Best Kayak Racks for Cars without Rails: Top 5 Options in 2021

Introduction

Are you a paddler who loves kayaking but has a car without rails? Carrying a kayak can be a daunting and challenging task, especially if you don’t have the right tools. A kayak rack for cars without rails is undoubtedly the perfect solution to help transport your kayak safely and easily. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one.

In this article, we’ll outline the top kayak racks for cars without rails, and provide you with tips on how to choose the right one for your paddling needs. We’ll also discuss alternative ways of transporting kayaks for those who prefer not to use a kayak rack. So whether you’re planning a short trip to the nearest lake or a long kayaking adventure, by the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to transport your kayak safely and securely on your car without rails!

Tips for Choosing the Best Kayak Racks for Cars without Rails

Consider the type of kayak you own: The type of kayak you own will determine the type of rack you need. For example, a wider kayak will require a wider support system than a narrower kayak.
Look for racks that are easy to install and remove: Choose a rack that is easy to install and remove. You don’t want to spend a lot of time and energy putting it on and taking it off.
Choose racks that are durable and have a higher weight capacity: When choosing a kayak rack, look for one that is durable and can hold a higher weight capacity. This will ensure that your kayak is safe and secure during transportation.
Consider the size of your vehicle and the number of kayaks you wish to transport: The size of your vehicle will determine the type of rack you need. Also, consider the number of kayaks you wish to transport if you have a group paddling trip or several kayaks to transport.

Top 5 Kayak Racks for Cars without Rails

Thule Hull-a-Port: This kayak rack is ideal for narrow kayaks and can hold up to two kayaks. It’s easy to install and remove and has a weight capacity of up to 75 pounds per kayak.
Yakima Jay Low: This is a great option for wider kayaks and can fit up to two kayaks. It’s easy to install and has a weight capacity of up to 80 pounds per kayak.
Rhino-Rack S510 Kayak Carrier: This kayak rack is flexible and can be used for both narrow and wide kayaks. It has a weight capacity of up to 99 pounds per kayak and comes with a lifetime warranty.
Malone VersaRail Bare Roof: This kayak rack is adjustable and can be installed on nearly any type of vehicle. It can hold up to one kayak and has a weight capacity of up to 75 pounds.
TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier: This kayak rack is designed to fit on most roof racks and can hold up to one kayak. It has a weight capacity of up to 75 pounds and is made of high-quality steel.

Alternative Ways to Transport Kayaks without Rails

If you prefer not to use a kayak rack for your car without rails, here are some alternative ways to transport your kayak:

Car roof bag carriers: These are soft carriers that can be easily attached to your car’s roof without rails. They can hold up to one kayak and are a cost-effective way of transporting your kayak.
DIY foam blocks: If you’re on a tight budget or want to try a more creative solution, you can make your own foam blocks to transport your kayak. Foam blocks can be cut to size and placed between the kayak and roof of your car for added protection and stability.
Hitch-mounted racks: If your car has a hitch, you can use a hitch-mounted rack to transport your kayak. These racks are sturdy and can hold up to two kayaks.

While these alternative ways of transporting your kayak can be effective, they may not be as secure as using a kayak rack. It’s important to carefully consider which option is best for you and your paddling needs.

FAQ

Do I need a special type of kayak rack for my car without rails?

Yes, you will need a kayak rack that is designed to fit cars without rails.

How can I be sure the kayak rack I choose will fit my car without rails?

Refer to the kayak rack’s compatibility chart or measure the width of your car’s roof to ensure a proper fit.

Can I install a kayak rack on my car without rails by myself?

Yes, most kayak racks for cars without rails are designed for easy installation and can be done by one person.

How many kayaks can I transport using a rack for cars without rails?

The number of kayaks you can transport depends on the weight capacity of the rack and the size of your car’s roof.

Will a kayak rack for cars without rails damage my car’s paint?

No, as long as the rack is installed and maintained properly, it should not cause any damage to your car’s paint.

Can I use a kayak rack for cars without rails on a car with rails?

No, these racks are specifically designed for cars without rails and may not fit on cars with a rail system.

What if my kayak is wider than my car’s roof?

Look for racks that have a wider stance or opt for a hull-mounted carrier that cradles the kayak.

How do I secure my kayak to the rack?

Most racks come with straps and tie-downs to secure your kayak in place.

Are roof-mounted kayak racks for cars without rails more expensive than other options?

They can be more expensive but provide a more secure and convenient option for transporting kayaks.

Can I use a roof-mounted kayak rack for other outdoor gear?

Yes, some racks are versatile and can be used to transport other outdoor gear such as skis, snowboards, and surfboards.

Real experience

Jessica had always been an avid paddler, and fortunately, she lived in a city surrounded by beautiful lakes and rivers. However, there was one problem: her car lacked the rails needed to transport her kayak. She tried using foam blocks and straps to secure her kayak to the roof, but it was always a hassle and sometimes even dangerous when driving at high speeds.

One day, Jessica decided it was time to invest in a proper kayak rack for her car. She did some research online and found an article outlining the best kayak racks for cars without rails. Using the article’s tips and recommendations, she found the perfect rack for her car – the Thule Hull-a-Port.

After receiving the rack in the mail, Jessica was excited to see if the rack would make a significant difference. She spent a Saturday afternoon installing the rack on her car, and it turned out to be surprisingly easy. The rack was very sturdy and fit perfectly on her car’s roof.

Jessica decided to take her kayak to the nearest lake to test the rack’s ability. She was amazed by how secure the kayak was, even when driving at high speeds. In the past, she would always check her rearview mirror to make sure the kayak wasn’t wobbling, but with this new rack, she could focus entirely on the road.

After a day of paddling on the lake, Jessica returned home, unloaded her kayak, and removed the Thule Hull-a-Port from her car’s roof. She was impressed by its easy assembly, which made it quick and easy to remove. She didn’t even have to make any adjustments to her car’s roof, which meant the rack didn’t cause any damage.

Overall, Jessica was thrilled with her purchase and wondered why she hadn’t invested in a proper kayak rack sooner. She could now drive to any lake or river with confidence, knowing that her kayak was secured safely on the roof rack.

Conclusion

Transporting your kayak is an essential part of any paddling trip, and choosing the right kayak rack for your car without rails is a crucial step. By considering the type of kayak you own, the ease of installation and removal, the weight capacity and the size of your vehicle, you can make a more informed decision on which kayak rack to choose.

The Thule Hull-a-Port, Yakima Jay Low, Rhino-Rack S510 Kayak Carrier, Malone VersaRail Bare Roof, and TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier are all fantastic options for cars without rails.

If you prefer not to use a kayak rack, there are alternative options such as car roof bag carriers, DIY foam blocks, and hitch-mounted racks, but it’s important to carefully consider the security of your kayak during transportation.

So, whether you’re planning a kayak trip to your local lake or embarking on a long kayaking adventure, we hope this article helps you choose the best option for transporting your kayak safely and securely!