Are you an outdoor enthusiast who loves kayaking but doesn’t have a car with a roof rack? Don’t let that stop you from enjoying your favorite water sport! With a little creativity and some basic materials, you can easily transport two kayaks on your rackless car. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to do it safely and securely, ensuring your kayaks remain intact and your car doesn’t suffer any damage. So, pack your paddles, grab your kayaks, and let’s embark on a journey of adventure and ingenuity.
The first step in transporting kayaks on a rackless car is to gather the necessary materials. You’ll need a set of foam blocks or pool noodles, some straps (ratchet straps are ideal), and a tarp or blanket. The foam blocks or pool noodles will act as a protective barrier between the kayaks and your car, preventing scratches and dents. The straps will secure the kayaks to the car, and the tarp or blanket will provide additional protection from the elements and road debris. Once you have all the materials, you can proceed to the next step, which involves preparing your car.
Before placing the kayaks on your car, it’s important to prepare the surface. Clean the roof of your car to remove any dirt or debris that could damage the kayaks. Then, place the foam blocks or pool noodles along the length of the roof, spacing them evenly. These blocks will create a soft and stable base for the kayaks. Once the base is ready, you can carefully lift the kayaks onto the roof and position them side by side. Make sure the kayaks are centered and balanced, and that they don’t overhang the edges of the car. Now, it’s time to secure the kayaks using the straps.
Securing Kayaks on a Car Without a Rack
Pool Noodles:
Providing exceptional protection, pool noodles gently cradle your kayaks, minimizing friction and potential damage. To secure them, insert the noodles into the kayak’s open areas (cockpits or behind seats). They act as soft buffers between the kayaks and your car’s surface. Secure the noodles using straps or bungee cords wrapped around both the noodles and the kayak.
Moving Blankets:
These thick blankets absorb shock and protect your kayaks from scratches. Drape them over the kayaks and ensure they cover any exposed surfaces. Secure the blankets tightly using straps or bungee cords to prevent them from sliding off.
Ratchet Straps:
The workhorses of kayak transportation, ratchet straps provide maximum hold and tension. Wrap the straps around the widest part of the kayaks, securing them to strong anchor points on your car, such as tow hooks or roof rails. Ratchets allow for precise adjustment, ensuring the kayaks are firmly held in place.
| Material | Protection | Ease of Use | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pool Noodles | Very Good | Easy | $ |
| Moving Blankets | Good | Easy | $$ |
| Ratchet Straps | Excellent | Intermediate | $$$ |
Attaching the Bow and Stern Lines
Once the kayaks are secured to the roof, it’s time to attach the bow and stern lines. These lines will help to prevent the kayaks from shifting or coming loose while driving. To attach the bow lines:
- Run the bow line through the bow handle of the first kayak.
- Cross the line over the front of the car and attach it to the roof rack or crossbars.
- Tighten the line securely.
Repeat this process for the second kayak. For the stern lines:
- Run the stern line through the stern handle of the second kayak.
- Cross the line over the rear of the car and attach it to the roof rack or crossbars.
- Tighten the line securely.
- Repeat this process for the first kayak.
Additional Tips for Attaching the Bow and Stern Lines
- Use strong, durable rope or cord for the bow and stern lines.
- Make sure the lines are long enough to reach from the handles of the kayaks to the roof rack or crossbars.
- Tie the lines securely with a knot that will not come loose.
- Check the bow and stern lines regularly to make sure they are still tight and secure.
| Knots for Securing Bow and Stern Lines |
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How To Put 2 Kayaks On A Rackless Car
Here are nine steps on how to put two kayaks on a rackless car:
1.
Prepare the hull.
2.
Load the first kayak onto the roof of your car.
3.
Secure the first kayak.
4.
Load the second kayak onto the roof of your car.
5.
Secure the second kayak.
6.
Tie down the kayaks.
7.
Drive carefully.
8.
Unload the kayaks.
9.
Store the kayaks.
People Also Ask About How To Put 2 Kayaks On A Rackless Car
How do you transport two kayaks without a rack?
You can transport two kayaks without a rack by using a combination of straps, ropes, and pads. First, place a layer of padding on the roof of your car to protect the kayaks from scratches. Then, secure the first kayak to the roof using straps or ropes. Tie the straps or ropes to the roof rack mounts or to the door handles of your car. Repeat this process for the second kayak.
What is the best way to tie down kayaks to a car?
The best way to tie down kayaks to a car is to use a combination of straps and ropes. First, place a bow and stern tie-down strap on each kayak. Then, run a cam strap or rope from the front of one kayak to the back of the other kayak. Repeat this process for the other side of the kayaks. Finally, use a ratchet strap or rope to secure the kayaks to the roof rack or to the door handles of your car.
Can you put two kayaks on a Honda Civic?
Yes, you can put two kayaks on a Honda Civic. However, you will need to use a combination of straps, ropes, and pads to secure the kayaks to the roof of your car. First, place a layer of padding on the roof of your car to protect the kayaks from scratches. Then, secure the first kayak to the roof using straps or ropes. Tie the straps or ropes to the roof rack mounts or to the door handles of your car. Repeat this process for the second kayak.
