Top Tips for Safely Mounting Your Kayak to a Roof Top Tent

Roof top tents have become a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering the convenience of quick setup and the comfort of sleeping off the ground. Paired with a kayaking adventure, the combination allows you to explore remote waterways while camping in style, making your trips both exciting and practical. Having your tent on top of your vehicle means you can easily move between locations without the hassle of traditional camping setups.

However, when it comes to transporting both a roof top tent and a kayak, safety becomes a priority. Properly mounting your kayak on your vehicle’s roof ensures not only the protection of your gear but also the safety of everyone on the road. Securing your kayak correctly prevents potential damage or accidents, allowing you to fully enjoy your adventure with peace of mind.

Tip #1: Choose the Right Roof Rack

Selecting the right roof rack is crucial when mounting both a roof top tent and a kayak. Not all racks are designed to handle the combined weight and unique requirements of these two pieces of equipment. A sturdy, well-suited roof rack ensures not only safety during travel but also convenience in mounting and dismounting your kayak. Let’s explore the different types of roof racks and the factors you should consider when making a decision.

Types of Roof Racks

Crossbar Systems: Crossbar roof racks are the most common and versatile option for mounting a roof top tent and kayak. These bars are attached across the width of the vehicle’s roof and provide a stable base for both the tent and kayak. They are available in various materials like aluminum or steel, with some models being aerodynamic to reduce wind resistance. Crossbars allow you to attach accessories like kayak mounts, saddles, or foam blocks to ensure a secure fit.
Platform Roof Racks: A platform rack is essentially a flat tray mounted on your vehicle’s roof, offering more surface area and flexibility for securing multiple pieces of gear. These are ideal if you plan to carry more than just a kayak and tent. With their expansive structure, platform racks provide room for additional items like jerry cans, fishing rods, or small camping gear. However, ensure the platform rack is rated for heavy-duty use, as the combined weight of a roof top tent and kayak can be significant.
Specialized Kayak Carriers: In addition to standard crossbars or platforms, specialized kayak carriers such as J-cradles, saddles, or stackers can be mounted onto your existing roof rack. These are designed specifically to cradle the kayak securely in place, preventing unwanted movement during transport. Depending on the design, some carriers allow you to mount the kayak vertically, which can save space on the roof for other gear.

Factors to Consider

Load Capacity: One of the most important factors when choosing a roof rack is the load capacity. Roof racks have a maximum weight limit, and you’ll need to ensure that the rack can support both the roof top tent (which typically weighs between 100 to 150 pounds) and your kayak (which could weigh up to 80 pounds or more). Always check the combined weight of your gear against the manufacturer’s load specifications to avoid overloading your rack and compromising safety.
Vehicle Compatibility: Not all roof racks are compatible with every vehicle. It’s essential to choose a system that fits your vehicle’s roof design, whether you have a bare roof, factory-installed side rails, or existing crossbars. Some racks require a custom fit, so ensure you check the specifications for your car make and model. Many roof rack manufacturers offer fit guides that can help you choose the correct system for your specific vehicle.
Ease of Installation and Adjustability: Consider how easy the roof rack is to install and adjust. Some systems come with tool-free installation, making setup much faster, while others may require more effort. If you often switch between carrying different equipment, such as bikes or kayaks, a roof rack with adjustable and interchangeable mounts can be a more versatile solution.
Durability and Material: Given that your roof rack will be exposed to various weather conditions, it’s important to invest in a rack made of durable materials. Look for corrosion-resistant options, especially if you plan to use it for kayaking in saltwater environments. Aluminum racks tend to be lighter and more rust-resistant than steel, but steel racks offer greater strength for heavier loads.

Tip #2: Secure Your Kayak with Proper Straps

Once you have the right roof rack, the next step is to properly secure your kayak with high-quality, durable straps. Using the correct straps is essential to prevent the kayak from shifting during travel, which can cause damage to both the kayak and your vehicle, as well as create potential safety hazards. In this section, we’ll cover why investing in the right straps is important and provide a step-by-step guide on how to safely secure your kayak.

The Importance of Using High-Quality Straps

Durability and Strength: Kayak straps are subjected to intense pressure, especially during long drives or when traveling on rough or uneven terrain. Using high-quality, durable straps—preferably made from heavy-duty materials like nylon or polyester—ensures they can withstand the forces generated by wind and the motion of the vehicle. Cheaper or low-quality straps may fray, stretch, or snap, leading to potential accidents.
Weather Resistance: Your straps will be exposed to the elements, from sun exposure to rain and snow. Straps made from UV-resistant and weatherproof materials will last longer and maintain their strength over time. Straps that degrade quickly when exposed to harsh weather conditions are a risk to both your kayak and the safety of your trip.
Adjustability and Buckle Quality: Look for straps with sturdy metal cam buckles rather than plastic ones. Metal buckles provide a stronger hold and won’t break as easily under tension. Adjustable straps also give you flexibility to accommodate kayaks of different sizes or other roof-mounted gear.

Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Kayak

Position the Kayak on the Roof Rack: Begin by placing the kayak on your roof rack, ensuring it is centered and balanced. Ideally, the cockpit of the kayak should face up to reduce wind resistance, though this may depend on your specific rack and mounting system. Position the kayak in a way that leaves equal overhang on both sides of the vehicle to maintain balance.
Loop the Straps Over the Kayak: Take two straps (one for the front and one for the rear of the kayak) and position them over the kayak. Thread the straps through the crossbars of your roof rack or through any specialized kayak cradles or holders. Make sure the straps are evenly placed on the kayak, ensuring they are neither too close to the ends nor too far apart—typically, about one-third of the way from each end works best.
Thread and Tighten the Straps: Feed the strap through the metal cam buckle, making sure the buckle is positioned near the kayak’s hull. Slowly pull the strap through until it is snug, but not overly tight. The goal is to secure the kayak firmly to the rack without over-compressing it, which could cause damage to the hull. Tighten the second strap in the same manner, ensuring both straps are evenly tensioned.
Check for Tightness: After tightening both straps, give the kayak a firm shake to check for any movement. The kayak should feel securely anchored to the roof rack with no significant shifting. If there is any movement, re-tighten the straps, ensuring the kayak remains stable and balanced on the roof.
Secure the Excess Strap Length: After tightening the straps, you’ll likely have some excess strap length. Secure the excess by tying it off or tucking it under the existing straps to prevent it from flapping in the wind during travel. Loose straps can cause noise and may even become a safety risk if they unravel and dangle.
Use Bow and Stern Lines for Extra Security: For added security, attach bow and stern lines to the front and rear of the kayak. These lines prevent the kayak from shifting forward or backward in the event of sudden braking or acceleration. Most vehicles will have tow points or hooks where you can attach these lines, securing the kayak from multiple points. Bow and stern lines are especially useful for long-distance travel or when driving at highway speeds.
Final Check Before Departure: Before hitting the road, double-check all straps and lines to ensure they are tight and secure. It’s a good idea to recheck the tightness of the straps after driving for a few miles, as the kayak may shift slightly during the initial part of your trip.

Tip #3: Positioning the Kayak on the Roof

Properly positioning your kayak on the roof of your vehicle is essential for maintaining stability during travel, avoiding interference with your roof top tent, and ensuring safe driving. An imbalanced or poorly positioned kayak can lead to issues such as vehicle instability, excessive wind drag, or damage to your gear. In this section, we’ll discuss how to balance the kayak’s weight for optimal stability and provide tips to position it in a way that avoids obstructing your tent or affecting the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

Balancing the Kayak’s Weight for Stability

Center the Kayak on the Roof: The first step in positioning your kayak is to ensure it is centered on your roof rack. The kayak should be placed in the middle of the crossbars or platform rack, with an equal amount of overhang on both sides of the vehicle. This balance helps distribute the weight evenly, ensuring the vehicle’s stability, especially when turning or driving on uneven terrain. A kayak that is too far to one side may cause the vehicle to lean, leading to handling issues.
Check the Weight Distribution of the Kayak: Some kayaks are heavier at one end, typically at the stern (rear) where extra gear or equipment may be stored. When mounting the kayak, it’s important to take this into consideration and ensure that the heavier end is positioned toward the rear of the vehicle. This setup helps maintain stability by keeping the bulk of the weight over the rear axle, which is better equipped to handle heavier loads. If the heavier end is placed at the front, it could cause steering problems or uneven wear on the vehicle’s tires.
Avoid Too Much Overhang: While the kayak will naturally extend beyond the front and rear of your vehicle, try to minimize excessive overhang. Too much overhang can lead to the kayak catching the wind, increasing drag, or creating a safety hazard, particularly when turning or braking. Most roof rack systems will allow you to adjust the positioning of the kayak to reduce overhang, but as a general rule, try to keep no more than 3 to 4 feet extending beyond either end of your vehicle.

Positioning to Avoid Obstruction with the Roof Top Tent

Consider the Height of Your Tent: Roof top tents often sit higher than the crossbars of your roof rack, and positioning the kayak improperly could result in obstruction when opening or closing the tent. To avoid this, ensure there is enough clearance between the kayak and the tent so that the tent can be fully deployed without interference. Depending on the design of your roof rack, you may need to adjust the position of the kayak forward or backward to achieve the proper clearance.
Use Kayak Mounts or Cradles for Vertical Positioning: If your roof top tent covers a significant portion of your roof, consider using a vertical kayak mount or stacker. These specialized mounts allow you to position the kayak upright along the side of the roof rack rather than lying flat, freeing up space for the tent. This arrangement helps avoid any interference with the tent and provides better access when setting up camp. However, make sure the vertical positioning does not exceed the height limit for driving or interfere with low-clearance areas such as parking garages or tunnels.
Ensure Tent Functionality: If your roof top tent opens to one side, make sure the kayak is positioned on the opposite side or far enough away to allow the tent’s ladder and opening mechanism to function freely. Placing the kayak too close to the tent could restrict access to the ladder or prevent the tent from fully unfolding, which can make setup difficult after a long day on the water. Ensure there is enough room for you to easily move around the vehicle and access both the kayak and the tent.

Minimizing Aerodynamic Drag

Align the Kayak for Aerodynamics: The orientation of your kayak on the roof can significantly impact your vehicle’s aerodynamics. To reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency, position the kayak so that the narrower end (usually the bow) faces forward. This setup allows air to flow more smoothly over the kayak, minimizing resistance and reducing the strain on your engine. Avoid placing the kayak sideways or backwards, as this will increase drag and negatively affect your vehicle’s performance, especially at highway speeds.
Secure the Kayak Snugly to Avoid Wind Resistance: Loose or poorly secured kayaks can shift or create wind resistance, leading to increased noise and vibration while driving. To minimize drag, make sure the kayak is tightly strapped down with minimal gaps between the kayak and the roof rack. Additionally, bow and stern lines can help keep the kayak stable and prevent it from swaying in the wind. A tightly secured kayak will also help with fuel efficiency, as there will be less air turbulence around the vehicle.
Consider Wind Deflectors or Fairings: If you frequently transport large items like kayaks or roof top tents, adding a wind deflector or fairing to your roof rack can help reduce wind noise and drag. These aerodynamic devices redirect airflow over your roof-mounted gear, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wind resistance. They can be especially helpful when carrying larger kayaks or when driving at higher speeds on the highway.

Tip #4: Use Kayak Mounting Accessories

When it comes to safely transporting your kayak, investing in the right mounting accessories can make a significant difference. Accessories like foam blocks, cradles, and saddles are designed to provide extra support and protection for your kayak while ensuring ease of installation. These tools not only help secure the kayak more effectively but also prevent damage to both the kayak and your vehicle during travel. Let’s dive into some of the most useful kayak mounting accessories and how to properly install them for maximum protection.

Useful Kayak Mounting Accessories

Foam Blocks: Foam blocks are one of the simplest and most cost-effective solutions for mounting a kayak on your vehicle’s roof. These dense, durable blocks are typically made from closed-cell foam and act as cushions between the kayak and your roof or roof rack. They provide a non-slip surface that prevents the kayak from shifting during transit while also protecting the kayak’s hull from scratches or dents.Foam blocks are versatile and can be used on a bare roof if you don’t have a roof rack, or they can be added to crossbars for extra padding. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and can be adjusted to fit kayaks of various shapes and sizes.
Kayak Cradles: Kayak cradles are specially designed holders that attach to your roof rack crossbars and provide a stable platform for your kayak. Cradles are typically padded and molded to fit the shape of the kayak’s hull, offering maximum support and minimizing the risk of damage. Some cradles come with adjustable arms, allowing you to tilt the kayak for better fit and aerodynamics.Cradles are ideal for those who regularly transport their kayak, as they offer a more secure and durable solution than foam blocks alone. They also reduce the amount of pressure on specific points of the kayak, helping to maintain the structural integrity of the hull.
Saddles: Kayak saddles are similar to cradles but are often lower-profile and provide a snug fit for the bottom of the kayak. Saddles are usually mounted at two points on the roof rack, one for the front and one for the rear of the kayak. These mounts offer a combination of cushioning and grip, ensuring that the kayak stays firmly in place during transport. Like cradles, saddles are padded to protect the kayak’s surface from scratches or dents.Saddles are particularly useful for longer trips or highway driving, where the kayak may experience more movement and wind resistance. The saddle’s design holds the kayak firmly while distributing its weight evenly across the roof rack.
Kayak Stackers: Kayak stackers are vertical mounts that allow you to position your kayak on its side, freeing up space on the roof for additional kayaks or other gear. Stackers are especially helpful if you have multiple kayaks or need to transport additional equipment alongside your kayak. They are mounted on the crossbars of your roof rack and provide anchor points to secure the kayak vertically.Stackers are a great option if you’re short on space or if you need to mount multiple kayaks. However, because the kayak is positioned on its side, you’ll need to ensure it’s properly padded and strapped to avoid any damage during travel.

How to Install Kayak Mounting Accessories for Optimal Protection

Installing Foam Blocks: If you’re using foam blocks, start by placing the blocks directly on your roof or roof rack crossbars. The blocks should be positioned to support the widest part of the kayak’s hull, typically about one-third from the bow and one-third from the stern. Once the blocks are in place, lift the kayak onto the roof and position it so that the hull rests evenly on the foam blocks.After positioning the kayak, use high-quality straps to secure it. Run the straps over the kayak and through the doors or crossbars, ensuring they’re tight but not over-compressed. Foam blocks don’t require any specific installation tools and are easy to adjust for different kayak sizes.
Installing Kayak Cradles: Begin by attaching the cradles to the crossbars of your roof rack. Most cradles come with universal mounts that can be tightened using hand knobs or bolts. Position the cradles so that they match the contours of your kayak’s hull, usually spacing them about 4 feet apart (depending on the length of your kayak).Once the cradles are in place, load the kayak onto the roof, ensuring it sits snugly in the cradle’s padded arms. You may need to adjust the cradle’s tilt to get the perfect fit. After positioning the kayak, use cam buckle straps or ratchet straps to secure it, looping the straps through the crossbars and over the kayak. Be sure to check the tension, making sure the kayak is firmly secured without overtightening, which could damage the hull.
Installing Kayak Saddles: Like cradles, kayak saddles attach to your roof rack crossbars. Start by mounting the saddles, spacing them at appropriate points for your kayak’s length. The saddles should be positioned to cradle the bottom of the kayak, providing even support across its hull. Adjust the angle of the saddles as needed to ensure a secure fit.Load the kayak onto the saddles and ensure it rests evenly across both sets. Use high-quality straps to secure the kayak to the roof rack, making sure the kayak remains stable and doesn’t shift. Tighten the straps firmly, but avoid overtightening, which could warp the kayak’s hull.
Installing Kayak Stackers: Stackers are installed vertically on the roof rack’s crossbars. Attach the stackers at evenly spaced points on the crossbars, ensuring they are secure and upright. Once installed, place the kayak on its side against the stacker and use straps to secure it in place.Run the straps over the kayak and through the roof rack’s crossbars, pulling the straps tight to prevent any movement. When using stackers, it’s important to ensure the kayak’s sides are well-padded to avoid any scratches or damage from wind resistance during travel.

Tip #5: Protecting Your Vehicle and Kayak

When transporting your kayak on your vehicle’s roof, it’s essential to take precautions to protect both the vehicle and the kayak from damage. Scratches, dents, or exposure to harsh weather can lead to unnecessary wear and tear. By using the right padding techniques and weatherproofing methods, you can ensure that both your kayak and vehicle remain in top condition during travel. Let’s explore how to avoid scratches and how to shield your gear from adverse weather conditions.

Padding Techniques to Avoid Scratches

Use Soft Foam or Rubber Padding: One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent scratches is to add soft padding between the kayak and your vehicle’s roof or roof rack. Foam blocks or rubber pads, placed on your crossbars or directly on the vehicle’s roof, create a cushioned layer that protects both surfaces from friction. The padding absorbs vibrations during travel, preventing the kayak from rubbing against the car’s paint or the roof rack’s metal surface.Foam blocks are ideal for providing wide surface area protection, while rubber padding can be used on specific pressure points where the kayak makes contact with the roof rack. This method ensures that the kayak is secure but won’t cause damage while it’s being transported.
Wrap the Kayak’s Contact Points: In addition to padding on the vehicle, consider wrapping key contact points of the kayak with soft material. For instance, wrapping the bow and stern ends with towels or foam ensures that the kayak’s sharp edges don’t scrape the roof or roof rack when loading, unloading, or driving. This technique also adds extra grip, preventing the kayak from shifting unexpectedly.
Apply Protective Tape to the Vehicle: Another great method to protect your car’s paint from scratches is using temporary protective tape, also known as painter’s tape or automotive masking tape. Before mounting the kayak, apply strips of this tape along the edges of the vehicle roof where straps or kayak mounts are likely to make contact. The tape acts as a buffer, preventing scratches or marks on the vehicle’s surface caused by friction from straps or mounts.The benefit of using tape is that it’s easily removable and doesn’t leave residue, making it a convenient option for people who transport kayaks occasionally but want to keep their vehicle’s exterior in pristine condition.
Cover Metal Buckles and Hooks: Straps with metal buckles or hooks can cause accidental scratches if they come into contact with your vehicle or kayak during the mounting process. To prevent this, wrap the metal parts of the straps with fabric, such as an old sock or piece of foam, before securing them. This simple trick helps avoid dents or scratches while tightening the straps and makes handling the kayak easier.

Weatherproofing Tips for Vehicle and Kayak Protection

Use a Kayak Cover for UV Protection: Continuous exposure to sunlight, especially over long trips, can cause damage to the kayak’s exterior. UV rays can degrade the plastic, fiberglass, or composite material, leading to fading, cracking, or weakening of the hull. To prevent this, invest in a UV-resistant kayak cover that shields the kayak from direct sunlight. These covers are typically made from durable, weatherproof materials and fit snugly over the kayak, protecting it from harmful sun exposure.A kayak cover also provides an additional layer of protection from dirt, bird droppings, or debris that could accumulate during long drives, ensuring the kayak stays clean and ready for use.
Weatherproofing Your Straps: Rain, snow, and even saltwater exposure can weaken your kayak’s straps over time, causing them to fray or stretch. Opt for weather-resistant straps made from nylon or polyester, which are specifically designed to withstand exposure to the elements. Additionally, straps with UV protection will last longer, maintaining their strength and durability even after prolonged exposure to sunlight.After each trip, inspect the straps for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or rust on the buckles, and replace them as needed. Regular maintenance of the straps ensures they remain reliable for future use.
Prevent Rust on Roof Rack Components: Roof racks, especially those made of metal, are prone to rust if exposed to rain, snow, or saltwater. To protect your roof rack, consider using a rust-prevention spray or applying a protective coating to the metal parts before your trip. This will create a moisture barrier, reducing the risk of corrosion.Additionally, after trips involving saltwater (such as coastal kayaking), rinse the roof rack with fresh water to wash away any residual salt, which accelerates rust formation. Keeping the roof rack clean and dry helps extend its lifespan and ensures it remains in good working condition.
Protect Your Vehicle from Water Damage: If your kayak or gear is wet when loaded onto the roof, water can drip onto your vehicle and potentially cause rust, especially in areas with scratches or exposed metal. To avoid this, consider placing waterproof barriers, such as a tarp or waterproof mat, between the kayak and your roof rack. These barriers will catch the dripping water and prevent it from seeping into areas that are vulnerable to rust.Also, ensure that any standing water on the vehicle’s roof is wiped off after loading, particularly if you’re driving through rainy conditions or have kayaked in saltwater environments.
Consider Wind and Weather During Long Trips: During long trips, your kayak and vehicle may face extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, or wind. To protect your kayak and vehicle, plan your route with weather conditions in mind. If you expect strong winds, ensure that the kayak is secured with additional bow and stern lines for added stability. In cold or icy weather, check your kayak mounts and straps periodically to ensure that they haven’t been affected by freezing temperatures, which could reduce their effectiveness.Using wind deflectors on your roof rack can help reduce the strain from wind drag on the kayak and vehicle. Deflectors redirect airflow, minimizing resistance and improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency during long hauls.

Tip #6: Test the Setup Before Your Trip

Before embarking on your adventure, it’s crucial to perform a thorough test of your kayak mounting setup. This step helps ensure everything is secure, reducing the risk of accidents, damage to your equipment, or safety issues on the road. A quick test run can uncover potential problems with your kayak, roof rack, or vehicle load that might not be obvious during the initial mounting process. In this section, we’ll explore why a test run is essential and cover additional checks to guarantee your vehicle is road-ready for your trip.

Importance of a Test Run

Ensure Proper Mounting Security: After securing your kayak to the roof, a test run helps ensure that the straps, mounts, and accessories are holding up under real-world conditions. During a short drive around your neighborhood or nearby roads, check for any unusual noises like rattling, wind noise, or shifting. These signs can indicate that the kayak isn’t tightly secured or that the mounting accessories need adjustment.A test drive also helps confirm that the kayak’s position on the roof isn’t affecting your vehicle’s handling. If you notice any swaying, difficulty steering, or unusual vibrations, it could indicate an imbalance or improper weight distribution.
Identify Potential Wind Drag or Resistance: Wind drag can significantly affect both your fuel efficiency and your vehicle’s performance on the road, especially when driving at higher speeds. During your test run, pay attention to how your vehicle handles wind resistance. If you notice excessive wind noise or feel additional strain on the engine, it may be necessary to reposition the kayak for better aerodynamics or adjust the straps and mounting accessories for a more secure fit.Performing this test before your actual trip gives you the opportunity to make necessary adjustments, reducing fuel consumption and making for a smoother ride.
Confirm the Stability of the Roof Top Tent: If you’re traveling with a roof top tent along with your kayak, it’s important to check that the tent remains stable and fully functional during the test run. While the kayak is mounted, ensure that the tent isn’t obstructed or affected by the kayak’s position. Check for any signs of interference, such as difficulty opening the tent or the kayak shifting during the drive. Verifying these factors will help ensure that both your tent and kayak are safely secured and accessible.

Additional Checks Before Your Trip

Check Tire Pressure and Vehicle Load Distribution: Proper tire pressure is essential for safe driving, especially when you’re carrying extra weight on your roof. The added load of both the kayak and roof top tent can increase the strain on your tires, so it’s important to check that they’re properly inflated according to your vehicle’s recommended pressure levels. Underinflated tires can cause poor handling, increased wear, and higher fuel consumption, while overinflated tires may reduce traction.In addition to tire pressure, pay attention to the overall load distribution in your vehicle. Make sure that the weight is balanced across the vehicle, with heavier gear placed toward the center or rear of the vehicle. If your kayak or other gear is too far forward or unevenly distributed, it could affect your vehicle’s handling, particularly when braking or cornering.
Check the Roof Rack and Mounting Accessories: Before heading out, do a final inspection of your roof rack, kayak mounts, and accessories. Ensure that all bolts, screws, and attachment points are tightened securely and that there’s no wear or damage to the straps. If you’ve used foam blocks or other padding, double-check that they are positioned correctly and providing enough protection between the kayak and your vehicle.It’s also a good idea to check for any signs of stress or wear on the roof rack itself. Long-term exposure to weather conditions, especially if you’ve used the rack frequently, can lead to rust or weakening in certain areas. Addressing these issues before your trip will prevent potential equipment failure during your journey.
Test the Kayak’s Stability: After mounting the kayak and before driving off, give the kayak a few firm shakes to ensure it’s completely secure. There should be minimal to no movement when you push or pull the kayak from different angles. If the kayak shifts or feels loose, adjust the straps, mounts, or accessory placement until it feels stable. This pre-trip test will give you confidence that the kayak won’t move or become a hazard on the road.
Verify Your Vehicle’s Height Clearance: With both a roof top tent and a kayak mounted on the roof, your vehicle’s height clearance will be significantly increased. It’s important to know the total height of your vehicle, including the gear on the roof, to avoid potential hazards such as low bridges, parking garages, or overhangs. During your test run, pay attention to low-clearance areas and make a note of your vehicle’s height so you can plan your route accordingly.
Double-Check the Weather Forecast: Although this might not seem directly related to mounting your kayak, it’s always wise to check the weather before setting off on your journey. If heavy rain, strong winds, or other extreme weather conditions are forecasted, it could affect how your kayak and tent perform on the road. Windy conditions, in particular, can put additional strain on your roof-mounted gear, so preparing for potential weather changes ensures that you can make any necessary adjustments before it’s too late.

Enjoyed this guide of how to mount your kayak to roof top tent? Then be sure to check out our other guides.