Covered wagons had canvas top was waterproofed with linseed oil and stretched over a framework of hoop-shaped slats. Although mainly made of wood, iron was used to reinforce the wagon at crucial points. However, iron was used sparingly in construction since it was heavy and would slow down and exhaust the animals pulling the wagon.

Men on cattle drives would also take with them a chuckwagon. This was a covered wagon with a upright chuck box. This held provisions and utensils. It also provided a surface on which the cook could work. The chuckwagon would also carry the supplies needed on the journey including a water barrel, flour box and coffee grinder. The cowboys would have a ready supply of beef and this would be the main food eaten on the journey.