After packing the car with every last umbrella, towel and tent that you’ll use at the beach, only one tedious task remains: hauling all that gear from the parking lot to the sand. Sure, you could fumble with beach chairs, bottles of sunscreen and a cumbersome cooler, or you could simply invest in one of the best beach wagons designed to save you from taking multiple trips or recruiting your family.

You shouldn't head to the beach without first investing in a beach wagon.

While beach wagons tend to look similar from one model to the next, they’re hardly all the same, and the wagon that’s right for you depends on your needs. For instance, the amount of gear you’re hauling, the terrain you’re traversing and even the ability to carry family members (dogs included) will dictate which beach wagon is right for you. After examining reviews, evaluating expert suggestions and relying on some personal experience, we’ve identified seven models that are worth the investment. The options are seemingly endless, but this easy-to-shop list will help you find the one that’s right for you.

Materials: Plastic, steel | Dimensions: 24.6 x 36.2 x 21.4 inches | Weight Capacity: 150 pounds | Weight: 24.5 pounds

Complete with durable 600-denier fabric and a sturdy steel frame, Mac Sports’ heavy-duty wagon will haul every last piece of equipment from the parking lot to the sand. Unlike some utility carts that feature thin, flimsy wheels, the oversized wheels on this model make it easier to navigate soft, uneven surfaces (like sand). The telescoping, locking handle reduces strain when you’re pulling large amounts of weight, a detail you’ll appreciate once you realize this wagon can haul up to 150 pounds. And the fabric is both mildew- and UV-resistant.

Beyond the obvious features, this do-it-all hauler sports two cupholders for drinks (because you’re bound to work up a thirst along the way), and the design folds up when it’s not in use to save a little space.

Materials: Rubber, steel and canvas | Dimensions: 28 x 16.9 x 10.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 120 pounds | Weight: 18.6 pounds

When you need a reliable beach wagon but can’t justify spending over $100, this collapsible one should do the trick. It still holds up to 120 pounds and comes in a variety of colors and patterns to help you stand out in the sand. The rubberized wheels add a little grip over wet surfaces and, much like a shopping cart, they swivel 360 degrees to improve maneuverability in tight spaces.

While beach wagons are designed to endure bumps, bangs and rough terrain, this one comes with a one-year warranty that’ll protect it for a couple seasons by the water.

Materials: Rubber, steel and recycled fabric | Dimensions: 47.2 x 41.3 x 24.4 inches | Weight Capacity: 150 pounds | Weight: 32 pounds

If you’re traveling to the beach with the family in tow, you might as well invest in a beach wagon that can pull double duty. Featuring a three-in-one design that functions as a traditional wagon, bench seat or two-person hauler, Radio Flyer’s compact wagon is designed to adapt to your changing needs. Its extra-wide tires and linked steering provide a smooth ride over sand, and the profile folds flat when it’s not in use.

Of course, you’ll want to minimize any occupant’s exposure to the sun, which is why this wagon features a built-in, UV-blocking canopy. When it’s not in use, the poles retract into the base and the sunshade stores in a dedicated pocket, so it’s always available at a moment’s notice. The interior also contains two seatbelts to keep the little ones secure, as well as dual cupholders to keep them hydrated. And if they happen to make a mess from the parking lot to the beach, never fear—the recycled fabric can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

Materials: Canvas, steel | Dimensions: 41.3 x 42.5 x 22.4 inches | Weight Capacity: 150 pounds | Weight: 13.5 pounds

In spite of their practicality come summer, beach wagons can be rather cumbersome, inconvenient objects during the offseason. Try storing one in your attic or garage and you’ll find it takes up a lot of space, which is why you might consider this collapsible wagon courtesy of Gorilla Carts. When deployed, the oversized design provides plenty of usable space and exterior pockets add even more room for towels, blankets and a few books. But once you’re ready to retire it for the season or pack it in the car, the profile folds down to the size of a standard gym duffel and features a grab handle for easy transport.

The wagon also has four built-in cupholders located at each corner that double as phone stands, and the plastic wheels can be locked in place via integrated breaks. Wipe down the easy-to-clean fabric after a season by the water to keep it looking good as new.

Materials: Steel, synthetic fabric | Dimensions: 52.7 x 20.1 x 120 inches | Weight Capacity: 150 pounds | Weight: 25 pounds

If your trips to the beach embrace every last piece of equipment but the kitchen sink, you’ll need a roomy beach wagon to haul it all from A to B. To that end, we recommend investing in the MacSports XL Extended Wagon, a hauler that features nearly 30 percent more storage space than a traditional cart. The steel frame supports up to 150 pounds, and the design stores away in the included carrying bag when it’s not in use.

Keep in mind, this wagon is well-suited to carry more beach supplies, but the added weight can reduce mobility, especially over soft surfaces. With that said, this cart would be ideal if your preferred beach implements a boardwalk, paved footpath or other hard surface that makes it easier to bring supplies to the waterfront. Its large, locking wheels will also deliver a little more control under added weight.

Materials: Wood, steel and rubber | Dimensions: 41 x 18 x 20 inches | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds | Weight: 47 pounds

If you’re in the market for a beach wagon that can do it all, consider looking beyond the fabrics and folding mechanisms of traditional carts in exchange for something a little more rugged. Capable of carrying up to 400 pounds, this garden wagon is technically built to meet the needs of a landscaper, but its large tires and overbuilt frame can just as easily haul blankets, beach towels and other waterfront-worthy equipment. The corrosion-resistant frame features removable sides if you’re carrying larger objects, and the height is perfectly positioned to limit fatigue whether you’re adding or removing gear.

While most beach wagons are designed specifically for the beach, this wagon can also be used around the home whether you’re sprucing up the flower beds or putting a fence in the backyard. For all tasks that require a capable cart, this is as good as it gets.

Materials: Aluminum, plastic | Dimensions: ‎29.2 x 15.8 x 12.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 220 pounds | Weight: 21 pounds

If you’re in the market for a splurge-worthy beach wagon that doesn’t look anything like a traditional wagon, the Wheeleez Beach Cart should fit the bill. The wheelbarrow-esque profile is outfitted with massive, heavy-duty wheels that glide over sand while the handlebar makes it easy to push or pull any load up to 220 pounds. Once you’ve reached your destination, fold away the kickstand and handlebar to access gear, or dump everything out in classic wheelbarrow fashion to officially claim your spot in the sand.

Once you’ve had enough sun for the day and the car is packed with supplies, simply remove the wheels and axle by hand (no tools necessary). Doing so will make it easier to store the cart in the midst of travel, or in your garage until the next beach trip comes around.