is that too low for your two children.  Lower-end trailers tend to max out at 80 pounds while more expensive trailers usually accommodate up to 100 pounds.

#2: Do You Want To Use The Trailer For More Than Just Biking?

If you have an outdoorsy family that likes to do ALL the activities, then looks for a multipsport trailer. In addition to biking, these higher-end trailers can convert to a stroller, jogging stroller, and ski trailer.

If you are looking for a trailer for bicycling only, then skip the convertible trailers.  They are more expensive and add additional weight compared to a bike-only trailer.

#3: What’s Your Budget?

Bicycle trailers cost between $150 to $1,500 which is a pretty big budget range.  As with most things in life (unfortunately), the more expensive the trailer the nicer it is going to be and the better the construction is.

Trailers on the lower end are not as comfortable or as durable as more expensive trailers.  That said, if you are looking for a way to haul your child on the occasional paved bike path ride, a $100 trailer may be sufficient.

At the high end of the price spectrum, a $1,000 trailer will have suspension, durable fabric, good ventilation, lots of storage, and plenty of other perks.  If you can afford it, go for it.

Most families will be best served by a trailer somewhere in the middle.  We’ve tried including a variety of price points in our top picks.

#4: What Kind Of Terrain Will You Be Riding On?

Whether or not you need is suspension is largely dependent on the type of riding you plan on doing.  If you are going to be largely primarily on paved bike paths and other smooth surfaces, you can probably forgo the extra expense of suspension.

On the other hand, if you plan on riding off-road on gravel rail trails or forest service roads, suspension is a must.  Even on uneven city streets, having suspension can make a big difference in the comfort and enjoyment for your child.

Additionally, if you plan on riding off-road almost exclusively, you might want to consider a mountain-bike specific trailer like the Tout Terrain Singletrailer.

#5: How Much Storage Space Do You Need?

I like a lot of storage space in my bike trailers.  As parents, we have all sorts of stuff that needs to come along — diaper bags, toys, snacks, balance bikes, etc, etc, etc. 

I also like being able to pick up a bag of groceries or some library books.  If you plan on being a frequent bike commuter with your trailer, look for one with plenty of cargo space.

#6: Do You Plan To Ride In Inclement Weather?

A good rain cover has saved me time and time again.  My son has survived some long, cold, snowy bike rides in a trailer with a sleeping bag and the rain cover safely secured.  If you plan on riding in inclement weather conditions, take this seriously.

Additionally, if you will be riding on snowy roads during the winter, the Burley plus-tire kit is great.

On the other side of the spectrum, sunny rides are much more enjoyable with a shade cover to keep your little ones protected. In hot climates, you want to look for a trailer with plenty of ventilation.

Not all trailers come with these things, so evaluate your needs before shopping.

#7: Are You Going To Be Riding Up Hills?

All else equal, look for a trailer with the lowest weight.  Carrying kids in a bicycle trailer is heavy and hard; you don’t need to make it even tougher on yourself by hauling a heavy trailer too. This is particularly true if you live in an area with a lot of hills.

#8: How Old Is Your Child or Baby?

If you are interested in using your trailer to bike with a baby, choose a brand like Burley or Thule that offer inserts for carrying infants.  As an alternative, you can buckle a car seat into a trailer as well.

If your child is older (4 and up), make sure you choose a trailer with plenty of internal space. Most trailers are designed for toddlers which means kids with longer legs will feel cramped. We really like both the Hamax Outback and the Wike Premium Double for families looking for a little more interior space.

#9: Do You Need The Trailer To Fold Small For Storage Or Transport?

Some families have huge garages for storing their sports gear. Others, live in small apartments or like to travel with their trailer. For the latter folks, you want to make sure you get a trailer that tears down quickly and doesn’t take up a ton of space to store.

#10: Will You Be Towing With An E-Bike?

E-bikes are faster than human-powered bikes, and many cheaper trailers have low maximum speeds. Double check the max speed on the trailer you’re considering before purchasing and make sure you don’t exceed it! Trailers with smaller plastic wheels, for example, generally aren’t safe for use with an e-bike.

Other Things To Look For In A Bike Trailer

Comfortable Seats

The quality of seats between bicycle trailers varies widely. Some seats are nothing more than a hard bench with a couple of straps.

Other seats are well-cushioned and include 5-point harnesses. The more often you ride, and the longer you ride, the more important comfortable seats are.

Other things you might want to look for is a recessed helmet pocket (is the space behind the kiddos head soft enough to accomodate a helmet or does it push your child’s head forward?) and reclining seats. Reclining seats aren’t necessary but can be nice to have if your kiddo is going to be napping in the trailer.

Quality Wheels

Wheels are what make a trailer roll smoothly, and yet, they are one of the most-overlooked factors when buying a bicycle trailer. Make sure to look for a trailer that has 20″ wheels and metal rims and spokes.

Cheaper, inferior trailers will have 16″ wheels and plastic rims/spokes, and don’t roll nearly as well. You’ll notice the “budget” trailers on this list have 16″ wheels, which is a trade-off you make at the lower pricepoints. None of the trailers on our list have plastic wheels, however; that’s where we draw the line.

Brakes

All the better trailers (Burley, Thule, Hamax) have some sort of brake. Most of these are foot-operated brakes to help keep the trailer in place while parked.

Some of the multi-sport trailers will also have a handbrake for use when in strolling or jogging mode. This can be nice for heavy loads and especially hilly areas. That said, a hand brake can be a bit of a pain to install and adds extra complexity.

Cheaper “budget” trailers are likely not to have a brake at all. This may not be a big deal if you are only using it in trailer mode (as opposed to stroller mode).

Available Accessories And Spare Parts

How much use do you plan on getting out of your trailer? If you plan to be using it alot, then consider buying from a brand that is known for offering excellent customer service and plenty of accessories and spare parts.

Thule and Burley are the two best brands at this. Both have plenty of accessories (like infant slings and multi sport kits) and spare parts (like extra hitches so you can use the trailer with multiple bikes).

Bike Compatibility

Compared to a bike seat, trailers are generally pretty compatible with bikes. I’ve used a trailer with all kinds of bikes over the years: my mountain bike, my road bike, my commuter bike, and even my fat bike.

The one thing to be aware of, however, is that most trailers attach to your rear axle. This means they will work with just about any bike with a quick-release skewer (including bikes with disc brakes).

They will NOT work, however, on bikes with a thru-axle. If you have a thru-axle on your rear wheel, then you will need to choose a brand that offers a thru-axle adapter (Burley and Thule both do) OR you will need to buy an adapter from The Robert Axle Project.

Weight Capacity

Bike trailers can vary greatly in terms of how much weight they can handle and hold. Cheaper trailers may only hold 40 pounds, while higher end trailers will handle 100 pounds. If you are planning on carrying multiple children or lots of gear (think groceries), then you want to pay careful attention to this when choosing.

Removable Floor Mats And Seats

If your kids are as dirty as mine, you might want to look for a trailer with both removable floor mats (hose off that mud!) and removable, washable seats. A good majority of trailers don’t have these features, and it drives me crazy!

Resale Value

One thing not many people think of when buying a trailer, but one that you should think about is resale value. The higher quality trailers and those with recognizable brand names (like Burley) will hold their value well. You should be able to use these trailers for a few years and still sell them for a good price.

Infant Slings

Infant slings are basically a little hammock seat that helps support babies in a trailer. We often get asked by parents how to add one of these seats to their trailer after the fact.

Unfortunately, if you don’t have a compatible trailer, you usually can’t use an infant sling. If you know you’re going to want to use an infant sling, buy a trailer from a brand like Thule or Burley that offer a sling that works in their trailers.

Is a Trailer The Best Option For Your Family?

For parents looking to bike with young kids, the first option that comes to mind is a bike trailer. In fact, trailers are hands-down the most popular way to bike with young kids and babies–and for good reason.  Bicycle trailers can carry multiple children, gear, and even kid’s bikes.

That said, they aren’t the only option for hauling young kids, and you might want to explore your other choices first.

Read: 7 Ways to Haul Kids By Bike

Trailers vs Bike Seats

Compared to child bike seats, trailers tend to be safer.  A good-quality trailer is essentially a roll-cage providing protection to your child in the event of a crash or a tip-over.  With a bike seat, on the other hand, if the parent crashes, the child is crashing too.

That said, I still prefer a bike seat (especially a front-mounted bike seat) to a trailer–although I use both.  This is because with a bike seat you have your child close by where you can talk to and easily interact with them.  

In a trailer, it is much harder to see and hear how your child is doing.  When we use our trailer, we often have to pull over and stop to help our son or to hear what he’s saying.  A bike seat is also much lighter than a trailer, which can feel awfully heavy when you are climbing hills.

Read: Bike Trailer Vs. Bike Seat: Which Is Right For You?

Trailer vs Cargo Bike

In terms of cost, a trailer falls squarely between a bike seat and a cargo bike.  While a good-quality trailer can be quite a bit more expensive than a bike seat, it is still much cheaper than a cargo bike. 

A cargo bike is awesome if you can afford it, and if you are going to be commuting on a daily basis.  If you only plan to do the occasional bike path ride or cruise to the park, go with the trailer.

Trailer Age Range

Trailers tend be best for use with young kids.  If you are comfortable with it, you can even buckle a carseat into a trailer.  For parents of multiple young children, a trailer is often the ideal option as you can put two kids in there.

Unfortunately, for slightly older kids the trailer quickly becomes BORING.  If you have a child 3 or up, I much prefer a trailer-cycle, where they are able to pedal along.

Bike Trailer Pros:

• Many trailers can convert to jogging strollers
• Affordable compared to a cargo bike
• Can carry more than one child
• Can carry gear in addition to child
• Child is relatively safe in the event of a tip-over or crash

Bike Trailer Cons:

• More expensive than a bike seat
• Parent-child interaction is low
• Child engagement is low (no pedaling, etc)
• Heavy

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions we get emailed regularly. Still have a question not answered here? Leave it in the comments below and we’ll try to answer.

How Do I Attach A Bike Trailer?

Almost all bike trailers attach to the adult’s bicycle via a trailer arm and hitch mount. The hitch mount installs on the adult’s rear axle and the trailer arm then slides into it and pins in place.

The biggest problem we hear from parents are those that bought a used trailer and then realized they weren’t given the hitch mount after the fact–yikes! If you have a trailer from a reputable brand like Thule, Burley, or Hamax, no worries. You can easily order a replacement hitch mount from the brand’s website. For other smaller brands, you may be out of luck.

If you have a thru-axle on your rear wheel, you may also need a axle adapter. For Thule or Burley, you can order these directly from the brand. For other trailers, you can order an adapter from The Robert Axle Project. (More on this topic earlier in the article).

Finally, some trailers (like the Tout Terrain or the Weehoo) attach to the bicycles seatpost instead of the rear axle. Trailer-cycles will attach to either your seatpost or a rear rack.

When Can A Baby Ride In A Bike Trailer?

Quick and easy answer: 12 months old. That’s what the AAP recommends and it keeps you on the safe side.

For a longer answer, read our post on biking with babies: Biking With Baby: From Newborn To Infant To Toddler.

Should My Child Wear A Helmet In A Bike Trailer?

Yes! In some places they may even be required to wear them by law.

Although kids are pretty safe if they are in a good quality trailer (again think Burley or Thule) and strapped in via a 5-point harness, don’t risk it. You always want to keep your child’s head protected with a good helmet.

There is one exception to this. If you are using the trailer with a baby under one OR a child that doesn’t yet have strong enough neck muscles to support the weight of a helmet, then they should not wear a helmet. Refer to the linked post above on biking with a baby.

More Reading

• Best Baby And Toddler Bike Helmets
• Ultimate Guide To Biking With Kids And Toddlers
• 7 Safety Tips for Biking with Kids

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