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Putting a Premium Festival Wagon to the Ultimate Test
As regular festival-goers before parenthood, the idea of attending with a baby always seemed daunting. The dream of bohemian parenting, effortlessly dancing in a sun-drenched field, quickly gave way to the reality of needing to transport what feels like a small branch of Mothercare everywhere. For a festival to even be conceivable, a robust, dedicated wagon was non-negotiable.
The market offers many choices, from basic goods trolleys to the high-end Out 'n' About nipper wagon, priced at £495. Having trusted the brand's durable running buggies for years, I decided to put their latest offering through the ultimate real-world test: a music festival with a young child. Could this substantial investment truly transform the experience?
Assembly, Design and On-Ground Performance
Assembly requires careful attention to the instructions, as some sections are fiddly and counterintuitive. Once built, its size is immediately apparent: 64cm wide, 115cm high and 109cm long. For car transport, removing the wheels is necessary to save boot space, a key consideration for camping families.
However, folding it down is remarkably simple once you master the technique, allowing it to be stored inside a tent overnight. The design is smart and stylish, eliciting a certain smugness as you navigate the festival grounds.
A major advantage is the dual push and pull functionality. The push mode feels like manoeuvring a large, sturdy pram, which I found easier on varied terrain, thanks in part to a premium padded handlebar. The robust, air-filled wheels (a pump is included) coped admirably, offering a noticeably smoother ride than cheaper alternatives.
Our primary critique was the sun canopy, which doesn't extend fully over the bassinet. For proper naps, we'd recommend sourcing a universal blackout blind for complete coverage.
Versatility and Carrying Capacity
Where this wagon truly excels is in its sheer versatility and space. The seating configuration is highly adaptable. You could comfortably fit several children inside, using the provided safety straps, or let them enjoy 'free-range' movement.
A game-changing feature is the ability to close the footwell, creating a completely flat bed. This was perfect for enforced naps, allowing adults some precious downtime, and equally brilliant for the initial festival slog, transporting up to 60kg of camping gear from the car park.
How the nipper wagon was tested:
- Assembly & Portability: Clarity of instructions, ease of setup/folding, and convenience for car travel.
- Manoeuvrability: Effort of pushing/pulling, handlebar comfort, and wheel performance on festival terrain.
- Design & Usability: Overall aesthetics, practical features, and everyday functionality.
- Versatility: Adaptability for different passenger numbers and uses, from child transport to cargo hauling.
The Final Verdict
While it is undoubtedly a splurge and a large piece of kit, the Out 'n' About nipper wagon proved its worth. Its robust, versatile design takes the overwhelming stress out of moving children and essentials across challenging festival landscapes. If your family enjoys festivals or big outdoor trips, this wagon is a serious investment that pays dividends in convenience and smoother experiences. Just be prepared to supplement the sun protection for all-day use.
Chloe Hubbard is the UK Editor at The Independent. All reviews are based on rigorous, real-world testing.
