Transporting your kayaks on a vehicle with a roof rack or via a trolley is easy but what to do if both these options are not available? Sometimes, you don’t have a roof rack for your vehicle and you want to transport your two kayaks by tying them.
Still it’s practical if you have proper tools and material for it. There are some easiest methods to tie down two kayaks without a roof rack and you can choose the one accordingly. Let’s see what will help you in this situation!
Basic Kayak Transportation Rules
When you transport a kayak on your roof rack, via a kayak trailer, or without a roof rack, you should follow the basic rules. Here are the basic kayak transportation rules to follow;
- Use cam straps because they are less prone to breaking as compared to ratchet straps. Moreover, you can easily tighten as much as you need without any fear of loss.
- Don’t over tighten the kayak securing straps; otherwise, they may damage the kayaks or your car roof.
- Don’t leave for your adventure unless you double check the kayaks you recently secured on your car roof.
- If you have short straps, you can make daisy chains to secure the kayaks.
- Use red flags to warn the other travelers about the extra luggage on your vehicle.
Creative Ways to Tie Down Two Kayaks Without a Roof Rack
When you know the basic rules of transporting kayaks, you can easily choose the right method for you. Typically, two methods, i.e., using a pool noodle and with foam blocks, are most common in this scenario. Let’s explain both these to see what fits well to your situation;
Method # 1: With Pool Noodles
The most commonly used method to tie down two kayaks without a roof rack is by using pool noodles. Here is a detailed note on it;
Materials You’ll Need:
- 2 to 4 pool noodles depending upon the vehicle’s width
- Hollow aluminum tubes for additional support
- Ratchet or cam straps (depending upon the availability)
- Bungee cord
After you have gathered the essential materials and equipment, proceed as follows;
- Tie down the pool noodles to the roof in a parallel position to your car’s roof for additional cushioning.
- After securing the pool noodles properly on the vehicle’s roof, place the first kayak on it and secure it properly using cam straps. Then place the other kayak on it and secure it too with the straps.
- Tightened the straps and wrap them around both kayaks. Use the anchor points of your vehicle to tie the straps.
- If you’re extra conscious about the safety, you can secure the kayaks from now and stern. It will not let the kayaks oscillate during the movement.
- Finally, double check everything before leaving.
- And you are ready to go!
Method #2: Using Foam Blocks
If you don’t have pool noodles, still you can tie down two kayaks on your vehicle’s roof without a rack. Yes, there is a hope in the form of foam blocks. Let’s see how these will help you!
Materials You’ll Need:
- Foam blocks
- Securing straps
- Bungee cord
Once you have availed all the essential materials, follow these steps to tie down two kayaks on your car’s roof without a rack;
- Place the roof blocks on the roof of your vehicle. Adjust them so they can easily accommodate the two kayaks on the roof. These blocks will also offer protection against damage.
- Then position both kayaks on the foam blocks with appropriate space and adjustments. Place them appropriately to prevent any damage.
- Secure the kayaks properly using securing straps.
- Tighten the straps by applying moderate strength.
- Then wrap the kayaks using the bungee cord. It will be an additional security layer.
- Then secure the kayaks from bow and stern for extra care.
- Finally, you are ready for your kayaking adventure.
Safety Rules of Kayak Transportation
When transporting kayaks, you should focus on essential safety rules for safe transportation. Follow these guidelines;
- Measure the size of your kayak and use the right vehicle that can easily accommodate it.
- If you are using a roof rack, follow the proper instructions for it.
- If you are transporting a kayak without a roof rack, use proper cushioning for extra safety.
- Ensure you have secured the kayak properly.
- Drive carefully with a kayak on your vehicle’s roof.
- Don’t go for sudden breaks or sharp cuts.
- Avoid choosing the low clearance areas when you have a kayak on the roof.
- Use red flags to traffic security on the road.
- Take special care when unloading your kayak.
Conclusion
You can transport two kayaks even if you don’t have a roof on your vehicle. Use any of the pool noodles or foam blocks to prevent any damage to your vehicle when transporting the kayaks. Moreover, ensure you tie down the kayaks appropriately and there is no oscillation in them. And take special care when driving with kayaks on the vehicle’s roof.
FAQs
What is the easiest way to transport multiple kayaks?
The easiest way to transport multiple kayaks is through a roof rack system. However, if your vehicle don’t have rack, you can tie down the racks using pool noodles or foam blocks.
How far can a kayak stick out of a truck bed?
According to 3-4-4 federal rule, your kayak can stick 4 ft from backside and 3 ft from the fron side of your truck bed. However, use LED lights or red flags for additional security.
Do I need a bed extender for my kayak?
Yes, you may need a truck bed extender if you’re transporting a longer kayak on shorter bed. Such an extended bed will offer additional support to your kayak thus preventing any damage from overhanging.