If you’re a kayaker, you would love to spend your weekends out on the water kayaking. However, it can be tricky to make sure your kayak is always safely secured to the roof rack.
The frequently asked question is how to strap kayak to roof rack? By using tie-down straps, you can pass the ropes with a kayak. If you do it incorrectly, you may end up harming your valuable assets.
So, here we come up with the different methods along with the step-by-step guide that you can use to strap a kayak to a roof rack.
Table of Contents
Why Do I Need To Strap My Kayak Down?
To prevent the kayak from getting loose and potentially falling off your car, it might fall off and get damaged. This could unbalance your vehicle or be a hazard to other vehicles on the highway.
So strapping the kayak will secure it safely and you will be able to carry the kayak on top of your vehicle. You can also go camping and fishing with it easily after strapping your kayak right.
How To Strap Kayak To Roof Rack
These are the top 5 steps for strapping a kayak to the roof of your car.
So here they are !..
Step 1
Place the kayak on the roof rack as per your vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines if you have any doubts about your car please check out the manufacturer of your car.
Step 2
Secure kayak on roof rack by using cam buckle straps, but remember to attach the upper part of the strap into separate fitting from lower part then tighten both hooks by pulling down gently and evenly.
Step 3
Now take one end of each strap and pass through a door or car window
Step 4
Install a strap with a locking carabiner on your roof rack, making sure the latch is closed.
Step 5
Do the same thing on the other side. Now you can enjoy long drives, camping, and fishing without worrying about your boat.
There are a few methods that can help you secure your kayak in the most efficient way possible.
Common Methods For How To Strap Kayak To The Roof
These are some of the most common methods to strap your kayak to the top of your car.
1. Lay the Kayak Straps Over The Bars Of The Roof Rack
This is the simplest method to strap down your kayak. Lay the lower kayak straps over the bars of your car’s roof rack, then secure with a strap on each side. Make sure you are using the correct set of attachment points or crossbars for your vehicle.
For most cars, you’ll use either the door frame-mounted railing or the roof rack itself. If you have a heavy kayak, it is recommended to use both of these attachment points. This will ensure that your kayak remains secure and won’t end up flying off of your vehicle at high speeds.
2. Latch The Kayak To the Car’s Door Frame
This is a common method for securing your kayak to your car. First, take one of the lower straps and latch it through one of your vehicle’s door frames or window frames. Then pass the strap underneath the bottom of your boat so that it comes out on the other side.
If you’re using one length of the strap, you’ll need to flip your boat and do this again on the other side. Tighten both straps down to secure the boat, making sure that it remains level.
3. Use A Tensioning Strap
Using a tension strap is the best method for securing your kayak to your car. This not only secures your boat but also helps keep it from swaying back and forth while you’re driving, which can create noise and discomfort.
Take one of the lower straps and feed one end through either a door or a window. Make sure you have enough length to pass the strap under the bottom of your kayak when it’s sitting on the roof rack.
So these are some of the strapping methods to strap your kayak to the roof rack of your vehicle. Hope you have a better understanding of how to strap kayak to roof rack. So strap your kayak and explore the world.
What Is The Best Way To Strap A Kayak To The Car?
There are many ways to secure your kayak to your car. However, there is no ‘best way’ as it varies from vehicle to vehicle and depends on a number of factors such as how much kayak weight can the roof rack handle, and what’s the best way for you to load your kayak onto the roof rack, etc. You should always read your car’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for strapping down to the roof rack.
Conclusion
Kayaks can be a lot of fun, but they also require some effort to transport. Strapping your kayak to the roof rack of your car is the best way to get it from Point A to Point B without any trouble. Here are four tips for strapping your kayak securely to the roof rack of your car.
Follow these tips and you’ll have no problem getting your kayak safely transported from one place to another. Have fun out there on the open water!
FAQs
Can you strap kayaks on top of each other?
Yes, you can strap kayaks on top of each other using a kayak roof rack. This is a great way to save space and transport multiple kayaks at once. Just make sure that the kayaks are secured properly so they don’t come loose while you’re driving.
Do you have to use bow and stern tie downs for kayaks?
No, you don’t have to use bow and stern tie-downs for kayaks but we highly recommend it. It provides extra stability and prevents your kayak from moving around while you’re transporting it.
How do you tie down a kayak?
There are a few different ways to tie down a kayak, depending on the type of vehicle you’re using and the type of kayak. If you’re using a truck, SUV, or van, you can use ratchet straps, rope, or bungee cords. If you’re using a car, you can use foam blocks or a roof rack.
Can I put kayak directly on roof rack?
Yes, you can put the kayak directly on the roof rack. You will need to use tie downs to secure it in place.