How to Buy a Wagon

A wagon is a traditional toy that's sure to please any young child.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Child's Wagon

1. Understand that today's wagons come with a lot of options. Most wagons are designed for children aged 18 months to 4 years.

2. Know that wagons start at $50 and increase with additional features.

3. Realize that lightweight plastic wagons are quite popular, as they're easy for children to pull and lighter for adults to pull children around in.

4. Realize that traditional metal wagons are still available, most notably from Radio Flyer. Radio Flyer makes a red metal wagon for $50, as well as fancier versions with wood sides. Its ATW Cargo Wagon is priced at $150 and is designed for off-road use.

5. Be aware that metal wagons are attractive but tend to be noisier and less comfortable than plastic wagons.

6. Look at the features available in plastic wagons. Some come with removable sides (such as the Little Tikes Adventure Wagon) so that children can get in and out easily and so that oversize items can be placed on the wagon. These are priced at around $65 and up.

7. Check out other wagons (such as the Little Tikes Deluxe Two Door Wagon) that have doors on the sides. These start at around $60.

8. See that some deluxe wagons come with built-in seats and foot wells so that children can ride comfortably. These wagons begin at around $60.

9. Know that Radio Flyer also has a Walker Wagon designed for toddlers to push for about $50.

10. Shop for wagons from the Shopping List below or at your favorite online or local toy store.

Tips & Warnings

• Accessories are available for wagons. Radio Flyer makes a bed and side pads, priced at $25. The company also has an attachable umbrella for about $13.

• Look for wagons with extra-long handles for more comfortable adult pulling.

• Most wagons will require some assembly.