One of the most common reasons people put off buying a kayak is logistics. Where will I keep it? How will I transport it? In this article we answer all the practical questions so these hurdles no longer stand in your way.
How do you transport a kayak by car?
There are three main ways:
1. Roof racks
The most popular solution. Dedicated racks with V shaped or J shaped cradles are fitted to the car roof. The kayak travels on the roof either flat or on its side.
- Suits: estate cars, hatchbacks, SUVs
- Price: from ~80 € (basic racks)
- Important: the kayak should not exceed 3/4 of the car's length, plus a rear marker if it sticks out
2. Trailer
The most convenient solution for those with 2+ kayaks or a big fishing kayak (36 to 40 kg). A shelf style trailer design lets you load up to 4 kayaks.
- Suits: those who regularly travel to fish
- Price: from ~300 € (used) or from ~600 € (new)
3. Inside the car (smaller models)
NuCanoe The Flint (305 cm) and kayaks of a similar size will fit inside a minivan or a large SUV with the rear seats folded down. The simplest and quickest solution.
Where should you store a kayak?
A kayak is not sensitive to moisture or temperature swings, after all it is made for the water. But here are a few tips:
- Garage or shed : ideal. Protection from UV and knocks.
- Outdoors under a cover : fine if the cover keeps off direct sunlight. Over time UV breaks down plastic.
- Lauke be apsaugos : risky for long term storage. Especially in winter, water can get into cavities and freeze.
- Flat or on its side : both are fine for HDPE kayaks. Rotomoulded kayaks (Bonafide, NuCanoe) are extremely durable.
Winter storage
Before winter we recommend:
- Rinse with fresh water and let it dry
- Remove any accessories that could be damaged by frost
- Store it indoors or under a roof, not on the ground but hung up or on a shelf
- A simple plastic sheet or cover will keep the dust off
Weight: what you need to know
Fishing kayaks weigh from 27 kg (NuCanoe Flint) to 40 kg (NuCanoe Unlimited). That is an important factor if you will have to carry it to the water on your own.
- Up to 30 kg : one person (with the right technique) can lift it
- 30–40 kg : two people or a trolley recommended
- Kayak trolley : cheap (~30 to 50 €) and very useful when you need to get the kayak to the water
Delivery when buying from VAKA Sport
All kayaks are delivered by a specialist freight service straight to your home. The delivery price depends on the model: more about delivery →
Conclusion
Transport and storage are solvable problems. Roof racks or a small trailer solve transport, and any roof or garage solves storage. Do not let these practical questions become an excuse not to buy: they really are easy to solve. View kayaks →
Read also: Kayak transport and storage: the complete guide, Where to kayak in Lithuania.
Read also: Kayak transport and storage: the complete guide, Where to kayak in Lithuania.
Safety on the water
Always wear a life jacket when kayaking. For recreational paddling, light and comfortable WALLYS buoyancy aids are a great choice: they do not restrict movement and are affordable. We offer sizes for children and adults based on body weight. More about safety gear: life jacket comparison.
Transport accessories
Proper storage and transport extend the life of your kayak.
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