Kayak Carrier Recommendation for 2 Kayaks on a 2018 Toyota RAV4 with OEM Roof Rack

Updated 05/21/2020 | Published 05/19/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Compass Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(61)

$302.95

etrailer Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(222)

$129.99

Yakima JayLow Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(158)

$198.95

Question:

Hi I have a 2018 Toyota rav4 xle awd. I need to carry two kayaks and I need to know what you would recommend? I have factory cross rails. They are are blades. Thank you.

asked by: Jeffrey F

Expert Reply:

I recommend using 2 sets of the Yakima JayLow # Y04073 because it is much easier to use than a lot of the other kayak carriers we have to offer. It uses a simply clamping system for installing on your 2018 Toyota RAV4 OEM roof rack, and you can effortlessly maneuver the arms up and down with the lever.

If you're looking for something more cost-effective then I recommend 2 of the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878 instead. This is a great kayak carrier, it's just more basic than the Thule option in looks and in functions. I have attached review videos you can check out to compare on your own as well.

Just as a side note, the Thule Compass # TH890000 that you were looking at is a good option for carrying 2 kayaks, it would just need to be mounted in the middle of your roof which can make loading and unloading the kayaks a bit more difficult than using individual J-Style kayaks that can be moved to the edges of your crossbars for easier loading/unloading.

expert reply by: Jon G