Kayak Trailers – What You Need to Know

Using a trailer to transport kayaks can be a convenient and efficient way to transport them to your favorite body of water. Before rushing out to buy one, there are quite a few factors you need to consider. When your done reading you will have all the information you need to make the right choice!

Let’s review the advantages of a trailer first:

Kayak Trailer Advantages:

1. Convenience: Probably the biggest advantage of using a kayak trailer is the convenience. It allows you to transport multiple kayaks at once, without having to load and unload them on the roof of your vehicle.
2. Safety: Kayaks are heavy and awkward to handle, especially true when you trying to lift them on the roof of your vehicle by yourself. Using a kayak trailer eliminates the need for lifting and and can save hurting yourself! Especially true for women and the elderly.
3. Protection: Using a trailer protects your vehicle from scratches or other damage caused by loading and unloading your kayak.
4. Increased storage space: If you are not using your trailer for other purposes they can be a great way to store them when not in use. This frees up valuable garage space.
5. Easy launching: A kayak trailer will make launching your kayaks much easier. Simply drive your kayak to the launch area and unload them from the trailer. This eliminates the need to carry them to the water.
6. Versatility: A kayak trailer can be used to transport other gear, such as paddle boards, bikes or camping equipment.

Choosing the Right Trailer:

Your most import decision is the trailer for your kayaks. Make sure the trailer is designed to carry kayaks and is the big enough for the number of kayaks you plan on transporting. Some trailers may be are designed for dual use, while this is convenient they may not be ideal for transporting kayaks.

Let’s do a rundown on the types:

1. Single Kayak Trailers: These trailers are designed to transport a single kayak and are a perfect for anyone that has no plans on transporting more than one kayak. They are small and lightweight which makes them easy to maneuver. One of the main advantages of single kayak trailer is they are going to be your cheapest option.
2. Multi-Kayak Trailers: These trailers are going to be more flexible as they designed to transport multiple kayaks plus some room to take extra gear like paddles etc. They come in a variety of sizes, from trailers that can transport two or three kayaks to larger models that can carry up to 12. The main advantage of these trailers is their flexibilty. You can transport several yaks at once, saving time and reducing the trips you may need to make. They are heavier and wider than single kayak trailers, which makes them more difficult to maneuver.
3. Foldable Kayak Trailers: These trailers are a relatively newer option and are lightweight and easy to store in your garage. They are usually made from aluminum or less frequently steel. As the name implies, they and can be folded for easier storage. Since they are lightweight they are easy to move around. This is especially convenient if you are not so good at backing up the trailer. You can just take it off and move it yourself! They are typically smaller and less durable than other types of trailers as the foldabilty reduces its strength.
4. Rack-Style Kayak Trailers: These trailers are designed to carry kayaks on racks that come pre-mounted to the trailer. Rack-style trailers are a good option if you frequently transport your yaks because they can be used for a variety of kayak types and carry other outdoor gear. The drawback to them is they are more expensive than other types of trailers.
5. Utility Trailer: A general use utility trailer is a good option as well. These general purpose trailers have a flat bed that you can just lay your kayak on and strap it down. You may want to consider putting in a saddle type rack on the bottom so its more secure. A trailer with a long and wide bed will provide plenty of room for your kayak, paddles, and other gear.

What to Look For in Trailer Construction:

1. Durability: The trailer should be made from high quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Trailers made from rust free metals such as aluminum or galvanized steel are best.
2. Capacity: The trailer’s capacity should be able to accommodate the size and weight of your kayaks. Normally this should not be an issue but it doesn’t hurt to check!
3. Storage: Consider where you will store the trailer when you are not using it. If you are limited in space look for a trailer that can be disassembled or folded. If that is not an option, look for a trailer with a compact design that can fit in your garage, driveway or backyard.
4. Accessories: You can buy trailers that come with additional accessories, like a spare tire, tie-down straps or kayak locks.

Securing Your Kayaks:

Now that you have a good idea of what trailer you want, you’ll need to learn how to properly secure your kayaks for transport. Use ratcheting straps to secure the kayaks to the trailer. Be sure the straps are tight and the kayaks are centered on the trailer to prevent them from moving while driving. It’s also not a bad idea to cover the kayaks with a tarp to prevent damage from debris on the highway.

Inspect:

Before you hit the road, be sure to inspect the trailer and hitch to make sure everything is securely attached to your vehicle. You should check that the brake lights and turn signals are functioning properly. Not only is a good idea, it’s the law!

Be Aware:

While you are driving, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and drive carefully. Now that you have a trailer behind you, avoid tight turns or taking turns at too high a speed. You don’t want the trailer to tip over! Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. Sudden stops or changes in speed can cause the kayaks to shift or become dislodged from the trailer.