Choosing the Right Thule Bike Trailer for Your Family
Wondering which Thule bike trailer fits your needs best? This guide will help you match your lifestyle, whether you’re commuting, adventuring, adding outdoor fun to family time.
Why Thule Stands Out
We detailed why Thule is Australia’s leading brand of child bike trailers in a previous article. Now, we help you choose the specific model that suits your routine-commuting, multi-purpose, even pet-friendly options.
Thule Child Bike Trailer Options
Your first choice: capacity-one or two kids? Next, think about your main use:
- Everyday errands? You’ll want a go?to commuting model.
- Outdoor adventures or sporty weekends? Explore Thule’s multi-activity range.
- Want to take your dog for rides, too? Check out the **Thule Courier** with an optional dog trailer kit.
Commuter Bike Trailers
Compact and practical, these trailers serve both cargo and child transport needs:
- Thule Coaster: Affordable and functional-ideal for quick rides or strolling.
- Thule Courier: Versatile-serves as a trailer for kids, cargo, your dog (with extra kit).
- Thule Chariot Cab: Spacious and weather-ready; add a jogging kit for all-terrain use.
Multi-Activity Thule Trailers
If your weekends lean toward sporty, consider these multi-use models:
Thule Chariot Lite
- Biking + strolling kit included
- Compact fold, lighting, ventilation vents
- Add jogging or cross-country skiing kits as options
Thule Chariot Cross
- All Lite features, plus reclining seat and greater storage
- Add premium suspension options for rough terrain
Thule Chariot Sport
- Same base features as Lite and Cross
- Comfort package: plush padding, reclining seat, more cargo space
- Sport package adds one-hand disc brakes and removable side panels
Note: Jogger and ski kits are sold separately. A brake kit is standard on Sport; available as an addition for Lite and Cross.
Trailer Accessories to Enhance Your Ride
Customize based on activity and comfort:
- Jogging & skiing kits for hybrids of stroller and bike trailer
- EzHitch, bike adapters, Axle mount to easily swap between bikes
- Infant sling, Baby Supporter, padding, footmuffs for comfort
- Brake and lock kits,ganizer attachments, cargo rack, covers for convenience and storage
Safety & Standards Compliance for Thule Bike Trailers in Australia
While Thule bike trailers are primarily designed for biking, many parents use them as multi-functional child transport options-including jogging and strolling. As such, when used in stroller mode, Thule bike trailers fall under the Australian pram and stroller safety standards.
What You Need to Know
In Australia, the mandatory standard for prams and strollers is based on AS/NZS 2088:2022. This standard ensures:
- A five-point safety harness to secure your child
- Effective braking mechanisms (featuring a red actuator)
- A tether strap to prevent runaway accidents
- Stable folding and locking mechanisms
- Clear safety warnings and labelling
Do Thule Bike Trailers Comply?
Thule designs their bike trailers to meet or exceed international safety standards, including those aligned with AS/NZS 2088 when used as strollers. Their trailers offer:
- Secure harness systems
- High-visibility braking mechanisms
- Tether straps (on stroller-compatible models)
- Suspension and stable builds for off-road safety
For parents in Australia, it is essential to only use bike trailers in strolling or jogging mode if they comply with AS/NZS 2088, especially for day care or public space usage.
Further Reading:
- Mandatory Pram & Stroller Standards – Product Safety Australia
- Australian Pram Safety Advice – Red Nose Australia
- AS/NZS 2088 Overview – Standards Australia
Need Help Choosing?
Choosing the right model depends on your lifestyle-let us help. Visit Bubs n Grubs or contact us online to find your perfect Thule companion.
Check out our current Thule Bike Trailer offers:
Safety Disclaimer
This guide provides general information. Always follow the manual, ensure any trailer is correctly attached, consult a qualified fitter or health professional for tailored advice.
About the Author
Frank is a founding owner of Bubs n Grubs and writes the Bubs n Grubs Baby Blog. Since 2009, he’s personally tested baby and kids gear, offers expert advice in-store, has featured on Channel 7 and Channel 9 as a trusted authority.