Hauling A Kayak: Bumper Pull Camper Essentials

If you're looking to bring your kayak along on your next camping trip, you're in luck! There are several ways to haul a kayak with a bumper pull camper. One option is to use a kayak rack, which can be installed on the roof or rear bumper of your camper. Another option is to use a trailer hitch carrier, which can be mounted on the rear bumper or roof of your camper. If you're looking for a more portable option, you can also consider an inflatable kayak or folding kayak, which can be easily stored inside your camper.

Kayak trailers for RVs

Kayak trailers are a great option for those looking to transport their kayaks with ease and convenience. They are especially useful if you frequently transport your kayaks over long distances or multiple times a week. With a kayak trailer, you can load up multiple kayaks, saving space in your RV, car, or truck bed.

When choosing a kayak trailer, consider the size and weight of your kayaks, as well as the weight capacity of the trailer. Some trailers can handle up to 1000 pounds, while others have a capacity of 400 pounds or less. If you plan to transport multiple kayaks, look for a double kayak trailer or even a four-kayak trailer. Additionally, consider the ease of loading and unloading kayaks from the trailer, as well as the trailer's manoeuvrability and impact on your RV's length.

In terms of construction, aluminium and galvanised steel are popular choices due to their lightweight and rust-resistant properties. When it comes to tires, larger tires are generally better suited for rough terrain and can accommodate heavier kayaks, while smaller tires are more economical and provide better gas mileage.

If you're looking for a more compact option, you might want to consider an RV kayak rack instead of a trailer. These racks can be mounted on the hitch, bumper, or roof of your RV, depending on its design and height. However, keep in mind that roof-mounted racks may not be suitable for taller RVs due to height clearance issues.

Roof-mounted RV kayak racks

However, some shorter towable campers, such as the Coleman Rubicon 1200RK and the Forest River NoBo 10.6, are designed to offer roof-mounted storage. Many Class B campers are also short enough to accommodate roof-mounted RV kayak racks.

If you opt for a roof-mounted RV kayak rack, you will first need to install crossbar mounts into your RV roof in appropriate locations. Then, you will need to apply the proper RV roof sealant around the mounts to weatherproof your work. Water damage can create expensive repairs if you don't seal your roof properly.

There are several types of roof-mounted RV kayak racks to choose from, including cradles, V-style, T-style, and J-style racks. These racks allow you to secure multiple kayaks and free up additional roof space for other accessories.

When choosing a roof-mounted RV kayak rack, consider the type of kayak you have, the size of your RV, and your paddling skill level.

Examples of roof-mounted RV kayak racks

• Thule bars and J-Bar Kayak holders
• Yakima adjustable tracks with lockdown 6' bars and kayak saddles, stacker vertical bars, or foam bar pads
• Malone SeaWing saddles
• Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack

Vertical kayak racks for your RV bumper

There are a few different types of vertical kayak racks that can be mounted on your RV bumper. One type is the hitch-mounted design, which is typically the quickest and easiest to install and remove. However, it's important to consider the length of your kayaks before installing a vertical hitch-mounted rack, as they can't be longer than the height of your RV. Additionally, with this type of rack, you won't be able to tow anything behind your RV.

Another option is a bumper-mounted kayak rack, which requires bolting the rack to the RV's bumper. These racks usually require a certain amount of clearance between the bumper and the RV's frame, so you'll need to ensure compatibility. Like the hitch-mounted racks, these also require vertical kayak storage, so you'll need to consider the height of your RV. However, some bumper-mounted racks allow you to retain the use of your hitch for towing a vehicle behind your motorized RV.

When choosing a vertical kayak rack for your RV bumper, it's important to consider the mount type and location, the number of kayaks you need to transport, and the weight of the kayaks and any gear stored inside. You'll also want to make sure that the rack has enough padding to protect your kayaks during transport.

Some popular options for vertical kayak racks include the YAKUPS brand, which offers customized racks made in the USA, and the RecPro RV Kayak Rack Vertiyak Hitch Mount, which can hold up to two 12-foot kayaks and is made in the USA.

Hitch-mount RV kayak racks

There are a few things to keep in mind when considering a hitch-mount kayak rack. Firstly, they usually require you to transport your kayaks vertically, so you need to make sure that your kayaks aren't longer than the height of your RV. Otherwise, they will add to your overall height, which could cause issues with height clearance. Secondly, when you install a hitch-mount kayak rack, you won't be able to tow anything behind your RV, so keep that in mind if you usually tow a vehicle.

Hitch-mount kayak racks are suitable for both motorized and towable RVs, including motorhomes, travel trailers, and 5th wheels. They are a good option if the main entry door to your RV is not at the back, as bumper and hitch-mount racks may not work in that case.

When choosing a hitch-mount kayak rack, consider the number of kayaks you need to transport and their total weight. Most hitch-mounted kayak racks can carry 2-4 kayaks, and you'll need to make sure the rack you choose can accommodate the weight of your kayaks and any gear stored inside them. Additionally, check that the rack has enough padding to protect your kayaks during transport.

Some popular options for hitch-mount RV kayak racks include the Vertiyak RV Kayak Rack, the KUAFU RV Hitch Mount Kayak Rack, and the RecPro RV Kayak Rack. The Vertiyak rack is easy to attach to any hitch receiver and can hold up to 150 lbs. The KUAFU rack fits kayaks up to 12' long and also includes a bike rack. The RecPro rack is made in the USA and fits kayaks up to 12' long.

Bumper-mount RV kayak racks

If you're looking to haul a kayak with a bumper pull camper, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, there are kayak racks specifically designed for this purpose, which can be installed on the rear bumper or roof of your camper. These racks provide an efficient and secure way to transport your kayaks. Another option is to use a trailer hitch carrier, which can be mounted on the rear bumper or roof, depending on the model. If you're looking for a more cost-effective solution, ratchet straps can be used to secure your kayaks to the camper's existing D-rings, bumper or ladder.

Now, let's focus on bumper-mount RV kayak racks. These racks are a great option for those who want to keep the roof of their RV clear and easily accessible. When choosing a bumper-mount kayak rack, it's important to consider the type of mount and the compatibility with your RV.

Bumper-mount kayak racks typically require a bolted installation directly onto the RV's bumper. This means you'll need to have sufficient clearance between the bumper and the RV's frame for a secure fit. Most bumper-mount kayak racks accommodate vertical kayak storage, so it's crucial to consider the length of your kayaks to ensure they don't exceed the height of your RV.

Some bumper-mount kayak racks also allow you to retain the use of your hitch, which is ideal if you plan on towing a vehicle behind your RV. However, if your RV's main entry door is at the back, a bumper-mount rack may not be suitable.

When selecting a bumper-mount kayak rack, you'll also want to consider the number of kayaks you need to transport and their total weight, including any gear stored inside. Most bumper-mount kayak racks can carry between two and four kayaks, depending on their size and weight.

In terms of construction materials, aluminium racks are lightweight and resistant to rust and corrosion, while stainless steel racks offer superior durability and hold up well against the elements. Additionally, look for racks with adequate padding to protect your kayaks from bumps and scratches during transit.

When installing a bumper-mount kayak rack, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that the rack is securely attached to your RV's bumper. You may also need to consider additional accessories, such as straps, tie-downs, anchor ropes, and cable locks, to safely secure your kayaks to the rack.

By choosing the right bumper-mount RV kayak rack and following the proper installation and loading procedures, you'll be able to safely transport your kayaks to your favourite waterfront camping destinations.

Frequently asked questions