3 Ways on How to Transport a Kayak without a Roof Rack Safely
We all know how enjoyable it is to spend some time on a kayak, but would you say the same when it comes to transporting it? Probably not. Transporting a kayak without a roof rack can make things even worse, and we guess your current situation is pretty much the same. Yes, in this guide, we will provide you with the answer to how to transport a kayak without a roof rack. Let’s get into it.
So, How to Transport a Kayak without a Roof Rack?
Here are some suggestions for you to take your kayak to the destination you want.
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Use a Kayak trailer
Well, when your vehicle doesn’t have a roof rack, or you find it problematic to install one right now, the simplest thing you can do is to use a kayak trailer for the job. Yes, a kayak cart would be simpler, but a kayak trailer can help you transport multiple kayaks without much problem.
Attaching a trailer to a vehicle isn’t a demanding job like installing a roof rack. In addition, you can use the room of the vehicle for another purpose when you use a kayak trailer. They are more secure and have less impact on the fuel consumption of your vehicle. So, if you are baffled and thinking about how to transport a kayak without a roof rack, try a kayak trailer.
Using foam blocks
Are you wondering how to safely transport a kayak from point A to B? Using foam blocks would be one of the best solutions for those who worry about the safety of the kayak when there is no roof rack to help the cause.
One would say that it is more or less the same as using pool noodles, but we would say foam blocks are the winner simply because of their superior stability. Let us explain to you how to transport a kayak using foam blocks.
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How to transport a kayak with foam blocks?
The first step is to place two foams on the front and backside of your vehicle’s roof. Then, simply put the kayak on the foams distributing the weight of the kayak evenly. Suppose you have two kayaks to transport, then you can use two more foam blocks as your vehicle’s roof room is well capable of facilitating enough space for two kayaks.
In order to secure the Kayaks, you can tie them using a rope inside your vehicle. Make sure you leave enough space between kayaks to avoid them rubbing each other.
An inflatable roof rack is another option
Another way of how to transport a kayak without a roof rack is to use an inflatable roof rack. An inflatable roof rack does the work of a roof rack temporarily, and installing one on your vehicle’s roof isn’t a Himalayan task as well.
Moreover, inflatable roof racks are “universal,” which means there is no need to worry and search for one to match your vehicle type. In addition, some products have side pockets in them to help you carry your gear, which can become beneficial if you have tons of things to transport.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding how to transport a kayak.
How to transport two kayaks?
There are many ways to transport two kayaks, even when your vehicle doesn’t have a roof rack. As we described using a kayak trailer is the easiest and most secure way to transport two kayaks. If that doesn’t suit you, try foam blocks. They too, can do the job with a high degree of security.
Can you stack kayaks on top of each other?
The design of the kayaks will allow you to stack kayaks on top of each other if you want to transport them once. However, that is something we cannot approve of as doing so will easily damage your kayaks as you encourage the chances of rubbing them against each other. In that sense, your best solution is to buy a roof rack for your vehicle. If you don’t like roof racks, you can use a kayak trailer or kayak cart for better mobility.
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How to drive safely with kayaks on the roof?
This is actually a frequently asked question and an important one as well. When the kayaks are on your roof, you have to be vigilant right from the word go due to various reasons. Since you are carrying more than the usual load, you must always keep an adequate distance between your vehicle and the one that is in front of you.
In addition, we highly recommend taking frequent breaks until you reach your destination to check whether the straps are in good shape. When there is rain, and the road is slippery, it would be best if your take a slow approach. Always bear in mind that there is a kayak on your vehicle’s roof!
How long do kayaks last?
Well, this might not be relevant to this article, but it is totally worth it to know the answer to this question. It will add more precaution feeling to your mind for sure when you transport it. Although the lifespan of a kayak varies depending on one product manufacturer to another, your kayak should last at least five years without much of a problem.
However, if you love your thing and provide the care it needs, a kayak could last even more than a decade. There are certain factors that you need to consider when buying a kayak as well.
Conclusion
If you ask how to transport a kayak without a roof rack, we would say using a kayak trailer is the best option, especially considering the safety side of things. Using foam blocks and temporary inflatable roof racks are also two choices that we recommend.
Whatever the method you use, always be careful when you transport a kayak, as a simple moment of negligence can bring dangerous catastrophes within seconds. If you have more questions, the comment section is all yours. Have a great day!