How to Safely Haul Your Kayak without Damaging Your Car

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just getting started, knowing how to properly haul your kayak is an essential skill. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of safely and efficiently loading and unloading your kayak from your vehicle. We’ll also provide tips on choosing the right kayak carrier for your needs.

So whether you’re headed to the beach for a day of paddling or a long weekend on the water, read on for all the information you need to know about hauling a kayak.

So How To Haul A Kayak?

To safely haul a kayak, first empty the water from the kayak and place it upside down on a car roof rack. Secure the kayak with bungee cords or ratchet straps. Lower the front of the kayak onto the front of the car, then lower the back of the kayak onto the back of the car. Tie the bow and stern of the kayak to the car with rope.

How to Haul a Kayak

What You’ll Need

Kayak
Car roof rack or trailer
Kayak carrying straps or cradle
Kayak trolley (optional)
Wedge blocks (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Attach the kayak carrying straps or cradle to your car roof rack:
If you are using a roof rack, make sure the straps are securely fastened to the rack and the kayak. If you are using a trailer, make sure the cradle is securely attached to the trailer and the kayak.

2. Place the kayak on the roof rack or trailer:
Center the kayak on the rack or trailer, and make sure it is stable. If you are using a roof rack, you may need to use wedge blocks to keep the kayak from sliding.3. Secure the kayak to the roof rack or trailer:
Use the carrying straps or cradle to secure the kayak to the roof rack or trailer. Make sure the straps are tight enough to keep the kayak in place, but not so tight that they damage the kayak.

4. Load your gear into the kayak:
If you are using a roof rack, you can load your gear into the kayak before you attach it to the rack. If you are using a trailer, you will need to load your gear into the kayak after you have attached it to the trailer.

5. Drive carefully:
When you are driving with a kayak on your roof or trailer, be aware of your surroundings and drive carefully. Be especially careful when changing lanes, turning, and braking.

Tips

Practice loading and unloading your kayak before you go on a trip. This will help you get the hang of it and make it easier when you’re on the road.
If you are loading your kayak onto a roof rack, make sure the kayak is level. This will help to prevent it from sliding.
If you are using a trailer, make sure the kayak is properly secured to the trailer. This will help to prevent it from shifting during transport.
Be aware of the weight of your kayak and gear. Make sure your car is able to safely handle the weight.
If you are driving in windy conditions, be extra careful. The wind can cause your kayak to sway, which could be dangerous.

Warnings

Never exceed the weight limit of your car or trailer.
Never drive with a kayak on your roof or trailer if you are intoxicated.
Always wear your seatbelt when you are driving with a kayak on your roof or trailer.

Also Read THIS: How To Mount A Trolling Motor On A Kayak

FAQs: How To Haul A Kayak

What is the best way to haul a kayak?

There are a few different ways to haul a kayak, depending on your vehicle and the type of kayak you have.

On top of your car: This is the most common way to haul a kayak, and it’s a good option if you have a roof rack or a trailer hitch. To haul a kayak on top of your car, you’ll need to use a kayak carrier. There are a variety of different kayak carriers available, so you can choose one that fits your car and your kayak.

Inside your car: If you don’t have a roof rack or a trailer hitch, you can also haul a kayak inside your car. To do this, you’ll need to remove the seats in the back of your car and place the kayak in the trunk. This is a good option if you have a small car or if you don’t want to buy a kayak carrier.

Behind your car: You can also haul a kayak behind your car using a trailer. This is a good option if you have a large kayak or if you want to be able to transport multiple kayaks at once. To haul a kayak behind your car, you’ll need to buy a trailer and a kayak trailer hitch.

What should I look for when choosing a kayak carrier?

When choosing a kayak carrier, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

The type of kayak you have: The size and weight of your kayak will determine the type of kayak carrier you need.

The type of vehicle you have: You’ll need to make sure that the kayak carrier fits on your vehicle and that it’s compatible with your roof rack or trailer hitch.

Your budget: Kayak carriers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. You’ll need to decide how much you’re willing to spend on a kayak carrier.

How do I attach a kayak carrier to my car?

To attach a kayak carrier to your car, you’ll need to follow the instructions that came with the kayak carrier. In general, you’ll need to:

1. Install the kayak carrier on your roof rack or trailer hitch:
2. Secure the kayak to the kayak carrier:
3. Test the kayak carrier to make sure it’s secure:

How do I safely transport a kayak?

When transporting a kayak, there are a few things you can do to ensure your safety and the safety of others:

Secure the kayak to the kayak carrier: Make sure the kayak is securely attached to the kayak carrier so that it doesn’t move while you’re driving.

Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of other drivers and pedestrians when you’re driving with a kayak on your car.

Follow the laws: Make sure you’re following the laws in your area for transporting a kayak.

What are the risks of transporting a kayak?

There are a few risks associated with transporting a kayak, including:

The kayak could fall off the car and cause an accident:

The kayak could block your view of the road:

The kayak could damage your car:

By following the tips in this article, you can help reduce the risks of transporting a kayak.