How to Load a Kayak by Yourself

Kayaks are relatively small and light; however, they can be awkward to move or load by yourself. Although some people have the capability of simply lifting a 75-pound boat onto the top of a car, for most people a few simple techniques can make loading the kayak on your vehicle a much easier project.

Things You'll Need

  • High-quality kayak rack with extension rods
  • Tie-down straps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Carry the kayak to the vehicle and set the kayak on the ground parallel with the vehicle.

    • 2

      Pull the rack extensions out from the kayak carrier. These are long bars that will pull out from the carrier to extend the carrier beyond the edge of the vehicle. They make loading a kayak alone much easier, especially with a heavy kayak.

    • 3

      Lift one end of the kayak and place it on the extension rod closest to you.

    • 4

      Lift the other end of the kayak and place on the other extension rod. The entire kayak should now be sitting on the extension rods.

    • 5

      Move one end of the kayak from the extension rod to the rack cradle. Then do the other end. The entire kayak should now be sitting in the kayak carrier cradle.

    • 6

      Push the extension rods back into the carrier, strap the kayak down and head for the water!

    • 7

      Reverse the steps to unload.