Can You Put a Kayak Rack on a Jeep Wrangler?

If you’re an avid kayaker and own a Jeep Wrangler, you might be wondering whether it’s possible to put a kayak rack on your vehicle. The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to consider before making your purchase.

Types of Kayak Racks

There are two main types of kayak racks that can be installed on a Jeep Wrangler: roof racks and hitch-mounted racks.

Roof racks are the most common type of kayak rack and are designed to be mounted on the roof of your vehicle. They come in two variations: J-style and saddle-style. J-style racks have a cradle that holds the kayak on its side, while saddle-style racks hold the kayak in place with two padded bars.

Hitch-mounted racks, as the name suggests, are mounted in the hitch receiver at the back of your Jeep. They come in two variations: platform and hanging. Platform racks support the entire kayak while hanging racks hold the kayak by its side.

Compatibility

Before purchasing a kayak rack for your Jeep Wrangler, it’s important to ensure that it’s compatible with your vehicle. Most roof rack manufacturers will have a compatibility tool on their website that can help you determine if their product will fit your specific make and model of Jeep.

For hitch-mounted racks, you’ll need to ensure that your Jeep has a hitch receiver installed. If not, you’ll need to have one installed before purchasing a hitch-mounted rack.

Installation

Installing a kayak rack on your Jeep Wrangler can be done either by yourself or by a professional installer. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects and have experience working with tools, then installing the rack yourself may be an option for you.

However, if you’re not confident in your abilities or don’t have access to certain tools, then hiring a professional installer may be necessary. Many rack manufacturers have a list of certified installers on their website that you can contact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, putting a kayak rack on your Jeep Wrangler is possible and can greatly enhance your kayaking experience. Just be sure to choose the right type of rack for your needs, ensure compatibility with your vehicle, and consider whether you’ll install it yourself or hire a professional.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when transporting your kayak. So, make sure that it’s properly secured to the rack and that the rack is securely mounted to your Jeep before hitting the road.

Photo of author

Michael Allen