Love kayaking but sick of the same old spots? Expand your area of exploration with our guide to the best kayak trailers on the market.
IN A HURRY? HERE’S OUR TOP PICKS…
Kayaks offer a lot of freedom—they’re fast, easy to maneuver, and can handle calm shallows or raging waves. But the first step in exploring the world by kayak is actually getting your kayak to the water. And considering that kayaks can be unwieldy and weigh upwards of 60 pounds, this is no small task.
Unless you’re lucky enough to live on the water, a trailer (or rack) is a must-have for taking your kayak where you want to go. If you’ve got a kayak and plan on making a beeline this summer to the nearest lake, river, or ocean, we’ve rounded up the best kayak trailers for the job.
In general, a kayak trailer is a better option than a rack if your top priority is easy loading. Lifting a kayak onto a trailer is simpler (and requires less brute strength) than hoisting it onto a roof rack. Trailers are also ideal if you plan to transport more than two kayaks. (One of the options listed below can hold up to six!)
There are two main types of kayak trailers: hand-towed and vehicle-towed. In our round-up below, we’ve included both.
For Hand-Towing
Often called trolleys or carts, these small, lightweight kayak trailers are meant to pulled by hand over short distances. They’re a great transportation option if you live near water but they’re also an easy method for toting a kayak from parking lot to launch.
Hobie Kayak Cart
C-Tug Kayak and Canoe Cart
For Vehicle-Towing
Before choosing the best kayak trailer to tow with your vehicle, it helps to answer these questions:
- Which vehicle am I planning to use? Does it have a trailer hitch and receiver?
- Does my vehicle have the necessary towing capacity? Here’s a guide if you’re unsure.
- How many kayaks do I plan to transport? (Some trailers have add-on racks that can change their capacity.)
- What type of kayaks will I transport? (Sea kayaks and tandem kayaks are longer so they require a trailer with a longer tongue.)
- Do I need additional room on the trailer for other equipment and accessories?
- Do I have the necessary room to store or park the trailer?
- What’s the weight capacity of the trailer I’m considering?
- Am I able to assemble a trailer? (When you purchase a trailer online, it’s “assembly required.” Make sure you have the tools and mechanical know-how—or know someone who does—before ordering.)
- After you’ve taken the time to set your trailer priorities, it’s time to take your pick.
Right-On Multi-Sport Trailer
