How to Transport a Canoe in an RV

Canoes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including lightweight models that take only two men to carry and transport. While it's easy to carry these canoes to the water once you reach your campsite, getting it to the campsite isn't as easy. To transport a canoe in an RV, find the right spot and read your owner's manual.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Owner's manual
Eye bolt
Roof rack
Straps
Rope

Step 1

Read the owner's manual that came with your RV and look for help or suggestions for tying a canoe to the camper. Some newer models have storage space inside or underneath, specifically designed for carrying a smaller boat. Other models provide tips on attaching a canoe to the rack on the back of the RV.

Step 2

Find a place to transport the canoe on your RV, if your camper doesn't have a specific storage space. You'll need a secure spot to tie the ropes and a flat surface where the canoe sits. Most users tie the lines underneath the RV and carry the canoe on the roof.

Step 3

Attach an eye bolt into the towing hook on the back of your camper near the bumper. The eye bolt simply screws into place, but connects securely and has a small hole where you attach your rope. One eye bolt is enough to carry the canoe, but some may feel better adding a second eye bolt onto the RV.

Step 4

Place a roof rack on top of your RV by attaching the frame or system to the roof first. Then insert the horizontal bars that provide the rack for carrying your canoe. Many companies make these racks and you'll find that the rack also stores other sporting equipment and even luggage.

Step 5

Set the canoe, bottom-side down, on the roof rack. Use the straps that came with the roof rack to securely attach the canoe to the rack and ensure it doesn't slide or fall. Then run a separate length of rope or another strap around the center of the canoe and tie a knot at the top. Run the rope down to the eye bolt on the back of the RV and securely tie it off. This provides an additional layer of protection when driving the RV.

Tips & Warnings

Different roof racks transport the canoe in different ways. Some carry the canoe on its side and others carry it upside-down, which prevents rain from getting inside during your travels.

Article Written By Jennifer Eblin

Jennifer Eblin has been a full-time freelance writer since 2006. Her work has appeared on several websites, including Tool Box Tales and Zonder. Eblin received a master's degree in historic preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

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