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How to Carry a Kayak

on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer? 7 Ways

Published January 3rd, 2023

Whether an experienced kayaker or a novice, taking your kayak along on your next Motorhome or camper trailer adventure can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it is important to know how to safely and securely transport your kayak so that you can enjoy the journey without any worries.

That is why I have decided to write this guide on how to carry a kayak on a Motorhome or camper trailer so that you can have a successful and safe journey. In this article, I’ll give you seven different ways to transport your kayak so that you can find the best option for your particular circumstances. This guide helps you enjoy your next outdoor adventure!

So, let’s get started.

How to Carry a Kayak on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer? Summary

1. Strapping it to the Roof Rack of Your Motorhome or Camper Trailer

This is the most common way to transport a kayak on a motorhome or camper trailer. All you have to do is follow the steps given below and easily carry your kayak using the roof rack of your Motorhome or camper trailer.

Step 1: Securely attach the roof rack to your vehicle using its hardware.

Step 2: Place the kayak on top of the roof rack and secure it with straps, ensuring that all straps are tight and not too loose.

Step 3: If you have an awning or side walls for your camper trailer or Motorhome, use them to help stabilize the kayak in place during transport.

Step 4: Check all your straps periodically during the journey to ensure they remain tight and secure throughout.

Step 5: When you reach your destination, carefully remove the kayak from the roof rack and store it properly.

That’s how you can easily transport your kayak using the roof rack of your Motorhome or camper trailer.

2. Using a Kayak Trailer

kayak trailer

Another safe method to carry your kayak on your Motorhome is using a kayak trailer. You can either purchase one or rent it from your local kayak store.

Step 1: Place the kayak on the trailer and secure it with bungee cords, so it is tightly held during transport.

Step 2: Make sure to tie down the kayak at least two times, once at the bow and stern of the boat, as this will help reduce any movement while traveling.

Step 3: Attach the trailer securely to your Motorhome or camper trailer using a hitch lock and ensure all its connecting points are securely fastened.

Step 4: Check all straps periodically during your journey to ensure they are tight and loose.

Step 5: When you reach your destination, carefully remove the kayak from the trailer and store it properly.

That’s how you can safely carry your kayak using a kayak trailer on your Motorhome or camper trailer.

3. Attaching it to the Side Walls of Your Motorhome or Camper Trailer

If you have side walls for your motorhome or camper trailer, you can attach the kayak and safely transport it. You will need specialized tools like kayak brackets that can be purchased online or at your local kayak store.

Here are some easy steps to follow and successfully store your kayak for the journey.

Step 1: Purchase the necessary kayak brackets and make sure they fit securely on your side walls.

Step 2: Secure the kayak to the side walls of your Motorhome or camper trailer using straps, ensuring that all straps are tight and not too loose.

Step 3: Check all straps periodically during the journey for increased safety.

Step 4: When you reach your destination, carefully remove the kayak from the side walls of your Motorhome or camper trailer and store it properly.

That’s how you can safely transport a Kayak using the side walls of your Motorhome or camper trailer.

4. Using a Bed Rack System on Your Motorhome or Camper Trailer

If you have an open bed on your motorhome or camper trailer, you can use a bed rack system to transport your kayak securely.

Step 1: Position the bed rack system on the bed of your Motorhome and make sure it is firmly attached and secured.

Step 2: Place the kayak on top of the bed rack system and secure it with straps, ensuring that all straps are tight and not too loose.

Step 3: Make sure to tie down the kayak at least two times, once at the bow and stern of the boat, as this will help reduce any movement while traveling.

Step 4: Check all straps periodically during your journey for increased safety.

Step 5: When you reach your destination, carefully remove the kayak from the bed rack system and use it properly.

With these easy steps, you can safely and securely transport your kayak on your Motorhome or camper trailer!

5. Using a Kayak Hitch Rack

Another good option is to use a kayak hitch rack to mount your kayak on the rear of your Motorhome or camper trailer. If you need to learn about Hitch Rack and how to use it, don’t worry. Hitch Rack is a specialized rack system just like a roof rack or bed rack but is designed so that you can attach it to the back of your Motorhome or camper trailer.

So, all you have to do is buy a good quality hitch rack according to the size of your kayak and follow the steps below.

Step 1: Connect the hitch rack to your Motorhome’s tow bar and make sure it is securely fastened.

Step 2: Place your kayak and tie it down with straps or cords to secure it to the hitch rack.

Step 3: Ensure your kayak is securely fastened and not too loose.

Step 4: Check all straps periodically during the journey for increased safety.

Step 5: When you reach your destination, carefully remove the kayak from the hitch rack and store it properly.

6. Using an Over-The-Wheel Hoop

Another great way to transport a kayak is to use an over-the-wheel hoop. These are also spare tire carriers and come in various sizes and materials, so you can easily find the one that best fits your needs.

Step 1: After choosing the right type of over-the-wheel hoop for your needs, install it securely on your Motorhome or camper trailer.

Step 2: Once installed, place the kayak on top of the hoop and secure it with straps and cords, ensuring that all straps are tight and not too loose.

Step 3: Check all straps periodically during your trip for increased safety.

Step 4: When you reach your destination, carefully remove the kayak from the hoop and store it properly.

With these easy steps, you can easily transport your kayak on your Motorhome or camper trailer using an over-the-wheel hoop!

7. Installing a Dedicated Platform on Your Motorhome or Camper Trailer

dedicated platform on motorhome to carry kayak
Image from RVProfy

Finally, another great option for transporting your kayak is to install a dedicated platform on the back of your Motorhome or camper trailer. This is a good long-term solution that offers increased safety and ease of use, as you will always have a dedicated space for your kayak.

To do this, you must measure the space on the rear of your Motorhome or camper trailer and order a custom-made platform according to those dimensions. After the platform has been installed, place your kayak on top and secure it with straps and cords to keep it securely in place during transport.

So, these are some of the best ways to transport a kayak on your Motorhome or camper trailer. With these methods, you can easily and safely take your kayak with you on all your adventures. But you need to remember a few important things before transporting your kayak. Let’s discuss them below.

Additional Tips to Transport Your Kayak on Motorhome or Camper Trailer

Here are some tips you should remember before transporting your kayak on a motorhome or camper trailer. These tips will help ensure that you are safe and that your kayak is secure during transportation.

  1. Remember to choose the right transportation method for your needs, whether it’s a roof rack, bed rack, hitch rack, over-the-wheel hoop, or dedicated platform.
  2. Always use high-quality straps and cords to secure your kayak to the transportation system, and ensure that all straps and cords are tight but not too loose.
  3. Check all straps periodically for increased safety and peace of mind during transport.
  4. Before using any transportation system, research to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle and kayak.
  5. Always follow all safety instructions to prevent accidents or damage to your kayak during transport.
 

With these tips and methods, you can transport your kayak safely and easily on a motorhome or camper trailer!

Carrying a Kayak on a Motorhome or Camper Trailer: Final Thoughts

Whether you need to transport your kayak on a motorhome or camper trailer for long-distance trips or local adventures, many great options are available to help make the process safe and easy. Using roof racks, bed racks, hitch racks, over-the-wheel hoops, and dedicated platforms are all excellent ways to transport your kayak with confidence and ease. Just remember to choose the right type of transportation method for your needs.

Jay Schwartz author of Kayak Guidance

About the Author - Jay Schwartz:

Hey there kayak lovers! I’m Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! You know water sports – you know me! My life is all about it. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. 

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