Getting some fresh air and exercise is so important, especially for parents of young kids. It helps with emotional balance as well as physical well being. However, getting out of the house is often easier said than done when you have young kids.
A good bike trailer can be a huge help. You can workout away from home without having to get a baby sitter. Strap your kiddos into a bike trailer, hop on your bike, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether it is just going around the block or cruising along a scenic bike trail, your bike trailer can give you a lot of freedom. And your kids will likely enjoy it, too.
For those who also enjoy walking or running, some bike trailers double as a jogging stroller as well.
Shopping for a Single or Double Bike Trailer
Not all bike trailers are made equal. That being said, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get something good. Clearly, the amount of time you plan on using the trailer is important to take into consideration. Some can get away with a good bike trailer under $300, while others may want to get something more expensive in the $400-600 range. Recessed foot wells, 20″ rather than 16″ wheels, and lighter and more durable construction can all be found in this price range.
Some trailers are convertible to strollers for jogging, walking, or even skiing. So, instead of getting a separate stroller for running, it might be a better idea to spend a bit more for something that can do both.
For those of you shopping for babies, be sure that your child can hold their head up already. Bike trailers are not meant for children who can’t hold up their own head. It’s simply not safe and can affect your child’s brain or neck development. Personally, I’d wait until you child is at least 12 months old to use a trailer.
The 7 Best Double Bicycle Trailers Under $300
Looking for a good bike trailer but don’t want to spend a fortune? Here are some of the models we recommend. For everyday riders, we’ve also included our favorite $400 option.
| Model | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|
Burley Bee Bike Trailer  See Current Price | Pros |
Schwinn Echo   See Current Price | Pros |
Allen Sports Steel   | Pros |
InStep Take 2   See Current Price | Pros |
InStep Quick N EZ   See Current Price | Pros |
InStep Sierra   See Current Price | Pros |
| Burley Honey Bee See Current Price | Pros |
Ultimately, you’ll have to decide whether you want to go with a budget option or spend a bit more to get some additional features. For the single option, simply place your child in the middle and for double place them side by side. If you have a toddler and are planning to have an additional child, getting a double trailer to begin with might be a good idea as the wider double strollers tend to have a bit more stability. If you’re still on the fence, here are some additional insights into each of the models we’ve listed above.
1. Burley Bee Bike Trailer
Burley is known as a high-quality manufacturer in the Bike trailer industry. Many people use these trailers for 10 or even 20 years. Their trailers are made of higher quality parts that last a long time.
The design shown is the Bee, not to be confused with the Honey Bee listed below. The main difference between the Burley Bee and other designs is that it’s a bike only trailer and isn’t used as a jogger. If you want an inexpensive Burley design that includes a stroller option, go with the Honey Bee.
The capacity for all of Burley’s double bike trailer designs is 2 riders at 100 pounds. Unlike many of the other options on this list, this should fit your 4-year-old and toddler without a problem. Like most bike trailers, it has an extensive storage compartment in the back and even better thought out features like a sippy cup holder.
Overall
Overall the Bee is made of high-quality material and is lightweight and easy to move around. If you’re willing to spend the extra money, I really don’t think you’ll regret it. This is a must for those who will be biking several times a week rather than just on occasion. It’s easy to assemble, rugged, and has plenty of space inside for a baby and toddler. Unlike many other options, the Burley Bee is a comfortable ride for even longer rides. Compared to more expensive options, the Bee lacks the hard plastic bottom, hub engaged break, and bowed out sides. That being said, it’s still very roomy and comfortable. A further comparison can be found here from the manufacturer although its specs seem somewhat understated on the site.
2. Schwinn Echo Double Bike Trailer
The Schwinn Echo gives you more features and a bit more stability than the models above. It has 20″ alloy wheels, large windows for your kids, and a well-made canopy. For protection and comfort, it includes a bug screen as well as helmet mesh and shoulder pads.
Design
The Echo can be used as both a double and a single trailer option. To convert it you simply need to move around some of the straps. Unfortunately, the Echo does not double as a stroller option. So, if that’s something you’re looking for, you’ll need to look elsewhere. For storage, there’s a great compartment in the rear of the trailer. The Echo keeps your kids dry in the rain as it includes a rain fly. You can hook it up and take it down in around 3 minutes. So, while it’s not instantaneous, it’s certainly not overly demanding. The tires are fantastic and should last you a long time.
Overall
In summary, the Schwinn Echo is an excellent choice and is worthy of consideration. It works great on gravel or cement and is a good option for riders going up to 10mph. It doesn’t have shocks, but it’s a soft ride overall as long as you’re not going on rough terrain.
3. Allen Sports Steel Bicycle Trailer
Another good bike trailer for kids is the Allen Sports Steel Trailer. It’s a bit more sturdy than the InStep designs and as such has a higher weight capacity of 100 pounds. Like with the InStep design, this one clearly wouldn’t be very comfortable if you truly had 2 children in the back that weigh 50 pounds each. Rather, it’s better for 2 smaller children or a heavier toddler in the middle. The lightweight and sturdy design make it easy to pull and the sturdy cabin is rainproof and protects your child from any gravel that might enter.
For those who want to take this on the road, it has an easy folding design that makes it easy to compact along with wheels that can be removed without parts.
Allen Bike Trailer vs InStep
The biggest appeal the Allen Trailer has over the InStep ones is that it comes with a metal wheel frame where the InStep uses plastic. As the plastic does wear out over time, this one will clearly last you longer.
Overall
Overall, this is a good choice. It’s quite sturdy but has a smaller rear pocket for additional items. If you need that storage, it might be better to go with a different option. This is Allen’s most basic trailer option and it doesn’t include a convertible stroller option.
For those who want something more mid-range, Allen has several other more expensive options like the XLTX2 and the XLT200. These have convertible features, recessed foot wells, and are built better overall. Models like this one in the price range also typically have 16″ wheels while higher-end options may have wheels 20″ or larger. With most of these models, an additional convertible hitch can be purchased that makes it easier to take it on and off of your bike. That’s something to definitely keep in mind if you’re planning to take it off and on a lot.
4. InStep Take 2 Double Bicycle Trailer
The InStep Take 2 provides a decent value for parents on a budget. While the trailer itself is relatively inexpensive, it’s still very sturdy and safe.
Design
Capacity for this design is listed for 2 children who weigh up to 40 pounds each. Clearly, the closer you get to this mark, the more difficult it will be to ride and keep your kids from riding close to the ground in the back. For this reason, I’d say it’s ideal for a 3 to 5-year-old or a toddler and 1-year-old. As it has no suspension, this is something you should know upfront. There’s also an additional storage area that allows you to store some additional gear. This is nice to have if you’re heading out on a trail with your family.
While the design is good for the casual riders, I can see it not being perfect for everyone. It’s not a heavy-duty burlap design that you can use for the next decade. Instead, it’s a plastic and polyester design that will last you a few years. This includes a plastic wheel design. If you’re planning on doing several miles every single day, it might wear out more quickly. Considering how expensive some of the high-end bike trailers are, you might be more than fine with that.
For safety, the design is sturdy and includes a 5-point safety harness for your child. The Take 2 also includes a safety flag and a rear ventilation window.
Overall
Overall the Take 2 gives you great bang for your buck if you know what you’re getting. It does the job nicely. If you’ve got two kids older than 3 or 4, I’d probably go with something with more capacity. Assembly is easy, taking about 10 or 15 minutes from start to finish. We recommend it for casual riders.
5. InStep Quick N EZ Double Bike Trailer
The Quick N EZ is very similar to the model above but includes a stroller conversion kit so that you can use it when you go walking. While it does convert to a stroller, I had trouble getting it in and out of the door. So, it’s not something I’d take shopping or even use somewhere like Disneyland as it’s simply too wide.
6. InStep Sierra Double Bike Trailer
The InStep Sierra is another good option in this price range. It offers a 2-in-1 canopy of a bug screen and water shield to keep your kids protected on the road. Ventilation on this unit is good, and the 5-point harness will keep your little one safe.
Design
The InStep Sierra is a double bike trailer with a weight limit of 80 pounds for passengers. That means it is good mostly for babies up through young preschoolers. In addition, you can store up to 12 pounds of items in the rear storage area. If you are planning on using your trailer for older kids, this probably isn’t the best option.
Assembly of this bike trailer for young kids is simple, and the trailer works with most bike styles. Attaching and detaching the trailer from a bike is quick and easy.
A folding frame makes it easy to store and transport the InStep Sierra. Made of metal, the frame is good, but not as lasting as an aluminum frame. The 20-inch pneumatic tires have molded rims. However, the wheels are made of plastic, which isn’t nearly as durable as the metal wheels used in some of the other options on this list.
This unit comes in two color options: orange and gray or green and gray. It comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
Overall
This is a good bike trailer at a decent price. It is a good choice for casual riding around the block or on a paved trail. The InStep Sierra should last a couple years. For something more durable and longer lasting, check out the Burley Bee options below.
Top Bike Trailer for Kids Around $400
This list wouldn’t be complete without the Burley Honey Bee. While it is a bit pricier than the options listed below, the Honey Bee is the cream of the crop and will last long after your kids have outgrown it. If you want high quality with great features, this is the one you should choose.
7. Burley Honey Bee Bike Trailer
The Burley Honey Bee is not only a bike trailer, but it can also be used as a stroller. Included with the trailer is the stroller wheel, which most trailers do not have. To go from stroller to trailer, simply fold the front wheel out of the way. Mesh and plastic shields keep your children safe and dry. An aluminum frame means durability while still being lightweight, which is great for towing and transport. It also folds flat for easy storage.
Design
A great double bike trailer, the Honey Bee has a weight capacity of 100 pounds, which means you can use it for older kids if needed. Use it with one or two children at once. It has 20″ wheels with metal spokes as well as high quality rubber tires. The Honey Bee works well a variety of surfaces including gravel, dirt, asphalt, or cement.
It’s simple to attach and detach the Honey Bee from your bike. To transition from trailer to stroller or vice versa, the handlebar adjusts easily. When used as a trailer, the handlebar becomes a roll bar for safety.
The exterior of the Honey Bee is waterproof. With a UPF rating of 30, the windows protect kids from the sun while they are riding. A 5-point harness keeps kids safe, and interior pockets can hold their snacks and toys, easily within their reach. Parents love the large storage area in the back to store whatever is needed for the day’s adventure.
Overall
If you can afford to spend slightly more, there is no better choice on this list than the Burley Honey Bee. Burley has done extensive testing on quality and safety to ensure their products will meet the high standards of their customers. This bike travel trailer is great for families on the go and will last the test of time. You won’t regret purchasing the Honey Bee.
Summary
Finding the right bicycle trailer can be tricky, I know. If you bike a lot, I’d spend a little bit more so you don’t end up purchasing something again in a year or two. The Burley Bee and Burley Honey Bee models are my favorite for that group. They are safe and should last you a really long time. For those who bike occasionally, I really like the Schwinn design. It’s both sturdy and feature-rich for the money you pay. The InStep options I like as a cheap option you’ll be using on an occasional family outing. I wouldn’t recommend them for long-term use as the plastic wheels don’t hold up on anything but paved roads.
In terms of the convertible stroller designs, it’s not something that I personally use. We have a separate double jogging stroller that is a lot more comfortable to use. For the most part, that’s what I’d recommend and especially if you jog a lot as well.
