Loading a Kayak
 

How do i load my kayak on to my car by myself? its the prowler 15 Car is a camry LE 2009

Do you have bars?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULK7...dTr6F4CYl-BE7o

I use this method on my car minus the loading bar. A car mat or a bath rug on the roof of my car works just fine.

Interesting. I'm going to have to figure out he rope measurement and use this. Thanks


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You can throw a furnipad over the roof and run ratchet straps through the open doors so that they hook together inside the car. Not pretty, and not ideal, but more than enough strength there. The convexity of your roof may be impacted.

My SUV has Thule racks, but my daily driver Honda Accord does not. I got a pair of foam blocks from REI to carry the kayak on the accord if for some reason my SUV is tied up by the wife's use. Not in the least bit classy, but they work and the kayak is secure. FullFlavorPike is right though, the roof may get dented in during use. My roof has always regained it's original form, but I wouldn't use foam blocks if you care at all about your car.

I load from the trunk with the following method:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SN55Jfu94c

Also check out the Yakima boatloader. It's a pole inside the roof top cross bar that extends out to the side of your car, so you can load from the side, one end at a time. May be better for a car that doesn't have a hatch back, or an SUV with a big spoiler on the roof like my 4Runner.

Also be aware that the side loading options are better if you parallel park, whereas the end loading options are better if you park in a lot.

Naked roof

Add a rack to that naked roof...so you have crossbars and take your yak for a ride just like grandma. :driver:

I have Thule racks with telescopic pole inside front rack. Seems a bit weak for my outback. If anyone is using it, let me know. Hate to see my yak come crashing down on the side of my car if extension gives way.

I put a floor mat on the back behind my bars I just put on, put one end on the mat, then I lift the other side and slide it on up into the saddles. Taking it down I sometimes just put in on my shoulder and walk it to where I'm setting it down.

It looks like you have a lighter kayak, and shorter car so I don't see any problems in loading it yourself. Unless you're 5'2" and 120lbs with scrawny spaghetti arms.

I got an Inno Rack from RackNRoad in Costa Mesa. It was about $350, which was about $100-150 less than Thule & Yakima. No need in spending extra money with no added benefit.

:cheers1:

I'd opt for the bars; but then again my buddy just uses paracord and pool noodles for his prowler 13. He loads it hull facing up.