Summer is finally here, and this presents the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends and family. What better way to do so than by spending your weekends on the beach? The combination of a clear blue sky and white sandy beaches is a scene from heaven.
However, for the ultimate beach experience, there are a lot of items that you need to take with you to the beach.
These include umbrellas, beach chairs, tables, coolers, and even toys for children.
We all know that most beaches are not easily accessible by cars, and carrying these items by hand could wear you down before your day even starts.
If you are lucky to have the best beach cart, you can avoid facing this problem.
Getting the Perfect Beach Cart
Have you been wondering how you could get the best beach cart that would suit your needs and preferences? Well, you have come to the right place.
In this guide, we are going to point out all you need to know about beach carts. Further, we are going to discuss the distinguishing features that you could rely on to get the best product in the market.
Before we get to these factors, we shall start by analyzing a sample of the popular beach carts in the market, and we hope your ideal item is somewhere on the list.
Best Beach Carts: Quick Overview
Below are our brief reviews and helpful suggestions. Hopefully, you’ll find this information useful to your decision-making process.
1. MacSports Collapsible Heavy-Duty Utility Wagon
Are you looking for a beach wagon that would not be limited to a particular type of terrain? Well, the heavy-duty utility wagon by MacSports is what you are after.
It is packed with great features so that anytime you head to the beach; you can focus on the fun rather than your luggage.
What We Liked About It
The first thing we liked with this cart is its ease of transportation. Not only is it light in weight (weighs 22.5lbs), but it is also foldable to fit into your carry bag.
Additionally, the wagon is compact enough to fit into the back of your car effortlessly.
Also, the MacSports collapsible wagon has an impressive load capacity of 150lbs, which will allow you to take everything that you need for your adventure at the beach.
Still, on storage, you are likely to appreciate the two mesh holders that allow you to have your drink close-by without the bottle being an inconvenience.
Other Features and Benefits
Let’s also talk about the durability of this unit. It has plastic wheels that are not easily pierced by rocks and other sharp objects that you may find on the beach.
Then, there is the 600D fabric that is both mildew and UV-resistant.
What’s more, is that this fabric is easily washable and you do not have to worry about the wagon being exposed to too much dirt.
Lastly, the wagon is available in seven different colors, and this gives you an opportunity to find an item that suits your style plus makes you stand out from the crowd.
What Could Have Been Better
We appreciate that the plastic wheels save you from the work of inflating them frequently. However, should they crack, your only option available is getting new wheels.
Pros
- Durable
- Comes in seven different colors
- Lightweight and easy to transport
Cons
- Wobbly wheels
2. Radio Flyer Folding Beach Wagon
If you have small kids whom you would like to spend your day with at the beach, this folding beach wagon by Radio Flyer would be of excellent service.
Besides being perfect for transporting your gear on the beach, the wagon is also certified safe to carry two children.
What We Liked About It
The first exciting bit with this wagon is its multiple functionality features whereby you could use it for hauling cargo, a ride for the kids, or you may even convert it into a bench.
When it comes to moving it around, there are a couple of features that aim to make things easier for you. First, at 22lb, this is a very lightweight unit that is easy to carry.
Further, it has a carry handle that is specially designed to give you comfort as you pull the wagon.
We also liked the 150lbs load capacity, which is quite incredible and allows you to carry everything you need for your trip. Let’s not leave out the two front cup holders that allow for hands-free operation of the wagon.
Other Features and Benefits
Since you can use the wagon as either a cart, a buggy for kids, or a bench, it allows you to carry fewer items for your trip to the beach, and this makes the whole experience less stressful.
Finally, the buggy features two transformable seats with seatbelts to ensure that the kids are comfortable throughout the ride.
What Could Have Been Better
The wagon is fantastic, but the setup is somewhat stressful. You need a whole set of tools, plus it may take you a very long time before you are done.
Pros
- This is a 3-in-1 cart
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Certified as safe for transporting kids
Cons
- The wheels are made of cheap plastic
3. MacSports All Terrain Wagon Cart with Heavy Duty Tires
Once again, MacSports makes an appearance on our list in the form of the all-terrain wagon with big wheels for sand.
This feature implies that the cart would not keep on getting stuck in the beach sand, which tends to hinder the mobility of various vehicles.
Other than that, there are various other exciting features of this wagon that we are going to discuss.
What We Liked About It
With the roomy interior coupled with the 150lbs load capacity, the all-terrain wagon by MacSports is designed to allow you to take with you all the gear you need for your trip to the beach.
When it comes to the setup, it is quite easy such that you should be done within a few minutes. You won’t be needing any tools, and this is an aspect that makes this wagon appealing to beginners.
Another thing that we liked with this cart is its foldability. It can fold into a very compact unit that is easy to transport. Even better is that the package includes a carry case that you could use for transporting the folded item.
Other Features and Benefits
The cart features a 600D fabric, which is mildew and UV-resistant to boost its longevity. On top of that, the fabric is straightforward to clean.
What’s more, are the extra-large wheels that make this wagon perfect for moving over the beach sand. Also, the adjustable handle aims to make transportation as comfortable as possible.
What Could Have Been Better
We had few complaints about this particular wagon, only that the front wheels are too close together, and this makes it easy for the cart to tip over.
Pros
- Has a roomy interior
- Large wheels ideal for sand
- Decent load capacity
Cons
- Cases of poor packaging are common
4. Rio Wonder Wheeler Wide Beach Cart
Have you ever experienced the frustration that comes with a shopping trolley that is not easy to push? Well, the Rio Wonder Wheeler is a pushcart that has been designed such that you would have an easy time steering it.
Find out more in our extended analysis below.
What We Liked About It
First, the design of the wheels points to easy functionality. From the smaller front wheels, which swivel so that the steering is less complicated to the extra-large rear wheels, which get through the sand with minimal effort.
There is little we can complain about when it comes to the storage. The 15 cubic foot storage, coupled with the 100lb load capacity, all ensure that you have all the space you need for your gear.
To add to that, the frame has a unique ‘X’ shape that offers an extra area that you could use for hanging your items such as chairs.
Other Features and Benefits
Let’s also talk about the rear handle, which has a soft pad to prevent your hands from developing blisters after long walks on the beach.
If you are a sucker for bonus features, you should be pleased with all the extras that are found on this cart. These include an umbrella holder, a deluxe removable tote bag, a bottom tray, and a rack.
What Could Have Been Better
Although the wheels make the movement easy, they are a bit noisy if you value some peace. On a lighter note, your kids may enjoy this noise.
Pros
- Has extra-large all-terrain rear wheels
- Ample storage capacity
- Comes with bonus features
Cons
- The tires are not that sturdy
5. YSC Folding Utility Beach cart
Are you worried that you are too weak to pull a beach cart? Well, you can relax since there are options that are suited to individuals like you. An excellent example is the folding utility cart, which is also ideal for people with back pains due to its lightweight nature.
Let’s check out other notable features of this beach cart.
What We Liked About It
Like we mentioned earlier, this is a very lightweight unit. At only 10lbs, this wagon is perfect for you if you dislike dealing with heavy loads.
It may be light, but the load capacity of the YSC beach cart is awe-inspiring. A capacity of 150lbs is enough to allow you to carry tons of stuff for your day at the beach.
We also liked how easy it is to set up this cart. In a span of three seconds, the cart should be up and ready to go.
No tools or complicated procedures are required for this step.
Other Features and Benefits
One thing that you should surely like with this cart is the foldability. This turns it into a very compact unit that poses no problems when it comes to its storage.
The cart also features two bottle holders so that you could enjoy your favorite drink without the bottle becoming an additional burden to you.
What’s more, is that the wagon is available in four different colors to make it easy for you to find an item that suits your style.
What Could Have Been Better
The major disadvantage with this cart lies with the small wheels, which affect its stability and safety since it becomes extremely easy to tip over.
Pros
- No assembly required
- Easy to clean
- Compact for easy storage
Cons
- Not stable
6. Whitsunday Collapsible Utility Wagon
Just because you are on a budget does not mean that you have to settle for a low-quality and inferior product. There are several budget-friendly options with plenty of impressive features to give you everything you need in a beach wagon.
An excellent example of such a wagon is the collapsible wagon by Whitsunday, which we are going to analyze deeply.
What We Liked About It
To start with, this cart is foldable, and this means that its storage after use should not be a complicated affair.
Further, the unfolding and folding processes are quite straightforward.
The package includes a carrying bag that you could be using to transport the folded wagon.
When it comes to the load capacity, the Whitsunday utility wagon has a capacity of 120lbs, and this is made possible by the thick frame that gives the cart impressive sturdiness.
What’s more, is the cubic storage space of 2.5 cubic feet, which is pretty decent.
Other features and Benefits
Let’s also mention the removable, durable canvas fabric, and this means that you should have an easy time cleaning it.
Another great feature of the Whitsunday wagon is the sturdy rubber wheels that can withstand any terrain it is exposed to.
Still, on the wheels, they can do a 360-degree rotation for easy maneuverability.
You also get an adjustable handle which you can adjust to your perfect height.
Since the wagon comes in different colors, it is easy for you to pick out a color that suits your taste and could help you stand out from the crowd.
What Could Have Been Better
If this product had a canopy, your cargo would have been better protected from extreme elements such as dust, direct sunlight, and rainfall.
Pros
- Sturdy wheels
- Compact and easy to store
- Comes with a one-year warranty
Cons
- Flimsy construction
7. Portal Folding Utility Wagon
By now, you must have figured out that the cheapest items have basic features. So, if you want to get more advanced features without spending too much, mid-range wagons would be your best bet.
An excellent example of a wagon that fits in this category is the Portal folding wagon. As you shall see in our review, the item has impressive features that make it a worthwhile investment.
What We Liked About It
As you may have guessed by now, this is a foldable wagon that you can carry with you anywhere you want to. Further, it comes with a carrying bag that you may use in transporting the folded cart.
We also liked the construction out of high-quality polyester that adds to the durability of the wagon. This fabric is removable, and this is one of the reasons that makes it easy to clean. So feel free to use it as much as you like.
Still, on the construction, the cart features a very sturdy frame, which contributes to the impressive load capacity of 225lb.
You should also be impressed by the oversized wheels that you can use for any type of terrain.
Other features and Benefits
Another feature that we should mention is the easy setup whereby no assembly is required. All you need to do is push the bottom, and you will be ready to go.
You may also find it appealing that the product comes with a one-year warranty against defects and materials.
What Could Have Been Better
It may be a collapsible cart, but the unit is a bit too heavy, and you may need a friend close-by to help you carry it from one point to another.
Pros
- Easy setup
- Oversized and sturdy wheels
- Decent weight capacity
Cons
- Poor packaging
8. Tommy Bahama All Terrain Beach Cart
The Tommy Bahama beach cart is one of the most spacious beach carts you may ever come across. So spacious it is that it can comfortably hold up to four chairs.
But that is not the only advantage of this beach cart. We shall point out everything else in our analysis below.
What We Liked About It
Just to emphasize on the storage capability of this cart, you will get a 15 cubic feet storage compartment that allows you to carry everything you may need for your trip to the beach.
Even with the large size, this cart moves with relative ease no matter the type of terrain you are in. Whether it is even or uneven ground, the 10-inch rear wheels coupled with the dual steer front wheels should be up to the task.
The powder-coated steel frame only adds to the sturdiness and durability of this cart.
Other Features and Benefits
If you are going to spend long hours on the beach, then the cushioned handle should be of great use as it would protect your hands from fatigue and blisters.
You are also likely to appreciate the umbrella holder that allows you to operate the cart without having extra luggage in your hands.
As for the storage, the foldability of this cart makes things very easy for you.
What Could Have Been Better
We appreciate the extra-large wheels that make the mobility of the cart easier. However, they have a habit of coming out too quickly, and this is likely to slow you down as you walk on the beach.
Pros
- Impressive storage capability
- Easy storage
- Cushioned handle for comfort
Cons
- The wheels are not that sturdy
9. Folding Table Beach Cart by Beachmall
The main advantage of multi-purpose carts is that you get to carry less stuff with you for your beach camp.
An excellent example of such a cart is the one by Beach Mall, which you can fold into a table. This is a feature that makes this cart perfect for you if you enjoy beach picnics.
Other than that, the folding table beach cart has several other useful features.
What We Liked About It
Besides folding into a table, this cart can also fold flat for easy storage. This protects you from the stress of finding a suitable storage area for your cart.
What’s more, are the removable wheels that allow the cart to fold completely flat for more convenient storage.
Also, the 75lbs load capacity ensures that you do not have to leave any of your essential gear behind since the cart is more than capable of accommodating everything you need for the trip.
Other Features and Benefits
We are sure that you do not want a cart that would fall apart within days of purchase. So, you are surely going to appreciate the powder-coated steel frame that is not only durable but also rust-resistant.
Therefore, you can expect service from the cart for a decent period into the future.
Let’s not leave out the spun polyester that is sturdy enough to hold your luggage without tearing apart.
What Could Have Been Better
If only the rivets would not be coming apart too easily, then this would be the perfect cart for beachgoers. All in all, it remains an excellent unit that would serve you well.
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy storage
- Well-made
Cons
- Pricey
10. Rio WWWC5-4670 Brands Wonder Wheeler Plus
What makes this cart by Rio brands perfect for the beach? Well, for starters, it has high-quality 8-inch rear wheels that would move over unstable surfaces with maximum ease.
While the front wheels are too small for sandy terrain, they become useful when you encounter hard surfaces.
What We Liked About It
The first aspect of this cart that we liked is how much load it can accommodate. It has a maximum capacity of 75lbs that makes it possible for you to bring with you all you need for your camping trip at the beach.
Even the beach chairs that are usually an inconvenience would fit perfectly in this cart.
We are also going to touch on the 32-quart cooler at the bottom that is vital in keeping all your drinks cold.
You may be surprised to know that even with the excellent load capacity, this cart remains lightweight so that it does not become a burden to you as you move around with it.
Other Features and Benefits
Are you concerned about the cart’s lifespan? Well, you should be pleased to know that it is crafted from high-quality materials that ensure the product lasts for a decent period into the future.
Another thing that you may like is the versatility of this cart. Not only is it perfect for use on the beach, but you could also use it for holding your groceries after a visit to the shops.
After you are done with the cart, you can fold it flat and store it away without taking up too much space.
What Could Have Been Better
This cart is packed with useful features, except for the front wheels, which feel flimsy and cheap, plus they can come off very easily. They, however, do well on tarmac surfaces.
Pros
- Has a 32-quart cooler for cooling your drinks
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Versatile
Cons
- Complaints of poor packaging
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How to Choose the Ultimate Cart for Beach Use
There are many models and brands of beach carts available in the market. All these options may complicate your search, and you have to be smart on how to make things easier for yourself.
In this instance, you have to look out for certain features to narrow down your search. We have pointed out these features in detail below.
Durability
Everyone wants a cart that would last for a lifetime. The longevity of your cart depends on the materials used in its construction. Check out for carts with metal or aluminum frames as these would hold up for longer.
Further, you may consider a product with anti-rust or corrosion coating to minimize the chances of corrosion in case the cart comes into contact with the salty ocean water.
Beach Cart VS Wagon
When you read articles online, it is normal to find the two terms being interchanged for each other. Although both ensure that you carry everything you need to the beach without frequently dashing back to the car, there are some differences between the two.
For instance, a cart is taller and may be enclosed while a wagon is closer to the ground and gives you easier access to your items by being open.
Another difference is that a wagon needs to be pulled by the handle in order to move. A cart, on the other hand, gives you the option of pulling or pushing it.
Portability
An ideal cart is one that you could easily move even when fully loaded, plus it should give you an easy time loading it onto your vehicle.
Be sure to check out the weight since some carts are already heavy even before being loaded with luggage.
Ideally, the cart should be collapsible so that it can fit into the trunk more easily.
Load Capacity
What’s the use of having a cart that cannot accommodate all your gear? Before you purchase the product, check out for pockets and compartments plus the manufacturer’s creativity in giving the cart other ways of holding your gear.
As for the cart itself, it should have removable wheels plus should fold entirely flat so that you could put it away more easily when not in use.
The Wheels
The wheels should be wide enough so that your cart could move over the soft beach sand without sinking. Such terrain is also slippery, and so extra traction on the wheels would be of great benefit.
Price
Always go for what you can afford. Before going to the market, ensure that you have a price limit that you are not willing to exceed. Note that the pricier items tend to be of better quality with superior materials than the cheaper ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In our research on the best beach carts, there are a couple of questions that we came across. Therefore, we have dedicated this section to give suitable answers to some of these queries.
Q: What are some of the benefits of having beach carts?
A: We can think of several reasons why any beachgoer should invest in an appropriate beach cart. The apparent reason is they enable you to carry all the equipment you need for your beach camping trip.
Then, the carts have specially designed wheels that allow for smooth movement over beach sand without sinking.
Finally, most of these carts are foldable into a compact size for easy storage.
Q: What should I look for to get the best beach cart?
A: If you want to get the best item, you need to pay attention to a number of factors. These include portability, durability, load capacity, the wheels as well as the price.
Q: Do I need to clean my cart after a visit to the beach?
A: Yes, you do. Not only does cleaning help get rid of the beach sand that may have accumulated in the cart, but it also crucial for rinsing salty water, which may lead to corrosion and rusting of your cart.
Note that rust has the effect of ruining your gear with unwashable brown spots.
The Best Overall
In the end, we have settled on the MacSports Collapsible Heavy-Duty Utility Wagon as our top pick. It is well-made, easy to store, plus has an impressive load capacity.
What’s more, is that the heavy-duty wagon is available in seven different colors so that you can choose the one that suits your style.
Wrapping It Up
Nothing can ruin your day at the beach than having luggage in your hands that would slow you down. In a worst-case scenario, you may be having kids by your side, and it is easy for your mood to be ruined even before your day starts.
Therefore, it is wise that you invest in the best beach cart so that you can focus on the occasion rather than your gear. We have given you all the information that you need to select the best item among the many options available.
Go ahead and read the individual reviews, and we are confident that you may find your ideal item on the list.
