Whether you're carrying a kayak, paddleboard, canoe, surfboard, or fishing gear, etrailer can help you find a carrier that fits your vehicle, your gear, and the way you get to the water. From roof-mounted carriers to load-assist systems and watersport trailers, we'll help you find a setup that's easier to load and ready for the trip.Not sure where to start? Choose what you're bringing below.
Getting a kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or surfboard to the water starts with a carrier that fits your vehicle and supports your gear securely. At etrailer, we install and test kayak carriers, roof racks, load assists, and other watersport carrying systems on real vehicles so you can see how they fit, how they load, and what to expect on the road.With more than 75 years of helping neighbors, 35,000+ installations, and over 1 million photos and videos, we've worked with these setups firsthand and can help you find a carrier that fits your vehicle, your gear, and how you get to the water.
What's the best way to carry a kayak on my vehicle?
The best setup depends on your vehicle, kayak, and how comfortable you are lifting it. J-style carriers hold a kayak at an angle and help save roof space, while saddle-style carriers support the kayak horizontally. Some carrier setups can also accommodate multiple kayaks, while load-assist systems can make lifting and lowering heavier kayaks easier.Always secure your kayak according to the carrier instructions and use any required bow and stern tie-downs.
Do I need a roof rack to carry a kayak?
Not always. Many kayak carriers mount to existing roof rack crossbars, while some foam-block systems can work without a traditional roof rack. The right setup depends on your vehicle's roof, your kayak, and the carrier you choose.If you're using a roof-mounted carrier, confirm that the carrier works with your crossbars and that your vehicle and roof rack have enough capacity for your kayak and equipment.
What's the difference between J-style and saddle-style kayak carriers?
J-style carriers hold a kayak on its side at an angle, which can leave more crossbar space for another kayak or additional gear. Saddle-style carriers support the kayak horizontally and can make loading easier because the kayak sits flatter on the roof.The better choice depends on your kayak, available roof space, how many boats you're carrying, and how you prefer to load them.
Can I carry multiple kayaks on my roof rack?
Yes, depending on your vehicle, roof rack, carrier, and available crossbar space. Some J-style carriers and other multi-kayak setups can accommodate more than one kayak. Before loading multiple kayaks, check your vehicle's roof capacity, roof rack capacity, carrier capacity, and available crossbar space.
What's the best way to carry a paddleboard?
Paddleboards can be carried on padded roof rack crossbars or with a dedicated paddleboard carrier. Dedicated carriers provide padded support and secure tie-down points, while foam-block systems can offer a simpler option for some vehicles. Always confirm your vehicle and carrier capacity and secure the board properly before driving.
Should I use a roof carrier or watersport trailer?
A roof-mounted carrier works well for one or two kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes and doesn't require towing a trailer. A watersport trailer can make loading easier and provide more room when you're regularly carrying multiple boats or heavier gear. Consider how much equipment you're bringing, how high you're comfortable lifting it, your vehicle's roof capacity, and whether your vehicle is equipped to tow.
Need Help Choosing?
Tell us what you're driving and what you're carrying. Call, chat, or send us a message, and we'll help you find a carrier that fits your vehicle, your gear, and how you get to the water.
