So, you’ve just bought a brand new kayak and you’re itching to hit the water. But there’s just one problem – how do you transport your kayak from your home to the nearest body of water
The answer is simple: strap it to your car! Yes, that’s right. With the right equipment and a little know-how, you can easily transport your kayak safely and securely using your car.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the details, let’s first go over the essential items you’ll need to secure your kayak to your car:
- Roof Rack: A roof rack is an essential component for transporting kayaks on top of your vehicle. It provides a stable base for securing your kayak.
- Kayak Straps: Strong and durable straps are crucial for keeping your kayak in place during transit.
Look for straps specifically designed for securing kayaks.
- Bow and Stern Lines: These lines are used to secure the front (bow) and back (stern) of your kayak to prevent any movement or shifting while driving.
- Foam Blocks or Cradles: If you don’t have a roof rack, foam blocks or cradles can be used as an alternative. They provide additional support and stability for your kayak.
The Strapping Process
Now that you have all the necessary equipment, it’s time to strap your kayak to your car. Follow these steps for a secure and hassle-free transportation:
Step 1: Positioning
Start by positioning your roof rack or foam blocks on top of your car. Make sure they are evenly spaced and aligned with your vehicle’s roof. If you’re using foam blocks, place them on the roof in a way that provides a stable base for your kayak.
Step 2: Placing the Kayak
Carefully lift your kayak and place it on top of the roof rack or foam blocks. Ensure that the kayak is centered and positioned parallel to your vehicle.
Step 3: Securing with Straps
Take one strap and loop it around one side of the kayak, passing it under the roof rack or through the foam block. Pull the strap tight and secure it by fastening the buckle. Repeat this process on the other side of the kayak, ensuring that it is tightly strapped down.
Step 4: Attaching Bow and Stern Lines
Attach one end of a bow line to the front handle or grab loop of your kayak, and secure the other end to a sturdy anchor point on your car’s front bumper or tow hook. Repeat this process with a stern line at the back of your kayak, attaching it to an anchor point on your car’s rear bumper or tow hook.
Safety Tips
While strapping a kayak to a car is relatively straightforward, there are a few important safety tips to keep in mind:
- Tighten Your Straps: Always double-check that your straps are tightened properly before hitting the road.
- Check for Clearance: Ensure that your kayak does not interfere with any antennas, sunroofs, or other parts of your car.
- Avoid Excess Wind Resistance: If possible, position your kayak so that it is facing forward to minimize wind resistance.
- Test for Stability: Before embarking on a long journey, give your kayak a gentle shake to ensure that it is securely strapped and stable.
By following these guidelines and using the proper equipment, you can confidently transport your kayak to any destination. So go ahead, strap that kayak to your car, and enjoy endless adventures on the water!
