Using cam straps is the simplest and fastest way to secure the boat.
How to tie a canoe to a car roof rack.
Tying your kayak for the roof rack.
Once the boat is on the roof of the car and the straps are around the bars pull the straps over the canoe or kayak to the other side of the roof rack to avoid car damage or even a broken window.
Most include the necessary tie downs as well.
If you don t have a roof rack there are still other options out there for you.
Tie your canoe across the centre where it is supported by the rack or foam blocks.
A roof rack is ideal as it provides the most secure tie down.
To tie down a kayak place it right side up on your roof rack and center it.
But it can be important to do it correctly to avoid damage to either your boat or your car or accidents while you re on the road.
You can use cam buckle straps or ropes.
To carry your canoe on a roof rack you ll need a carrier designed for this use.
In this video i demonstrate how to tie a canoe to a vehicle under two very different scenarios.
Tie down a kayak.
Tie the straps down with cam buckles to secure the kayak.
Bring the straps over the kayak or canoe.
Put a kayak on a vehicle.
Run 2 boat straps over the top of the kayak and them under the roof rack bars then bring the straps to the other side of the kayak and loop them under the roof rack bars on that side.
We have put together a quick how to guide with some tips to help you tie down your kayak so you can get to your destination safely.
You ll pick the boat up by each end and place it on the rack.
If your vehicle has a roof rack you have one of the best situations for tying down a canoe.
Straps spread the load out a bit and are easy to use but tie the strap ends down after cinching them just in.
Tying a kayak onto a car roof rack can be tricky.
Position your canoe so that the yoke or middle thwart is equi distant between the contact points with the car.
Foam blocks and crossbar pads are economical options that protect your canoe roof rack and vehicle.
If you re solo there are a couple of options depending on your rack system.
The bow front of one s kayak should be at the front end of your car plus the stern back of one s kayak should be at the back.
How to tie down a canoe to a roof rack.
The easiest way is with the help of a friend.
Find everything you need for loading.
It also reduces the risk of damaging your vehicle.
You might need somebody to assist you to pick it up.
Kayak roof rack step 3.