Carrying two kayaks on a roof rack is often required for storage and visiting remote fishing spots with friends and family. But can you put 2 kayaks on the roof rack?
You can put two kayaks on a roof rack because most car roofs have enough space. But it would be challenging until you do it yourself several times.
This guide will explain how to stack two kayaks on a car and provide pro tips for carrying two kayaks on the roof rack. If you are looking for simple ways, then let’s get started.
How to put 2 kayaks on a roof rack?
Here, you need some materials and consider some things to secure the best 2 kayak roof rack. We are discussing the step-by-step procedures.
Step 1: Arrange the required materials
Take four cam straps a few feet long. It’s best if you get the cam straps at different lengths. Also, you need an appropriate roof rack that already exists on the car. Besides, a helping hand is required to lift the kayaks on the roof rack.
Step 2: Check the space on the roof
How much space you have on your kayak roof rack will determine which position you strap two kayaks in. If there is enough space, you can use an additional rack on crossbars to keep your kayaks side by side. On the contrary, two kayaks may not fit correctly if they are extremely wide. But stacker bars can support wider kayaks.
Step 3: Place the straps
Place the straps first, per the requirements for putting two kayaks down. If you put one kayak down before the straps are attached, it can be difficult to put the other one down. Here, notice if the crossbars are loose and tighten them correctly. Thread the cam straps under the crossbars.
Step 4: Get the first kayak
Now, get the first kayak on a roof rack with the help of a person. Both of you have to grab the vessel hull instead of the grab handle. Carefully lift the kayak up and set it in place. Stack the first kayak on top of the roof rack as much as possible to one side to leave enough room for the second. Now spread the cam straps all over the kayak and adjust the position.
Step 5: Get the second kayak
To get the second kayak, follow similar rules to getting the first kayak. If there is enough space on the roof rack, keep the gap between the two kayaks. If there is not enough space, keep two kayaks down as close as possible. But be careful not to get confused.
Step 6: Secure the kayaks
Pro tips to strap two kayaks on a roof rack
- Use straps a few feet longer to tie your two kayaks on a roof rack. Remember that broken straps and too-long straps are both problematic for driving.
- Never tie two kayaks tightly together. This can damage both kayaks in the shake while driving
- Keep some additional straps of different lengths. Then, you can place kayaks of different sizes as per your requirements.
- Inspect the used straps regularly if those are frayed or damaged anyhow
Can you tie two kayaks together?
Yes, it is possible to tie two kayaks together. Several different methods are available, depending on your trip’s specific needs and circumstances.
Some of the most common methods for tying two kayaks together include:
The “Y” knot:
This is a simple knot that can be used to secure two kayaks together. To tie a “Y” knot, you will need two long pieces of rope or cord. Start by tying one end of each rope to the bow of one kayak and the other end to the stern of the other kayak. Then, tie the ropes together in a “Y” shape in the middle of the two kayaks, pulling the ropes tight to secure the kayaks together.
The “butterfly” knot:
This is another simple knot that can secure two kayaks together. To tie a butterfly knot, you will need two long pieces of rope or cord. Tie one end of each rope to the bow of one kayak and the other to the stern of the other kayak. Then, tie the ropes together in a butterfly shape in the middle of the two kayaks, pulling the ropes tight to secure the kayaks together.
The “figure-eight” knot:
This knot is slightly more complex than the others, but it is very strong and can secure two kayaks together in rough water or strong currents. You will need two long pieces of rope or cord to tie a figure-eight knot. Tie one end of each rope to the bow of one kayak and the other to the stern of the other kayak. Then, tie the ropes together in a figure-eight shape in the middle of the two kayaks, pulling the ropes tight to secure the kayaks together.
Can I tie the kayak directly to the roof rack?
Tying a kayak directly to a roof rack is generally not recommended. This is because the weight of the kayak and the forces acting on it during transportation can cause damage to the roof of your vehicle and potentially compromise the safety of the kayak and its occupants. Instead,
it is recommended to use specialized kayak carriers or cradles that are designed to secure the kayak to the roof rack safely and stably. These carriers or cradles typically use straps or tie-downs to hold the kayak in place and distribute the kayak’s weight more evenly across the vehicle’s roof.
How do you stack 2 kayaks on a car without a rack?
Yes, you can put two kayaks on the roof without a rack. There are two most popular methods for carrying kayaks on rack-less car roofs. First of all, we would say about the pool noodle method. It is affordable, too, and it requires 20-foot-long cam straps, thick and full-sized 3 to 3.5-inch pool noodles, bungee cords, and ropes to put your kayak on the roof without a rack.
Another popular method of putting 2 kayaks on the roof without a rack is using foam blocks. This method is a bit more expensive than the pool noodle method. You will need 20-inch long and four-inch wider foam blocks. However, make sure that the total width of the foam block is not more than the vehicle width.
Tips for safely transporting 2 kayaks on a roof rack
When transporting 2 kayaks on a roof rack, there are a few tips to follow to ensure the safety of the kayaks and those on the road:
Maintain a safe speed:
It is important to drive at a safe speed when transporting kayaks on a vehicle’s roof. Excessive speed can strain the roof rack and increase the risk of accidents.
Follow proper loading guidelines:
Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for loading and securing the kayaks on the roof rack is important. This may include using specific tie-down points or fasteners and ensuring that the kayaks are evenly balanced on the rack.
Check the straps and fasteners periodically:
During the journey, it is a good idea to periodically check the straps and fasteners to ensure they are tightened and secure. Loose or damaged straps can lead to accidents or damage to the kayaks.
Protect the kayaks from the elements:
If the weather is inclement, consider using a roof rack cover or other protective measures to keep the kayaks dry and protected from the elements. This can help prevent damage to the kayaks and ensure that they are in good condition when removed from the roof rack.
Road conditions:
When transporting two kayaks on a roof rack, it’s important to be aware of their added weight and size and to take extra care when driving on winding roads or in windy conditions. It’s also important to follow local laws or regulations for transporting oversized loads.
Loading two kayaks on the roof rack
FAQs:
Can you put two kayaks on top of each other?
Yes, you can put two kayaks on top of each other. Even putting two kayaks together increases stability when you are riding. Besides, this will save space and protect both kayaks from wind, sunburn, rain, and damage. But remember to consider the weight limit of each kayak before putting two kayaks on each other. And both kayaks should be roughly similar in weight.
Can you put a kayak on a roof basket?
Yes, you can put a kayak on a roof basket, even though it seems tricky. A roof rack is a great way to transport a kayak to remote fishing or touring spots. Making and purchasing DIY roof racks is comparatively more straightforward. Besides, carrying kayaks on roof racks has become more convenient and secure due to the use of bungee cords.
Is it better to transport a kayak upside down or right-side up?
It is not better to transport a kayak upside down or right-side down for all kayaks. Do note that rotomolded kayaks can be transported upside down or right-side up by using kayak stackers. However, traditional and composite kayaks should be transported on their bottoms by using cradles. Using cradles can prevent deformation.
Can you transport a kayak without a roof rack?
Yes, it is possible to transport a kayak without a roof rack. You can use a trailer, car-top carrier, kayak cart, kayak sling, or kayak rack for your car to transport your kayak. It’s important to ensure that the kayak is securely fastened to your vehicle and won’t shift or move during transport.
Final Words:
We hope you got your answer to “Can you put 2 kayaks on a roof rack?” Yes, you can put two kayaks on the roof rack. You need to use enough longer straps, check the roof rack space, and ensure enough space between the two kayaks. Besides, you can put two kayaks without racks on the car roof. If you have anything more to know about this topic, then let us know. We will update you on your further queries.
Source URL:
https://www.tripsavvy.com/strap-two-kayaks-to-a-roof-rack-2555719
https://www.kayakhelp.com/how-to-transport-2-kayaks-without-a-roof-rack/
https://www.quora.com/Can-you-put-two-kayaks-on-one-roof-rack-system-Thule
Hello. My name is Tony K. Henderson. I love kayaking whenever I get the time, and I am very fond of fishing, too. The techniques and knowledge of being a paddler are amusing. I have shared all my knowledge about kayaking and fishing on my website. Feel free to read them and learn more important things and facts about kayaking and fishing.