How to Safely Haul Kayaks on Your Truck

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just starting out, hauling your kayaks to the water can be a challenge. But with a little planning and the right equipment, it can be a breeze.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to safely and securely haul your kayaks in a truck, so you can get out on the water without any hassle.

We’ll cover everything from choosing the right truck and accessories to loading and unloading your kayaks. So whether you’re driving a pickup truck, SUV, or van, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to learn Let’s get started!

So How To Haul Kayaks In A Truck?

To haul a kayak in a truck, you will need a truck bed that is at least 4 feet wide and 8 feet long. You will also need a set of bow and stern tie-downs, as well as a couple of ratchet straps.

To load the kayak, place it upside down in the bed of the truck. Then, attach the bow and stern tie-downs to the front and rear of the kayak. Finally, use the ratchet straps to secure the kayak to the truck bed.

How To Haul Kayaks In A Truck

What You’ll Need

A truck or SUV with a roof rack or truck bed
Kayak roof racks or truck bed extender
Kayak straps or tie-downs
Ratchet straps or cam straps
Foam blocks or pool noodles
Bungee cords
Tarp or truck bed cover

How to Haul Kayaks on a Roof Rack

1. Install the roof racks:
If your truck doesn’t already have roof racks, you’ll need to install them before you can haul your kayaks. Roof racks can be purchased from a variety of retailers, and installation instructions are typically included.

2. Load the kayaks onto the roof racks:
Place the kayaks upside down on the roof racks, with the cockpits facing forward. Make sure the kayaks are evenly distributed across the roof racks, and that they’re not too close to the edge.3. Secure the kayaks to the roof racks:
Use kayak straps or tie-downs to secure the kayaks to the roof racks. Make sure the straps are tight enough to prevent the kayaks from shifting, but not so tight that they damage the kayaks.

4. Test the kayaks:
Once the kayaks are secured, give them a good shake to make sure they’re stable. If the kayaks move around too much, tighten the straps or tie-downs.

How to Haul Kayaks in a Truck Bed

1. Install a truck bed extender:
If your truck doesn’t have a truck bed extender, you’ll need to install one before you can haul your kayaks. Truck bed extenders can be purchased from a variety of retailers, and installation instructions are typically included.

2. Load the kayaks into the truck bed:
Place the kayaks upside down in the truck bed, with the cockpits facing forward. Make sure the kayaks are evenly distributed across the truck bed, and that they’re not too close to the cab or tailgate.3. Secure the kayaks to the truck bed:
Use foam blocks or pool noodles to create a barrier between the kayaks and the sides of the truck bed. Then, use ratchet straps or cam straps to secure the kayaks to the truck bed. Make sure the straps are tight enough to prevent the kayaks from shifting, but not so tight that they damage the kayaks.

4. Test the kayaks:
Once the kayaks are secured, give them a good shake to make sure they’re stable. If the kayaks move around too much, tighten the straps or tie-downs.

Tips for Hauling Kayaks

Always use caution when hauling kayaks on your vehicle. Be aware of your surroundings, and drive slowly and carefully.
Make sure the kayaks are properly secured before you start driving. If the kayaks shift while you’re driving, they could fall off and cause damage to your vehicle or other property.
Avoid driving in high winds. If you have to drive in high winds, make sure the kayaks are properly secured and that you’re driving slowly and carefully.
If you’re going to be driving long distances, take breaks every few hours to check on the kayaks. Make sure they’re still secure and that there’s no damage.

Conclusion

Hauling kayaks on your vehicle can be a safe and easy way to transport them. By following these tips, you can ensure that your kayaks arrive at your destination safely and without damage.

Also Read THIS: How To Hold Kayak Paddle

FAQs on How to Haul Kayaks in a Truck

What is the best way to haul a kayak in a truck?

There are a few different ways to haul a kayak in a truck, but the best way for you will depend on the type of truck you have and the size of your kayak. Some of the most common methods include:

On top of the truck bed: This is the most common way to haul a kayak, and it is a good option for smaller kayaks. To secure the kayak, you can use a roof rack, crossbars, or a kayak carrier.

In the truck bed: This is a good option for larger kayaks that won’t fit on top of the truck bed. To secure the kayak, you can use a truck bed extender, a kayak cradle, or a kayak chock.

Behind the truck: This is a good option for kayaks that are too long to fit in the truck bed. To secure the kayak, you can use a trailer hitch, a kayak trailer, or a kayak carrier.

What do I need to know before hauling a kayak in a truck?

Before you haul a kayak in a truck, there are a few things you need to know:

The weight of the kayak: The weight of the kayak will determine how you need to secure it.

The size of the kayak: The size of the kayak will determine how you can transport it.

The type of truck: The type of truck you have will affect the way you can transport the kayak.

The weather conditions: The weather conditions will also affect how you need to secure the kayak.

How do I secure a kayak in a truck?

There are a few different ways to secure a kayak in a truck, but the best way for you will depend on the type of truck you have and the size of your kayak. Some of the most common methods include:

Roof rack: A roof rack is a good option for smaller kayaks that can be easily lifted onto the roof of the truck. To secure the kayak, you can use bungee cords, ratchet straps, or a kayak carrier.

Crossbars: Crossbars are a good option for larger kayaks that are too heavy to lift onto the roof of the truck. To secure the kayak, you can use bungee cords, ratchet straps, or a kayak carrier.

Truck bed extender: A truck bed extender is a good option for kayaks that are too long to fit in the truck bed. To secure the kayak, you can use bungee cords, ratchet straps, or a kayak cradle.

Kayak cradle: A kayak cradle is a good option for kayaks that are too wide to fit in the truck bed. To secure the kayak, you can use bungee cords, ratchet straps, or a kayak chock.

What are the risks of hauling a kayak in a truck?

There are a few risks associated with hauling a kayak in a truck, including:

The kayak could fall off the truck and cause damage to the kayak or other property:

The kayak could block the driver’s view, which could lead to an accident:

The kayak could create drag, which could affect the fuel economy of the truck:

How can I reduce the risks of hauling a kayak in a truck?

There are a few things you can do to reduce the risks of hauling a kayak in a truck, including:

Secure the kayak properly: Make sure the kayak is securely attached to the truck so that it doesn’t fall off.

Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of other drivers and pedestrians, and make sure you can see clearly out of your window.

Consider the fuel economy: If you are hauling a kayak, you may want to consider driving slower to improve your fuel economy.