Whether you bike religiously or take the occasional leisure ride, it’s not always easy taking your child with you when you cycle. Does that mean you should skip your daily dose of exercise? Nope.
A great solution is investing in a bike trailer — you can get your exercise and your child can see the world while spending time near you.
The best bike trailers for kids enable you to take your youngster safely with you on all rides. They can sit comfortably in the back while you pedal away at the front. However, it’s imperative to find the safest trailer for your needs.
- Collapsible frame
- Top-notch safety
- Two-in-one canopy
- Comfy double seats
- Keeps you visible
- Tinted side windows
- Smooth ride
- Weather screen and mesh window
- Universal coupler
- Convertible design
- Easy to store
- Ventilation vents
- Lightweight and durable
- Large windows
- Rear storage
- Easy folding
- All-around canopy
- Smooth riding tires
- Trailer and stroller
- Emphasis on safety
- Adjustable handlebars
- Biking and jogging
- Durable material
- Comfy seats
The Best Kids Bike Trailers of 2023
Here are the top eight bike trailers on the market.
Schwinn Echo Bicycle Trailer
Breezy Folding
Schwinn is one of our favorite brands within the bike sector. It delivers time after time, offering high-quality, sturdy structures, and user-friendly features.
The Echo bicycle trailer did not disappoint us. The trailer can carry two children, but it’s still incredibly lightweight and easy to fold.
Safety is one of our main criteria, and this trailer aced it. The Echo will keep your little ones snug and secure. It offers a smooth ride and user-friendly features.
What We Like
Collapsible Frame
Having a bike trailer that’s easy to collapse and store is a huge plus. The Echo folds effortlessly into a compact package, ready for the trunk or storage at home. When folding, you remove both wheels, and all you have to deal with is a small square frame.
Top-Notch Safety
The bike trailer includes several safety features. It has a five-point harness for the passenger, keeping them secure over the shoulders, between the legs, and around the hips. The shoulder straps are suited with extra padding for comfort.
Schwinn also includes a safety flag so oncoming cars can clearly see you’re towing a child. The trailer is a bright, yellow color, making it eye-catching and easy to see while on the road.
Two-In-One Canopy
The two-in-one canopy works well to protect your passengers from the elements. It includes weather shield options, keeping your little ones safe from rain or sun.
To keep bugs at bay, you can engage the bug screen — it’s fully breathable, and it’s even see-through, allowing you to watch your youngsters.
Passengers will be comfortable, even on hot days, thanks to the rear ventilation window. Your little ones can sit back while a breeze circulates the trailer.
Premium Tires and Durable Frame
The incredible durability is due to the sturdy frame and premium tires. Schwinn included two 20-inch alloy wheels, fitted with pneumatic air-filled tires, offering superb performance across various surfaces.
The frame is capable of carrying two children weighing up to 40 pounds each. Then there’s a compartment behind the seats, which can take 12 pounds worth of gear.
What We Don't Like
Collects Dirt Easily
A few reviewers said the trailer sits considerably near the rear wheel of the bike. This causes dirt to accumulate on the screen. It’s especially an annoyance if you’re riding after a rainfall.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | 20 inches |
| Assembled size | 51.8 inches by 32.5 inches by 31.9 inches |
| Color | Yellow |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Trailer weight | N/A |
Our Ratings
Burley Bee Kids Trailer
Best Side-By-Side
The Bee bike trailer from Burley is a favorite with parents. It offers outstanding durability and is a great ride if you’re hauling two children. It can carry up to 100 pounds.
The Bee has a lot to offer for both parents and passengers. There are two comfortable seats and ample cargo space.
Safety is a top priority for Burley, which is why you’ll remain visible while on the road. Your passengers will love sitting in the trailer, hidden away behind the windows, keeping them cool and secure.
What We Like
Comfy Double Seats
To comfortably accommodate two children in one go, you need an intelligent design. The Bee by Burley places your kiddies in a hammock-style seat, elevating them both off the trailer floor. Your two passengers will sit cozily while you’re cruising along the bike path.
On each seat sits a hook and loop for additional accessories to make the ride more pleasant. You can choose to add extra padding, although this is not included.
Keeps You Visible
Being visible on the road is a key factor for safety, particularly if you tend to ride early or late during the day. The Bee trailer features plenty of reflectors. The cover includes reflective piping, keeping it visible from the sides.
To ensure you’re not missed by any vehicle, reflectors are at the rear, on the wheels, and at the front. To top it all off, Burley included a bright, neon orange safety flag, excellent if you’re riding in heavy traffic.
Tinted Side Windows
Your passengers can enjoy some privacy thanks to the tinted windows. These will also provide some shade during sunlight hours. The rear window works as ventilation, keeping your youngsters cool by maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature.
Rear Storage
As the perfect companion for your family outings, the Bee allows you to take all your gear without hauling big bags. At the rear sits a storage holder with ample space for your essentials.
What We Don't Like
Not Great for Small Kids with Large Helmets
At the top of the seat, there’s extra room so children can comfortably sit while wearing a helmet. But some parents pointed out that if the child is short or younger, then their head doesn’t reach this spot, causing them to sit awkwardly.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | 20 inches |
| Assembled size | 32.25 inches by 30 inches by 36 inches |
| Color | Yellow |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Trailer weight | 20.5 pounds |
Our Ratings
InStep Single Seat Bike Trailers
Best for Single Babies
If you’re looking for a single trailer, we highly recommend looking at this one from InStep. It’s sporty and lightweight yet highly durable. InStep is famous for producing joggers and trailers designed for active parents who want to take their kids along.
The single seat bike trailer offers superb performance, featuring 16-inch wheels. It’s ideal for taking on trips, and it folds effortlessly.
Parents praise how this trailer makes outings easier. It’s straightforward to attach and allows you to carry cargo at the back. Your little one will stay protected and sit cozy in a secure harness.
What We Like
Smooth Ride
Your little one won’t feel any bumps in the road thanks to the 16-inch pneumatic air-filled tires. These feature molded rims, offering supreme performance over bumpy sidewalks or uneven bike paths through the park. The passenger should be comfortable and content in the secure five-point harness.
Weather Screen and Mesh Window
One of the downsides of biking is the weather, especially when you’re riding with a child. This bike trailer from InStep features a weather shield to protect your passenger from outside elements. There’s a bug net you can use on your everyday ride, which will also protect from dirt coming from the bike’s tire.
Easy Fold Frame
The frame is straightforward to fold, excellent for storing and taking on car journeys. The wheels include a quick-release system, allowing you to remove them in one straightforward step. Once detached, the trailer becomes a compact package, ready for the trunk.
Universal Coupler
You attach the trailer with a universal bike coupler compatible with an extensive range of adult bicycles.
The trailer has a weight limit of 40 pounds, so it can only carry one child at a time. It’s durable and comes with a one-year warranty.
What We Don't Like
Only Suitable with Tires Less Than 26 Inches
Some reviewers pointed out that, although the coupler is universal, it only works for wheels less than 26 inches. If you attach the trailer to anything larger, it becomes unstable and prone to tip-overs.
No Pads On Harness
A couple of parents noted there are no pads on the harness so it can rub on the shoulders. It’s not as comfortable as it could’ve been, but some improvised by attaching a hook and loop pad.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | 16 inches |
| Assembled size | 32.5 inches by 20.8 inches by 6.8 inches |
| Color | Green, blue, or red |
| Material | Steel |
| Trailer weight | 25.4 pounds |
Our Ratings
Thule Chariot Lite Multisport Trailer
Most Safe
For many parents, safety is a key feature to consider when shopping for any new product. With this tailor, you can rest assured you’re prioritizing safety. Firstly, it has a 5-point harness system for your children. This ensures they’re secure while you ride.
The trailer also has a rear light to let other folks see you as you ride. This allows you to get home even during darker evenings safely.
Besides that, this trailer has a ton of cool features, from space for one or two children, removable seats for easy cleaning, onboard storage, vents, and much more!
What We Like
Convertible Design
If you’re an active family that does a variety of outdoor activities, we think you’ll swear by this. You can attach it to the back of your bike, but you can also convert it for walking, jogging, and even skiing!
Keep In Mind
Easy to Store
Parents roll their eyes at just another bulky product to store. But this trailer folds up to a nice compact size so you can slot it in the garage or even a cupboard when it’s not in use.
Ventilation Vents
Give your children a luxury experience with this trailer, thanks to the added ventilation. You can easily adjust the vents to allow more airflow in. This is especially handy on hot days where they might otherwise be too warm in the trailer. Even if it’s raining, you can use the rain cover with the air vents, which is perfect for wet and humid days.
What We Don't Like
High Price
Compared to other bike trailers, this is an expensive product, coming in at nearly 3-4 times the price as other options. Unfortunately, it won’t fit in every parent’s budget.
Seats Don’t Recline
The seats in this trailer do not recline. If you’re going to be using it for long periods of time and you want your kids to get comfy for a nap, this may be a drawback for you.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | Not specified |
| Assembled size | 114.5 inches by 80 inches by 94 inches |
| Color | Agave or blue |
| Material | Polyester, nylon, and aluminum |
| Trailer weight | 25.7 pounds |
Our Ratings
Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Trailer
Most Durable
With a durable frame made from lightweight materials, this bike trailer from Allen Sports is excellent for bringing two kids on the ride. It’s compact, yet offers a roomy interior with an airy atmosphere, which your kids should enjoy.
The trailer is designed with a universal coupler that can attach to almost any adult bike, and parents praise how easy it is to tow. It’s available in three colors.
Once your trip is over, it collapses effortlessly and is ready for the trunk. The trailer is suitable for children aged 1 to 5 and offers plenty of comfort for young passengers. It does come in a single-trailer design too, if you just have one child.
What We Like
Lightweight and Durable
Durability is imperative when you’re hauling your child behind your bike and Allen Sports doesn’t disappoint. It’s made with a sturdy steel frame, allowing it to carry up to 100 pounds, yet it’s considerably lightweight and easy to attach.
Large Windows
The cabin couldn’t be more comfortable for your passengers. It has three large windows at the front and to the sides. This creates an airy internal space, with lots of light, while allowing your youngsters to enjoy the view.
Full Protection
The trailer will keep your little ones safe and sound inside with its five-point harnesses. Your passengers will sit tightly while you spin away on the pedals. To protect their feet, Allen Sports included a foot guard tube at the front.
Rear Storage
At the back of the trailer, you have an ample storage compartment for all your essentials. There’s plenty of room for extra snacks, toys, or a picnic basket.
What We Don't Like
Unpadded Harness
The five-point harnesses are great for keeping your little ones put, but they’re unpadded. This can cause them to rub against your child, making them uncomfortable.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | 16 inches |
| Assembled size | 21 inches by 21 inches by 21 inches |
| Color | White/red or yellow |
| Material | Steel |
| Trailer weight | 24 pounds |
Our Ratings
Schwinn Trailblazer Child Bike Trailer
For the Family Trip
For anything bikes, we always refer to Schwinn, and the Trailblazer is worth your time. It offers a spacious cabin for two children weighing up to 40 pounds each. Then it provides cargo space at the back, capable of carrying another 12 pounds.
It’s a neat little trailer, excellent for family trips requiring a car journey. It fits into almost all car trunks without too much effort and attaches to most bikes.
Your little one will love the smooth ride and side windows to watch the passing landscape, while you’ll enjoy towing it.
What We Like
Easy Folding
If you’re going on a family trip, and need a bike trailer that can be easily folded and put in the trunk, this is the one. Schwinn designed it with a unique folding frame, which packs up the trailer into a neat package.
The wheels feature a quick-release system, allowing you to remove them in seconds and place them with the frame for compact storing.
All-Around Canopy
The canopy offers excellent protection for your little one, even through mosquito territory. It includes a bug net, rain cover, and shade from the sun, ensuring a full shield for your child. It’s easy to attach and switch the covers.
Smooth Riding Tires
For this trailer, Schwinn included two 20-inch air-filled tires. These provide a smooth ride, leveling out bumps in the road. They work wonderfully on sidewalks, but can easily fly over light sand and dirt roads.
The tires also make the trailer easier to tow. Parents say it felt light and not too bulky, perfectly suitable for sidewalk riding or hilly terrain.
What We Don't Like
No Indent for Helmet
A couple of parents pointed out there’s no indent for the helmet in the seat. This results in the passenger sitting in an awkward position due to the large helmet. As your child grows, it becomes less of an issue, but for small children, it’s something to note.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | 20 inches |
| Assembled size | N/A |
| Color | Red |
| Material | N/A |
| Trailer weight | 40 pounds |
Our Ratings
Clevr 3-in-1 Collapsible 2 Seat Bicycle Trailer
Best Convertible
If you enjoy doing multiple activities like biking, walking, or jogging, then have a look at this one. This three-in-one bike trailer from Clevr is genuinely clever. You can use it in three ways, and changing between modes is a breeze.
It has a lot to offer for the active family, providing a smooth ride for the onboard passengers. It can support up to two children, with a weight limit of 88 pounds.
What We Like
Trailer and Stroller
As a first on today’s list, we have a bike trailer that converts into a stroller or jogger. To allow for the transformation, it features a 12-inch pivoting front wheel and two 20-inch rear wheels. When all three tires are attached, you can use it as a stroller or jogger.
When you’re going on the bike, remove the front wheel, then extend the arm and connect to your bicycle. The jogger becomes a trailer in two easy steps, ready for your family cycling trip.
Emphasis on Safety
The three-in-one trailer features enough safety components to suffice. This includes two five-point harnesses for the passengers, large reflectors, safety strap for the bike hitch, and a flag. You’ll feel completely safe towing your little ones around, or going for a jog.
Suspension
This trailer is ideal for getting out and about — it’s all about comfort and activity. The wheels feature an excellent suspension system, leveling out bumps whether you’re biking or jogging.
Adjustable Handlebars
When in stroller or jogger mode, you hold onto the handlebar at the rear. These are fully adjustable, allowing different drivers to steer comfortably without having to hunch down.
The handlebars are ergonomically designed, sitting comfortably in the hands. When stopping, you can use the bike-style handbrake seated on the side of the handlebar.
What We Don't Like
Difficult to Assemble
The trailer requires some assembly upon arrival, and it’s not easy unless you have experience. Some parents said the included instructions are a joke and not useful at all, making the process time-consuming.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | 20 inches |
| Assembled size | 45 inches by 34.5 inches by 36 inches |
| Color | Blue, green, gray, or red |
| Material | N/A |
| Trailer weight | 37 pounds |
Our Ratings
Aosom Elite 360 2-in-1 Bike Trailer
Budget Convertible
For the active family wanting to save some cash, we recommend looking at this trailer from Aosom. It’s a three-in-one design, offering you three items for the price of one.
The trailer didn’t fall short in terms of quality. Everything is built to last and easy to keep clean. It can carry up to two children with a maximum weight capacity of 88 pounds.
Your two passengers will sit comfortably and can enjoy the ride while being close to you. Once your journey is over, it folds into a neat package.
What We Like
Biking and Jogging
With a three-in-one design, the Elite II bike trailer from Aosom has a lot to offer for a family with two children. The design allows you to use it as a bike trailer, stroller, or jogger, thanks to the removable front wheel and back positioned handlebar.
You simply remove the front wheel to attach it to your bicycle, and you’re ready to ride.
The wheels offer superior suspension, which makes the ride comfortable in any mode. Your kiddos will feel safe inside while you get your exercise.
Durable Material
Although this is a budget convertible, it offers high durability and quality materials. The frame is made of sturdy steel and can carry up to two children. The cover is Oxford fabric, great for the outdoors, and easy to keep clean.
Comfy Seats
The seats are designed as a sling-style, keeping the riders off the trailer floor. They’ll sit snug with the five-point harnesses.
What We Don't Like
Vague Instructions
A few parents said the assembly was complicated. For novices, the instructions are vague, so the process takes longer than it should.
Product Specs
| Wheel size | 20 inches |
| Assembled size | 51.25 inches by 35.5 inches by 43.25 inches |
| Color | Red/black or yellow |
| Material | Steel |
| Trailer weight | 40.7 pounds |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Wheel size | Assembled size | Color | Material | Trailer weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn Echo Trailer | Breezy Folding | 20″ | 51.8″ x 32.5″ x 31.9″ | Yellow | Aluminum | N/A |
| Burley Bee Kids Trailer | Side-By-Side | 20″ | 32.25″ x 30″ x 36″ | Yellow | Aluminum | 20.5 lbs |
| InStep Single Seat Trailers | Single Babies | 16″ | 32.5″ x 20.8″ x 6.8″ | 3 colors | Steel | 25.4 lbs |
| Thule Chariot Lite | Most Safe | Not specified | 114.5″ x 80″ x 94″ | 2 colors | Polyester, nylon, and aluminum | 25.7 lbs |
| Allen Sports Steel Trailer | Most Durable | 16″ | 21″ x 21″ x 21″ | 3 colors | Steel | 24 lbs |
| Schwinn Trailblazer Bike | Family Trip | 20″ | N/A | Red | N/A | 40 lbs |
| Clevr 3-in-1 Trailer | Convertible | 20″ | 45″ x 34.5″ x 36″ | 4 colors | N/A | 37 lbs |
| Aosom Elite II | Budget Convertible | 20″ | 51.25″ x 35.5″ x 43.25″ | 3 colors | Steel | 40.7 lbs |
Types of Bike Trailers
These are the four most common types of bike trailers, each with their own pros and cons.
Single Bike Trailers
Single bike trailers carry one passenger at a time. They’re compact and excellent if you’re often riding on sidewalks or through hilly terrain. Most include standard safety features such as a five-point harness, reflectors, and a safety flag.
However, many parents say even though they only have one child, they tend to prefer a double model. This is because it can get quite tight inside a single trailer, and a youngster can outgrow it quickly.
Pros
- Compact and generally lightweight.
- Easy to tow and offers great stability.
- Often features cargo space.
- More affordable than some other types.
Cons
- It can get tight inside the cabin.
Double Bike Trailers
Double trailers resemble singles, except they are significantly wider and not ideal for riding on the sidewalk or through heavy traffic. They do, however, offer a lot of space for the passengers, often featuring a little extra at the front for growing legs.
Double bike trailers are also considerably heavier, which significantly increases if you’ve got two children inside them. If you’re going off-road or over hilly terrain, you’ll need strong legs and a bike with plenty of gears to manage the weight.
Pros
- Lots of space for the passengers.
- Generally offers extra room for cargo.
Cons
- Considerably heavier than a single.
- Takes up more space on the path or sidewalk.
- More expensive than a single trailer.
Convertible
Convertible or three-in-one bike trailers have a lot to offer. They can convert from a bike trailer into a stroller or jogger. We highly recommend these for parents on a budget or those enjoying an active lifestyle.
Convertibles generally consist of the main cabin with three wheels attached — two rear wheels and a smaller front wheel. There’s a handlebar for the stroller mode and an attachment arm for fitting to the bike.
Before connecting to your bicycle, you remove the front wheel of the convertible.
This type of trailer generally includes a sound suspension system and stroller-style seats.
Pros
- Three-in-one, which is great for budget-oriented families.
- Generally includes superb suspension and soft seats.
- Available as doubles and singles.
Cons
- Considerably heavier than other trailers.
Bike-Style Trailer
Bike-style trailers are basically a kids’ bike cut in half, with only the saddle and rear wheel remaining. You attach this to your seat post, and your child can pedal along behind you. These are excellent for older children who aren’t ready to ride alone on the road.
Most feature fully functioning pedals and a handlebar for support. They’re also a great way to prepare your child for a real bike in traffic.
Pros
- Fun for older children (usually ages 4 to 9) to tag along on the ride.
- Fully functioning pedals.
- Handlebar for support.
Cons
- The passenger must have some biking knowledge and balance to ride.
How to Choose a Kids Bike Trailer
Dimensions
The first point you need to consider is how much space your passengers will need. If you have two kids, you should only pick a double. If you’re towing two older children, make sure the width is ample for both to sit comfortably.
You may also want to consider a double if you’re planning on expanding, lugging extra gear, or having a friend tag along. However, if you only have one child to transport, a single trailer will suffice. These are easier to tow and store.
Safety Features
For a bike trailer to be safe, it must have some vital safety features. These include a five-point harness to keep your child secure from all angles, reflectors, and a flag.
It may seem funny riding with a bright flag, but it’s a crucial safety feature. It allows cars to see you’re towing something, especially large, high vehicles.
It’s not required that a bike trailer sports a light, but reflectors are essential. Look for a trailer with reflectors on the wheels, the front, and at least two reflectors at the back. This way, you’re visible from every angle.
Helmets On
Windows and Weather Shields
We can’t always predict the weather. For that reason, most trailers include several outer covers. These are usually a bug net, rain cover, and sunshade.
Rain covers work well for wet and cold conditions. They create a cozy cocoon for your passengers to sit in. During the summer, sunshades and bug nets are a must-have.
Folding and Storage
Having a trailer that folds effortlessly was a huge must for us. When you’re busy parents, it’s important to have something you can quickly throw in the trunk or store out of sight at home. Most trailers on today’s list comply with this requirement.
Come Ride with Me
Bike trailers are excellent for parents who enjoy their bike rides and want to take their child with them in a safe way. It’s essential to pick a type suitable for your lifestyle, whether you need a slim single, a roomy double, or a convertible. Ensure that it offers ample space for your needs.
You should also look for safety features such as five-point harnesses, orange flag, and reflectors all around. External covers such as rain cover, bug nets, and sunshades are fantastic features to have included too.
Once you’ve made your pick, ensure your child is comfortable so they’ll develop a love of riding too. That way, you’ll have many more adventures together.
