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How to Make a Kayak Rack

How to Make a Kayak Rack
Unless you have a convertible jeep, most people need some sort of rack to carry their kayak and protect their vehicle. Kayak racks can range from $50 for racks made from foam kayak blocks to several hundred dollars for a metal rack. However, you can make your own foam kayak blocks out of a cut up boogie board for around $25. Foam kayak blocks made from old boogie boards are popular amongst the kayak rental companies in Hawaii.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:
  • Boogie Board Measuring tape Hack saw Kayak Cam buckle tie down straps
  • Boogie Board
  • Measuring tape
  • Hack saw
  • Kayak
  • Cam buckle tie down straps
Step 1
Find cam buckle tie down straps for around $10 to $15 at a good hardware store and a cheap boogie board can be purchased for less than $15 at many sporting goods stores.
Step 2
Cut up the boogie board. Use your measuring tape and your hack saw to cut two strips of foam measuring 21 inches x 6 inches. These two strips are your foam rack.
Step 3
Place foam pads on your vehicle. One foam pad will go across the front of the roof of your vehicle whilst the other foam pad will go across the back.
Step 4
Place your kayak on your vehicle. Get someone to help you lift the kayak and place it down on the roof of your vehicle with the hull facing up. The kayak will rest on the foam pads so that it doesn't damage your vehicle.
Step 5
Secure kayak with straps. To keep your kayak from falling off, take one strap and run it through the front scupper holes of your kayak. Pass the strap through the car door and secure the strap by pressing down on the button of the cam buckle and passing the strap through the buckle. Do the same on the back running the second strap through the back window. You now have a kayak rack to transport your kayak.

Tips & Warnings

 
Be careful not to tighten the straps down too much or you might still end up damaging your vehicle.

Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen

Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.

Write for Trails.com

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