Kayaking is an invigorating outdoor activity that allows you to connect with the beauty of nature. But how do you transport your kayak to the water? This comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips on safely and conveniently transporting your kayak.
Key Takeaways
- Getting Your Vehicle Ready to Transport Your Kayak
- Using a Roof Rack to Transport Your Kayak
- Loading a Kayak Without Assistance
- Securing Your Kayak onto Roof Racks
- Keeping Your Kayak Secure with Bow and Stern Lines
- Driving Safely with Your Loaded Kayak
- FAQ for Carrying Kayaks
- Where to Buy the Best Kayak Transporting Options
Getting Your Vehicle Ready to Transport Your Kayak
Kayaks are typically long and may not fit inside most vehicles, except for vans or some Utes. The best solution is to use a set of roof racks. Before retrieving your kayak from storage, install the roof rack system. Start by securely attaching the rack between the rear and front doors as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Properly attached roof racks are crucial for keeping your kayaks secured.
Using a Roof Rack to Transport Your Kayak
Once your roof racks are installed, it’s time to load your kayak. The easiest method is to have two people lift the kayak and position it next to your vehicle. Depending on your mounting gear, you can place the kayak upright or upside down. Ensure it is centered on the racks for proper balance. If you’re carrying more than one kayak, load the second one after the first.
After placing the kayak on the roof racks, use suitable straps to secure it in place. Soft roof racks may already have straps in place, which you can tighten. With hard racks, run a strap underneath your kayaks and secure it to the rear and front crossbars. Consider using pool noodles to protect your kayak from any rubbing or damage caused by the straps.
Loading a Kayak Without Assistance
Loading a kayak by yourself can be challenging. However, using a purpose-built kayak loading system can make it much easier. These systems provide additional lift, making it a breeze to load the kayak onto the roof racks. Different systems are available depending on your vehicle’s height, ranging from side loaders for tall vehicles to showboat or rack and roll systems for sedans and station wagons.
Securing Your Kayak onto Roof Racks
Properly securing your kayak is crucial, especially when driving long distances. Secure the bow and stern lines to their anchor points, ensuring they are taut. If you have multiple kayaks on your roof rack system, tie them directly to the crossbars and then use an additional strap to secure them to each other. To prevent any damage from the straps, consider using protective pool noodles.
After securing your kayaks, periodically check to ensure that everything is still in place and tightly secured. It’s advisable to stop at least once per hour during your journey to check the straps and confirm that everything is holding up correctly.
Keeping Your Kayak Secure with Bow and Stern Lines
For additional stability during transportation, use bow and stern straps. These straps provide support to your kayaks while they’re on the roof racks. While cam straps can be used, dedicated bow and stern straps are highly recommended. Attach these straps to your hood and trunk, tightening both lines firmly without overtightening them. This ensures that your kayaks are securely and safely fastened.
Driving Safely with Your Loaded Kayak
Before hitting the road, double-check the height of your vehicle, especially if your kayak carrier is holding a second kayak. Additionally, bear in mind that your car may weigh more than usual due to the loaded kayaks. Adjust your tire pressure accordingly and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
During longer trips, make frequent stops to check the tightness of the bow and stern straps and ensure everything is secure. It’s advisable to carry spare straps in case any break while you’re away from home. While checking your straps might seem excessive, it’s better to err on the side of caution than risk losing your kayak during the journey.
FAQ for Carrying Kayaks
Transporting a Kayak with Roof Racks
Can I Carry a Kayak on My Roof Rack?
Yes, most roof rack systems are suitable for transporting kayaks. However, it’s essential to ensure that everything is secure, especially if you have old roof racks. Most newer vehicles come with factory-installed crossbars that are robust enough for kayak transportation. Nevertheless, it may be wise to use additional anchor straps for added protection.
Can You Use Ratchet Straps to Tie Down a Kayak?
Ratchet straps are an excellent option for securing a kayak directly to your roof racks. Make sure that the kayak is balanced between the front and rear doors, ensuring proper weight distribution. When tightening the ratchet, be cautious not to apply excessive pressure.
Do You Need Bow and Stern Tie-Downs for Kayaks?
Bow and stern tie-downs offer extra stability to your kayaks when they are on the roof racks. While they may not be necessary for shorter kayaks, they are highly recommended for added protection.
How Do You Put a Kayak on a Roof Rack by Yourself?
Lifting a kayak onto roof racks can be challenging, particularly when you’re alone. However, you can lift the kayak from its center point and place it on the roof racks with ease, especially if you have a lightweight kayak. Alternatively, consider using the Yakima loading systems from Kayaks2Fish for hassle-free loading.
How Do You Attach a Kayak to a Roof Rack?
Different roof rack systems require different attachment methods for securing a kayak. However, in general, you’ll need at least two middle straps to hold your kayaks securely. Additionally, attach bow and stern lines to anchor points for added stability.
What Is Traveler Soft Roof Racks?
Traveler soft roof racks are a type of soft roof rack brand that can be installed on any vehicle without anchor points for traditional racks. These racks attach to your vehicle through the front and rear doors and usually come with built-in main straps to secure your kayaks.
Transporting a Kayak Without Roof Racks
Can You Transport a Kayak Without a Roof Rack?
It’s not advisable to place a kayak directly on your vehicle’s bare roof without a set of racks. Doing so can damage both your vehicle and your kayaks. However, if you have a Ute, van, or station wagon, it may be possible to transport your kayak inside your vehicle.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Kayak?
If you prefer not to transport your kayak yourself, you can arrange for it to be shipped to your desired location. When purchasing a kayak from Kayaks2Fish, it can be shipped directly to your address, with the delivery charge calculated based on your location.
How Far Can a Kayak Hang Out of a Truck?
Typically, it’s safe for a kayak to hang out of a truck as long as it doesn’t extend more than one-third of its total length. However, it’s essential to check your state’s rules and restrictions regarding this matter. To ensure the safety of other drivers, attach a flag to the end of your kayak.
Using Straps for Your Kayak
How Do You Tie Down a Kayak with a Rope?
You can securely tie down a kayak using ropes by using a trucker’s hitch. This type of knot utilizes loops and turns to provide appropriate tension. However, be careful not to overtighten the rope.
What Kind of Tie-Down Straps Are Suitable for Tying a Kayak to Roof Racks?
Most ratchet tie-downs are suitable for securing a kayak to a roof rack system. These straps will keep your kayak safely secured throughout your journey. However, it’s recommended to check the straps every hour of driving.
What Size Straps Are Suitable for a Kayak?
As kayaks are not excessively heavy, standard strap widths (25mm) are sufficient. However, if you’re concerned about potential damage, you can use thicker straps to distribute the pressure over a larger surface area.
Where to Buy the Best Kayak Transporting Options
At UpStreamPaddle, we offer an excellent range of kayak transport options in our online shop. You’ll find top-quality kayak roof racks, perfect for safely transporting your kayaks from your home to the water. We also stock other roof rack accessories such as ratchet tie-down straps, bow and stern tie-downs, and crossbar pads.
When choosing the main straps for transporting your kayak, opt for the highest quality available. Our Sea to Summit tie-downs with silicone covers on the cam buckles are ideal for securing your kayaks. The silicone covering protects both your vehicle and your kayak from potential damage during transport.
If you have an aftermarket roof rack system or factory-installed racks, you may still need to use soft crossbar pads to ensure a safe journey for your kayak. For those transporting multiple kayaks, additional straps around the bow and stern will help keep them secure.
If you’re unsure which roof rack system is best for your vehicle, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced staff. We’re here to provide recommendations and ensure that you can get your kayak into the water safely. Contact us by phone or email, and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.
Remember, transporting your kayak should be safe, convenient, and worry-free. With the right equipment and a little practice, you’ll be a pro at loading and unloading your kayak in no time. Enjoy your kayaking adventures and explore the wonders of nature!
To learn more about kayak transportation and to browse our selection of top-quality products, visit UpStreamPaddle.
