How Do You Tow a Kayak With a Car?
Towing a kayak with a car can be a convenient way to transport your watercraft to your favorite paddling spot. However, it’s important to ensure that you do it correctly and safely. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of towing a kayak with your car, from choosing the right equipment to properly securing your kayak.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Before you start towing, you’ll need to gather the necessary equipment for safely transporting your kayak:
- A roof rack or kayak trailer: These are essential for providing a secure and stable base for your kayak. Roof racks are commonly used and can be installed on most cars.
If you frequently transport multiple kayaks or have a larger vehicle, a kayak trailer might be more suitable.
- Tie-down straps: These will help keep your kayak securely attached to the roof rack or trailer. Look for straps specifically designed for securing kayaks, as they are often equipped with features like padded buckles or cam buckles that provide extra protection.
- Bow and stern lines: These lines are used to further secure the front and back of the kayak to your car. They help minimize any movement during transport and provide added safety in case of sudden stops or turns.
Securing Your Kayak
Once you have all the necessary equipment ready, follow these steps to properly secure your kayak:
1. Positioning Your Kayak
Carefully place your kayak on the roof rack or trailer, ensuring that it is centered and aligned with the vehicle’s direction of travel. Make sure that no part of the kayak is hanging over the sides or obstructing the driver’s view.
2. Attaching the Straps
Take your tie-down straps and loop them around the roof rack or trailer bars. Bring each end of the strap up and over the kayak, then thread it through the buckle and tighten securely. Repeat this process with additional straps, placing them at equal intervals along the kayak’s length.
3. Securing the Bow and Stern
To prevent any forward or backward movement of your kayak, attach bow and stern lines to dedicated anchor points on your car’s front and rear. These anchor points are often located near the bumper or under the hood/trunk lid. Attach one end of each line to these points, and secure the other end to strong attachment points on your kayak, such as grab handles or deck rigging.
Note: It’s important to ensure that all lines are taut but not overly tight, as this can damage your kayak.
Precautions to Take While Towing
While towing a kayak with your car, there are a few precautions you should keep in mind:
- Speed: Stick to a safe driving speed and avoid sudden accelerations or decelerations that could cause your kayak to shift or come loose.
- Maintenance: Regularly check that all straps, lines, and attachments are secure during transport. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, replace them before towing again.
- Visibility: Make sure that all lights on your car are visible when towing a kayak. If necessary, use extension bars for better visibility.
- Parking: Be mindful of the height of your kayak when entering parking garages or low clearance areas, and avoid any obstacles that could damage your kayak or vehicle.
By following these guidelines and taking necessary precautions, you can safely tow your kayak with a car and enjoy hassle-free transportation to your paddling destinations.
