How to Transport a Heavy Kayak with a 2012 Toyota Camry

Updated 03/02/2021 | Published 02/25/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(172)

$220.93

Malone EcoLight Sport Trailer for a Heavy Kayak - 7' Bunks - 400 lbs

(74)

$1696.50

Question:

What racks and crossbars should i use for Old Town Sportsman big water PDL 132 On my 2012 camry no r

asked by: Ron B

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you.

First, though, a roof rack coupled with a kayak carrier is not a viable option. It looks like a fully-assembled Old Town Sportsman Bigwater PDL 132 weighs 117 pounds, which is more weight than even our best kayak carrier can handle.

Instead, I suggest going with a watersport trailer. I recommend the Malone EcoLight Sport Trailer for a Heavy Kayak, part # MAL73FR. It can handle up to 400 pounds and is much safer way of transporting and loading your heavy kayak. I've linked to a video review of this trailer for you to look at.

If you don't already have a hitch for your 2012 Toyota Camry, I recommend the Curt Class II, part # C12107. It has a gross tongue weight capacity of 350 pounds and a max towing capacity of 3500 pounds with a 1-1/4" receiver. I've linked to a video installation of this hitch for your reference.

In order to complete your setup, you will need a ball mount. With the hitch being 11" from the ground and the trailer being 14", you will need a 3" rise. I recommend the Curt Class II Euro Style Drawbar, part # C45562. It has a 3-1/8" rise and a permanently attached 2" ball (exactly what the EcoLight Sport needs). I've linked to a video review of this one as well.

You will also need wiring to power the lights on the trailer. For your Camry, we have T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness, part # 118405. I've linked to a video installation of this one, too.