Garden and Beach Wagons

Hauling soil, tools or a day's beach gear is easier with wheels than with a bucket and sore arms. The right wagon depends on how big your beds are and how rough the ground is between the shed and the planting. This page walks through the five wagons here so you can match one to your space.

Small, lightweight wagons

A small wagon suits tight garden paths and short trips. The Badger Wagon is described as lightweight and easy to pull and maneuver, and it is made with smaller kids in mind. That makes it a fit for a small raised-bed garden where a child helps carry seedlings, gloves and a hand trowel. It comes in four colors.

Steel bed wagons

If you want something for regular garden chores, a steel bed is a sound place to start. The Steel Bed Wagon pairs traditional looks with modern steel construction, and it is described as strong and durable. It comes in two sizes, so you can pick the one that fits your beds and your storage space. A steel bed suits bags of soil, pots and tools.

The Spectrum Wagon is another sturdy choice, with an 800-pound capacity listed by the retailer. That figure matters if you often move heavy loads such as stone, compost or several bags at once. It is pitched at children's play too, so it works as a family wagon that also does yard duty.

Wood, steel and rubber wagons

The Legend Wagon combines wood, steel and rubber. Rubber usually points to a smoother ride, which can help on lawns and uneven paths between beds. The wood gives it a classic look, so it suits a gardener who wants a wagon that looks good parked beside the patio. It is the one to consider if you will use it often and want it to last.

Beach and errand wagons

The 40" Beach Wagon is the largest here. The retailer says it also works for trips to the grocery store, laundromat or beverage distributor. That range makes it handy if one wagon has to cover beach days, plant sales and general errands. Its length suits long-handled tools and bulky loads, but you will need room to store it.

How to choose

• Bed size and path width. Narrow paths between small beds call for a smaller wagon like the Badger. Wide paths and open lawn leave room for a larger one.
• Load. For light tools and pots, almost any of these will do. For soil, stone or compost, look at the Steel Bed or the Spectrum with its 800-pound capacity.
• Terrain. Rubber, as on the Legend, suggests a gentler ride over bumpy ground. Check the wheel details on any wagon before you buy.
• Who pulls it. A lightweight wagon is easier for children and for anyone who dislikes heavy handling.
• Second jobs. If the wagon will also go to the beach or the shops, the 40" Beach Wagon is built around that idea.
• Storage. Measure the shed or garage spot first. Bigger beds take more room.

Questions people ask

Can one wagon do both garden and beach duty?

Yes, in most cases. The Beach Wagon is the obvious pick, but a steel bed wagon can handle both if the wheels cope with your ground. Check the specifications first.

What size should I get for a small garden?

Go smaller if your paths are narrow. The Badger is lightweight and easy to maneuver, and the Steel Bed Wagon comes in two sizes if you want a bit more room.

Do I need a wagon with a high weight capacity?

Only if you haul heavy things often. Soil and stone add up quickly. Follow the manual for load limits and never overload any wagon.

Are these only for children?

No. Some are described with kids in mind, but they all work as garden carts too. Choose by size, load and how you plan to use it.