Bike trailers are probably an all-time favorite for many families. They make life easier for you as a parent.
They also give your children the chance to enjoy long bike rides and outdoor adventures with you.
We tried and tested a good deal of bike trailers available on the market. After a thorough search, we narrowed down the best options to these top 10.
Each of these trailers offers something unique. Let’s check them out!
12 Best Baby Bike Trailers Comparison Chart
12 Best Baby Bike Trailers Reviewed
To save you time and money, we surveyed parents as we were looking for the best bike trailer for kids. We know how unique each family is, which is why we wanted to bring you all the options, so you decide for yourself what best fits your family’s needs.
Aosom Elite 360° Swivel: Best Double Seater
The Aosom children’s bike trailer is easy to assemble and use. Its 2-in-1 design allows you to either attach it to your bike or use it as a stroller.
It converts easily from a trailer to a jogger in no time at all with the help of the included conversion kit. As a stroller, it provides you with a great opportunity to interact with your child as you’re jogging.
One of its best features is that it’s spacious and well-ventilated.
It has space for 2 children, their supplies, as well as a couple of bags of groceries. This trailer’s maximum capacity is 88 lbs (40 kg).
To keep your child well-protected and seated securely, there’s a 5-point harness system that easily buckles in place.If your child enjoys swinging, then he’ll enjoy the seat, which is a sling, or hammock-style, seat. Another great feature is that the floor of the trailer is padded.
Covering the trailer is a removable canopy that protects your child from rain, sun, or debris. It’s made with both mesh and plastic. On the back, there’s a large storage option behind the seat.
Both the front and rear wheels are made of sturdy rubber. There’s a hand lock brake system on the rear wheel. This feature allows the stroller to be locked in place. The trailer can be folded one with a quick-release mechanism, without the need for any tools.
Pros
- Aosom’s ‘Type A’ bike hitch (connector) is included
- Comes with a safety flag and rear reflectors
- A 5-point safety harness system
- Removable canopy
- Padded flooring
- Moderately priced
Cons
- Assembly instructions aren’t user-friendly
- Some users complained of brakes not working well
Burley Minnow: Best Single Seater
If you’re looking for a compact, durable bike trailer for your child, then this could be the one for you. The seating area is a hammock or sling style. It’s a way to make sure your child is comfortable and safe.
Another important safety feature is the 5-point harness system.
The trailer itself is made of an internal aluminum roll cage. This provides maximum protection against bumps or falls.
Plus, it has tinted side windows, and a front canopy cover that rolls up and is secured. The entire trailer is made with water-resistant, sturdy 600D polyester.
The two rear wheels are 20 inches (50 cm). They have a push-button for hassle-free removal. On the back, there’s a spacious rear cargo storage area. The Burley Minnow can be easily folded flat for storage or transportation.
Pros
- A steel bike hitch and tow-bar are included
- Comes with a safety flag and rear reflectors
- Foldable canopy
- Water-resistant fabric
- Sturdy 20-inch rear wheels that ensure a smooth ride
- Spacious rear storage area
- The price is a bit high
Cons
- Canvas trailer floor wears out quickly
- Space between shoulder straps is too narrow
- No suspension
Thule Chariot Cross 2: Best for Active Parents
The award-winning Thule ChariotCross 2 is the perfect go-to trailer for parents who love the outdoors. It works great with biking, jogging, strolling, and skiing.
One of its best features is its adjustable suspension and large wheels.
Each seat has a 5-point harness. These features work to keep your child comfortable and safe on all surfaces.
The double seats are padded and each seat can recline separately. You can recline one seat if one child dozes off. At the same time, you can keep the second seat upright for the older child who wants to enjoy the view.
The Cross 2 is entirely waterproof. It has two side windows and one large front window. They’re all covered with a mesh screen to allow for optimal air-flow, yet protect against bugs. There’s also a sunshade that can be adjusted for protection against sunshine and rain.
Pros
- A patented hitch is included
- Comes with a safety flag and rear lights
- Has two individual reclining seats
- Completely watertight
Cons
- It takes longer to set up, compared to other brands
- Expensive
- Tiny storage space
Thule Chariot Lite 2: Best Weatherproof
The Chariot Lite 2 can easily switch between being a bike trailer to a jogger to a stroller. Similar to the Thule Chariot Cross 2, it can also work as a ski sled.
Its handlebar is ergonomically-designed for your comfort. Plus, it can be adjusted with a range of heights.
The 5-point safety harness system provides maximum protection and safety. The suspension system ensures that your child’s ride isn’t bumpy, no matter what surface you’re riding on.
The Thule Chariot Lite 2 provides great airflow because of the mesh windows on all four sides of the trailer.
The exclusive Thule VersaWing system enables fast and hassle-free conversions between activities. This system works on all types of kits.
Pros
- Patented connector kit included
- Comes with a safety flag and rear reflectors
- Thule VersaWing system allows easy and quick conversions
- Completely weatherproof
Cons
- Storage space is small
- Seats aren’t padded
- On the expensive end
InStep Take 2: Best For Occasional Riders
InStep makes riding along with your children a fun, safe adventure. This bike trailer has a weight capacity of 80 lbs (36 kg). It can also carry an additional 12 lbs (5 kg) of cargo and supplies in the rear storage area.
The 2 rear pneumatic wheels are 16 inches (40 cm) each.
They come with molded rims for maximum performance and safety features.
While there’s a 5-point safety harness system, there are a number of users that reported that plastic buckles weren’t sturdy enough to keep their kids securely seated.
So if your child is 2 years or younger, it’s wise to invest in some harness clips. These hold the harness in place and ensure your child’s safety.
The mesh and plastic cover protects your child from the weather, bugs, and debris. There’s also a rear vent window with a separate cover. Both canopies can be rolled up and secured to provide your child with a better view of the trail.
One convenient feature of this bike trailer is that it can be folded for storage and easy transportation. You can easily fold it and assemble it without the need for any tools. Its frame is designed to fold easily and quickly. The wheels have a quick-release mechanism for a smoother folding process.
Pros
- Bike hitch is included
- Comes with a safety flag and rear reflectors
- Foldable front and rear canopy
- Wide rear storage area
- Available as either a single or double seater
- Moderately priced
Cons
- Flooring isn’t durable
- Plastic safety buckles aren’t reliable
Allen Sports Deluxe Steel: Best Budget-friendly
The Allen Sports Deluxe Steel trailer is designed with supportive steel beams. This feature ensures your child is safe and secure. At the same time, you can carry it and haul it behind you as you’re riding. Its maximum weight capacity is 100 lbs (45 kg).
The seat is a cloth bench seat. If you find the lack of padding is bothering your child, you can bring along a pillow or cushion to make him more comfortable.
A wonderful feature is the floor area. It’s made of thick canvas that can withstand the wear and tear of little feet.
Your child will have great airflow inside the trailer because of the two side windows and one large front window with a canopy. You can roll back the canopy cover on the front window to let your child have a better look at the trail as you’re riding.
The 5-point harness system ensures that your child stays in his place and remains safe. The two rear wheels are 16 inches (40 cm) and are made with durable steel. They can be quickly released in order for the trailer to fold.
Pros
- Includes a bike hitch
- Comes with a safety flag and rear reflectors
- Foldable canopy
- Available as either a single or double seater
- Sturdy flooring
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Poor-quality harness system
- The seat doesn’t recline
Schwinn Joyrider: Best For Toddlers
This Schwinn bike trailer is known for its sturdy, yet lightweight design. Its frame features both an aluminum and steel design for a safe, easy-to-haul ride. It can carry up to 2 40-pound (18 kg) children, along with 12 lbs (5 kg) of storage.
One of this trailer’s unique features is its 3 wheels. The front wheel is 16 inches (40 cm) wide. The two rear wheels are 20-inches (50 cm) rubber tires with steel spokes to keep your child comfortable.
The seat is a cushioned bench seat to keep your child comfortable and happy. It’s one big seat, with two sets of buckles. This allows you more freedom when seating your child. You can buckle one child in the center of the seat, or two children, side by side.
Pros
- A Schwinn universal coupler (hitch) is included
- Comes with a safety flag and rear reflectors
- Front cover/door opens and closes easily
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- The seat doesn’t recline
- Canvas flooring isn’t durable
Weehoo iGo Blast: Best For Older Kids
This one-seat bike trailer is perfect for taking your older kids with you on your bike rides.
The trailer’s open design gives your child a better opportunity to engage more with you.
It also offers him a better chance to see everything around him as he’s riding along.
The seat is made with aluminum and steel to provide a high level of protection. It’s covered in a protective cloth cover with safety buckles to keep your child safely in place. The seat offers comfy back support. There’s also a footrest for your child to sit comfortably and relax.
Thanks to its self-aligning connecting system, this trailer can easily ride on all kinds of terrain. The wheel is 29 inches (74 cm) wide. The Weehoo iGo Blast trailer can hold up to 80 lbs (36 kg) of weight.
Pros
- A patented hitch is included
- Comes with a safety flag
- One wide wheel
- Footrest
- Chest and waist buckles
- Affordable price
Cons
- Doesn’t come with rear reflectors
- Safety buckles aren’t reliable
Weehoo iGo Two: Best 2-seater For Older Kids
Weehoo offers innovative, practical designs. This bike trailer is perfect for families with more than one child whose ages are between 2 and 9 years old.
One of its exclusive features is that it offers a pedaling option for the front seat. It’s a fun and interactive way to keep your kids engaged during their ride.
The seats are padded to ensure your kids are sitting comfortably.
There are both chest and waist buckles on the safety harness system. For extra support, you’ll find two handlebars and a footrest for each child.
While this trailer doesn’t come with an overhead cover, you can easily find a cover that fits perfectly. In terms of storage, there’s a spacious storage bag that comes with this trailer. It can be attached in place with snap pins. The wheels are 20 inches wide with aluminum rims.
Besides offering your children an excellent view of the trail, this trailer is sturdy, yet not too heavy. Its maximum capacity weight is 80 lbs (36 kg), plus 19 lbs (9 kg) of extra cargo weight.
Pros
- Patented connector kit included
- Comes with a safety flag
- Reliable safety harness seat buckles
- Footrest for each child
- Front pedals
Cons
- No rear reflectors
- Price is higher than other trailers
- Some users complained that it’s difficult to take out without the help of another adult
Burley Honey Bee: Best Basic Bike Trailer
One of the Burley Honey Bee’s best features is that it’s made with aluminum alloy.
This means that the frame is sturdy enough to protect your child against any bumps or falls.
The aluminum alloy also keeps the trailer light and easy to haul. Its maximum weight capacity is 100 lbs (45 kg).
This trailer is made from reflective materials for added protection. The side windows are mesh to increase airflow. On the front window, there’s a canopy cover that rolls up and attaches in place with Velcro straps.
The seats are hammock-style, and leave plenty of room above the floor for a comfortable ride. On either side of the seat, there are storage pouches. These can hold water bottles, soft toys, and other things to keep your child entertained.
Pros
- A hitch kit and tow-bar are included
- Comes with a safety flag
- Canopy folds up
- Removable rubber floors
Cons
- Seats don’t recline
- Poorly designed headroom
- No suspension
- Price is higher than other trailer brands
Schwinn Caribou: Best Comfy Interior
The Schwinn Caribou trailer has an oversized interior to ensure your child is comfortable during his ride. The seats are padded, and they can be removed and washed.
Next to the seat, there are storage pockets for all holding all your child’s toys, bottles, and snacks.
There are mesh windows on all sides to keep the space well-ventilated. The windows are wide and spacious, so your kids can enjoy the view.
The seat is a padded bench for extra comfort. The safety harness system can be configured for one child to sit in the center, or two children seated side-by-side.
There are two rear 16-inch (40 cm) air-filled tires. The trailer can carry a maximum load of 80 lbs (36 kg), plus 12 lbs (5 kg) of gear. A handy feature is that this trailer has quick-release wheels and a unique folding frame. It makes storage and transportation quick and hassle-free.
Pros
- A universal coupler is included
- Comes with a safety flag
- Canopy folds up
- Versatile safety harness system
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Foot area is made of soft canvas and easily wears away
- Doesn’t have rear reflectors
Instep Quick-N-EZ Double Tow: Best User-friendly
The name says it all. The Instep Quick-N-EZ bike trailer is easy to assemble, easy to connect to your bike, and easy to fold. It works seamlessly both as a trailer and a jogger. The pneumatic tires are 16 inches (40 cm). They have molded rims and offer great treading.
There’s a quick-release mechanism, which easily releases them from the trailer.
It also has a folding frame design. Both these features work together to make storing and transporting this trailer quick and easy.
The trailer is made with weather-proof, durable, and sturdy material. There are two side mesh windows, one rear window, and one large front window with a foldable canopy cover.
Even though the seat is designed for two passengers, you can easily adjust the harness system to accommodate one child. There’s a center harness with three different levels.
The Quick-N-EZ can carry up to 80 lbs (36 kg), with an additional 12 lbs (5 kg) in weight for gear and cargo.
Pros
- A universal couple is included
- Comes with a safety flag
- Foldable canopy
Cons
- Foot area is made of soft canvas and sags over time
- The seat doesn’t recline
- Costs higher than other competitive brands
What to Look for When Shopping for a Bike Trailer
It’s important to think about how much you’re willing to spend when you’re out shopping for a bike trailer. The more expensive a trailer is, the more features and functionalities you’ll have.
At the same time, there are also many budget-friendly trailers. They protect your child and provide a good amount of fun and safe options.
Before purchasing a bike trailer, here are some things to consider.
Number of Passengers
It may seem obvious. If you have two kids, you buy a double-seater, if you have one kid, you get a single-seater.
But there are other things you can be hauling in your trailer, like gear if you’re going on a trip. You can also find yourself carrying groceries, sports equipment, and many other things.
Seating Style
Bike trailers usually come in two seating styles. There’s the bench-style seat and the hammock-style style.
Some trailers have seats that are just a bench with a few safety traps for protection. Other seats are padded for added cushioning. Most come with a 5-point harness.
Think about your children’s ages. Typically, trailers carry children from 1-6 years. This can help you decide which style would suit them best.
Weight
The trailer’s weight limit ranges from 85 to 125 lbs. Consider the weight of your child, plus any additional bags you’ll be hauling.
Going over this limit can compromise the trailer’s structure. Plus, it can tip it over.
If you’re going to be riding up-hill, look for a bike trailer with the lowest weight. All bike trailers have a tipping point. It’s easily reached when you’re hauling a couple of kids, their bags, plus additional gear.
Trailer Floor
Trailer floors are made of the same nylon material as the rest of the trailer. If it’s a soft canvas, this can wear out with time.
Some brands use thicker nylon, and some offer a hard plastic or rubber bottom. Some come with a removable rubber floor mat that makes cleaning so much easier. They’re a practical solution when kids are involved. Yet, they also add to the weight of the trailer.
Connectors/Converters
Most trailers come with their own hitch/connector kits. A rotating hitch is important. It helps keep the trailer upright if the bicycle tips over.
If they can also be used as a jogger or stroller, they should come with a converter kit as well. Besides being a standard bike trailer, many can convert to strollers with three or four wheels. They can also be used as joggers and even ski strollers.
Storage
Do you always go on long bike rides with your child?
Do you need plenty of storage area for your child’s stuff as well as yours? Or would you prefer a trailer with minimum storage?
Most trailers come with a storage area in the back. Some have storage pockets as well, both on the inside and the back.
Think about how much storage space you need.
Foldability
Do you have space to store it assembled? Or would you prefer one that folds down?
Many trailers come with a folding design and quick-release wheels to make folding less of a hassle.
Wheels
The best wheels to look for are 20 inches in diameters with metal rims and spokes. They’re sturdier on all types of surfaces and offer a smoother ride.
Some trailers have 16-inch wheels with plastic rims and spokes. These don’t rotate nearly as well as those with metal components, or with a wider diameter.
Safety Features
Safety plays a big part in bike trailers. All of them come with a variety of safety features to ensure your child is protected during your bike ride.
Flag and Reflective Gear
All trailers come with an orange safety flag that extends upward from 3.5 to 7 feet (1 – 2 m). This flag lets other people on the road know that there’s a trailer behind you that’s connected to your bike.
Some also come rear, and even front, reflectors. Several manufacturers make their trailers from reflective material. This makes the trailer more visible for others on the road.
Suspension
Wheel suspension is another safety feature that comes with many trailers.
Suspension is necessary if you ride on gravel trails, uneven city streets, or forest service roads.
If you usually ride on paved bike paths or roads that are smooth and even, you’ll find that you won’t need suspension as much.
Brakes
There are three types of brakes; foot, hand, and parking. The type depends on how you use your trailer.
When it’s used as a trailer, the most common would be a foot or hand brake to keep it steady as you load/unload your child. If it’s being used as a jogger/stroller, it’s best to have parking brakes. Besides keeping your trailer in one place, they ensure the trailer won’t tip over or fall to the side.
Canopy Cover
A good rain cover during winter months is necessary. There are trailers with UV-protected windows. Others offer tinted mesh windows to protect your shield against the harsh summer sun.
They’re also important to keep your child protected from debris that may bump against the trailer as you’re riding.
Advantages of Using Bike Trailers for Kids
- Your child is protected in the event of a tip-over or a crash
- Many bike trailers can be used with many outdoor activities, such as jogging and skiing
- They’re more affordable than cargo bikes
- They’re available in 2-seater models to carry more than one child
- They offer a wide storage space for your groceries, gear, and other supplies
Disadvantages of Using Bike Trailers for Kids
- Their prices tend to be more expensive than bike seats
- You have to stop every few minutes to resolve any issues your child may encounter
- Children get bored easily as the trailer is low to the ground and offer a restricted view
- You don’t get a chance to fully engage and interact with your child
- They’re heavier and bulkier than other options for hauling young kids with a bike
- Trailers are much heavier than the front or rear bike seats
Types of Bike Trailers for Kids
There are four basic types of children’s bike trailers. The differences are in their features and price range. Yet they all maintain the highest levels of safety standards.
High-End
These trailers are the most versatile, cream-of-the-crop trailers available. They can do it all!
That’s why they’re the most expensive of all the bike trailers out there. They have adjustable sunshades, UV-protected, or tinted, windows, and reclining seats.
Some have rubber mats on the floor to keep the bottom protected against the wear and tear of constant use. They’re also durable, well-built, and capable of rolling over all types of surfaces.
One of their best benefits is that they can be converted for use with multiple outdoor activities. Some can double as strollers or joggers. Some can also be used on snow, gravel, and mountain trails. This is done with the help of accompanying conversion kits without the need for any tools.
The top high-end trailers are the Weehoo iGo Two and the Burley Minnow.
Mid-Range
Mid-range trailers are for parents who are looking for high-quality bike trailers without paying a heap of money. They don’t mind letting go of some luxurious features to save a bit on cost.
These trailers may not come with reclining seats, adjustable suspension, or UV windows. Yet they can still work with stroller and jogger conversion kits, all while having a more affordable price-tag.
The three mid-range trailers from our list are the Instep Quick-N-EZ Double Tow, the Schwinn Caribou, and the Schwinn Joyrider.
Entry Level
If you’re looking for a solid, hassle-free trailer, then entry levels bike trailers are just the thing for you. They’re reasonably priced, so you only pay for what you need. At the same time, they don’t skimp on durability and performance.
You’ll find that most of them pull effortlessly on the road. They’ll provide your child with a smooth ride.
Our favorite entry-level trailers are the Aosom Elite 360° Swivel, the Burley Honey Bee, and the Weehoo iGo Blast.
Budget-Friendly
Budget trailers usually have a reasonable price tag of under $200. At the same time, they don’t skimp on your child’s protection features and safety.
Some models also come with a few nifty features. Extended helmet pockets and top-quality harness systems are just a couple of examples. Overall, budget trailers, like the Allen Sports Deluxe Steel, are easier to assemble and connect. Plus, they have a smoother pull.
FAQs
Q: How are most trailers designed?
A: A bike trailer is like a carriage or chariot. It has two big wheels on either side of the seating area. There’s a storage pouch in the back. There’s also a canopy cover that can close up over the trailer with a zipper or Velcro adhesive strip.
Inside, there’s a seat with safety harnesses to keep your children secured. Most brands have additional storage pockets on the inside for storing snacks, a water bottle, and even one or two toys.
Q: How do I connect a bike trailer to my bike?
A: Children’s bike trailers all come with an arm or a boom. These are part of the connecting kit that attaches the trailer to the rear axle or frame of your bike.
Q: How’s the airflow and visibility inside the trailer?
A: The visibility inside the trailer is very good. There are windows to the side, the back, and on the front flap.
The front flap on all trailers opens up. This gives your children the feeling that he’s right there with you as you’re riding in the outside world. Some models that have side flaps, as well, that open up to improve airflow.
Q: At what age can I put my child in a bike trailer?
A: Once your child can sit upright and be able to support their heads on his own, then he can start riding in a trailer. This is usually anywhere between 12 – 18 months.
Certain models support rear-facing car seats. You can ask your pediatrician whether your baby is ready or not before setting out.
Our Verdict
Your children will love getting into a bike trailer and heading off on adventures all year-round. Another advantage? Bike trailers are safer than bike seats. Some even have sturdy roll cages for added protection.
Add to that all the pockets and pouches, and you’ve got yourself a versatile, handy trailer for fun-filled family adventures.
Our top pick is the Schwinn Joyrider. It’s the perfect choice for keeping your toddlers safe, yet engaged during your bike ride. It offers fun and practical features that make life easy, yet don’t compromise on your child’s safety.
The Allen Sports Deluxe Steel is our favorite trailer if you’re on a budget. It’s sturdy and reliable. Plus, its wheels are metal, which is something not often found at this price point.
Another feature that makes it stand out is it’s narrower than other brands. This makes it great for fitting through tight spaces or narrow trails.
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