DIY Kayak Carrier

Kayaking is an excellent way to exercise and take in scenery accessible only from a watercraft. Kayaking provides a great workout for the upper body, shoulders and abs, as well as a way to relax from the rigors of daily stress. Typically, there are two styles of kayaks: one where the paddler sits on top with her legs exposed; the other, where the paddler sits inside a cockpit with her legs enclosed. Here is an inexpensive method of building a rack that is not permanent but will allow you to transport your boat on the roof of almost any vehicle.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 foam rubber mattresses
  • Scissors
  • Tape measure
  • 2 canoe straps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the tape measure to obtain the length of the four sides of the roof of the vehicle being used.

    • 2

      Use the scissors to cut each foam rubber mattress so that each is the same size as the roof of the vehicle.

    • 3

      Lay the kayak on top of the foam rubber mattress, making sure the bottom of the kayak is facing up.

    • 4

      Roll down the windows of the vehicle.

    • 5

      Run the canoe straps through the holes in the hull of the kayak -- the ones that allow water to drain -- and then wrap the straps through the driver-side window and out the passenger side. Secure the straps with the buckle on the other side.

    • 6

      Run the second strap through the back holes in the hull of the kayak and secure it using the method employed for the front strap.