Kayak Carrier Options for a 1999 Toyota Camry 4-Door  

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There is a range of kayak carrier solutions for your 1999 Toyota Camry 4-door sedan; the best options will depend on your kayaks themselves and on how your Camry is equipped.

A good way to start is to verify the roof weight-bearing capacity for your Camry. Your owners manual (or your local dealership) is a good source for verifying how much weight can safely be loaded on your Camry roof. You will also need to know the actual weight of your kayak(s). It is important that the total weight of your kayaks and chosen carriers not exceed the vehicle roof weight capacity.

Your lowest-cost option is the foam block-type kayak carrier that can attach to even a bare roof and to many types of roof rack cross bars. For example, the SportRack # SR5525 weighs only 2-lbs and includes both two straps to secure the kayak to your vehicle and two tie-down ropes to secure the bow and stern. The foam blocks are 12-inches long. Apart from their modest cost these carriers are also desirable in that they will use very little of your vehicle roof weight capacity. If you have two kayaks to transport, this carrier will almost surely be your best option. If your kayak requires a larger support, you can instead consider the SportRack Adjustable Kayak Carrier # SR5527.

I have provided a link to our main page showing all kayak carriers suitable for use on bare roofs.

If you want to consider installing a roof rack system you will have options for more different types of kayak carriers, plus you will have the flexibility to use other roof-rack-mount accessory items like bike carriers or cargo boxes, but bear in mind that the weight of a roof rack will count toward the vehicle roof weight limit. A rack system may weigh only a few pounds, such as the 8-1/2-lb Thule rack system consisting of parts # THLB50, # TH480 and # THKIT1029, but to this you must add the weight of a compatible kayak carrier like the Thule Hull-A-Port J-Style Rooftop Kayak Carrier # TH834, which weighs 10-lbs, and the weight of your kayak. I have linked an install video for this rack system.

Once you know your roof weight capacity and the weight of your watercraft you will better know what options will provide safe and secure transport. The linked article on rooftop water sport carriers may also help you consider your preferences.

expert reply by: Adam R

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