How to Keep Your Kids Warm and Cozy on the Cargo Bike

Riding a cargo bike with your kids can be a wonderful experience, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors together while promoting a sustainable mode of transportation. However, as the weather turns colder, it’s essential to ensure your little passengers stay warm and comfortable during your rides. In this article, we’ll share some valuable tips on how to keep your kids warm on the back of a cargo bike, so you can continue to enjoy family biking adventures all year round with the help of New York City’s Maddy Novich, otherwise known in social media spheres as @cargobikemomma.

Invest in the Right Cargo Bike Accessories

“If your cargo bike has a wind/rain cover option, get it!” Novich says. “That is the number one thing that keeps my kids warm(er). It protects faces from snow, sleet, and cold wind, and is our first layer of cold weather protection.”

To keep your kids warm during cold weather rides, consider investing in the following cargo bike accessories:

• Windshield: A windscreen or windshield for your cargo bike can provide excellent protection against chilly winds. It creates a barrier that shields your children from the cold air, making their ride more enjoyable.
• Rain Cover: A waterproof rain cover or canopy can be a lifesaver in wet and cold weather. It keeps your kids dry and prevents the wind from penetrating the cargo box. Look for models with clear windows, so your kids can still enjoy the view.
• Blankets and Footmuffs: Use warm blankets and footmuffs to keep your kids cozy. Tuck them in securely before the ride, and make sure they’re dressed in layers for added warmth.

 

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A post shared by Maddy Novich (@cargobikemomma)

Dress Your Kids Appropriately

“Full-body snowsuits are amazing,” Novich explains. “Especially for the little kids. Also known as bunters, I usually get ones with downfill to keep my kids nice and toasty. Plus, they are fairly easy to put on and take off when inside.”

Layering is the key to dressing your kids warmly for cargo bike rides. Here’s how to go about it:

• Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from the skin.
• Insulating Layer: Add an insulating layer like fleece or down to trap heat.
• Outer Layer: Finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shield against the elements.

Don’t forget warm gloves, a snug hat, and scarves to protect exposed extremities. Ensure that your kids’ clothing doesn’t interfere with the seatbelt or safety harness.

Novich has a few more suggestions that have worked with her children.

“For the fall, we make sure the kids have some warm gear on their body: down jackets, warm pants, wool socks, Ugg boots with shearling liners (even I wear these), fleece neck gators, gloves,” she explains. “For us, the trick is layering. It is easy to take off layers and store them in the bike if we find we are too warm!”

Heating the Cargo Box

“We usually keep an alpaca or other warm blanket in the bucket,” Novich adds. “This lives in our bike all winter and the kids can grab for it whenever they want an extra layer to keep them toasty.”

Before your kids hop in, preheat the cargo box by placing warm blankets or hot water bottles inside. This helps create a warm and comfortable environment from the start of the ride. Just ensure that the blankets or bottles are securely placed and won’t move during the journey.

“My husband likes to carry a portable heater that is rechargeable via USB, we also have those in the bike for cold fingers,” Novich says.

Plan Shorter Trips in Extreme Cold

If the weather is exceptionally cold, consider shortening your bike rides with the kids. Exposure to extreme cold for prolonged periods can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Keeping the rides shorter ensures that your children stay warm and happy throughout the journey.

Keep Active and Use Windbreaks

If possible, plan cargo bike rides that include regular stops for active play. This will help keep your kids warm by maintaining their body heat. Additionally, choose routes that include natural windbreaks, such as tree-lined streets or sheltered bike paths, to reduce wind chill.

“We also carry hot cocoa for when we stop — nothing better than getting out of the bike and reaching for a cup of hot cocoa!” Novich says.

Stay Informed About Weather Conditions

Always check the weather forecast before heading out on your cargo bike adventures. This will help you prepare for the conditions and dress your kids appropriately. Avoid riding in icy or extremely windy conditions, as these can pose safety risks.

Cargo bike rides with your kids can be a fantastic way to bond as a family, even in colder weather. By investing in the right accessories, dressing your kids in warm layers, preheating the cargo box, planning shorter trips in extreme cold, and staying informed about weather conditions, you can ensure that your little passengers stay warm and cozy throughout the ride. With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready for many enjoyable family biking adventures in any season.