Can You Get 3 Kayaks on a Roof Rack? Best Way to Move Kayaks

If you’re planning on taking a few friends or family members kayaking with you, you might be wondering if it’s possible to transport multiple kayaks at once.

For instance, can you get 3 kayaks on a roof rack? Don’t worry; it’s not as hard as it seems!

It’s possible to get 3 kayaks on a roof rack, but you need to consider multiple factors, including the size and weight of the kayaks, the capacity of the rack, and the safety of the kayaks while on the road.

Keep reading to learn more about how to transport 3 kayaks on a roof rack. We’ll go over all the important things you need to know to make sure your kayaks are safe and secure while you’re on the road.

How to Get 3 Kayaks on a Roof Rack?

Transporting 3 kayaks on a roof rack can seem like a daunting task, but with a few tips, you can make sure your kayaks are safe and secure during transportation.

I would recommend either using a stacker system or pool noodles and ratchet ropes. For a stacker, you would need to follow the instructions provided by Thule, Yakima, or whatever other brands of stackers you choose to go with. 

However, if you choose to use pool noodles and a rope, you would need to secure the two pool noodles on the top of your car about a foot apart.

You can then either arrange all the kayaks horizontally with their sides facing the same direction or lay two of them right side up with the third on top.

After that, secure your kayak with a rope or a couple of straps from side to side and from the front and rear kayak tethers to the corresponding points on your car’s undercarriage. Make sure they are secure enough not to fall off or slip.

Using the buddy system when getting 3 kayaks on a roof rack will also ensure your kayaks’ safety. A buddy system is a method of working or operating in pairs or small groups for mutual support and safety.

The idea behind the buddy system is that two or more people work together to provide support and assistance to each other. 

Applying the buddy system when getting 3 kayaks on a roof rack can be helpful for many reasons. Since loading and unloading 3 kayaks can be a heavy task, having someone to help you can greatly reduce the risk of injury.

It also helps to have another person hold and stabilize the kayaks while they are being loaded and unloaded because it prevents the kayaks from shifting or falling during the process.

By following these tips, you can ensure the safe and secure transportation of your kayaks on the roof rack. While it may seem like a lot of work, with these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to having the best possible trip.

Things to Consider When Carrying Multiple Kayaks on a Roof Rack

When you’re transporting multiple kayaks on your roof rack, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure your kayaks are safe and secure.

• Size and weight of kayaks: Make sure your kayaks fit within the weight and size limits of your roof rack.
• The capacity of the roof rack: Ensure your roof rack has the capacity to hold 3 kayaks and the weight they add up to.
• Safety and stability: Make sure the kayaks are securely fastened to the roof rack and that they are stable during transportation.
• Properly distribute weight: To ensure extra safety, it is important to evenly distribute the weight of the kayaks on the roof rack.
• Check for clearance and stability: Before hitting the road, make sure that your kayaks on the roof rack do not obstruct the driver’s visibility or cause the vehicle to be unstable.
• Check the weather forecast: You should consider the weather forecast before transporting your kayaks. If there is a high chance of strong winds or heavy rain, it is better to postpone the trip.

By considering these factors, you can ensure your kayaks’ safe and secure transportation on the roof rack.

The 4 Best Options for Transporting Multiple Kayaks

So you and your friends are planning a kayaking trip, and you’re wondering how to transport three kayaks. No problem; plenty of options are available to make your journey easy and stress-free.

1. Multiple roof racks: One option is to use multiple roof racks on your vehicle. This allows you to spread out the weight of the kayaks and ensures that they are stable during transportation.
2. Specialized kayak trailers: Another option is to use specialized kayak trailers or attachments that are designed specifically for transporting multiple kayaks. These racks are often more secure and stable than standard roof racks.
3. Renting or borrowing a trailer: If you don’t have a roof rack, or if it’s not big enough to hold all three kayaks, you can consider renting or borrowing a trailer. This is a great option if you plan to transport the kayaks a long distance.
4. Hitch-mount kayak rack: another option to consider is a hitch-mount kayak rack; it attaches to the rear of your vehicle and can carry multiple kayaks at once.

Whatever option you choose, the most important thing is to ensure the kayaks are securely fastened and stable during transportation.

Check out this video for more tips on how to transport your kayak.

Conclusion: Can You Get 3 Kayaks on a Roof Rack?

In conclusion, getting 3 kayaks on a roof rack can be a real hassle if you don’t know what you’re doing, but with the proper knowledge and equipment, it can be a piece of cake. 

Just make sure you have enough room and the right straps, and don’t forget to check the weather forecast, as it can make a difference not only in how you transport your kayaks but whether you should even go kayaking in the first place.

For example, it may not be very wise to move kayaks or go kayaking when it’s raining or if it’s too cold or too windy.

And remember, if all else fails, you can always bribe a friend with a cold beer to help you load and unload those kayaks. 

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