Luckily by simply using a few pool noodles metal poles and ratchet straps you can easily secure your kayaks to your vehicle without ever needing a roof rack.
Strapping kayak to roof without rack.
The pool noodles will stop the kayak from damaging your vehicle while also keeping it in place.
Specific kayak rack systems that attach to the crossbars and cradle the boat in j or v shaped forms are most secure.
This will keep your kayak in place while you re driving.
As a new kayaker it can feel like there s a lot to learn and a lot of accessories to get your hands on.
But knowing how to properly transport your kayaks without a roof rack is very important.
Read our article on how to choose a cartop boat mount.
You can do this with a variety of tie down straps.
Read more how to strap a kayak to a roof rack.
Do the same to secure the kayak at the back.
Flip your kayak over so the cockpit is facing down and with one person on each end lift the kayak onto your vehicle s roof so that the center of the kayak is resting on the central pool noodle.
Straps with cam buckles will let you tighten your kayak to your roof rack without over tightening it and potentially damaging it.
Always remember to tie down the bow and stern of the kayak since you ll be moving it without a roof rack.
If you do have crossbars crossbar pads are another economical option.
You ll pass the tie down strap through the grab handle of the kayak and secure it to the towing eyes below the bonnet.
These blocks are lightweight saving your roof s capacity for your kayak and cost effective.
Best way to transport a kayak without a traditional roof rack if your car suv doesn t have a standard roof rack and you don t intend on buying one then i recommend that you go with a removable roof rack system.
You ll need two straps that are about 12 feet long or longer.
They are much more secure than the pool noodle method and will allow you to transport a larger kayak.
But after buying the best kayak for your needs and getting a compatible roof rack you ll need to know how to strap a kayak to a roof rack.
Cam straps quickly and securely hold your kayak down.
Thread the straps through the front and back carry handles or toggles and secure each one to a tie down spot underneath your car either with a carabiner or a hook.
Using straps designed specifically for tying down kayaks on cars will make tying down your kayak easier and safer.
Get kayak straps with cam buckles.
You should always tie down the bow and stern of your kayak especially if you are going to transport your kayak without a roof rack.
Not only is this method very simple it is also quick and cheap.
Transporting your kayak safely.