I've been trying to convince myself that I need a cargo bike for years, even though I really don't lol. I just like them! But alas, my hybrid with back rack and panniers work just fine lol.
I wanted one for years too. But stuck with my commuter. Until having kids, and man do I love the cargo bike. Got a Yuba Kombi, as it was the cheapest of what I was looking for.
I mainly would use it for school transport, or quickly going to parks we'd otherwise not go to b/c there was not enough time to walk there/back before nap or whatever. But also ride it by myself. Not too much heavier than my Surly loaded up anyway. Certainly has helped reduce car use with kids attached.
I've even been able to do longer rides with my oldest, who would get tired before the round trip. But I figued out a way to strap their bike to the back and tow it. Which opens up more fun for us on the bike(s).
I've been thinking about getting a second-hand "Muli" cargo-bike. What sets it apart is its compact size and foldable design, making it uniquely versatile.
In the Netherlands, I often notice those massive Urban Arrow cargo bikes cruising around empty. Of course, it could just be that they've already dropped off their cargo. Whether that's goods or kids. https://muli-cycles.de/de
@mountain frugal
DH and younger offspring rode together when DS was a preschooler. Kiddo would ride his bike til he got tired. Then DH would strap his little bike to the back of the back of the Burley trailer. DS would get in the trailer and immediately fall asleep.