Camper Kayaking: How To Securely Mount Your Kayak

Kayaking is a great way to explore and stay active while on the road. However, kayaks can be bulky and cumbersome to transport, so you'll need a kayak rack to mount it to your camper or RV. You can buy a kayak rack, or if you're handy and enjoy DIY projects, you can build a custom one. There are several options for kayak racks, including roof racks, hitch-mounted racks, kayak trailers, and DIY racks. Each option has its own advantages and considerations, such as ease of loading and unloading, vertical clearance, weight capacity, and cost. When choosing a kayak rack, it's important to consider factors such as kayak type, capacity, weight, size and placement, security, and materials. Additionally, you may want to explore alternatives like inflatable or foldable kayaks, which can eliminate the need for a rack.

Transform a cargo carrier into a kayak rack

If you want to transport a kayak on your camper, one option is to transform a cargo carrier into a kayak rack. This is a good option if you want to avoid building a kayak rack from scratch or mounting a rack to the roof of your camper.

• Choose a cargo carrier or rack that hooks into your tow hitch. Most off-the-shelf cargo carriers can hold hundreds of pounds, which is more than enough for one or two kayaks.
• Consider the vertical clearance and total weight of your kayaks. Most kayaks weigh between 30 to 80 lbs, so weight is usually not a problem unless you plan to load other gear on the rack as well. The height of your kayak rack will depend on the length of your kayak. For example, a 12-foot kayak might extend above the roof of your camper, affecting your vertical clearance.
• Decide how to mount your kayak on the cargo carrier. You can use straps hooked to the rear ladder of your camper, or you can weld uprights, overhangs, or other structures to the cargo rack to secure your kayak.
• Secure your kayak to the cargo carrier with straps or other fasteners. Make sure the kayak is tightly secured to prevent it from sliding or moving during transport.
• Consider adding soft cloth tape or similar material under the straps to protect the paint on your camper.

By following these steps, you can transform a cargo carrier into a functional and secure kayak rack for your camper. This option allows you to transport your kayak safely and conveniently without having to mount a rack to the roof of your vehicle.

Carry kayaks on the roof of your RV

Carrying kayaks on the roof of your RV is a popular option, especially for travel trailers, as roof racks are affordable and easy to install. However, it's important to ensure that your roof rack is securely fastened because the wind at high speeds can create significant lift underneath. This setup also allows you to carry other gear, water containers, luggage, or large items along with your kayaks.

You can purchase roof racks specifically designed for this purpose, or you can make your own DIY version using a couple of pool noodles. Place the pool noodles on the roof, ensuring they are as far apart as the ends of your kayak. Then, use ratchet straps to secure everything tightly to the roof, adding more pool noodles to keep the setup stable at high speeds.

If you're handy and enjoy DIY projects, you can also build a custom roof rack using PVC piping. This material is strong, easy to cut, and comes in various sizes and fittings, making it a good option for mounting on the roof of your RV.

When considering a roof rack, keep in mind that loading and unloading kayaks can be more challenging and may require an extra set of hands. Additionally, the added height can affect your RV's clearance, especially when encountering low-hanging bridges or tunnels.

Before choosing any kayak rack option, carefully consider factors such as kayak type, capacity, weight, size, placement, security, materials, and accessories.

Use a kayak carrier on your toy hauler

If you have a toy hauler, you're in luck! It's easy to transport your kayak using this type of RV. Here are some tips on how to use a kayak carrier with your toy hauler:

Firstly, toy haulers are designed to carry toys like kayaks, so you won't have to worry about whether it can handle the weight. This takes away one of the main concerns when transporting a kayak, which is the weight limit of your RV. You can also rest assured that you will have enough room for your paddles and other gear.

Secondly, strapping your kayak onto the bed of your toy hauler is a straightforward process. Simply secure your kayak to the bed of your toy hauler with straps, and you're ready to hit the road. This method is a safe and secure way to transport your kayak, as long as you use the appropriate number of straps and tighten them properly.

Another benefit of using a toy hauler is that you won't have to worry about the height of your kayak affecting your clearance. This is often a concern with other methods of transporting kayaks, such as roof racks, but with a toy hauler, your kayak will be safely secured at a lower height.

If you don't already have a toy hauler, you may want to consider investing in one if you plan on transporting your kayak frequently. They are designed to make carrying recreational items like kayaks as easy as possible, and can enhance your RV experience by providing a spacious and convenient way to bring your favourite toys with you on your adventures.

Overall, using a kayak carrier with your toy hauler is a simple and effective way to transport your kayak. By following these tips, you'll be able to safely and securely bring your kayak with you on your travels, so you can enjoy it whenever you want.

Build a DIY roof rack with pool noodles

If you're handy and enjoy DIY projects, building a custom roof rack for your kayak is a great option. It can save you money and provide a unique rack that meets your specific needs. PVC piping is a popular material for DIY projects due to its strength, ease of cutting, and availability in various sizes and fittings. However, if you're looking for a more creative solution, you can build a DIY roof rack using pool noodles. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Gather the Materials

You will need thick and thin pool noodles, vinyl-coated clothing wire, zip ties, and cargo straps that can run through the frame of your camper. Additionally, you may want to get some extra pool noodle pieces to cushion the edges of your kayak and protect it from strap marks or dents.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Noodles

Measure the length and width of your camper's roof. Cut the pool noodles to fit the width of your roof, ensuring that the length of the rack is about 85% of the roof length. You will need enough noodles to create a grid-like structure on the roof. Thick noodles should form the outside of the rack to accommodate the shape of your kayak.

Step 3: Assemble the Rack

Line up the noodles on the roof according to your measurements. Pull the clothing wire through the noodles to keep them in place and cut the wire accordingly. For added stability, insert vinyl tubing or pipe inside the pool noodles. This will also prevent the wire from cutting through the noodles and causing an accident while driving.

Step 4: Wire the Rack Together

This step is crucial for safety. Ensure that every pool noodle is connected to its adjacent noodles using the vinyl-coated clothing wire. Pull the wire tight as you go, and consider using zip ties to secure the ends and prevent unraveling.

Step 5: Secure the Kayak

Place your kayak on top of the pool noodle rack, ensuring it is balanced and doesn't slide off. Use straps to secure the kayak to the roof, feeding the straps through the passenger doors and tightening them until they are taut. You can also use bungee cords at the front and back of the kayak for added security and to keep it pointed in the right direction.

Step 6: Test and Adjust

Once your kayak is securely strapped down, take your camper for a test drive. Check the tightness of the straps periodically to ensure that your kayak remains securely in place. Adjust the straps as needed to find the perfect balance between security and preventing dents on your camper's roof.

Building a DIY roof rack with pool noodles is a creative and affordable solution for transporting your kayak. Always prioritize safety and ensure that your rack and kayak are securely attached before hitting the road. Enjoy your adventures and happy kayaking!

Install a roof kayak rack

Installing a roof kayak rack on your camper is a great way to bring your kayak with you on the road. There are a few different options for transporting your kayak, including a roof kayak rack, a hitch-mount kayak rack, a kayak trailer, or a DIY kayak rack. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to consider your specific needs before choosing a rack.

If you decide to go with a roof kayak rack, the first step is to choose a rack that fits your vehicle. You can use a fit guide to input your vehicle's year, make, and model to see a list of compatible racks. Once you've selected a rack, you'll need to install it on your vehicle's roof. This process will vary depending on the type of rack you choose, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

After the roof rack is installed, you'll need to choose a kayak carrier. This will depend on the size and weight of your kayak, as well as how often you plan to transport it. Foam block carriers or crossbar pads are low-cost options that provide protective padding for your kayak. If you need something more secure, a designated kayak carrier, such as a J-style or saddle-style carrier, is recommended. For larger kayaks, you may want to consider a carrier with built-in load assist.

Once you have your kayak carrier, you can load your kayak onto your vehicle's roof. The front of the kayak should be facing forward, and it should be centred on the roof. If you're carrying two kayaks, or using a J-style carrier, the positioning may be different.

Finally, you'll need to secure your kayak to the rack using cam buckle straps. Loop the straps around the crossbars and kayak, pulling them tight enough to be secure without damaging the kayak. Repeat this process on both sides of the kayak, and then secure the front and back with bow and stern straps.

By following these steps, you can safely and securely transport your kayak on your camper's roof rack.

Frequently asked questions