Covered Wagons were a mode of travel on the prairies when people were expanding their horizons to the west. 

The top of the wagon was made with wooden and steel slats bent in a curve from side to side.  Water-proof canvas was stretched over this frame.  The slats and canvas were quite tall, allowing shorter people to stand up. 

People often put furniture and wooden crates full of their belongings on the bottom of the wagon.  Then their blankets and clothing were spread on top of the crates.  This provided a broader base to sleep and sit on with some degree of comfort.

Crates of chicken, ducks, etc were hung on the outside.  Tools, implements, food, water, cooking utensils and pots, etc. were hung on the outside as well.

Goats, cows, and other animals were tied to the back.  Dogs usually roamed free.