Carrying Kayaks On A Utility Trailer

Question:

Good afternoon, my wife and I are thinking that the safest way for us to transport our two kayaks from Colorado to Washington is by using our Utility trailer. I have been researching into ways of securing the kayaks and have found many ways but it raised a question: Is there something wrong with simply putting the kayaks in the bed of the trailer and securing them from there? OR are cross bars necessary? and if so, why?

asked by: Lee M

Expert Reply:

Without knowing the size of your trailer I cannot adequately answer whether or not it will work for your situation. Securing the kayaks, safely, in the trailer would be your greatest challenge. It is safer to attach and secure the kayaks to a dedicated kayak carrier, whether it is on the roof or crossbars on the trailer. There is less opportunity for the kayaks to move during transport. For example if you used a j-style carrier you would attach the kayak to the carrier, via cam straps, in two separate spots around the boat, the bars, and the carrier itself. You would use the bow and stern straps to secure the boat to either the car or the trailer, depending on how you carried the kayaks.

In order to carry your boats safely I recommend a dedicated kayak trailer. The Malone EcoLight Sport Trailer with J-Style Carriers for 2 Kayaks, part # MAL93FR. This trailer has two sets of padded j-style carriers to transport your kayaks. It is much easier to load your kayaks on a trailer compared to the roof of your vehicle. The trailer has a maximum weight capacity of 400lbs. It comes with a two inch ball coupler. You will need cam straps and bow and stern tie downs to secure your boats.

I have included product description links and video review links below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith