Thank you to all who join us for Loading and Transporting Show & Tell demo sessions at events! We appreciate everyone sharing examples and tips to help make loading easier and faster. This information is helpful to new paddlers, and to those considering options for improving existing setups. Over the years, we’ve fine-tuned our approaches and have some outstanding setups that make it easy and low-effort to load and be ready to go in as little as five minutes.
Basic Requirements for Transporting Kayaks, Paddleboards and Canoes
- A non-moving base for your boat or board, which could be either a rack system, foam blocks or even pool noodles.
- Two straps around the middle to hold the boat on the car roof or rack system.
- A strap on front and on back, to prevent the boat from shifting forward or backward under any conditions (especially in the event of a wreck).
- Legal requirement is to add a red flag If your load extends more than four feet behind your vehicle, and it’s a good idea to add one even if it’s only a couple of feet.
Using “load assist” accessories helps anyone load a large or heavy boat quickly and easily. Many new paddlers worry about the weight of kayaks, but with a few smart gear choices and loading methods, loading a heavy boat is not a big deal. To get it to the water, use a cart or carry it with a friend. That’s one more good reason to always paddle with others!
Gear for Loading Kayaks and Transporting Kayaks (as well as SUPs and Canoes)
These examples are systems and accessories shown during our Show & Tell session, or recommended.
Kayak Tie Down Straps for middle of boat or board (Do NOT use thick webbing rachet straps used for moving furniture!)
Front and Back Rachet Ropes with Anchor Loops (very popular!)
Anchor Loops to use with straps
Yakima Boat Loader (outstanding 5-minute loader!)
Universal Side Loader (for those without Yakima round crossbars)
Hullivator Hydraulic Lift (best option for limited strength, high roofs)
Vertical Kayak Carrier and Vertical Kayak + Bikes Carrier for RVs, vans and trucks (12 ft or shorter kayaks)
Door Step for loading on tall vehicles, or for shorter people
Kayak Cart (the best one available!)
Bicycle-Towed Kayak Cart (for up to 12 ft recreational kayaks)
Universal Kayak Locking System
Locking Steel Reinforced Tiedown Straps
4 Kayak Outdoor Storage Rack or Indoor Storage Rack or Indoor Freestanding Storage Rack
Yakima and Thule “Fit Guide” to determine which racks fit your vehicle
See Loading and Transporting Examples
Paddle KC members use a wide variety of options to load and carry boats and boards on vehicles. Come out to any activity on our calendar of paddling events to see options and ask questions. If you aren’t a member of Paddle KC yet, you can join at that link. We have a lot of fun, learning opportunities, and socializing over paddling activities!
Learn Tips While Having Fun
If you're in the Kansas City area, come out to Paddle KC paddling club kayaking, paddleboard and canoe events to have fun, learn paddling skills and safety, and make friends over shared experiences. If you aren't already a member of Paddle KC, sign up to receive invitations to frequent activities for all experience levels!Join Us On The Water