How to Securely Strap a Kayak to Your Roof Bars

Are you looking for a way to transport your kayak without a trailer If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we will show you in just a few simple steps. We’ll also provide some tips on how to make the process easier and more secure. So whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a complete beginner, read on for all the information you need to know!

So How To Strap A Kayak To Roof Bars?

To attach a kayak to your roof bars, you will need:

Two cam straps per kayak
Foam blocks or pool noodles
Ratchet straps
Car roof rack

1. Place the kayak upside down on the ground.
2. Center the kayak on the roof rack.
3. Slide the foam blocks or pool noodles under the kayak to protect the hull.
4. Attach the cam straps to the front and rear of the kayak.
5. Tighten the cam straps until the kayak is secure.
6. Use ratchet straps to further secure the kayak to the roof rack.

How To Strap A Kayak To Roof Bars

What You Will Need

Kayak
Roof bars
Kayak roof rack
Kayak straps
Ratchet straps
Bungee cords
Safety straps
Padded kayak cradles

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Secure the kayak to the roof rack:

a. Place the kayak upside down on the roof of your car.
b. Attach the kayak roof rack to the roof bars of your car.
c. Secure the kayak to the roof rack using the kayak straps.

2. Tighten the straps:

a. Use the ratchet straps to tighten the kayak straps.
b. Make sure the straps are tight enough to keep the kayak in place, but not so tight that they damage the kayak.
3. Secure the kayak with safety straps:

a. Attach the safety straps to the kayak and the roof of your car.
b. Make sure the safety straps are tight enough to keep the kayak in place in the event of an accident.

4. Add padding to protect your car:

a. Place padded kayak cradles on the roof of your car.
b. Place the kayak on top of the padded kayak cradles.

5. Secure the kayak with bungee cords:

a. Use bungee cords to secure the kayak to the roof of your car.
b. Make sure the bungee cords are tight enough to keep the kayak in place, but not so tight that they damage the kayak.

Tips

Make sure the kayak is properly balanced before you secure it to the roof of your car.
Use the longest straps possible to reduce the amount of pressure on the kayak.
Tighten the straps gradually to avoid damaging the kayak.
Use safety straps to prevent the kayak from sliding off the roof of your car in the event of an accident.
Add padding to protect your car from scratches and dents.

Warnings

Do not overload your roof rack.
Do not exceed the weight capacity of your roof rack.
Do not drive with the kayaks unsecured.
Be aware of the height of your car with the kayaks attached.

Also Read THIS: How To Tie Kayak To Roof Bars

FAQs: How To Strap A Kayak To Roof Bars

What do I need to strap a kayak to my roof?

Kayak
Roof rack
Kayak straps
Foam blocks or pool noodles
Ratchet straps
Safety chains

How do I attach the kayak to my roof rack?

1. Secure the kayak to the roof rack with the kayak straps:
2. Place foam blocks or pool noodles between the kayak and the roof rack to prevent damage:
3. Tighten the ratchet straps until the kayak is secure:
4. Attach safety chains to the kayak and the roof rack to prevent the kayak from sliding off:

What is the best way to tie down a kayak?

There are a few different ways to tie down a kayak, but the most common method is to use two kayak straps per side. The first strap should be placed across the front of the kayak, just behind the cockpit, and the second strap should be placed across the back of the kayak, just in front of the stern. The straps should be tightened evenly so that the kayak is secure but not too tight.

How tight should I strap down my kayak?

The kayak should be strapped down tightly enough so that it is secure but not so tight that it damages the kayak or the roof rack. The straps should be snug against the kayak, but there should be some slack so that the kayak can move slightly if it hits a bump in the road.

What should I do if my kayak starts to slide off my roof?

If your kayak starts to slide off your roof, you should immediately pull over to the side of the road and secure the kayak more tightly. You can do this by tightening the ratchet straps or by adding additional straps. If you are unable to secure the kayak, you should call for roadside assistance.