Loading and unloading your kayak?

Question

I'm about ready to purchase my first kayak. My fear is getting it on and off the roof of my vehicle by myself. Anyone know any tricks that make it easier?

Answer 1

I cant remember if it's Yakima or Thule but one of them has these bar extensions that you can  pull out and downward from your roof rack so you can get the boat  half way up, then from there you can sort of roll it up onto the bars.

Another thing you can do (which only helps at home, and not out near the water) is to rig a pulley system to the roof in your garage so that when you pull in you just unstrap the boat, loop your ropes around the boat and then lift it off the roof with your pulley.  Tie it off somewhere and now you've got a good, safe storage for your boat and it's ready to load on your car the next time you go out.

In the absence of either of these methods, practice practice practice.  I have an 18 foot kayak that I can lift onto a 4Runner with large tires.  I couldnt do it at first but now I have perfected the technique.  It's not pretty, but it's effective.

Or you can just flash a pretty smile and ask some guy to help.

Answer 2

I lay the bow of my yak on the roof of my Tahoe (use an old trow rug to protect you paint) then step to the stern and lift and push. If you car is not on level ground then stay on the sloap side of your yak and push against it as you slide the yak on to your roof.You should try to always park where your car is level. Just practice at home to get your technique down and you should be alright. You will find that people are always willing to help i get offers of help all the time. Talk to other paddlers in your area and they will give you tips and help. Happy paddling.