How Do You Carry a Kayak on a Soft Top Jeep?

Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors, and if you own a Jeep with a soft top, it’s even better. However, transporting your kayak on a soft top Jeep can be challenging.

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will show you how to carry a kayak on your soft top Jeep with ease.

Tools and Materials

Before we dive into the details, let’s first discuss the tools and materials that you’ll need to transport your kayak safely:

  • A kayak carrier kit
  • A ratchet tie-down strap
  • A soft roof rack

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have all the necessary tools and materials let’s move onto the step-by-step guide on how to carry a kayak on your soft top Jeep.

Step 1: Install the Soft Roof Rack

The first thing you need to do is install the soft roof rack on your Jeep. The soft roof rack consists of straps that go through the open doors of your Jeep and over your soft top. These straps secure the roof rack in place.

Step 2: Install the Kayak Carrier Kit

Once you have installed the soft roof rack, it’s time to install the kayak carrier kit. The kit comes with brackets that attach to your crossbars.

You will also need to slide the carrier cradles onto these brackets. Ensure that everything is tightened securely.

Step 3: Load Your Kayak onto Your Carrier

Now it’s time to load your kayak onto your carrier. You want to ensure that it is centered correctly and sitting securely in the cradles.

Step 4: Secure Your Kayak with Tie-Down Straps

Using a ratchet tie-down strap, secure your kayak to the carrier. You want to make sure that it is tightly secured and won’t move during transportation.

Step 5: Test Your Kayak

Before hitting the road, give your kayak a little shake to ensure that it’s securely fastened. If it’s wobbling or moving around, adjust the straps until everything is safe and secure.

Safety Tips

Now that you know how to carry your kayak on a soft top Jeep let’s talk about some safety tips:

  • Always ensure that your kayak is securely fastened before hitting the road.
  • Check your tie-down straps regularly during transportation to ensure they remain tight.
  • Never exceed the weight limit of your soft roof rack or carrier kit.
  • Drive carefully and avoid sudden stops or turns.

The Bottom Line

Transporting a kayak on a soft top Jeep may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s easy. Follow our step-by-step guide, and you’ll be ready to hit the water in no time.

Remember always to prioritize safety when transporting any equipment on your vehicle. Happy kayaking!

Photo of author

Emma Gibson