By Dustin Simpson
Hey, kayakers! I always get asked questions about transporting kayaks with an RV, which can be done using various rack systems designed to securely hold kayaks during travel. Here are a few of my favorites among the most popular RV and truck options.
Popular RV kayak rack options
Truck bed-mounted racks: These racks are mounted on the truck bed and hold the kayaks horizontally. They come in various styles, including J-style, saddle-style, and stacker racks. Truck bed-mounted racks require lifting the kayaks into place, which can be a bit challenging but offers the advantage of not obstructing access to the truck bed.
Hitch-mounted racks: These attach to the hitch receiver on your RV and hold the kayaks vertically or horizontally. They can carry multiple kayaks and are easier to load and unload compared to roof-mounted racks. Some hitch-mounted racks also feature a tilt-down design, allowing you to access the rear storage without removing the kayaks.
Bumper-mounted racks: Some RVs or trucks come with a bumper-mounted kayak rack option. These attach to the RV’s bumper and can carry one or two kayaks.
When choosing a kayak rack for your RV or truck, consider factors such as the weight capacity of the rack, the number of kayaks you need to transport, and the ease of installation and use. It’s essential to ensure that the rack is compatible with your specific kayak type and RV or truck model.
Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and use to ensure safe transportation of your kayaks.
More from Dustin
Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.
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RVDT2673
I cannot imagine trying to transport kayaks using the bumper mount on a pickup as shown in the picture. Wind resistance at highway speeds would probably break the hitch receiver. My wife and I found an inexpensive ladder rack that I can remove when we’re not carrying the kayaks. The kayaks cut through the air similar to moving through water so wind resistance is lessened. I am able to use the truck bed to bring along other bulky but lightweight items. The downside to this system is that I do have to lift the kayaks onto the racks which as I get older has begun to be more difficult ( I’m 75 ). The loading systems available commercially all seem to cost more than my kayaks did.
I have a Silverado with a cap and rack. I created a wooden frame with saddles for the kayaks that secures to the rack. At the rear, I fashioned a short ladder with rollers that fits on the back of the rack and slopes down over the rear of the cap. I simply lift the front of the kayak onto the ladder, then grab the rear of the kayak and push it up onto the rack. I can load two kayaks in a matter of minutes without breaking my back or the truck. Cost me about $15 for materials, although I had everything just laying around.
Have the 3 folding sections hard shell cover on my truck and can’t find a rack system that will work with that. Plus the weight of lifting them up there gets fun
My wife and I have been full timers for eight years. We pull a fifth wheel. We carry two 16’6′ cedar strip kayaks. We have been using the dry dock from Yakima. Thule makes a similar system I believe. One cross bar is mounted on the roof and the other section rests in a hitch receiver mounted on the frame below the front bumper. The front section can be moved to the rear hitch receiver when not pulling the fiver. We have had no problems with this system.
Thank you for the information, Dustin! DW enjoys kayaking, but we only rent them. These may allow her to buy one and take it on trips. Have a great day and safe travels!