Can You Put A Kayak Rack On Any Car?

Kayaking is a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. If you’re a frequent kayaker, you might be wondering if it’s possible to put a kayak rack on any car. The good news is that there are a variety of kayak racks available on the market that can be installed on most cars. However, it’s important to consider a few factors before purchasing a kayak rack for your car to ensure that it’s safe and secure while transporting your kayak.

Can You Put A Kayak Rack On Any Car?

Can you put a kayak rack on any car? Even as a small car or sedan owner, it’s possible to bask in the day’s gloriousness on the water using your kayak. It’s also possible to safely haul and ship kayaks on a car rooftop without a roof rack!

This can be done by positioning the kayak on foam slabs or pool noodles. This helps to preserve the kayak and car’s exterior from scratches or damage. Implore the use of ratchet straps for securing the kayak while the vehicle is in motion. 

This can be achieved by passing them through the open doors of the car. Ensure to inspect the straps and readjust them tightly after 30 minutes and hourly while driving.

Now you realize that conveying a kayak with your car is possible. This helps to curtail expenses that would have been incurred by purchasing and attaching a trailer or roof rack. However, let’s take a look at your broader options.

Top Kayak Racks to consider for your vehicle

When it comes to transporting your kayak safely and securely, having the right kayak rack for your vehicle is essential. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top kayak racks to consider for your vehicle. Whether you have a car, SUV, or truck, we’ve got you covered. Our recommendations are based on factors such as ease of use, durability, and customer reviews, so you can feel confident in your selection. Don’t let transportation woes prevent you from enjoying your kayaking adventures – invest in a reliable kayak rack today!

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The Pool Noodle Kayak Rack

This type of rack is popularly known as the DIY rack. Which means ‘Do It Yourself” rack. It involves the process of hauling your kayak in your vehicle using the Pool Noodle Kayak Rack method.

Setting up a Pool Noodle Kayak Rack

The first step is to purchase up to three pool noodles. Afterward, you place them on the car roof at a distance of 25″ to 30 ” apart. However, the actual placement distance is determined by the car roof type. 

They should be positioned with enough distance at the front and back of the car roof to prevent possible damage at these two strategic places. The last noodle will be placed in the middle of the two. This helps with more padding and safety.

Next is to trim the noodles to match the vehicle’s width, using scissors or utility knives. 

Then, proceed to set the ratchet to rein through their hollow column. Some people place these ratchet reins from the front and posterior noodles. If there is a need to, the third ratchet rein can be used in the middle.

Furthermore, a piece or some pieces of PVC can be used for extra backing. This is done by slipping some pieces of PVC into the pool noodle. On the negative side, this may result in unnecessary extra downcast pressure being added to the car.

Lastly, ensure to keep the vehicle doors open before tightening the pool noodles. If not done that way, the car door will not be opened thereafter. 

Proceed to position the Kayak on the car rooftop and Noodles.

It is always easier to hoist a lesser-weight kayak than a car rooftop. But for heavier-weight kayaks, ensure to first put one end on the ground before lifting from the opposite end. After placing a particular end on the car roof, you can easily hoist the second edge and position it onto the car. 

After positioning the kayak, proceed to make any necessary modifications to the noodles to ensure maximum protection of the vehicle and kayak.

Move over to securing the kayaks with the ratchet reins to firmly safeguard them as the car goes into motion.

The straps should be placed specifically at the front and posterior sides, through the hull. In addition, take note not to overly tighten the reins, as this could lead to damage or deformity of the vehicle rooftop and the kayak.

Secure the Bow and Stern of the Kayak

Double-check that your kayak is secure and where you want it to be while traveling, and using rope or additional straps, secure your bow and stern to the front and rear bumper of your vehicle.

In the absence of a strong roof rack, confirm that the bow and stern are perfectly secured. This will lead to making the kayak strong and still while in movement. Some kayaks at their grab handles have their attachment points there.

For longer-length kayaks that hang out at the bumpers, a red flag can be attached, indicating safety reasons.

After getting your kayak safely attached to the vehicle rooftop, ensure to navigate the car carefully and consciously. Also, always check out the straps all through your journey.

Setting Up A Foam Block Kayak

Most times, the DIY kayak roof setup is considered a bit heavy and not entirely easy. There is this other setup kayak option known as the foam block kayak car rooftop carrier.

The setting up process is synonymous with the pool noodle setup process above. Simply replace the noodles with foam blocks.

Soft Roof Rack Pads

This is yet another method of transporting a kayak on a vehicle with no roof rack. It is quite similar to the foam block method. In this method, the soft rack pads are attached to the plain rooftop of the car accordingly.

By design, the soft rack pads slide over a roof rack. However, they are similar to noodles and foam blocks in usage. They are positioned a bit beneath when compared with the foam blocks. They come with a storage bag and are easy to store.

How Fast Can A Car With a Kayak on the Roof Speed?

Naturally, people always want to arrive at an event, occasion, or journey quicker. Some may not consider their limitations. We always want to be quick. 

However, depending on the firmness and safety of the kayak,  you can speed up to the required vehicle limit with a kayak attached to your roof.

It is most important to look out for how firm the kayaks are on the roof. This is because as you increase your speed, there is an increase in wind force applied to the kayaks. This may not always end up good. 

In general, it is advised to examine your rigging at least hourly and drive at a reasonable speed that won’t inhibit other traffic. Always apply the use of common sense in certain situations when on a journey with a kayak.

In conclusion, a kayak can be attached to any car, including small cars. However, for small cars, ensure to put the following into consideration;

• Take note of the length of the kayak.
• Take note of the kayak’s weight.
• Take note of the car towing capacity.

Furthermore, when placing a kayak on a car roof, for both the rooftop with roof racks and the rooftops without roof racks, ensure to consult the necessary instructional manuals for the best and safest practices. 

On an alternative route, a kayak can be transported using a kayak trailer. 

Ensure to inquire and choose the best approach most suitable for your car.